Candy Apple Advocacy

At its core, the conversation between Mama Owl - Camilla on TikTok touches upon the story of a remarkable individual who found her calling in life in an unexpected way. As the conversation unfolds, we delve into the personal journey of Mama Owl, whose experiences as a paraeducator in early childhood special education showcased the resilience and empathy of an 18-year-old facing a profound challenge. The conversation serves as an inspiring account of a young woman's transition from a lifeguard to an educator who finds her purpose in advocating for children with special needs. Mama Owl's decision to become a teacher was not a straightforward one. During her high school days, she had planned to pursue a career in social work. However, fate led her to take on a paraeducator job at a local preschool, where she was assigned to a classroom with 10 children, two paras, and a teacher. This experience introduced her to children with significant illnesses and disabilities, igniting a passion within her to become an advocate for these children. The story of one particular child, Erin, who had an inoperable brain tumor, proved to be a turning point for Mama Owl. She vividly recalls moments when Erin experienced seizures and how she learned to care for and support her during these episodes. Witnessing the transformative impact she could have on these children's lives, Mama Owl made the life-altering decision to switch her major to special education, recognizing her undeniable calling to serve those in need. Mama Owl's journey sheds light on the power of empathy and the ability of individuals to overcome personal doubts and imposter syndrome to make a meaningful impact. Her story challenges the notion of traditional career paths and underscores the significance of following one's passion, even in the face of uncertainty. Moreover, Mama Owl's experiences highlight the critical role of paraeducators in the education system. It underscores the need for adequate training and support for young individuals entrusted with the care of children with special needs, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and nurturing their potential. In today's society, where inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities are increasingly championed, Mama Owl's story offers a poignant reminder of the impact a single individual can have in making a difference. It encourages us to reevaluate our preconceived notions of ability and potential, urging us to embrace diversity in all its forms. Overall, Mama Owl's journey from a lifeguard to an advocate for children with special needs is a testament to the transformative power of empathy, perseverance, and the willingness to embrace change. Her story serves as an inspiration to others, encouraging them to unearth their true passions and pursue meaningful paths in life, regardless of the challenges they may encounter. As we navigate a world striving for equality and inclusivity, Mama Owl's story resonates deeply, emphasizing the importance of fostering empathy and understanding in our communities. It urges us to recognize the value of every individual and to support initiatives that promote equal opportunities for all. Ultimately, Mama Owl's journey reminds us that it is through compassion and advocacy that we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for everyone.

On this week's episode of Candy Apple Advocacy, host Tabby Malliard interviews Ashlie Hurlbutt, a mother of three who homeschools and has a popular TikTok account. Ashlie shares her unexpected motherhood journey which began with fertility struggles, losing one of her newborn twins, and now parenting children with disabilities. Despite grief and challenges, Ashlie has found creativity and joy in homeschooling her kids. She also uses her TikTok platform to provide support and advocacy around issues like child exploitation in YouTube families. Join us as Ashlie reflects on the difficult parts of her parenting path while emphasizing the beauty, fun, and light she’s found along the way. Learn about her guiding motto of “winging it and learning as I go” and how it’s helped her become adaptable.

In this episode, the Republican chair of the Education Committee, Representative Topper, delves into the intricacies of public education funding in Pennsylvania. He highlights the critical role of state government in shaping education policy and funding, while pointing out the current challenges faced by public schools in the state. The discussion also covers the importance of student achievement, the need for flexibility and accountability in schools, and the transformative potential of extracurricular activities and charter schools. The podcast offers a unique perspective on the influence of government funding on education in Pennsylvania, aiming to inspire and empower listeners to champion their child's education.

Coming soon! Parents Journey into School Advocacy in general and special education. We're here to empower and support parents in navigating the world of education. From general school advice to Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and policy, we've got you covered.