In the complex world of special education, Melissa Yelito stands as a steadfast support for families navigating the challenging terrain of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and school accommodations. As the founder of MY Advocacy LLC, Melissa has transformed her experience as a former public school teacher into meaningful change in the lives of children with unique learning needs.

Celebrating exceptional local women making significant impacts in our community.

Our 2024 Women of Influence Award Winners were nominated by peers and selected by the Family Focus Media team based on their achievements and dedication to creating positive change, as revealed through comprehensive questionnaires. Their profiles showcase their inspiring journeys and accomplishments.

Beyond the awards, our Women of Influence Luncheons and Speed Networking Night attendees form our growing “Women of Influence Network,” a community fostering connections, collaboration, and mutual support. We invite you to explore our Award Winners’ stories and leverage our Network Directory in the Women of Influence Guide. Reach out to fellow members to harness the power of our network through shared growth and support. For further engagement, we welcome business and nonprofit leaders to join our Family Focus Media Community Builders Group on Facebook and our NEW Women of Influence LinkedIn Group.

A Voice for the Voiceless

The impact of Melissa’s work is evident in the numerous nominations she received, each highlighting her dedication, knowledge, and compassion. One parent’s words particularly stand out:

“Being a single mother navigating a newly diagnosed autistic child, and having a very hard time within the school with the IEP process, and losing trust and hope, Melissa has been a literal answered prayer. Her integrity and her support towards me and my son has been so amazing. She has advocated for everything I have been unable to do myself.”

This sentiment is echoed across multiple nominations, with families praising Melissa’s ability to navigate the complex special education system, her responsiveness, and her practical advice.

From Classroom to Advocacy

Melissa’s journey to advocacy was born from her experiences in the classroom. “As a former public school teacher with experience as both a special education teacher and a regulation teacher, I saw firsthand the lack of support available to students with unique needs,” she explains. Her vast experience across urban, suburban, and rural school districts provided a comprehensive view of the challenges faced by students, teachers, and parents alike.

Three key observations drove Melissa to transition from teaching to advocacy:

• All students have the ability to learn and thrive.
• Public schools are often understaffed and lack resources to support students who learn differently.
• Parents of students receiving special education services receive little to no training in how the complex system functions.

Empowering Through Education

In her role as an advocate, Melissa has supported close to seventy-five different families in just three and a half years. Her approach goes beyond simply representing families in meetings; inspires her clients to understand the rights of their children.

“I help to educate and empower my clients to not only understand what their child is entitled to, but understand the best way to communicate and collaborate with their child’s educational team,” Melissa states.

Balancing Advocacy and Motherhood

As a business owner, wife, and mother to two children under the age of 5, Melissa exemplifies the delicate balance many working mothers strive to achieve. She prioritizes her role as a mother while demonstrating to her children the value of pursuing one’s professional dreams.

“I am proud that my children are able to witness my hard work, dedication, and passion for my role as an advocate,” Melissa shares. “It is important to me that my kids see that being a mom and following your professional dreams can be mutually exclusive.”

Advocating for Broader Change

Melissa passionately advocates for paid parental leave in the United States, recognizing its potential to improve gender equality and support new parents during a crucial time.

“If the United States provided paid parental leave following the birth or adoption of a baby, women would be able to spend quality time nurturing their child in the early days of their life, while not losing their position, salary, benefits, etc. with their company,” she argues.

Looking to the Future

As Melissa continues to grow her advocacy practice, she remains committed to giving back to her community. She recently hosted an event offering free advocacy consultations and a provider meet-and-greet, marking the first step in her goal to increase her community involvement.Melissa Yelito’s work as a special education advocate is more than just a career; it’s a mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in their educational environment. Through her dedication, expertise, and compassion, she is not only changing individual lives but also contributing to a broader shift in how we approach special education and support for diverse learners.