My name is Ashley Nelson (Patino) and I have been supporting students with IEP's since 2005. I started as an instructional aide and then worked my way up to a special education teacher. I work with students that have mild/moderate disabilities and mod/severe disabilities while specializing in students with autism. I went to Cal State Fullerton and Chapman University for my BA, teaching credentials, and my Master's in special education. My passion is to advocate for students with disabilities and to help them become successful citizens when they graduate from our high school. 

I am a mother to a very energetic little man that attends school in SAUSD. He has taught me to lead with my heart and to give grace when needed. I am a big hockey fan and enjoy a good baseball game. I was born and raised in a low-income household with minimal resources growing up. I come from a family of immigrants and have a great amount of compassion for our struggling families. I spend my extra time doing volunteer work at the VA in Long Beach and enjoy serving my community whenever possible.