About the Author

Dana Rethwisch has worked with children and families of various needs and abilities for more than 40 years. She has extensive professional and personal experience advocating for, parenting and teaching children with special needs. Dana earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics – Child and Family from Rutgers University, and a Master’s Degree of Education from the University of California – Davis. Dana has also earned postgraduate certificates in Counseling (Capella University), Early Childhood Education (Fresno Pacific University) and in Exceptional Children (Fresno Pacific University). She has taught every level from preschool through college, and has served on faculties of the University of Arizona, the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Arizona Western College and Palo Verde College. Dana currently serves as a Professor of Child Development and Education at Palo Verde College. Dana firmly believes that every individual has gifts, talents and unique challenges, and that each person has the right and responsibility to become their best possible self.