Board of Directors

I am an immigrant with English as my second language, having moved to the U.S. as an adult before starting a family and discovering that I, too, have disabilities like my two children. My education advocacy journey began in 2019 when I learned what a PTA was and what it is supposed to stand...

I have 14 years of experience navigating special education in Seattle Public Schools. At age 3, my son moved out of early intervention services and to Green Lake Elementary for developmental pre-K services. Now as a young adult, he's receiving transition services through the district's BRIDGES...

I joined SSEPTSA to advocate for the families and students in my community navigating the special education system in Seattle Public Schools and for our State’s legislature to fully fund K-12 public schools. Our family is not currently enrolled in Seattle Public Schools. We opted for a charter...

As a working mom of a child with special needs and someone who grew up in an immigrant household, I serve on the Seattle Special Education PTSA to give back and push for better resources and support for all students. My experiences navigating unfamiliar systems, both as a kid helping my parents...

Kate became the Communications Chair for the SSEPTSA in 2024. She brings lived experience as a neurodivergent and gifted (2E) mom with a 2E child. Kate has advocated as a patient representative on Capitol Hill, and she has professional experience in Communications. Kate is passionate about...

Dustin is a special education teacher in Seattle Public Schools. He has taught students with moderate to severe disabilities in self-contained programs for twelve years, with a strong commitment to fostering inclusive practices for all learners.   Dustin is working with his school’s PTA to...

Laura Marie Rivera is an artist, educator, writer, and doctoral candidate at Seattle University. As a mom of four, she understands that each child has their own strengths and challenges, and interests and aspirations. Laura Marie is a fierce advocate for education, the arts, and equity and...