OUR IMPACT

Behind every number is a family that found their voice and a student who finally got the support they deserve.

From the start of our journey in February of 2024, Navigating Advocacy for Meaningful Education (N.A.M.E.) continued to stand beside Maryland families as they navigated the complex world of special education. Through direct advocacy, professional learning, and community collaboration, N.A.M.E. transformed confusion into clarity, one meeting, one plan, one conversation at a time.

Real Change Looks Like This

Text with a handshake icon reading "Plain Language Advocacy:" and "Partnership Over Pressure:". Subtitle explains translating complex jargon into everyday words and helping families and schools work together to meet student needs.

Our Approach

Black background with red and white text about action through access and empowerment through education, featuring a white outline of a handshake inside a circular arrow.

SNAPSHOT

🏫 17 Families Served — 88% achieved successful IEP outcomes

💬 30+ IEP Meetings Attended — advocacy, collaboration, and accountability

⚖️ 3 Due Process Cases Supported — navigating complex legal procedures

🎓 3 Professional Development Trainings — strengthening educator partnerships

💻 1 Webinar Hosted — expanding access to statewide audiences

“I walked into my first IEP meeting terrified. I walked out with a plan that finally made sense. Shawna didn’t just show up to the meeting — she made sure my child’s needs were actually on paper.”
— Parent, Anne Arundel County

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026 AND BEYOND…

N.A.M.E. will expand its reach by:

  • Launching the Access in Action online course for families and educators;

  • Hosting quarterly Power Hour workshops on IEP rights, evaluation, and progress monitoring; and

  • Strengthening partnerships with Maryland nonprofits, schools, and advocacy coalitions.

Together, we’ll continue turning access into action, ensuring every family knows their rights, and every student receives what they deserve.