Our Mission
Special Education Defense / Defensa de Educación Especial is an independent consulting and advocacy organization committed to upholding the educational rights of students with disabilities under federal and state law. Founded by experienced advocates with over two decades of combined expertise, the practice operates on the principle that meaningful change occurs when advocacy is both legally grounded and culturally responsive.
We work directly with families and schools to resolve disputes, promote compliance, and create solutions that prevent costly and unnecessary litigation—ensuring that every child receives the education the law guarantees and their dignity demands.
Special Education Defense / Defensa de Educación Especial was founded by a team of dedicated professionals united by a shared mission: to ensure that students with disabilities receive the education the law guarantees and that families are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.
Together, the founding team brings experience spanning special education advocacy, organizational leadership, and administrative systems that support families and professionals in resolving disputes effectively. Their collaboration grew from a shared belief that advocacy should be both legally grounded and responsive to the realities families face every day.
With Susana Ramírez’s extensive background as a professional special education advocate since 2001 and Karen Wooten’s growing expertise in educational advocacy and parent support, Special Education Defense / Defensa de Educación Especial operates as an independent practice committed to accountability, precision, and solutions that work for students and families alike.
Originally from Mexico City, Susana came to the San Francisco Bay Area to pursue a professional ballet career before dedicating her life to advocacy after the birth of her son, Kevin, who experiences autism. Her personal journey as a mother and advocate informs her deep understanding of how policy, law, and lived experience intersect in the lives of families navigating special education systems.
Before co-founding Special Education Defense, Susana served for 18 years as a Special Education Legal Advocate with Disability Rights Oregon and later worked in private legal practice. She continues to integrate her extensive legal advocacy experience with a practical, compassionate approach—helping families navigate complex educational processes and holding systems accountable to the law.
As a mom of four, Karen’s commitment to fostering opportunities and equal access for all children has always been a guiding priority. Her belief in inclusion extends beyond education and into the community, where she actively participates in parent groups, offers support to other families navigating special education, and volunteers with local nonprofits. Karen has served on fundraising boards, contributed written support for grant applications, and spoken at community events to promote understanding, access, and opportunities for children with disabilities.
Professionally, Karen brings a blend of personal experience and formal expertise. She previously worked at a private law firm supporting families in special education matters, strengthening her understanding of rights, services, and effective advocacy. Karen serves on the Oregon Department of Education’s Dispute Resolution Committee, and is a member of COPAA (Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates.) Her approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply rooted in the belief that every child deserves meaningful access to education.
Outside of her advocacy work, Karen enjoys spending time with her husband and children, especially when they’re traveling, camping, or boating together. She finds peace in gardening, reading, and writing—but one of her greatest joys is the special bond she shares with her youngest daughter through their mutual love of animals. Their home is filled with a lively menagerie of pets, from dogs, and chickens to a bunny and a cat.
At the heart of everything Karen does is a simple mission: empower families, uplift students, and ensure that every child has the chance to thrive.
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.”
Fair isn’t everyone getting the same thing. Fair is everyone getting what they need in order to be successful.
Special Education Defense made a huge difference for my son’s education.
I came to Special Education Defense totally frustrated with my child’s school administration. Now everything is running smoothly!
Susana helped me learn how to advocate for my daughter and work with the district instead of against them.
