Meet Bonnie Klein

I serve as a Training Instructor for COPAA's Special Education Advocate Training (SEAT™ 2.0) program and The Business of Special Education Advocacy course. As part of the instructional teams, I provide practical, skills-based instruction and mentor advocates from across the country.

I believe that effective advocacy is about more than understanding special education law—it's about helping people navigate difficult conversations with clarity, professionalism, and respect.

To strengthen that approach, I completed the 40-hour mediation training program through the UNLV William S. Boyd School of Law's Saltman Center for Conflict Resolution and currently participate in a court-connected mediation mentorship program. 

This experience continues to strengthen my ability to facilitate productive discussions, build collaborative working relationships, support informed decision-making, and help families and school teams navigate complex situations.

Like many parents, I never expected to become a special education advocate.

My journey began in 2011 when my own child entered the public school system and required special education services. Navigating the complexities of the IDEA process firsthand sparked a deep interest in the field and a desire to help other families approach the process with greater clarity, knowledge, and confidence..

What began as advocating for my own child grew into a profession dedicated to helping families understand their rights, communicate effectively, and work toward meaningful educational outcomes for their children.

Before entering the field of special education, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and an MBA before spending ten years in corporate marketing and brand management. That experience continues to shape my approach through strategic planning, effective communication, leadership, and thoughtful problem solving.

Whether I'm supporting a family through an IEP meeting, collaborating with a school team, mentoring new advocates, or instructing future professionals, my goal is the same: to help others navigate the special education process with clarity, confidence, and practical solutions that support meaningful outcomes for students.

Professional Roles

• Founder, Sierra Special Education Advocacy 
• Non-Attorney Special Education Advocate 
• Training Instructor, COPAA SEAT™ 2.0 
• Training Instructor, COPAA The Business of Special Education Advocacy 

Education & Professional Development

• Graduate, COPAA Special Education Advocate Training (SEAT™) 
• 40-hour Mediation Training, UNLV William S. Boyd School of Law 
• Court-connected mediation mentorship participant 
• B.S., Business Administration | MBA