Laurie Slade, MS, Sixth-Year Certificate in Educational Leadership, is a special education advocate, educator, and co-founder of Education for All with extensive experience supporting students, families, and school districts. Drawing on her background as a special education teacher, reading specialist, administrator, and special education director, Laurie brings a unique perspective to special education advocacy and a deep understanding of how to help families navigate complex educational systems.

Throughout her career, Laurie has developed and implemented data-driven IEPs, conducted formal and informal assessments, prepared comprehensive evaluation reports, and participated in countless Planning and Placement Team (PPT) meetings. As a building-level administrator and special education director, she led program development and implementation while working closely with families, educators, and service providers to support student success. Her broad experience allows her to understand special education from multiple perspectives and effectively advocate for individualized, student-centered solutions.

Laurie holds a Sixth-Year Certificates in Reading and Educational Leadership, Master of Science in Education from Southern Connecticut State University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in General and Special Education from the University of Saint Joseph. Her combination of classroom, leadership, and advocacy experience enables her to guide families through every stage of the special education process with knowledge, empathy, and confidence.

Families appreciate Laurie’s thoughtful, practical approach and her ability to build collaborative relationships while keeping students' needs at the center of every decision. Through Education for All, she is committed to helping families understand their rights, access appropriate services, and secure meaningful educational opportunities for their children.

As co-founders of Education for All, Sharon Golder and Laurie Slade are committed to empowering families, advocating for students with disabilities, and helping ensure that every child receives the individualized support and educational opportunities they deserve.