Daphne Zacky Bold, M.A., ED.S, LEP

Licensed Educational Psychologist • Special Education Leader
Consultant & Advocate for Special Education and Family Support

As a Licensed Educational Psychologist with nearly 20 years of experience as a school psychologist, public school administrator, and special education advocate, I bring deep knowledge of both general and special education systems. I’ve worked across large public school districts, charter schools, independent schools, and non-public settings, helping students with diverse learning needs thrive.

My unique perspective—shaped by years of professional experience and personal insight—enables me to connect with families at every stage of their journey. I understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the complexities of special education while advocating for your child’s needs. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to cut through red tape, simplify communication, and ensure every student gets the services they deserve.

I’m passionate about empowering parents to effectively advocate for their children. Bilingual in Spanish and trained with a specialization in cultural sensitivity at SDSU. My work is rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and an unwavering belief that with the right support, every child can exceed academic expectations and grow into their full personal and professional potential.

Daphne’s Credentials

Education

Master of Arts (M.A.) in Education, 2016
Educational Leadership and Administration, Chapman University

Educational Specialist (Ed.S.): School Psychology, San Diego State University, 2008
Concentration: School Psychology, NASP approved, NCATE accredited

Master of Arts (M.A.) in Education: Counseling, San Diego State, 2006
Concentration: School Psychology, NASP approved, NCATE accredited

Bachelor of Arts Degree (B.A.), University of California, Riverside, 2004
Concentration: Psychology

Certifications

  • Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP) #3247, California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS)

  • Administrative Services Credential, California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)

  • Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential, California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)

  • Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Certified, Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI), Inc.

  • Bilingual, Cross-Cultural, Language and Academic Development (BCLAD)

Teachings, Trainings, Publications

Trainings

UCLA Early Care & Education (ECE), Professional Training, 03/2024
Supporting Neurodiverse in Preschool: Strategies for General Education Preschool Teachers

Adjunct Professor
Loyola Marymount University (LMU), School of Education, 08/2013 - 12/2013

Instructed a semester long course on behavior analysis and behavior management strategies to graduate students seeking to acquire a Special Education credential.

Publications

  • Meeting the Needs of English Language Learners in the United States: The Process of Entering Ethnolinguistic Communities
    Cook-Morales, V., Johnson, S., Zacky, D., Castro, T., Conley-Liggins, H., Toombs, D., Green, T.D., & Mohammed, C.O., 2007

Affiliations

  • National Association of School Psychologists (NASP); Member

  • The Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Inc. (COPAA); Professional Member

  • Division of Early Childhood (DEC); Support Subcommittee, Member

  • California Division of Early Childhood (CAL DEC); Member at Large

  • Council for Exceptional Children (CEC); Member

  • The Autism Community in Action (TACA); Community Consultant