Misti Pollaro
Oldsmar,FL
Summary
A dedicated and accomplished nonprofit professional with 14 years of expertise in IDEA, family support, training coordination, and administration within the disability community. Backed by 30 years of lived experience navigating special education supports and services, I bring a unique and comprehensive understanding of the challenges families face. Proven ability to develop and deliver impactful programs, guide families through critical transitions, and advocate for inclusive policies and practices.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Family Training Coordinator
Family Network on Disabilities
Oldsmar, USA
03.2015 - Current
- Led the Parent Support Network (PSN) program, managing outreach, educational resources, and training sessions for families of children with disabilities
- Organized and facilitated statewide trainings, ensuring materials and content met the needs of families and professionals
- Utilized 30 years of lived experience in navigating special education supports and transitioning services to guide families and staff on these critical areas
- Created detailed action plans for future trainings, including manuals, guides, and support tools for Family Resource Specialists
- Coordinated multi-agency collaboration efforts for statewide meetings and strategic planning sessions
- Leveraged social media platforms to increase community engagement and disseminate resources to a broader audience
- Applied experience in AI development to improve internal processes and enhance program efficiency
- Navigated resources for families, providing critical support and guidance during this period
Administrative Assistant
Family Network on Disabilities
Oldsmar, USA
01.2011 - 01.2014
- Provided comprehensive administrative support, handling scheduling, correspondence, and record-keeping for Family Network on Disabilities
- Supported program coordinators by managing databases, tracking outreach efforts, and preparing reports for grant funders and stakeholders
- Assisted in organizing events and training sessions, coordinating logistics, and ensuring smooth operations
Volunteer
Family Network on Disabilities
Oldsmar, USA
01.2010 - 01.2011
- Began involvement as a volunteer, quickly rising to a formal position due to demonstrated commitment and organizational skills
Skills
- Training & Development
- Public Speaking
- Navigating Special Education & Adulthood Resources
- Program Coordination
- Social Media Management
- AI Development
- Salesforce
- Nonprofit Management
- Administrative Support
- Communication
- Microsoft Suite
- Google Suite
- Slack
- Zoom
- Microsoft Teams
- Social Media Platforms
- Program Support
- Training delivery
- Training facilitation
- Verbal and written communication
- Training material updates
- Materials Preparation
Certification
- Certifications in Nonprofit Management, Marketing, and Event Planning
- IDEA Trainer
- Conflict Prevention and IEP Meeting Facilitation
- Youth Mental Health First Aid
Communityinvolvementandawards
- Multiple Community Awards for outstanding service in supporting families with children with disabilities.
- Recognized for contributions in enhancing resources for neurodivergent individuals and improving access to educational and medical services.
- Actively serve on national, state, and local committees and boards that advocate for the 0-26 population in special education.
Timeline
Family Training Coordinator
Family Network on Disabilities
03.2015 - Current
Administrative Assistant
Family Network on Disabilities
01.2011 - 01.2014
Volunteer
Family Network on Disabilities
01.2010 - 01.2011
- Certifications in Nonprofit Management, Marketing, and Event Planning
- IDEA Trainer
- Conflict Prevention and IEP Meeting Facilitation
- Youth Mental Health First Aid