Our Team.
At The Learning Acres, our team is made up of passionate educators, therapists, and advocates who share a common goal: to support neurodiverse children and their families with compassion, creativity, and purpose. With diverse backgrounds in special education, behavioral health, program development, and community partnerships, we bring both expertise and heart to everything we do. Each team member is deeply committed to creating inclusive, empowering spaces where children can thrive and families feel supported every step of the way. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected community—one child, one family at a time.
Meet the Team
Manager- Programs & Partnerships
Carlee Romagnoli
Meet Carlee Romagnoli – Programs & Partnerships Manager at The 7Q Foundation
Carlee Romagnoli brings over six years of experience in special education, having served as an educator, program director, and partnership director. With a Master’s in Special Education and a strong commitment to early intervention, she is passionate about empowering families and helping children thrive through compassionate, individualized support.
At The 7Q Foundation, Carlee oversees all programs and leads the development of new initiatives and partnerships that expand access to inclusive, community-centered care. She was drawn to 7Q’s mission of making a real impact in the lives of neurodiverse children and is proud to be part of a team that shares her values of empathy, equity, and connection.
When she’s not working, you can find Carlee reading, wakeboarding, or spending time with her dog.
SPED Partner
Casey Joseph
Meet Casey, Program Partner for SPED-Add On, ELA and Math Support Services at The Learning Acres.
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Casey is a licensed special education teacher with a deep passion for providing inclusive, accessible education to all students. After gaining experience in schools, clinics, and homes, she founded Casey's Special Education Services, LLC in 2022 with the mission of fostering tangible growth and development for every child.
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As a Program Partner at The Learning Acres, Casey and her team brings their expertise in English Language Arts (ELA) and math support services, offering personalized, goal-driven instruction to meet each student's unique needs. Her comprehensive approach surrounds the whole child, ensuring that learning is not only effective but also engaging and inclusive.
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With Casey’s guidance, families can expect a supportive, tailored experience that encourages academic success and helps students build confidence in their skills, all within a nurturing and inclusive environment.
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Passport Pals
Candice Duggers
We are delighted to introduce Candice Dugger, the instructor for our Passport Pals enrichment homeschool class.
Candice is a homeschool mom to two children with special needs and brings both personal understanding and professional expertise to her teaching. She is the founder of Kids Business Academy and Bullied, Broken, Redeemed, and is a nationally recognized speaker dedicated to empowering young learners.
With years of experience leading homeschool co-ops, kids’ camps, and creative workshops, Candice has a gift for designing supportive, individualized learning experiences that celebrate each child’s unique strengths. Her mission is to create an inclusive, encouraging environment where students feel valued, inspired, and excited to learn.
Through Passport Pals, Candice partners with families to spark discovery, build confidence, and make learning an extraordinary adventure.
SPED LEAD- ELA & MATH
Lauren Lange
Meet Lauren, SPED Lead Teacher for ELA and Math Services at The Learning Acres.
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Lauren Lange has been in the field of education since 2011, when she began her career as a High School Social Studies Teacher while soon after pursuing her Master’s Degree in Special Education.
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In 2014, Lauren moved to Northern Virginia and began working in Fairfax County Public Schools teaching Social Studies, and Special Education Strategies in the team taught and self contained settings. Lauren has experience working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Other Health Impairments, and Emotional Disabilities. Lauren believes getting to know students and their families is an integral part of the success of any student. Lauren looks forward to working closely to form a strong educational team to help each student be their best.
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Homeschool Services Partner
Malia Phelps Waller
Meet Malia – Homeschool Support Services Partner at The Learning Acres
Malia is a seasoned special educator, board-certified behavior analyst, and dedicated homeschool mama who brings a wealth of experience and heart to The Learning Acres. As our Homeschool Support Services Partner, Malia works collaboratively with families to support personalized education plans, guide special education needs, and provide expert consultation for homeschooling success.
With over 10 years as a public school special education teacher and firsthand experience homeschooling her own children, Malia understands the transformative power of individualized, play-based learning. She offers compassionate, knowledgeable support to families navigating homeschooling—especially those with diverse learning needs.
Through her private practice, maliaphelpswaller.com, Malia also offers homeschool evaluations, IEP support, learning plans, and behavior consultation, ensuring each family feels confident and equipped on their educational journey.
At The Learning Acres, Malia is more than a consultant—she's a trusted partner in cultivating a joyful, inclusive, and thriving homeschool community.
