Dr. Loretta Burns

Activist, Business leader, Change Agent, Educator/Teacher, Entrepreneur, Life mentor, Startup

As a seasoned leader overseeing the development of students/individuals with disabilities, mental health challenges, foster & homeless youth in public and private sectors, I bring over 30 years of dedicated experience transforming the educational and mental health landscape. My role as Governance Chairman for the Los Angeles County Charter SELPA, VP/Director of Special Education & Student Services, and Founder/CEO of ABE Foundation, underscores my commitment to driving systemic change, fostering inclusive environments, and advocating for the rights and success of every individual with disabilities and those struggling with mental health challenges. I am passionate about creating and implementing evidence-based programs that not only comply with state and federal regulations but also elevate student and individual outcomes. My approach is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and a deep understanding of the complexities of special education in the public, private, state, federal and legal sectors. I have successfully led initiatives that have redefined how public and private schools support students with disabilities, students with mental health needs, students with behavioral challenges, foster youth and homeless students, from designing comprehensive programs for thousands of students to spearheading legal compliance efforts in highly litigious environments. My expertise extends to strategic leadership, budget management, and staff development, ensuring that educational institutions operate efficiently and effectively while maintaining a relentless focus on student achievement. I thrive on challenges and am driven by a profound belief that every student/individual, regardless of their abilities, deserves a high-quality education and safe homes that prepares them for life.. I am not just a leader; I am a change-maker, committed to building stronger, more inclusive global educational systems that empower students/individuals, support educators, and engage communities and leaders.

I am passionate about creating opportunities for youth, children, and young adults with cognitive disabilities, mental health challenges, poor and oppressed environments to be given an equitable roadmap and resources to thrive.

Paving the way to create equitable opportunities for children, youth, and young adults with mental health challenges, cognitive disabilities, and challenging home environments to be successful and contributing members of society in under developing countries and in socioeconomic disadvantaged areas of the Western world.