About Us
I can help you and your child – whether you are struggling to get the right IEP (Individualized Education Program) in place for your child or you’re trying to determine which schools or educational programs would be best suited for your child.
I have the education, training, and practical experience to help you effectively navigate the difficult world of special education. Since I went through the special education system to get needed services for myself, I can empathize with and understand your challenges. I am well versed in reading and analyzing test scores, reports and IEPs, and applying that knowledge to help achieve the best possible education for your child. I am familiar with the school culture, both public and private, and can help guide you through difficulties with a school, or help to choose the school that may be the right fit for your child.
I am also well informed regarding the local professionals in such fields as Testing, Speech and Language, Visual and Auditory Processing, Neuro-psychology, and Occupational Therapy. I can help you select the right professionals to help you best support your child. I am especially effective during school conferences where it would heighten tension and animosity to have an attorney present, but you need to have someone on your side. I am an expert at seeking and obtaining positive results in contentious and sometimes hostile situations. I keep my poise and our main goal in my mind, for the best results for your child.
Please contact me if you feel you need an Advocate. Together, we will find the solutions your family needs.
My Mission
My mission is expanding educational opportunities for students with disabilities in Northern Virginia by representing parents and students at I.E.P. meetings, mediations, and due process hearings.
What I Can Do For You
Feeling Outnumbered at IEP meeting
Considering that a typical I.E.P. meeting consists of seven school staff, but only one or two parents, it’s natural to feel outnumbered.
Our presence and advocacy can help create a more balanced playing field.
You have someone on your side.
Approaching School Staff
The Center tailors the approach to school staff based on your strategy. Since I have a law degree, I am capable of explaining a child’s entitlement to services in terms of regulations, statutes, and cases.
However, my master of clinical social work degree enables me to summarize the relationship between the child’s diagnosis, strengths, family, and the desirability for specific accommodations and services. This social work approach to advocacy facilitates a collaborative dialogue around the child’s best interests.
Coverage Area
provide services in Fairfax County, Arlington County, and Alexandria City.
Championing Diversity
As the Washington Post recently stated, 60% of children in Fairfax County Public Schools come from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
We are knowledgeable and fully prepared to represent minority children including limited English learners.
We have represented dozens of clients from the Middle East, numerous clients from Latin America and Asia, and hundreds of African Americans.
Non-Attorney
I am a social worker, but not an attorney. Special education services that do not involve going to court can be provided by non-attorneys. I provide comparable services to those offered by an attorney, but my hourly rates are more 75% less than that of an attorney.