This is my passion.
As a mom, I know firsthand how overwhelming and stressful it can be navigating the complex world of IEPs and special education.
I was first introduced to the world of disability services when my son was a baby and qualified for early intervention services. When he was two, and we were preparing for his transition to the school system, a parent training center gave me my first Wrightslaw book and said, "You're going to need this." I had no idea how true that would be. With advice from the parent training center, conversations with my family (who are educators), and reading the book, I still walked into his first IEP meeting when he was almost three, feeling unprepared to get the support he needed.
That experience sparked my passion for helping other parents learn to advocate for their children effectively. Now, with over seven years of experience at the IEP table and extensive advocacy training, I bring expertise and the empathy and understanding that can only come from having lived this experience as a parent.
I’ve experienced it all with my own son. He’s been in public school, private school, charter school, and homeschool. We’ve also moved states and had to navigate a new district. I understand how difficult it can be to find the right fit for your child’s unique needs. I'm here to help you avoid some of the headaches and ensure your child gets the support they need, no matter what educational path you choose.
My goal is simple: I want to ensure you never feel alone or lost as you navigate the education system, and I won't rest until I know your child is getting the support, specialized instruction, accommodations, and therapies they're entitled to. I'll walk alongside you using my extensive knowledge to guide you to ask the right questions, understand and enforce your rights, and, most importantly, make sure your child's needs are met and reflected in their IEP or 504 plan.
I have successfully navigated IEPs and 504 plans for children with a wide range of social, emotional, behavioral, developmental, intellectual, and learning needs, including autism, ADHD, Tourette's, learning disabilities, mental health challenges, and many others (see below for a full list).
I’m a proud graduate of COPAA’s SEAT 2.0 program, a yearlong rigorous training for special education advocates, with a required practicum. I’m also trained and certified through reputable organizations, including Wrightslaw and Master IEP Coach®. Maintaining active memberships with these organizations and regularly attending conferences and workshops keeps me current on best practices and strategies for securing appropriate services.
I believe that parents know their children best and are the most important members of the IEP team. You have insight into your child's needs that no one else can fully understand. You live with the day-to-day realities of their challenges and abilities. I know that you and your child are the only team members who have to live with the long-term consequences of decisions made at these meetings for years to come. You have the highest stake in getting this right.
Others on the team may lose sight of the end goal: setting your child up for success in school and beyond. As we work together, I'll help you find your voice and successfully advocate for your child to get the support they need to thrive in school and life!
I can't wait to cheer you on as we work to change your child's future!
