Special Education Advocacy

It all begins with knowledge.

Navigating the special education system can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. With over a decade of experience working as a Special Education Coordinator and School Psychologist, I have facilitated over 1000 IEP (Individualized Education Plan) meetings and conducted hundreds of evaluations for students with disabilities. This experience has given me a deep understanding of the needs of students and their families. My goal is to empower you with knowledge to be a confident advocate for your child, ensuring their needs are fully understood and addressed in his or her educational setting. I will provide consultation in:

  • Understanding IEPs and 504 plans

  • Advocating for appropriate services and accommodations

  • Preparing for and attending school meetings

  • Student rights under special education law

  • Transitions between school levels and post-graduation

A young man in a blue graduation gown and cap smiling and holding hands with a woman in a blue and black striped dress, both appearing joyful and happy.

Gunnar’s Story!

Gunnar is now a young adult attending college! He was diagnosed with Autism as a young child. My intern year as a School Psychologist, he was one of the first students I tested to gather information related to his cognitive and academic ability. His mother advocated that he be instructed in the mainstream environment because he was capable, and she was absolutely right! His family moved due to his father’s military service at the end of elementary, but he returned to my district in high school. I got to spend four amazing years coordinating services for him and was his inclusion support the day of his graduation- one of the most memorable days of my life as a School Psychologist. There was such joy shared by all staff including the pictured special education teachers and paraprofessional who got to provide support up through Gunnar’s last official day as a high school student. I share his story not just because of my experience from working with Gunnar, but because of the bold advocacy Gunnar’s mother communicated at each and every IEP meeting. She didn’t need an advocate, she was the best there is. I hope that I can do for others, what Gunnar’s mom did for him!

Stories from the harbor…

  • A woman taking a selfie with a man in a firefighter uniform in the background. The woman has dark hair pulled back and is wearing a denim jacket with a button, and earrings. The firefighter, identified as Ray Sherwood, is wearing glasses, a cap, and a uniform with the label "Honorary Member."

    "Lisa worked with our family for over 6 years. She provided support services in the education setting for our son, who is diagnosed with Autism. She just didn’t provide support, she took extra steps to make sure our son received what HE specifically needed. She communicated openly with our family and included us in all aspects. She is sincerely dedicated to helping her clients reach their maximum potential."

    Angela Sherrod

  • A group of nine people sitting and standing in an art studio, with colorful paintings and signs on the red walls behind them, including a sign that says 'Paint Twist'.

    "Under Lisa's care, Nevaeh blossomed and was able to receive the services and support she needed to make her school years better. Lisa truly is in it for the children. I trust Lisa with my children."

    Leilani Hamilton