Erika Mitchell, Director
As a school psychologist and former English Learner specialist, I have spent my career supporting students and families navigating complex systems. I am passionate about building communities that are inclusive, accessible, and empowering for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
I began my work in education in the early childhood field, serving as an Early Head Start home visitor beginning around 2006. In 2014, I transitioned to working as an English Learner Learning Specialist, partnering closely with multilingual students and their families to support language development and equitable access to education. I completed my school psychology program in 2021 and have served in this role since, supporting students across our district from preschool through age 21+. My work centers on evaluation, consultation, and advocacy—particularly for students with significant disabilities and support needs. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the challenges individuals with I/DD and their families face, and have affirmed the essential role that community networks like WWVDN play in creating long-term, life-changing support.
I am particularly drawn to WWVDN’s focus on empowering families and individuals through connection, education, and advocacy. In my professional life, I strive to do the same—ensuring every family I work with feels seen, informed, and supported. I bring experience in systems-level problem solving, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and a strong foundation in inclusive educational practices. I am also bilingual and biliterate in Spanish, a skill that helps me connect with and advocate for a broader range of families in our region. On a personal level, I am a single mother working hard to raise two teenagers to be thoughtful, compassionate people in a world that often challenges those values.
