Bridging Gaps and Empowering Voices: The Story of Jaeyeon Irene Do’s Mission for Disability Inclusion

Jaeyeon Irene Do is not just an educator—she’s a dedicated advocate for families and individuals with disabilities, particularly those navigating the complexities of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities. Her expertise in Autism is rooted in her extensive academic and professional background, which underscores the urgent need for structured and individualized interventions in the field of special education. Jaeyeon’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to creating more inclusive systems that empower families and individuals to thrive.

Jaeyeon’s professional journey highlights her unwavering focus on Autism education. She earned her Master’s degree in special education at Auburn University, specializing in Autism, where she developed a nuanced understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities this disability presents. Her academic foundation was further solidified during her undergraduate studies at Ewha Womans University, South Korea’s top university for special education, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude and earned a place on the Dean’s List for four consecutive years.

Her teaching experience further exemplifies her expertise in Autism education. At Dodgen Middle School in Marietta, Georgia, Jaeyeon worked exclusively in classrooms dedicated to students with Autism. Her ability to implement structured, evidence-based interventions individualized to the needs of her students earned her recognition as “Teacher of the Month” in September 2023. This acknowledgment highlights her dedication to fostering meaningful growth and development for her students, as well as her exceptional impact as a special education teacher.

Beyond the classroom, Jaeyeon’s work extends into advocacy and systems navigation for families and individuals with Autism and developmental disabilities. She has always believed that families deserve services tailored to their specific needs, yet many face barriers such as limited awareness, cultural differences, and language challenges. Jaeyeon’s mission is to bridge these gaps by providing families with the tools and knowledge necessary to access the right services. Her specialized focus on Autism underscores the importance of structured, one on one support in helping children with Autism reach their full potential.

One of Jaeyeon’s unique strengths is her ability to navigate and compare the models of disability services in South Korea and the United States. These systems differ significantly, and her adaptability and perseverance in understanding these differences have positioned her as a vital resource for immigrant families. She leverages her cross-cultural insights to guide families through the complex service landscapes, ensuring their cultural contexts are respected and addressed.

Jaeyeon’s advocacy is deeply inspired by the resilience of the families she serves. She is continually moved by their determination and unwavering support for their loved ones. For her, these families embody perseverance and inspire her to continue her mission of fostering empathy, patience, and respect in her work.

Looking forward, Jaeyeon envisions expanding her work to create a network of services that prioritize inclusivity and understanding, particularly for individuals with Autism and developmental disabilities. She aspires to develop a sustainable business model that can eventually extend to other states, promoting systemic change and raising awareness of the importance of structured interventions for Autism.

Ultimately, Jaeyeon’s mission goes beyond offering services—it is about changing the way society views disability and inclusion. She is determined to ensure that families and individuals with Autism are not just recipients of support, but empowered participants in shaping their own futures. Through her continued efforts, Jaeyeon is building a foundation that addresses the unique needs of each family while advocating for greater inclusivity and understanding in society.

Through her dedication and commitment to cultural sensitivity in the field of disability services, Jaeyeon Irene Do is making an indelible mark in the lives of countless individuals and families. She is not only a skilled educator but a leader in transforming how society perceives and supports those with disabilities. As Jaeyeon’s influence grows, so too does her mission: to create a world where everyone, regardless of ability, has access to the services and support they need to thrive.