Her Story
About Dr. La Tanya McCloud
Dr. LaTanya Washington serves as a district-level administrator for special education, bringing 46 years of experience to her role supporting students with disabilities across Georgia. She began her career as a classroom teacher in Chicago Public Schools before moving to Atlanta Public Schools, where she advanced through positions including lead teacher, coordinator, director, and principal. Dr. Washington holds a bachelor's degree in special education and elementary education, a master's degree in integrated studies, a specialist degree in educational leadership and special education, and a PhD in educational leadership. Her work emphasizes building relationships with stakeholders, ensuring compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and advocating for equal access to free appropriate public education. She is finalizing a book titled One Child, One Teen to address challenges in IEP team collaboration and is preparing to launch her consulting firm, Global Academic Services, to support school districts and parents. A committed Christian, Dr. Washington draws on her faith and family support, crediting her success to her passion for the work and the principle that her inability is God's ability.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dr. La Tanya McCloud
01What do you attribute your success to?
My passion for the work after 46 years keeps me going. My philosophy is that my inability is God's ability. Family support from parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, along with tough love from my mother and accountability from God, helped me overcome early setbacks like being kicked out of college and get back on track to achieve my degrees and career progression.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My great-grandmother advised me to get my education for myself, saying a job is simply a job but a career is something you can take with you anywhere. She asked me to go back to school for her, which motivated me to pursue my degrees.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
This is a job that you have to be called to do. It's hard work, and if you're doing it just for a paycheck, find another career path. Being an educator requires the heart to serve not just students but families, as it's one of the most underpaid roles.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is ensuring collaboration at IEP team meetings so all parties feel respected and focus on the student for successful post-school outcomes. Many young people drop out because they feel unworthy due to labels, and parents need better knowledge and involvement from school districts. I am finalizing a book called One Child, One Teen to address these issues.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
As a Christian, I live according to biblical standards. Integrity is very important to me, as my testimony is my life through my actions and words. Relationships and respect in a team setting are key, even if we don't love each other we must like and respect one another.
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