Spotlight of the Week: Gretchen Adams

This week, we shine a light on Gretchen Adams, a passionate and dedicated advocate for children with special educational needs in Ohio. As the Founder of Ohio Special Education Advocacy, Gretchen has spent over eight years fighting for the rights of children and families, ensuring they receive the education and support they deserve.
With a background that includes 11 years with a state regulatory board and three years as a legal assistant in local and federal courts, Gretchen brings a unique blend of legal knowledge, advocacy expertise, and compassion to her work. She is a Lead Teaching Assistant for COPAA’s Special Education Advocacy Training (SEAT) program, where she helps train the next generation of advocates by designing real-world learning experiences focused on IEPs, 504 plans, and special education law.
Her advocacy extends to children facing challenges such as autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, ADHD, speech and language disorders, neurological developmental delays, and more. She is a member of the Council for Exceptional Children and the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), reinforcing her deep commitment to ensuring every child, no matter their challenges, has access to quality education and resources.
Gretchen’s tireless work has empowered countless families across Ohio, providing them with the guidance, resources, and advocacy needed to navigate the education system. Her expertise in handling tense and difficult situations with empathy and professionalism makes her an invaluable force for change.