About Me....
I have been helping parents navigate the school system by understanding their child’s IEP & 504 Plan since 2011. Using strategic thinking, knowledge of IDEA and clear communication, I provide skilled advocacy services on behalf of children with a wide range of abilities. I believe that special education advocacy is not just about knowing the complex special education laws, but also having the ability to effectively negotiate and navigate the system. I am compassionate about assisting parents voice their concerns and help them create a vision for their child. I firmly believe that a commitment to building an appropriate foundation for a child is the key to an independent future. I have empowered parents of children with all types of need through my years of work as the co-chair of the Scituate Special Education Parent Advisory Council. I also reach families and children directly with my work on the Scituate CORSE Foundation. As a dedicated advocate, I have completed the Federation for Children with Special Needs Advocacy Training, attended Wrightlslaw Special Education & Advocacy Conferences, attended dozens of seminars regarding special education and most recently graduated with a Certificate in Special Education Advocacy from the William & Mary Law School Institute of Special Education Advocacy.
I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication with an English minor from Lynchburg College in Virginia (1996). I was born and raised in Chatham, New Jersey. Currently, I live with my two children Emma and Drew on the south shore. I learned first hand how to become a strong advocate when my son Drew was diagnosed with Autism at 16 months old.
Education
Lynchburg College – Lynchburg,Virginia 1996 Bachelor of Arts; Cum Laude
William & Mary Law School 2017 Institute of Special Educations Advocacy — Williamsburg, Virginia: Certificate in Special Education Advocacy From The PELE Institute in Special Education Advocacy
William & Mary Law School 2016 Institute of Special Educations Advocacy — Williamsburg, Virginia: Certificate of Completion from The PELE Institute in Special Education Advocacy
Wrightslaw Special Education Seminar — Wilton, Connecticut: October 2014
Federation for Children with Special Needs: Parent Consultant Training: Certificate of Completion; Spring 2012
Wrightslaw 2 Day Bootcamp Conference — Springfield, Massachusetts: Certificate of Completion; Spring 2012
Work Experience-Professional Memberships-Volunteer Work
Community of Resources for Special Education (C.O.R.S.E): Vice President 2009-2014
Scituate Special Education Parent Advisory (SEPAC): Co-Chair 2009-2014
Federation for Children with Special Needs: Call Center Volunteer 2013-2015
Federation for Children with Special Needs Training Specialist: 2013-Present
Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) member
Special Needs Advocacy Network (SPAN) member
2015 Think:Kids Introductory Training: Collaborative Problem Solving Training
Tourchlight: Consultant & Webinar Presenter 2015-Present
Advocacy of Special Kids: Consultant -- September 2014-January 2017