Questions about working with an IEP advocate

An IEP advocate helps families through the special education process. I go to meetings with you, help you understand your rights, review documents and speak up so your child's needs are properly addressed. I'm not an attorney and I don't give legal advice, but I know the IEP process well from years on the school side of the table.

Not every family needs one. An advocate can help a lot if you feel overwhelmed, unheard or unsure about the IEP process. I'm most useful when you're new to IEPs, getting ready for a difficult meeting, or feel your child isn't getting appropriate services.

An attorney can represent you in due process hearings and other legal proceedings. As an advocate, I offer educational support and meeting attendance and help you understand your rights, but I can't provide legal representation. Most families find an advocate is enough; an attorney is usually needed only for formal legal proceedings.

Yes. I attend meetings both in person and virtually. Virtual attendance works well and lets me support families nationwide, and in-person meeting attendance is available in Central Virginia.

I'm based in Virginia, and in-person services are available in Central Virginia. I also serve families virtually nationwide, with specialized expertise in Virginia and Illinois special education process and regulations.

Caregiver Education sessions are $65 for 30 minutes. Consultations are $150 for a new client and $125 for returning clients. Advocacy hours come in 3, 6 and 10 hour blocks, and there's a monthly retainer for ongoing cases. You can request the full pricing guide on the Services page for a complete breakdown, and sliding-scale pricing is available for families who need it.

Bring any IEP documents, evaluation reports and progress reports you have. It also helps to write down your main concerns and questions. If you don't have everything, that's fine; we'll work with what you have.

Yes. IEPs fall under IDEA, and 504 plans come from Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which has its own rules and protections. I can help you understand the differences and advocate for appropriate accommodations under either plan.