As proposed federal changes stir confusion and anxiety, many parents of children with mitochondrial disease are left wondering what’s next for special education in America. In this urgent and illuminating episode, Marcy Young sits down with Kuna Tavalin, Senior Policy and Advocacy Advisor at the Council for Exceptional Children, to break down what’s actually happening at the U.S. Department of Education—and what’s not.
Kuna explains what the Department of Education is responsible for, what it doesn’t control, and why recent executive orders have sparked panic across the disability community. She offers clear guidance for families navigating IEPs and 504 plans, demystifies enforcement and funding structures, and shares practical ways to advocate for your child right now. With warmth, honesty, and deep policy knowledge, Kuna brings clarity to a complex moment—and reminds us that informed advocacy starts with understanding your rights.
Resources and Ways to Connect
Learn more from the Council for Exceptional Children:
Learn more about MitoAction:
ENERGY IN ACTION - EPISODE 042 Empowering Parents Nationwide Marsha Quinn is the parent of two children who have Autism. As the Co Executive...
ENERGY IN ACTION - EPISODE 097 Champs Foundation Elizabeth Reynolds is a mom of three children and her oldest, William, has Pearson syndrome, a...
ENERGY IN ACTION - EPISODE 045 Live Life, Dream Big, Be Positive Stacy and Ari Goldberg share the story of their Mito Warrior. Rina...
