Education & Background

• B.A. in Special Education & Public Speaking, University of Texas at El Paso
• M.A. in Communication, University of Texas at El Paso
• El Paso native with deep community roots and strong regional partnerships

Professional Journey

Leah brings 26 years of transformational experience in secondary Special Education, shaping inclusive practices and empowering learners with diverse needs. Her career reflects a commitment to passion-driven service and impactful system-wide change.

• Teaching Excellence: Served students with learning disabilities and later specialized in supporting individuals with Complex Access Needs (grades 6–8).
• Transition Innovation: Led high school transition planning and pioneered an 18+ Transition Program for students with developmental disabilities.
• Systems Leadership: Oversaw district-wide transition services as a Transition Services Coordinator, ensuring compliance with State Performance Plan indicators.
• Grant Management: Project Manager for the five-year Charting the Course grant at ESC Region 19, expanding services from 60 students to over 700.

Core Competencies

• Building strong partnerships with students, families, and community stakeholders
• Creating inclusive learning environments that challenge negative societal perceptions
• Developing employment pathways and independent living skills
• Coordinating complex transition services and compliance requirements
• Supporting meaningful integration of individuals with disabilities into the community

Teaching Philosophy

“Transition is not something that magically starts at age 14. Transition starts at birth and ends at death. Everyone, with or without a disability, goes through transitions on a regular basis.”

Current Role

Leah serves as an Adjunct Professor at UTEP, teaching future special education educators the importance of intentional transition planning, inclusive expectations, and learner-centered support.