Interested in learning how to advocate for federal legislation prohibiting the use of restraint and seclusion in schools? Join us for a virtual training by two experts in federal advocacy on how to engage in this advocacy on Capitol Hill. All skill levels are welcome!

As a Partner at Stride Policy Solutions, Laura Kaloi provides strategic policy, advocacy, partnership-building, and communications expertise to nonprofit clients and is a leader in the education, disability, and child advocacy communities. She advises clients on policy and advocacy issues impacting children and families. Laura has a deep passion for improving access to education, career training, and independent living for all individuals. She has written and spoken extensively on federal education, special education, and workforce laws. Prior to becoming a consultant, Laura led the public affairs teams for nonprofit policy and advocacy organizations, including the National Center for Learning Disabilities, the American Health Quality Association, and HealthInsight. She worked in the U.S. Congress early in her career as a legislative assistant to the late U.S. Congressman James V. Hansen. Laura holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and a master’s in public administration from Brigham Young University.

Cyrus Huncharek is the Policy and Advocacy Director for the National Down Syndrome Congress. Before joining NDSC, Cyrus was a Senior Public Policy Analyst at the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) where he oversaw several policy areas impacting people with disabilities. Prior to his work at NDRN, Cyrus worked as a Government Affairs Coordinator for the National Parent Teacher Association (National PTA), taught high school English in South Dakota through Teach For America, and served as a Learning and Development intern for the White House Office of Administration where he developed e-learning courses for executive office employees. He holds a B.A. in Government from the University of Texas at Austin. Cyrus’ experience as a classroom teacher and prior work on special education policy motivates him to now work toward an improved world for individuals with Down syndrome.

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