Edith Coakley

Edith Coakley works on the District of Columbia's special education reform, at DC's Office of the State Superintendent of Education. As a member of the District's group responding to the Bazelon Center's challenge in the Blackman/Jones class action, Edith works on designing and implementing new approaches to special education, including a new pilot project designed to support the family voice and smooth the way to individualized services.  She has developed particular interest in safeguarding the rights of children and adolescents in residential treatment facilities and in how governments can build a wide range of alternatives to residential treatment to support students and families.   
 
British-born and -raised, Edith read Philosophy, Psychology and Physiology at New College, Oxford University and was "called to the Bar" (qualified as an English Barrister) in 2003.  After three years at Outer Temple Chambers in London, where she practised general civil litigation, she came to Washington in 2006.  She enjoys her new home city, especially the opportunities for al fresco fiddle playing.