“The quietest, most urgent frontline of human rights is a classroom.”

The California Teachers Association (CTA) recognized Dr. Hezekiah Herrera for his outstanding work in human and civil rights on behalf of students with exceptional needs. Presented annually, this Human Rights award honors the recipient for their leadership in promoting inclusive educational practices, advocating for equitable access to learning, and developing programs or supports that help students with disabilities succeed in school and beyond.

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A man in a blue suit holds a microphone for a young boy speaking on stage, with a woman and a girl standing beside them, at an event with a large screen in the background showing a reflection of the scene.

Father

Inspired by his own children to build a world where every child’s story is honored and understood.

Four panelists seated on a stage with a large screen behind them displaying panel discussion topics related to nonprofits, child well-being, and social issues. The panel includes two women and two men, with microphones in hand, in a conference setting.

Advocate

Dedicated to ensuring students with unique needs are seen, heard, and valued.

A group of people sitting around a table in a meeting room, with some standing and a man speaking. The walls are decorated with framed certificates and posters, and there is a large whiteboard with drawings and text.

Educator

Creating inclusive learning spaces where every student feels safe to learn and grow.

About Dr. Herrera

Mirrors & Windows

in Our Learning Spaces

The Power of Representation in Education

The Discipline Divide

White students with disabilities lose minimal class time to suspension. In contrast, Native American students lose nearly 10x as much instruction, and Black students lose over 12x as much, effectively denying them access to the education they are legally guaranteed.

Source: National Center for Youth Law (NCYL) & California Civil Rights Data Collection (2023-24 Analysis).

Lost Instruction: Suspension Rates for Students with Disabilities (Days of Lost Instruction per 100 Students)

  • Training for educators on creating equitable learning environments and reducing the discipline gap for students of color and students with disabilities.

  • Inspiring talks on "Mirrors & Windows," the power of representation, and the journey of special needs parenting.

  • Interactive sessions for students featuring Dr. Herrera’s children’s books, focusing on empathy, safety, and finding one's voice.

  • Guiding families through the special education process to ensure their children are "seen, heard, and valued."

Pro Bono Services

Wooden toy figures around a mirror and building blocks on a carpet in a bright room.
A cozy window seat with a cushioned bench, small wooden stools, and children's toys, overlooking a garden with trees and flowers.

The Inclusion Gap

A White student with a disability is significantly more likely to learn alongside their peers than a Black or Hispanic student with the same disability profile. Black students are 3x more likely than White students to be placed in strictly separate, restrictive settings.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP).

Students Spending >80% of School Day in General Education

“Education is most powerful when it serves as both a mirror for a child’s reality and a window into their limitless potential.”

Dr. Hezekiah Herrera

Mirrors & Windows on the Shelf

Stories designed to reflect a child’s reality and open doors to their limitless potential.

“Dr. H didn't just inspire me to become a teacher; he gave me the roadmap to get there. He coached me through the transition from Paraprofessional to Intern, connecting me with the resources and confidence I needed to succeed. Now, as I finish my credential and induction, I use the skills he taught me every single day.”

— Paul, Special Education Teacher and Former Paraprofessional in Dr. Herrera’s Classroom