Worthington Parent Mentor Expands Support for Families Through New Roles and Training

Shannon Daily, Parent Mentor and occupational therapist for Worthington Schools, continues to expand her impact in supporting families of students with special needs. 

“Collaboration has been my favorite part of this position! Whether it be with leadership within the district, special education staff or community resources, coming up with ways to support parents is always the goal. Collaborating with special education staff and leadership as a team has opened doors for me to problem solve with parents in new and effective ways.” Shannon Daily, Parent Mentor, Worthington Schools. 

Last spring, Shannon completed training as a Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) instructor alongside the district’s director of mental health services. Over the summer, she offered her first parenting workshop and will continue to provide at least four workshops throughout the school year, with a focus on addressing the needs of parents whose children receive special education services. In addition, she will lead two workshops designed specifically for special education parents, continuing an effort she has successfully led for the past two years. 

Shannon’s leadership also extends to the state level.  

“The Parent Mentor Project is an essential partnership between families and schools. Parent Mentors help ensure that every family feels informed, supported, and empowered, while strengthening collaboration between parents, educators, and the district. These partnerships create a stronger foundation for student success and help us work together toward the shared goal of every child reaching their full potential.”- Kim Marani, Special Education Director for Worthington Schools 

She was also recently appointed to the State Advisory Panel for Exceptional Children (SAPEC), which advises and assists the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce on special education and related services for children with disabilities. As a panel member, Shannon joins representatives from across Ohio, including parents, individuals with disabilities, service providers, administrators, and agency representatives, ensuring that the voices of families are heard in shaping policies and practices. 

“Collaborating with our families and our community is essential to our success as a school district. The Worthington City Schools Parent Mentor Project is a strong example of that work and Shannon is remarkable in this position. I have had the opportunity to partner with Shannon in parent education workshops and seen her care and support in action.” –Nathan Kellenberger, Director of Mental Health for Worthington Schools  

Through both local workshops and statewide advocacy, Shannon Daily continues to be a strong voice for parents and students, helping families navigate special education and access the resources they need to thrive.