ABOUT OUR ADVOCATE

Shawna R. McMillan is a dedicated education advocate, program leader, and special education expert with a strong background in family advocacy, curriculum development, and policy engagement. As the founder of Advocate Baltimore and now N.A.M.E., Inc. she guides families through the complexities of special education, ensuring students with disabilities receive the support they need through IEP development, dispute resolution, and legal compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and ADA. She is committed to empowering parents with knowledge and advocacy tools, attending school meetings, and collaborating with educators to secure individualized services for students. With a Master’s in Education (Special Education Concentration) from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor’s in English Literature from Stevenson University, Shawna brings a deep understanding of curriculum design, instructional strategies, and student support frameworks.

Her role as Program Coordinator & Lead Educator at SAFE Alternative Foundation for Education has allowed her to design inclusive curricula, implement student-centered instruction, and develop assessment models that support academic growth for middle school students. Additionally, she has secured funding for programs by researching, writing, and managing grant proposals for educational initiatives. Previously, as an Educator at Baltimore City Public Schools, Shawna developed and implemented data-driven interventions for ESOL/ELL students, created accessible instructional materials, and provided Tier 3 literacy interventions to improve student outcomes. She has a proven track record in collaborating with teachers, parents, and administrators to drive student success and ensure compliance with special education regulations. Through her work, Shawna McMillan is breaking down systemic barriers, holding schools accountable, and equipping families with the knowledge and tools to advocate for their children's education. Her expertise in special education and curriculum development positions her as a leader in the fight for equitable and meaningful education for all students.