Consulting & Advocacy

Expert guidance for navigating the education system

It’s often difficult and emotional for parents to navigate the school system, let alone know the right questions to ask when seeking an IEP or 504. At HLS, Emma Hawthorne is an expert resource who serves as a liaison between your family and the school.

Get the guidance and expertise you need so that your child has the special education supports at school that he or she deserves!

As a former principal and special education teacher, Emma knows how to navigate the system and how to guide all parties toward a resolution that is best for the child—from implementation of a specialized education plan to appropriate classroom accommodations.

Get started with HLS

Our Process

Initial Consultation

Together, we’ll assess your student’s strengths and challenges to develop a personalized plan

Collaborative Approach

We’ll review and develop education plans and accommodations and communicate with the school

Advocacy at School Meetings

We provide expertise, experience and knowledge to help guide you through the IEP or 504 process

Regular Communication

Emails and phone calls ensure you have a cohesive strategy and necessary follow up

Initial Consultation

Together, we’ll assess your student’s strengths and challenges to develop a personalized plan

Collaborative Approach

We’ll review and develop education plans and accommodations and communicate with the school

Advocacy at School Meetings

We provide expertise, experience and knowledge to help guide you through the IEP or 504 process

Regular Communication

Emails and phone calls ensure you have a cohesive strategy and necessary follow up

How We Work

blue quoteWhenever I need back-up or have questions regarding my kids and school, I call Emma! She knows how to navigate the school system and is an amazing student advocate for kids with special needs!

We start with a meeting with you, the parents, and will work together to assess your child’s educational needs. We can also draw upon outside resources, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, and form a plan for working with the school. This ranges from emailing counselors and school administrators to setting up formal meetings. Then, we will accompany you to school meetings to ensure appropriate education solutions are put in place.

Our years of experience and expertise, as well as our collaborative approach, help us make the necessary connections, know when to act, and quickly generate a helpful plan. We can help with:

Contact Emma today

Why HLS?

As a former special education teacher and school administrator, Emma Hawthorne has the experience, knowledge, and skills necessary to navigate the education system. She knows the right questions to ask, your rights, and the school’s responsibilities. Her unique skill set and knowledge allows her to work with the school and your family to achieve the goals and solutions your family needs.

Learn more about us

Let's get your student on the path to success

Contact Emma today to get the expert guidance you need to navigate the school system!

Emma Hawthorne Headshot

Emma Hawthorne
HLS Co-Founder



    Frequently Asked Questions

    Yes, we accompany families to IEP and 504 meetings, as well as other situations at the school.

    Our initial meeting is with just the parents.