Celia M Blackman, a mother of two precious young boys living in New York City. A single parent of two young sons diagnosed ranges from a life-threatening medical condition to cognitive/mental issues, learning disability, with both being on the spectrum and attending specialized schools.
Celia has worked within the Department of Education as a Parent Member, Parent Association Elected Board Member (PA/PTA), Schools Leadership Team (SLT), Chancellor’s Parent Advisory Council (CPAC), District 75 President Council, and Learning Leaders. Also, she volunteers as an advocate with The NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) within the Family Council and Office of Mental Health.
As a Parent Advocate, Celia aids families navigating through Early Intervention, Department of Education CPSE (preschool for special education), and CSE (special education within Community Schools & DC 75 & related services) and residential programs. Informed parents of their legal rights and make sure of their understanding of their child’s IEP (Individual Educational Plan) & ISP (Individual Service Plan) meeting and objectives. Her intention is to empower parents to develop into an effective advocate for their children. Aiding parents in getting the academic and state-based services for the care of their child and overall family. With connections to resources and guides allowing parents to study and understand various services within NYC.
While raising and guiding the educational and developmental growth of her sons, she continues to help others. As creator and CEO of Beautiful Village Inc., she uses her personal and professional abilities to advocate and educate parents of children with special needs & empower women to smile and live an abundant life. As a blogger and coach, she shares her story to empower and educate women to use the past as a stepping stone in becoming the best person they were called to be. For them to know regardless of the road life has taken them down you can survive but most of all you can SOAR. In addition, she released her first non-fictional novel in 2021.