Shelly started a parent group in Fort Bliss years ago, supported by MG (Ret.) Dana J.H. Pittard and Garrison Commander Col. (Ret.) Joe Simonelli, to connect to other people going through the same experiences but also to find people she could learn from. Today Shelly is a trained advocate for special needs kids and their parents (ISEA-trained and member of COPAA). She believes in “Bridging the Gap” for exceptional children. As an advocate she assists parents and students in acquiring the services, accommodations and access they need to make progress and be prepared for post-secondary education/life. She does this by helping parents and students create an appropriate Individual Education Program (IEP), 504 and to coordinate community services. Check out her website www.advocate2educate.com!
