Welcome to Lone Star Educational Insights!

Hi, I'm Marcy DeName, and I'm so glad you're here!

I'm a Texas-certified Educational Diagnostician with a Master of Education in Special Education from the University of North Texas, along with certifications in Educational Diagnostician and Principal leadership. I currently serve as an Educational Diagnostician in Frisco Independent School District and am pursuing my Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership with a focus in Psychology.

Throughout my career in education, I've developed a passion for helping students, families, and educators better understand the special education process. I believe that every student deserves to be understood, every parent deserves to feel heard, and every educator deserves access to practical, reliable information.

Why I Created Lone Star Educational Insights

Special education can feel overwhelming. Between evaluations, eligibility decisions, IEPs, ARD meetings, accommodations, and ever-changing educational requirements, it's easy for families and even experienced educators to feel lost in the terminology.

That's where Lone Star Educational Insights comes in.

I created this space to bridge the gap between educational research, special education regulations, and everyday classroom practice. My goal is to make complex information understandable, meaningful, and useful.

What You'll Find Here

Through this blog, I'll share insights and resources related to:

• Special Education Evaluations: Understanding cognitive and academic assessments, disability identification, and evaluation results.

• IEPs and ARD Meetings: Navigating the special education process with confidence and clarity.

• Texas Special Education: Exploring state and federal requirements and their practical implications for schools and families.

• Learning Differences: Understanding dyslexia, ADHD, learning disabilities, and other factors influencing student success.

• Educational Leadership: Encouraging collaboration, informed decision-making, and effective educational practices.

• Research and Professional Growth: Connecting current educational research with real-world experiences.

My Philosophy

I believe special education should never be about simply checking boxes or completing paperwork. It should be about understanding the whole child, identifying meaningful educational needs, and creating opportunities for success.

Behind every evaluation is a student with unique strengths. Behind every IEP is a family hoping for the best possible future. And behind every successful educational plan is a team of people working together.

My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, thoughtful collaboration, and the belief that knowledge empowers everyone involved in a child's education.

A Little More About Me

As a lifelong learner, I'm continually looking for ways to grow professionally, challenge my thinking, and contribute to the field of education. My doctoral journey reflects that commitment and provides another opportunity to explore how research, leadership, and educational practice can work together to improve student outcomes.

While my professional experience is rooted in Texas public education, I hope the ideas shared here will resonate with educators and families well beyond the Lone Star State.

Let's Learn Together

Whether you're a parent navigating your child's first evaluation, a teacher looking for practical special education guidance, a fellow diagnostician, or an educational leader seeking fresh perspectives, I hope you'll find something valuable here.

Thank you for visiting Lone Star Educational Insights. I look forward to sharing what I've learned, exploring new ideas, and building a community centered on helping students thrive.

Because informed decisions create stronger educational opportunities, and every student deserves the chance to shine.

— Marcy DeName,
Texas-Certified Educational Diagnostician
Founder, Lone Star Educational Insights