Expanding Our Impact: Meet the New Advocates at Levy Educational Advocacy
At Levy Educational Advocacy, we are proud to be growing—both in our reach and in our ability to support more families as they navigate the complexities of special education. As we expand, we remain grounded in our mission: to provide expert, compassionate advocacy that empowers families and helps students thrive.
To meet the growing need for skilled guidance and individualized support, we’re excited to introduce three exceptional advocates who bring diverse backgrounds, deep expertise, and a shared commitment to educational equity. With their combined experience, our team is better equipped than ever to support families through every stage of the academic journey.
Kathryn Lord, Advocate, Leader in Workshops and School Consultations
Expertise: Middle School, Secondary, and 18–22 Transition Planning Across All Disability Areas
Katie Lord is an accomplished educator with over 17 years of experience spanning every grade level. She has served as a special educator, 5th-grade teacher, high school assistant principal, and, most recently, a middle school principal. Her leadership background includes extensive work as a Local Education Authority (LEA) representative, and she is highly skilled in post-secondary transition planning. Katie holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Elementary and Special Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Providence College. She brings a comprehensive understanding of K–12 systems and a student-centered approach that ensures families feel supported and heard at every step.
Tara Mallon, Advocate
Expertise: Elementary Education, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, and Parent Coaching
With over 20 years in special education, school leadership, and learning support, Tara brings a wealth of knowledge to the Levy team. She holds a Master’s in Special Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, and an advanced certificate in Supervision and Administration from Hunter College. Tara is a New York State–licensed special education teacher and certified school building and district leader, a New Jersey–licensed learning disabilities teacher consultant, and a PCI-certified parent coach. Her strength lies in guiding families with compassion while advocating for effective, personalized services that meet the unique needs of each child.
Allison Mutzel, Advocate
Expertise: Elementary & Middle School, Dyslexia, Literacy Intervention, Orton-Gillingham Certified
Allison Mutzel is a literacy and dyslexia specialist with a strong foundation in both special education and school administration. She began her career as a special education teacher in New York City, where she witnessed firsthand the educational inequities affecting students with learning differences. Motivated by a deep commitment to equity, Allison has dedicated her career to developing stronger, more inclusive programs and curricula. She is Orton-Gillingham certified and specializes in early intervention and literacy-based support for learners who struggle with reading.
Why This Matters
Every student deserves access to the services, support, and understanding they need to succeed. With our expanded team, Levy Educational Advocacy is better positioned to serve families across a broader range of needs—from transition planning and IEP development to literacy support and emotional/behavioral guidance. We are deeply grateful to continue growing this work and look forward to partnering with more families, schools, and communities across the region.
If you’re looking for guidance navigating special education services, reach out today. We’re here to help.