New Employee Spotlight - Leah Powell, Legal Assistant, Education Advocacy Program
Children’s Law Center is excited to welcome Leah Powell, our new Education Advocacy Program Legal Assistant, to the team. Children’s Law Center of Central North Carolina’s Education Advocacy Program (EAP) provides free legal advocacy, information, and resources for students and families in Forsyth County to empower them to more effectively advocate for their rights within the education system. EAP serves students with disabilities, students with mental or physical health needs that affect school performance, and students facing suspensions, expulsions, and alternative school placements. Leah provides vital support to EAP by conducting initial client intakes, corresponding with clients, maintaining client files, collecting and maintaining client data, preparing and organizing materials for EAP Community Workshops, connecting and networking with community partners, and conducting legal research. Leah recently earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from North Carolina A&T University and is planning to enroll in Law School in the future.
In her own words, Leah shares what about her work drives her, “Growing up in a family of special educators, community activists, and being the younger sibling to someone who once faced their own academic challenges, I have always found it to be my responsibility to advocate for those who were not granted the resources to advocate for themselves. After graduating college, I didn’t know how God was going to use me to fulfill my purpose, until I became a part of the Children’s Law Center. Working alongside Hayley and seeing the passion that fills her when it comes to clients and the community of Forsyth County, is what keeps me eager to begin my next days in this role. I am truly honored to be a part of such an impactful program as EAP. I look forward to seeing the ways that we will help the children of Forsyth County and their families.
It is important that every child is rightfully given their education regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, or disability. I take pride in knowing that I am positively impacting those of the younger generation.”