Heather Clarke

Heather Clarke (She, Her, Ella) MSc, MSPED, MA(Econ)is a Black monoracial, Autistic self-advocate. As an Instructional Support Specialist she provides on-site and remote consultation services to support and empower educators to establish inclusive and equitable classrooms that cultivate self-determination, engagement, and belonging.

She has over 20 years of experience working as a teacher in New York City Public Schools, parent advocate, and in the field of educational justice and policy. Heather has also been an Early Childhood Special Education adjunct professor and Field Mentor at New York University and City University of New York (Brooklyn College and Queen College Campuses). Heather’s advocacy focuses on the intersections of disability justice and inclusion as it relates to Black children that are multiply marginalized due to their race and disability status. Heather founded The Learning Advocate where she consults with parents/guardians, educators, and organizations on issues around racial equity and disability justice. 

Heather also serves as an Education and Child Development Review Board Editor at Parents Magazine. You can read Heather’s writing in Parents, Jed Foundation and Care magazines. She is Bilingual in Spanish.