Amanda Villamar, MSW, LSW

I am a professional Non-Attorney Education Advocate serving families throughout New Jersey. Before I became an educational advocate, I worked in early intervention and home-based programs, providing services to young children. After earning my bachelor’s degree in psychology, I obtained a master’s degree in social work with a concentration on children and families. My primary focus was on children with disabilities. I then obtained my Social Work (LSW) license and became a Certified School Social Worker. Throughout my career, I have worked in various settings, including schools, home-based programs, and hospitals. Adding to my education, I completed my Special Education Advocacy Training (SEAT) through the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA). I then completed an education advocacy practicum under the supervision of an attorney.

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Perhaps my most valuable asset is my lived experiences as both a sibling to someone on the spectrum and a mother to three children, two of whom have disabilities of their own. Having had to tirelessly advocate for appropriate services and accommodations for my children, I understand the relentless dedication and perseverance it takes to secure appropriate educational services. Once a solid, well-calculated IEP is in place, it then requires constant monitoring to ensure ongoing meaningful educational gains. This is the ever-demanding, tiresome journey we as parents face daily as we advocate for our children. I have dedicated my work to professional advocacy because of my love for children and the fact that I, too, have had to walk this path.  

 

 I work under the principles of collaborative problem-solving to resolve conflict and come to a resolution. I combine creativity and strategic planning as an educational advocate for each child’s right to make meaningful educational gains in light of their unique circumstances. I have formed partnerships with many in the field, including expert evaluators, education attorneys, medical professionals, and other organizations. In addition to working as a special education advocate, I was previously employed by the SPAN Parent Advocacy Network. SPAN is the parent and information center for New Jersey. While at SPAN, I acted as a Program Coordinator and Early Childhood Trainer,  helping families navigate systems and informing parents of their educational rights. I also currently serve as a court-appointed special advocate.

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I continue to stay current by attending ongoing trainings and conferences all related to educational advocacy and learners with disabilities. In addition to the COPAA training, I have completed SPAN’s SRP training and SEVA training. I have also completed training through the BOGGS Center on Developmental Disabilities. I hold several professional memberships, including a COPAA membership and a National Association of Social Workers (NASW) membership, among several others.

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I am passionate about advocacy and work hard to secure an education based on each child's unique needs and learning profile.