Racheal Wiegand!

L.E.A.D. sits down with Intervention Specialist Racheal Wiegand and talks about her experience in early childhood education as both a staff member, parent, and founder of Together in Play! Watch the three part series here!

Andee Kridel!

With 28 years of experience in special education and a current role as an instructional coach in California, Andee Kridel brings deep insight, passion, and practical wisdom to the table.

In this powerful three-part series, we dive into her journey as a special educator, what it means to support both students and fellow teachers, and how we can strengthen collaboration between schools and families. Watch our three part series here!

Let's Learn Empower Advocate and Discover

The Cleveland Sight Center!

LEAD had the incredible opportunity to visit the Cleveland Sight Center to speak with Kristen Callahan about the life-changing work they’re doing for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

From orientation and mobility training to assistive technology, job readiness programs, and early intervention services for children. This amazing organization is helping people of all ages live independently and confidently.

We were inspired by the passion, innovation, and compassion on display at every turn of our tour. Watch the video to hear Kristen’s insights and get a behind-the-scenes look at this vital community resource here!

Ashley Evans!

We're excited to share our next conversation in the LEAD Sits Down With series! We had the opportunity to speak with Ashley Evans, a licensed mental health counselor who brings heart and insight to the work she does with families and schools.

Ashley opens up about the importance of collaboration, the challenges mental health professionals face when navigating the world of special education, and the information gap that often leaves them in the dark.

Her perspective is a powerful reminder of why communication between teams and with families is so essential. Watch her full interview here! 

Let's Learn Empower Advocate and Discover

Nick Tuell

Through his leadership with All In for Ohio Kids, Nick is organizing a grassroots movement to protect public schools and ensure caregivers have a voice in the decisions that impact their children.

Across this series, Nick dives into:

What inspired him to take on this work and why now is the time

How upcoming events like a town hall with congressional leaders aim to shift the narrative

His bold 18-month plan to elevate education statewide

What truly needs to change for families in special education to be heard and supported

How this movement will center students facing systemic barriers, from rural communities to immigrant families.

Watch his interview HERE

Hannah Halbert, Executive Director of Policy Matters Ohio

Over this three part series, we explored some of the most pressing issues facing families and students in special education, including:

• How Policy Matters Ohio amplifies the voices of families in policymaking

• Balancing urgent needs with the fight for long-term systemic change

• The vital role grassroots groups and caregivers play in shaping education policy

• What gives us hope for Ohio’s education future and how YOU can get involved

• How to keep going and stay grounded during tough political times

If you've ever wondered how real change happens and how your voice fits into that process, this series is for you. Watch the full series here!

We’re excited to launch the next installment of our L.E.A.D Sits Down With series featuring a powerful conversation with Matina Bliss of Honesty for Ohio Education 

In this 3-part series, we dive deep into the intersection of advocacy, education, and inclusion, starting with how caregivers and educators can work together to ensure students receiving special education services feel seen and valued in the classroom.

Together, we explore:

•  How inclusive curriculum affirms identity

•  The role of community in shaping equitable education

•  Navigating policy, politics, and progress in Ohio schools

This is a must-watch for caregivers, educators, and advocates who believe every child deserves to thrive in a classroom that reflects and respects who they are. Watch the full series here!

What happens after special education ends? This session on L.E.A.D. Sits Down with..., we get answers from Dalenna Zingalis-Braine, of A Place 2B ME. We talk about bridging the gap after high school and the importance of meaningful connections for adults with disabilities. Watch the full video to learn more here!

We're kicking off a powerful 3-part series with Stephanie Caldwell—founder of A Place 2 Be Me and an incredible independent provider. Stephanie is sharing her deep expertise to help families and advocates navigate the complex world of disability services and prepare students for a successful adulthood.

In this series, we tackle critical questions like:
How to make IEP goals align with real-world skills?
What's the best advice for families starting the transition to adult services and more! Watch the entire interview here!