Karen Harrison is the Executive Director of TNSTEP, Tennessee’s statewide Parent Training and Information Center funded by the U.S. Department of Education. She joined TNSTEP in 1994 after first connecting with the organization as a parent seeking support for her daughter with disabilities.
With more than 30 years of experience, Karen has personally navigated special education systems from early intervention through adult services. Her daughter, now an adult, is a happy, included, and contributing member of her community—an outcome that continues to shape Karen’s work and perspective.
Karen’s areas of expertise include early childhood, inclusion, and transition to life after high school. She believes strongly that all youth, including those with significant disabilities, can become self-advocates and achieve meaningful, self-directed lives.
She partners with state and community agencies to expand access to high-quality services and supports for families and youth across Tennessee. Her work has included leading collaborative efforts with school resource officers, safety teams, and educators to strengthen support systems for students with disabilities. Karen currently serves as the Parent Consultant for the Tennessee Department of Education’s State Personnel Development Grant (SPDG) and as TNSTEP’s lead for the multi-state Regional Parent Technical Assistance Network.
Karen often shares this advice with families: Parents are their child’s best advocate. Have high expectations. Stay involved, ask questions, keep documentation, and build strong relationships with your school team to ensure your child receives the instruction, services, and support they need to reach their goals.
