Heather has both personal and professional experience supporting and advocating for people with intellectual disabilities. She has experience as an Educational Specialist for students accessing an adapted curriculum, through the Office of Special Education Instruction, with Fairfax County Public Schools. She is also the older sibling of someone with Down syndrome. Heather has a Master of Arts in Elementary Education (certified in Special Education) as well as a Master of Education in Educational Leadership. She has worked in the middle school, high school, and post-secondary settings. Heather is passionate about advocating for employment opportunities for people with Down syndrome. She hopes to help DSANV continue to grow in its membership and support for families.

Email: heather.padgett@dsanv.org