WELCOME TO P.O.S.S.E

Welcome to Parents of Students in Special Education, also known as P.O.S.S.E.

P.O.S.S.E. was created to support parents in understanding and participating meaningfully in their child’s educational journey. Our focus is on helping families navigate the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process with clarity, organization, and confidence while promoting collaborative relationships with school teams.

We believe that when parents are informed, prepared, and organized, students benefit most.

Our Vision

P.O.S.S.E. is committed to supporting improved educational outcomes for students with learning challenges by promoting consistent academic progress and reducing barriers that can lead to disengagement or dropout. Our focus is on helping students move forward in alignment with their educational potential and grade-level expectations.

Our Mission

P.O.S.S.E.’s mission is to create educational opportunities for children in grades 1–12 with learning challenges by supporting effective, research-based learning programs that promote student success, independence, and dignity.

We work to ensure that students are provided with appropriate supports, services, and instruction so they can access their education in meaningful ways. When students with learning challenges are supported effectively, it has a lasting positive impact on their academic achievement and future opportunities.

Founder’s Message

P.O.S.S.E. was founded through both professional experience and personal insight into the educational process.

After decades in the legal field as a paralegal, Marlena Vaughn recognized the importance of organization, documentation, and informed participation within educational planning for students with learning challenges. Her experience navigating the educational system as a parent led her to pursue specialized training in Special Education Law and parent education.

P.O.S.S.E. was created to support parents in becoming informed, organized participants in the IEP process while promoting collaborative relationships with school teams and focusing on positive educational outcomes for students.

Our Approach

P.O.S.S.E. is grounded in the belief that effective educational outcomes are achieved through structured collaboration between parents and educators.

We support parents in understanding educational processes, organizing records, and participating confidently in decision-making, while maintaining alignment with school teams and compliance with educational standards.

Our goal is to strengthen communication, promote clarity, and support data-informed decisions that benefit the student.

Our Inspiration

P.O.S.S.E. draws inspiration from Helen Keller, whose life reflects perseverance, determination, and the transformative impact of education. Her work reminds us that with the right support and opportunities, individuals can overcome challenges and achieve meaningful success.

One of the enduring themes reflected in her story is the importance of “the power of the right kind of education.”

Our Commitment

We are committed to working alongside families and school districts to:

• Promote student-centered, research-based educational practices
• Support parent understanding and engagement
• Encourage organized, data-driven decision-making
• Maintain respectful, collaborative partnerships
• Focus on long-term student success and independence