When Baltimore mom Chaya began to notice her daughter, who has autism, was struggling in school, she knew she needed to act. But navigating the special education system alone quickly proved overwhelming.
“I wasn’t sure where to start,” Chaya recalled. “The school didn’t think she needed support, but I could see she was struggling.”
Through a local WhatsApp group, Chaya connected with Martha Goodman, Disability Resource Coordinator and Educational Advocate with the Louise D. and Morton J. Macks Jewish Connection Network, an agency of The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore. That connection, Chaya said, changed everything.
“Martha came with me to meetings at the school, reviewed documents and helped me understand my rights,” said Chaya. “She really knows her stuff — and she helped me find my voice.”
With over 20 years of experience and a deep personal connection to the work, Martha helps families of children with disabilities — whether in public, private or homeschool settings — navigate everything from IEPs and 504 plans to dispute resolution and transition planning. Her services are free to families in the Jewish community.
“Martha was right by my side,” said Chaya. “After just a few meetings, I could see a real change — not only in how the school listened, but in how confident I felt speaking up for my daughter.”
Today, Chaya’s daughter is making steady progress both academically and emotionally. She’s creative and imaginative — a budding artist who loves animals and has a special bond with the family’s golden retriever. “Every child deserves to feel supported and included,” Chaya said. “Having Martha in my corner made all the difference.”
For Martha, that’s the goal. “We want every family to know they don’t have to navigate this alone,” she said. “We’re here to help parents advocate with confidence and make sure their children get the education they deserve.”
You don’t have to hope you’re in the right WhatsApp group to find support — help is available. Learn more about the Jewish Connection Network’s Educational Advocacy and Consulting services at thejewishnetwork.org or contact Martha Goodman at mgoodman@thejewishnetwork.org
