SPAN Parent Advocacy Network—an independent, parent-led non-profit organization—is committed to empowering and supporting parents as advocates for improving the lives of children.  Our foremost commitment is to those with greatest need due to:

- Disability or special health/mental health needs
- Material poverty or financial instability
- Discrimination (race, sex, language, immigrant status, homelessness, etc.)
- Involvement in the foster care, child welfare, or juvenile justice systems
- Geographic location
- Other special circumstances  

Our programs/services for families, professionals, and others interested in the healthy development and education of children and youth include workshops, publications, direct support, and policy advocacy.  We are committed to assisting parents in becoming informed and empowered advocates as they negotiate the systems serving children and families including education (general, special education, bilingual education and Title I), and health care.

SPAN HELPS FAMILIES:

KNOW their rights
ACCESS resources and information
SECURE appropriate services
NAVIGATE education, health, mental health systems
KEEP children in school
PREPARE for life after high school
CONNECT with other parents who understand
BE catalysts to improve services for children and families
START parent groups
BECOME effective partners in improving schools
ADVOCATE for other children and families

Education

Health Care

Non Profit

SPAN Parent Advocacy Network

Carolyn Hayer

Debbie Esposito

Beth Veith Wells

John Pennett

Tom Franklin

Roy Maynard

Pam Aasen

Nicole Pratt

Maria Docherty

Libby Stone - Sterling

Josie Badger

Jeanne Mcmahon

Dawn Monaco

The Coordinators Team at SPAN Parent Advocacy Network plays a pivotal role in organizing and executing the organization's programs and services. This team manages resource development, early childhood inclusion efforts, intake processes, family support initiatives, youth engagement projects, and virtual training. They ensure parents and families receive the necessary resources, training, and advocacy support to navigate educational, health, and mental health systems, thereby improving outcomes for children, especially those with the greatest needs.

Coordinators Team

Family Resource Team

Management and Directors

Coordinators Team

About

Team members

Other teams at SPAN Parent Advocacy Network

Family Resource Team

Management and Directors