Member Spotlight- Cara

For families that include individuals with disabilities, advocacy is essential because we understand firsthand what it feels like when laws, policies, or community practices are not helpful—and in some cases are actually hurtful. Advocacy gives us the ability to speak up, push for change, and make sure decisions are made with us, not about us.

What issues are you most passionate about?

I am most passionate about public education and special education advocacy. I believe that our public school systems often unintentionally hinder children from succeeding due to regulations, bias, and low expectations placed on students with disabilities.

My passion comes from personal experience. I have a disability myself and went through the special education process in Pennsylvania. I experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly. I had incredible teachers who believed in me and helped shape who I am today—but I also faced barriers that limited opportunities simply because of my disability.

One pivotal moment for me was when spellcheck technology became available. It completely changed my ability to participate in a general education classroom, allowed me to write more effectively, and gave me the confidence to succeed academically. Later, when I turned 18, I learned that I had the right to request placement in general education classrooms. That knowledge was life-changing. It helped me realize that I could succeed, could go to college, and that my disability did not define my potential.

Unfortunately, not all students are given that enco​uragement. Too often, students and parents are told what a child cannot do because of a disability. I experienced this firsthand in junior high school when I was told I could not take a high school class focused on teaching because of my disability. That kind of mindset is exactly why I am so passionate about advocating for students in schools today.

What advice would you give other parents and/or advocates?

My biggest piece of advice is this: do not accept the first answer you are given as the final truth.

Research. Ask questions. Learn the laws—or connect with people who understand them and can help guide you. If someone tells you, “That can’t be done,” make sure you have truly exhausted every option before accepting that answer—especially if what you are advocating for could help you or your child become the best version of yourselves.

No ​one knows your child—or your lived experience—better than you do. Advocacy is about persistence, education, and believing that disability should never be a barrier to opportunity.