Melissa S.
Parent Educator; Special Education Consultant and Family Advocate
- Role
- Family Support Specialist at Vision For Equality
- Location
- Philadelphia, PA, US
- LinkedIn followers
- 500 followers
About Melissa S.
MSN RN CEN TNCC ENPC ATCN TCRN CPEN C2P2 EI Alumni 2020C2P2 Family LeadershipParent Leadership Institute 2021Parent to Parent of PA MentorPennsylvanians with Developmental Disabilities Council MemberPEAL Family Leadership Institute Alumni 2022Families to the MAXApraxia Conference 2021Parent Training series on IEPs 2021, 2022, via the Arc of Philadelphia CountyDisabilities Education Lawsuit 2022PPennsylvania\'s education fo ro all coalition board member
Experience
Family Support Specialist
Present
The Family Support Specialist serves as a trusted bridge between families, service systems, and community resources, helping individuals with intellectual, developmental, and mental health needs access the supports necessary to live meaningful, self-determined lives. Grounded in lived experience and peer connection, this role empowers families through one-on-one guidance, resource navigation, advocacy training, and system education.Family Support Specialists collaborate closely with community partners, behavioral health providers, and state and local agencies to identify barriers, address service gaps, and elevate family voices in program planning. They play a vital role in shaping a more inclusive and responsive system of care by promoting trauma-informed, culturally competent, and family-centered practices across all levels of service delivery.
Education
University of Pennsylvania
MSN-Externship, Educational Leadership and Administration, General
2013 — 2013
Liberty University School of Nursing
BSN, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
2003 — 2005
Liberty University
Nursing
Temple University Institute on Disabilities
Competence and Confidence Partners in Policy Making, Special Education and Teaching
2020 — 2021
Grand Canyon University
Organizational Leadership
2011 — 2013
Grand Canyon University
Master's of Science in Nursing with Emphasis on Healthcare Adminstration and Nursing Leadership, Nursing Administration
2011 — 2013
Council of parent attorneys and advocates
SEAT 2.0, Education law
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