Meet the CCSE Members

 I am a dreamer, a Latinx bilingual special education family advocate and a proud single parent of an Autistic child. I am the co-founder of an independent diverse group, Protect NYC Special Education/Proteger la Educación Especial de NYC. As an intimate partner violence survivor, I know first hand, the hardships that families in the temporary housing go through and the impact that may have on their special education. I am passionate in advocating for equitable language access.

 I am a parent of two students with IEP’s.  One who attends his local district school and the other who attends an 853 school.  Mark has been active for years in advocating for students with IEP’s and their families.  Mark Is a returning member of CCSE and previously was the First Vice-President at CEC3 in his second of two terms in CEC3.    Mark is currently on the Board of an 853 school and is a former PTA President and PA Co-President.

I am a single parent of an autistic 8th grader with learning disabilities and ADHD.  I joined the council after witnessing so many kids being denied thier civli rights due to disabilities.  I want to hold our schools accountable to inclusion, service provision and the law. Fun fact: I knit and complete the NYT crossword daily. 

 My name is Yingxin Rong. I am a father of two children attending public schools, and my wife serves as the PTA president at their school. I have worked for many years with medical associations and hospital, collaborating closely with physicians, social workers, and people in the community. This has given me extensive experience in health case coordination. My wife and I have also been long-time advocates, helping parents in our community communicate effectively with educational institutions. 

Bio coming soon!

Bio Coming soon!

Dr. Sanayi Beckles-Canton is the mother of six sons, four of whom are neurodivergent. She currently has a son attending a school in District 5.  She has been a parent leader and education activist for more than 10 years, serving families and children throughout New York City. 

As a parent of two autistic children with learning disabilities, I have faced many challenges navigating the IEP process. This process can be overwhelming, and not everyone is aware of their rights or knows how to locate resources and seek support. My goal is to create a platform where we can share information and amplify the voices of students and families who may feel unheard.

Mom of five — four in DOE schools, one starting pre-K (aka hot teas/ hot coffee baggy sweater season!).

Lover of summer beach days, winter snowball fights, colorful fall leaves, and random bursts of creativity with my family. 

Excited to be here, learn, laugh, and make things happen!