Parents have rights.I help you use them.
When Committee on Special Education (CSE) and Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) meetings feel stacked against you, or evaluations never seem to happen, getting your child what they're legally owed shouldn't take a law degree. Warm, clear support for Long Island families working through special education.
Parent rights, made plain.
IDEA, Section 504, and NY State rules — explained in plain words, so you know exactly what to ask for at the next meeting.
Beside you at the table.
30+ years inside the system — as a Special Education Teacher, Building Administrator, Director of Special Education, and Assistant Superintendent. I know the script. I know how to change it.
Warm, calm, on your side.
Bring me the paperwork and the worry. I'll tell you, in plain words, what's missing and what to do next — with knowledge, confidence, and hope.
How We Work Together.
Every child and every family is unique, so no two support plans are exactly alike. After your Hope Discovery Consultation, we'll determine the level of support that's right for your family. Whether you need guidance behind the scenes or someone to walk alongside you through the process, our work together is tailored to your child's needs, your goals, and your comfort level.
- Step 1 · 01
Intake & Document Review
Once you decide to move forward, you'll complete a brief intake and securely share your child's educational records, such as the IEP, evaluations, progress reports, or other relevant documents. During your Hope Discovery Consultation, we've already discussed your initial concerns. This step allows me to take a deeper look at the documentation, identify patterns, clarify questions, and better understand your child's educational journey.
- Step 2 · 02
Educational Review & Recommendations
I carefully review the records through the lens of more than 30 years of special education leadership. Together, we'll identify strengths, areas of concern, and opportunities to better support your child. You'll receive practical recommendations and a clear understanding of possible next steps.
- Step 3 · 03
Planning & Advocacy Support
Every family needs a different level of support. Depending on your needs, I may help you prepare for an upcoming meeting, review questions and talking points, draft letters or requests, or attend meetings with you as your educational consultant and support person. Together, we'll develop a strategy that helps you advocate with confidence.
- Step 4 · 04
Follow-Through & Continued Support
Advocacy doesn't end when the meeting is over. We'll review outcomes, discuss next steps, and determine whether additional support is needed. My goal is to help you feel informed, prepared, and empowered as you continue advocating for your child.
Educational advocacy, consulting, and family support.
A brief conversation to discuss your concerns, determine your needs, and identify how advocacy support may help your child and family.
A written review of your child's IEP, evaluations, and supporting documents — with findings, recommendations, and a follow-up consultation.
Record review, parent strategy session, meeting attendance, and follow-up summary for CPSE, CSE, and complex cases.
Group training on the CPSE/CSE process, parent rights, evaluations, building strong IEPs, and meeting preparation.
Years inside the system. Now working for families.
I spent years inside New York's special-education system. I know what gets said when parents leave the room — and what to ask so it never gets said about your child.
With Dr. Hernandez by my side, I gained the confidence to advocate for my son because I knew I had someone incredibly knowledgeable and compassionate supporting us every step of the way.
She goes above and beyond to ensure families feel heard, supported, and equipped to advocate for their children.
Most importantly, Dr. Hernandez gave me the confidence to advocate for my son.
Every parent navigating special education needs someone like Dr. Hernandez in their corner. She is truly a light during what can feel like a very dark and confusing time. Her expertise, compassion, and unwavering advocacy gave me confidence and hope when I didn't know where to turn.
About 2 years ago I reached out to ADH concerning my son. He was showing signs of autism, lack of expression/speech and I had concerns about his development. ADH talked with me about my son, mapped out a plan and continues to advocate for my son to this present day. ADH was present at our CPSE meetings. We were awarded special schooling/support which is a direct result from ADH efforts. As parents we really didn't know what options we had but after speaking with ADH we had everything we needed to help move our son in the right direction. If you have concerns regarding your child's development I highly recommend reaching out to ADH. They will take care of your child as if it were their own.