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:
PARENTS AS RARE - EPISODE 077 A Rare Revolution - HITMC Meets Rare Disease with Grace Vinton, Kristy Dickinson, & Effie Parks Grace Vinton,...
PARENTS AS RARE - EPISODE 074 Exploring Palliative Care Kimberly Matias, a social worker, and Michelle Hurty, a physician assistant, join me for an...
Meet Jenevieve Woods!