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Lecturer on Law and Clinical Instructor in the Special Education/Trauma and Learning Policy Initiative Clinic
scole@law.harvard.edu, 617.390.2737
Susan joined the Center in January 2004 as Clinical Instructor/Attorney in the Family and Children’s Law Unit. Through a partnership with Massachusetts Advocates for Children (MAC), she works half time for both organizations as director of the Trauma and Learning Policy Initiative (TLPI). TLPI focuses on case handling and policy advocacy to address the educational needs of children traumatized by exposure to family violence. This work is based on a new area of scholarship and practice at the intersection of law, psychology, and education that links exposure to domestic violence and/or abuse with a host of learning and behavioral difficulties. Students will represent clients, in special education and related matters and engage in policy activities at the legislature and with the executive branches of government. The cases pay special attention to ensuring children receive services at school that appropriately address the trauma-related aspects of any disabilities the student may have. Prior to serving as clinical instructor, Ms. Cole served as Director of the Children’s Law Support Project at MAC, where she provided back-up and assistance to attorneys, handled cases, and addressed systemic issues through legislative and administrative advocacy and class action work. Prior to this work she served as a trial attorney for the Boston office of the National Labor Relations Board, an associate at a small firm, and as a special education teacher. Ms. Cole holds a law degree from Northeastern University, a master’s degree in special education from University of Oregon, and an undergraduate degree from Boston University. |
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