“I know special education because I lived special education,” writes Carly Rosen ’14 on her website advocateforaction.org.
At school, Rosen developed her own learning style, which, “along with having an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and later a 504 Plan to support me, had a meaningful impact that led to great success.” Rosen’s advocate was her aunt, a retired principal with special education expertise who helped Rosen and her family navigate education plans and accommodations. With supports in place—what she calls her “road map for success”—Rosen got straights As in school and a magna cum laude bachelor’s degree in Inclusive Elementary and Special Education from Syracuse University School of Education.
“I was destined to become a teacher, a ‘natural’ to become a Special Education teacher and most importantly, with my experience, developed an expertise on how to navigate within the Special Education world,” Rosen writes.
She served as a special education teacher for seven years in the Chicago area before founding Advocate for Action, providing K-8 educational planning, mediation, and tutoring for families and students in need of special education plans.
Describe your current role and its responsibilities.
I was previously a middle school special education teacher. Today, I am a non-attorney special education advocate and tutor, specializing in a reading methodology for people with Dyslexia. Building my own business—Advocate for Action—I can help even more families navigate the complexities of special education, guiding them through the process and empowering parents and guardians to become stronger advocates for their children.
As a tutor, I build trusting relationships that support each child’s educational journey. Whether providing reading support, executive function instruction, or writing tutoring, I create an engaging and nurturing environment that sparks excitement for learning. My students not only gain skills and confidence, they also develop an understanding of how today’s efforts impact their progress today, tomorrow, next week, and beyond.
How did the School of Education prepare you for this role?
“The experience and opportunities at SOE truly shape you into an exceptional educator. It’s an experience unlike any other.”
The School of Education not only prepared me for my career, it inspired me to help others discover their unique light in the world. Being part of the Inclusive Elementary and Special Education program provided incredible learning opportunities that have truly shaped who I am as an educator. From gaining classroom experience starting my freshman year to learning from inspiring professors (who even wrote many of our books), I am grateful for my four years at Syracuse University.
The School of Education taught me the true meaning of universal design, what it takes to create an inclusive school environment, and how to put true co-teaching into action. My perspective and approach as an educator today would not be the same without these experiences.
What current trends do you see in your specialty and how are you addressing them?
I am seeing more and more families seeking outside support, whether neuropsychological assessments or one-on-one tutoring. In my role, I help families understand the supports already in place at school, ensuring their child receives what they need to thrive and make progress. I also provide one-on-one support to help close achievement gaps.
Which professors stood out for you most as a student at SOE?
My experience as a whole remains vivid, thanks to the incredible and influential professors who shaped my journey. Professor Julie Causton created an inspiring space for co-teaching and inclusive education, sharing personal stories and insights that stay with me to this day. She truly helped me understand what inclusion means and how to implement co-teaching effectively.
Instructor Chelsea Bronson was kind, approachable, and attentive, and she created an environment of strong collaboration. Professor George Theoharis guided and challenged my thinking, helping me navigate my learning in meaningful ways. I also often reflect on the stories Professor Tom Bull shared, especially his lessons about behavior—how what’s considered “appropriate” can vary by context, but focusing on “expected” behavior provides clearer guidance for students.
Professor Wendy Harbour, as a deaf educator, was a powerful role model who deepened our understanding of inclusive education through both her teaching and lived experience. Professor Christine Ashby taught us the importance of multicultural education and showed us how to create classrooms that genuinely support and celebrate diversity. Last, but not least, I want to shout out undergraduate admissions coordinator Laurie Deyo, who really guided me throughout my four years at Syracuse!
The impact my professors had on me is lasting. Although I graduated about 11 years ago, it feels like just yesterday I was sitting in their classrooms, learning lessons that continue to guide me today.
Make a pitch for SOE—why should a prospective student choose the School of Education?
The experience and opportunities at SOE truly shape you into an exceptional educator. It’s an experience unlike any other. To this day, I stay connected with my cohort, remain in touch with my cooperating teachers, and often reflect on who I am today as a direct result of my outstanding time at SOE.