Sybil Pernell holds the bar high for her scholars. As IDEA’s director of special education, Ms. Pernell understands that it’s important to meet scholars where they are, but also to focus on the future and not dwell on past struggles.

 

Having worked in both classroom settings and in special education leadership roles, Ms. Pernell brings a wealth of experience to her position at IDEA. She has particular expertise in helping scholars transition successfully from high school to either college or the workforce, writing effective individual education plans, training and mentoring teachers, and developing strong relationships with scholars who have disabilities and their families. Ms. Pernell came to IDEA from Richmond, Virginia, where she worked in the largest comprehensive high school in the city, after serving as a special education teacher in both public and private schools. 

She holds master’s degrees in both special education and administration and supervision from Virginia State University.

 

Outside of school, Ms. Pernell enjoys spending time with her teenage daughter and reading about new ideas in special education.