Meet Jennifer Bonial

Jenny is a non-attorney education advocate serving families in Boulder County and the surrounding areas. She began advocating as a parent advocate in 2010, but often felt confused, frustrated, and rushed through the process. To better support her own children, Jenny earned her Master’s of Arts in Special Education where she focused on advocacy, full inclusion for all students, and instructional practices for students with low-incidence disabilities and autism. Jenny has worked in several support and teaching positions in her local school district, and has a substantial understanding of curriculum, the Colorado state standards, evidenced-based instructional practices, and special education law. Jenny continues to hold a teaching license in the state of colorado.

From Jenny

I specialize in advocating for children who have low-incidence disabilities and autism. I have significant training and experience in behavior, communication, and inclusion of these student populations. I believe that all learners are capable of making progress when teachers maintain high expectations and the student is appropriately supported in the school environment through thoughtful planning of services, accommodations, and modifications.

As a former special education teacher, I am able to help families understand their child’s unique needs, and work together to create a plan of action based on the student’s rights and the parent’s goals for the future. I believe in a collaborative approach to advocacy, and I strive to improve the relationships between families and schools without sacrificing the student’s right.

I understand that the special education process can be complicated and intimidating for families. The IEP meeting often feels like a high-pressure, high-stake situation, and parents may feel that they aren’t a meaningful part of the IEP team. I aim to empower families, giving them the tools and resources they need to be informed and included in the educational planning of their child. I believe that parent involvement in education is essential to student success.

Continuing education and professional development are an important part of my advocacy practice. I follow special education case law, and the impact it has on special education as a whole. I have completed the Special Education Advocacy Training with the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), where I am also a member. I have also completed Special Education Law and Advocacy training with Pete Wright Esq. through WrightsLaw.