Educational Consultation and Advocacy for families in Maryland

boy working on homework

Is your child's struggles in school impacting your family's happiness?

Perhaps you've observed that your child has been unable to grasp fundamental math and reading concepts or encounters difficulties with written expression. These challenges might be increasing due to the constant integration of technology in the classroom. The impact of these academic struggles may be impacting other areas as well:

  • Challenges with Focus and Productivity: trouble staying engaged with schoolwork and completing assignments.

  • Missed Deadlines: falling behind on homework or important projects as a result of avoidance procrastination.

  • Emotional Distress and Problematic Behaviors: poor school performance leading to emotional and behavioral dysregulation.

  • Jessica Hackmann Educational Advocate

    Educational Consultation and Advocacy can help level the playing field.

    As a parent, it’s natural to question whether your concerns are valid, but you understand your child better than anyone else. You have the ability to help your child access the support they need to succeed. The learning gaps can be addressed, and your child can rediscover the joy of learning. I’m here to guide you in making that happen.

    Educational Consultation and Advocacy can provide you with:

    • A clear understanding of your child’s learning profile, including expertise in research based interventions and methods for optimal growth,

    • Academic recommendations based on legal requirements of IDEA and ADA as well as best practice policies and procedures,

    • A voice at the table where you can feel heard, valued, and respected as your child’s primary advocate and support.

    With over 17 years of experience as a School Psychologist, I will guide you through the entire process from beginning to end. As both an educator and a mother, I offer support with honesty and compassion, aiming to unite family and school teams to create the best possible learning environment for your child.

Your child's story does not have to include failing grades and a poor self-image.

Together, we can advocate for their success.

FAQs

Q: Do you provide academic or psychological evaluations?

A: No. While I do not personally provide evaluations, I am happy to support you with referrals for local private evaluators as well as support you in seeking evaluation(s) through your child’s designated public school.

Q: As an advocate, can you provide legal advice and respresentation?

A: Despite being well versed in educational law, I am not able to provide legal advice or representation. Should you wish to consult with an Educational Law Attorney, I have a list of referrals for many firms in the Baltimore area.

Q: Why do I need an advocate - doesn’t the school have to comply with my requests for testing or academic supports and services?

A: You do not need an advocate to share your concerns with your child’s school. However, school teams are more likely to consider a parent’s concerns when they are supported by data and expert feedback from outside sources including private clinicians and evaluators.

Q: Can you provide my child with Executive Function Coaching and support our family as an Educational Consultant and Advocate?

A: Yes! Working directly with the student allows me the opportunity to observe their specific challenges and learning preferences. Using this first hand knowledge, I am able to collaborate with your family, teachers, and school staff as we create a plan for optimum success.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Consultation and Advocacy services are $200 per hour, charged at 15-minute intervals. A full list of billable services will be reviewed at the Initial Consultation appointment.

Q: How do I get started?

A: Using the online scheduling tool, schedule a free 15 minute consultation call where I can answer any remaining questions that you might have. Once we determine that we’re a good fit, we can schedule our first session and get started in the next week or so!