About me
How did I become an IEP Coach?
When my son was diagnosed with Autism in 2006 I was told he was not "messed up enough" to qualify for an IEP. That's when I knew I needed to learn more about the Special Education process. During my years working in schools as a para and school librarian, I was often brought in to translate for the Spanish speaking families during the IEP meetings. I was hooked.
I dedicated myself full-time to the world of IEPs. As a Bilingual Educational Advocate and Master IEP Coach®, I work with families from all over the country and all walks of life. As a first-generation Cuban-American, I am proud to be able to support the Spanish speaking community that has been so underserved in this area.
My "Why"
My husband of over 30 years and I have raised two amazing young adults whom we are incredibly proud of.
Special Education is supposed to prepare a student for:
Further Education, Employment, and Independent Living.
That's the part that I am living now. I want to help you and your child get there too.
My family and I enjoy outdoor activities such as beaches, paddle boarding and kayaking, running, and travel.
Community Involvement
Board President - Lawyers Autism Awareness Foundation
A non-profit that provides annual Sensory Friendly Santa events and a Sensory Classroom Program to provide local schools with equipment for their special education classes. This has been a labor of love for my family and I since 2011.
Member - Master IEP Coach® mentorship
Continuing my professional development, with an amazing mentor and a nationwide group of educators, administrators and therapists. Having an opportunity to share my own knowledge and experiences with coaches has been immensely impactful.
Approved Service Provider - 21 & Change's IEP Advocacy Grants
An organization that provides Florida families that need the services of an advocate , but due to financial income or hardship cannot afford them. Giving of my time fills my heart.
Mentor - Not Your Average Autism Mom
Providing guidance to moms of young children recently diagnosed with autism is fulfilling.
Co-Chair - School Level Parent Engagement Subcommittee
for the Hillsborough County School District's Superintendent's Advisory Council for Special Education Students. I am willing to roll up my sleeves and be a part of the solution.
¿Quien soy?
A mi hijo lo diagnosticaron con autismo en el 2006. Me dijeron en la escuela que no estaba lo suficiente "desmejorado" para calificar para servicios de un IEP. Cuando trabajé como bibliotecaria y para profesional en las escuelas, me pedian que siviera de intreprete para las familias del habla hispana en las reuinoines. Ese fue el moment que decidí a dedicarme 100% al mundo de los IEP.
Como defensora bilingüe de IEP y Master IEP Coach®
trabajo con familias en todo el país a través de consultoría y asistencia a las reuniones escolares. Como hija de padres Cubanos, es mi orgullo poder apoyar a las familias de a la comunidad hispana, ya que ha sido tan desatendida en estas áreas.