Our Team
April Crohare
April is a parent, advocate, and mentor with 18 years of experience in the disability community. She serves as the Executive Director of WashCo Needs, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and behavioral health issues. She has completed Wrightslaw Special Education Law & Advocacy Training and currently serves on multiple committees and boards including the Maryland Special Education State Advisory Committee (SESAC), as the co-chair of the Washington County Public Schools Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee (SECAC), co-chair of the Meritus Patient Experience Committee, on the Horizon Goodwill Industries Board of Directors, the Washington County Disability Commission, and on the Maryland Citizens Review Board for Children. April lives in Washington County with her husband and two children.
Co-chair
Katie Mollo
Katie is a wife and a mom of 3.
She has 21 years of experience navigating special education services and advocating for families in Washington County. Her areas of expertise include behavioral health, autism, and special education, including non-public education programs.
Katie is the Director of Behavioral Health Services for WashCo Needs, Inc. and volunteers with several community organizations.
Co-chair
SecretaryColleen Ayling
Colleen is an organized and dedicated professional with over 15 years of experience supporting special education students and their families. She brings expertise in minute-taking, record-keeping, and effective communication, ensuring families and committee members are well-informed.
Armed with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and special education and a master’s degree in educational leadership, Colleen has been instrumental in making information more accessible for parents and stakeholders.
As SECAC Secretary, she is passionate about advocacy, transparency, and empowering families. Her personal experience as a mom to a child with a disability fuels her commitment to ensuring every family feels included, connected, and valued.