Springdale Child Advocacy & Empowerment (SCAE)
Every child deserves a supportive champion and an education advocate who truly believes in them—especially children with disabilities or special education needs.
At Springdale’s Child Advocacy & Education (SCAE), we stand beside you if you’re feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or unheard in your quest to secure a brighter future for your child.
About Shivaun
A Mother and Educator Who’s Walked in Your Shoes
I’m Shivaun, founder of Springdale Child Advocacy & Empowerment (SCAE). Like you, I know the rollercoaster of emotions that come with parenting a child who has special needs. Years ago, I was a young girl labeled a “Springdale kid”—a term that limited what people thought I could achieve.
Decades later, after returning as principal of the same middle school that labeled me a “Springdale kid,” I saw the same limiting assumptions holding back bright students. Realizing my calling went beyond one set of school walls, I created SCAE: a place where no child is dismissed and no parent feels alone.
My Personal & Professional Background
I’ve spent over 30 years in public and charter education—including 17 years as a school site administrator—and my most profound lessons have come from raising my own child with special needs. I know the toll of endless IEP meetings, receiving pushback from schools, and dealing with a drawn-out process to get what your child needs to succeed. That’s why I use my firsthand experiences to guide and empower families like yours.
I also volunteer as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Clark County, Nevada, and serve as an Educational Decision Maker for foster youth—reinforcing my commitment to children who might otherwise be overlooked.
Monica A. (February 2025)
“Having Mrs. McCloud as our Advocate when we initially began the IEP process was transformative. With her expertise, she understood what resources could be offered to best support our child. Following that meeting, the school district recognized that having an experienced representative on our side significantly altered their perception.”
Our Mission
At SCAE, every piece of my journey—principal, teacher, and mother—unites under one purpose:
To empower families to be the change they need in the educational system through education, training, and advocacy.
My vision is to see every child, regardless of background, recognized for their unique gifts and potential. By 2030, we aim to be a national leader in educational advocacy, having successfully supported over 300 students and families.
Because every child deserves the tailored resources and opportunities that help them flourish in school—and in life.
When I reclaimed the term “Springdale kid,” I turned it into a message of hope. Now, I invite you to join me in turning potential into reality for your own child. Whether you’re facing IEPs, 504 Plans, or feeling unheard, I’m here to listen, support, and stand beside you.
You are not alone.
What Sets Shivaun Apart?
I believe that to truly advocate for children, you need to see the educational system from every angle. That’s why I draw on three core perspectives:
1) Principal Background
Spending eight years as a principal taught me how school policies and accountability measures shape decisions. I know how to break through systemic barriers affecting your child’s individualized plan.
2) Teacher Perspective
My years in the classroom revealed the day-to-day realities of implementing IEPs—like juggling diverse student needs and ensuring each child feels valued. I know exactly where the hurdles lie and how to navigate them.
3) Parent Perspective
As a mom of a child with special needs, I understand your worries, victories, and emotional ups and downs. That’s why I approach every situation with empathy, listening to your concerns and co-creating a clear action plan.
I’m Here For You and Your Child
My goal is simple: to ensure your child’s unique strengths never get overshadowed by labels or assumptions. When you partner with SCAE, you’re partnering with someone who’s faced the same fears, asked the same questions, and came out stronger on the other side.
Together, we’ll craft a strategy—whether it’s navigating IEP meetings, reviewing and revising existing plans, ensuring your child’s needs are being met, revising existing goals and plans that aren’t serving your child’s needs, or clarifying your child’s rights—that propels your family forward.
Ready to Talk?
Let’s create a customized plan that moves your child toward academic growth and emotional well-being. From one mom to another, I’m here to help.