Meet Laura
Our IEP Advocate, Laura, brings a deep understanding of child health and development to her work due to years of experience supporting parents in various health and education settings. As the mother of two children with complex medical and special education needs, she is both personally and professionally dedicated to ensuring students receive the support they need to thrive and is passionate about empowering families to navigate the special education process.
Preparation and Guidance
We help families prepare for IEP meetings by reviewing existing documentation, identifying goals, and developing a clear understanding of their child's rights. Our team assists in interpreting evaluations, recommending appropriate supports, and formulating requests to ensure the IEP aligns with the child’s unique needs. We equip parents with the confidence to advocate effectively for their child.
Meeting Support
Attending an IEP meeting can feel daunting, but you don’t have to go through it alone. We provide direct support during meetings, helping parents navigate discussions, ask the right questions, and ensure their concerns are addressed. Our presence ensures that the team remains focused on creating a plan that prioritizes the child’s strengths, challenges, and long-term success.
Effective communication between families, schools, and therapists is key to a successful IEP. We assist in drafting letters, requesting evaluations, and maintaining ongoing dialogue with school teams to advocate for appropriate services. By fostering a collaborative approach, we work to create a supportive and productive relationship between families and educators.
Communication and Collaboration
When disagreements arise regarding services, placement, or accommodations, we support families in understanding their rights and exploring resolution options. Whether through mediation, due process guidance, or referral to additional legal resources, we help families navigate disputes while keeping the child’s best interests at the center of every decision.
Dispute Resolution
“Our family was introduced to Laura in August of 2025 during a seminar held by Rivanna Therapy focused on advocating for your child with SPED needs. As the parent of three neurodivergent children and a social worker by profession, I felt pretty knowledgeable navigating within this space. However, I knew that after hearing Laura‘s presentation, we would benefit from scheduling a 1:1 consultation. Laura brings a level of expertise and professionalism that meets you where you are in your SPED knowledge. She has a friendly demeanor that immediately puts you at ease. These initial first impressions encouraged us to welcome her into IEP and 504 meetings for our sons. She was a crucial advocate… at times educating the educators on services available to us by law. She did this with grace and confidence. We are going into the next service year with stronger more tailored plans thanks to Laura. We recommend her wholeheartedly and are grateful to have her in our village.”
— The Shortridge Family