Pathways to
parenting and advocacy
Keri drew consulting
ABOUT KERI DREW
Keri Drew Consulting, provides compassionate, experienced consulting services to help children and families successfully navigate school and life challenges. My mission is to ensure that every child receives the support, understanding, and opportunities they deserve.
I partner with families to advocate for students’ educational, emotional, and developmental needs, helping parents understand their rights, communicate effectively with schools, and access appropriate services and supports. Whether a child needs help with an IEP, academic accommodations, behavioral support, or broader life transitions, I guide families through the process with clarity and confidence.
My approach is collaborative and family-centered. I listen carefully, develop personalized strategies, and work alongside parents, educators, and professionals to create solutions that help children thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
From school advocacy and special education guidance to life coaching and family support, I empower families with the tools, knowledge, and voice they need to build strong futures for their children.
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone—I'm here to advocate, guide, and support every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does an advocate do?
An advocate helps families navigate the school system and other life challenges that affect a child’s success. Advocates support parents by explaining their rights, helping them understand school processes, preparing for meetings, and working collaboratively with schools to ensure a child receives appropriate support and services.
2. When should I consider hiring an advocate?
Families often seek an advocate when they feel unsure about school procedures, are preparing for an IEP or 504 meeting, are experiencing challenges with accommodations or services, or want guidance in supporting their child’s academic, emotional, or behavioral needs.
3. Can an advocate attend school meetings with me?
Yes. Advocates can attend meetings such as IEP or 504 plan meetings to help parents ask questions, understand recommendations, and ensure that the child’s needs are clearly communicated.
4. Does hiring an advocate mean I’m in conflict with my child’s school?
Not at all. Advocates aim to support positive and collaborative relationships between families and schools. Their role is to help everyone focus on what is best for the student.
5. What types of students benefit from an advocate?
Students with learning differences, disabilities, academic struggles, behavioral challenges, or social-emotional needs often benefit from advocacy. Advocates can also help families who simply want guidance navigating school systems and resources.
6. What is the difference between an advocate and an attorney?
An advocate provides guidance, support, and expertise in navigating educational systems and meetings. Attorneys provide legal representation. Most situations can be addressed collaboratively with an advocate without needing legal action.
7. How does the advocacy process work?
The process typically begins with an initial consultation to understand your child’s needs and review school records. From there, the advocate helps develop a plan, prepares you for meetings, and provides ongoing guidance and support.
8. Will the advocate speak for me at meetings?
Advocates help guide the conversation, ask clarifying questions, and ensure key issues are addressed. Their goal is also to empower parents to confidently advocate for their own child.
9. Is my family’s information confidential?
Yes. All conversations and documents shared with an advocate are handled with care and kept confidential.
10. How do I get started?
Families can begin by scheduling an introductory consultation. This first conversation helps determine your child’s needs and how advocacy services can best support your family.
LET'S CONNECT
Buddha
“Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment”
