About Me

Experienced Educator & Trusted Special Education Advocate in Los Angeles, California, and Throughout the United States

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Scott Michaelson

In the world of special education, experience matters.

As a former director of special education, principal, assistant principal, and teacher, I have been at the forefront of educational leadership for over 20 years. 

Having been on the other side of the table, I bring a rare insider’s perspective that most advocates can’t offer. I know how schools make decisions, understand your rights as a parent, and act as a champion for your child’s individual needs.

My goal is to bridge the gap between your child’s needs and receiving the support they deserve and are legally entitled to.

You don’t have to do this alone! I work with you every step of the way, offering guidance, expertise, and a compassionate approach that gets results.

Experience You Can Trust

Background

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Education

Master’s Degree: Educational Leadership and Policy

Graduated with Distinction California State University, Northridge

Bachelor’s Degree: English Literature with a minor in Education

Graduated with Highest Honors University of California, Santa Cruz

Formal Certifications

20+ Years

Leverage my 20+ years of experience as a director of special education, principal, assistant principal, and teacher in public and charter schools for comprehensive insight.

200+ Families

I have helped over 200 families secure resources, services, and supports for their children through IEPs and 504 Plans.

15%

In the 2022-23 school year, the number of identified students with disabilities was 15% of all students, and that number continues to grow.

6 Million

It is estimated that over 6 million children with learning and attention issues in the U.S. have not been formally identified; therefore, they are not being properly supported by their schools. (learning disabilities association of america)

95.2%

A majority of pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students receiving special education services are enrolled in regular public district and charter schools.

A Partner in Your Parenting Journey

Having been on the other side of the table as a school administrator, I bring a rare insider’s perspective that most advocates can’t offer. I know how schools make decisions, understand your rights as a parent, and act as a champion for your child’s individual needs.

Based in Los Angeles, California, my services extend across the United States.

My goal is to bridge the gap between your child’s needs and receiving the support they deserve and are legally entitled to.

Your child’s education is important! With me as your advocate, you have a knowledgeable, experienced, and caring guide by your side.

Your Child’s Roadmap to Success

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Discovery and Planning

Embark on your journey with a personalized consultation meeting, followed by a thorough review of school records and assessments, laying the foundation for understanding your goals, your child’s specific needs, and establishing an Action Plan that gets results.

2

A family of four smiles while looking at a laptop in the kitchen, charting their roadmap to success. Two children sit with notebooks, eagerly jotting down notes as their parents stand behind them, fully engaged in the activity.

Parent Education and Student Advocacy

Empower yourself by understanding special education intricacies and parent/student rights. I work with you throughout the entire process, determining goals and next steps, and facilitating effective communication and collaboration with school personnel to ensure your child’s needs are met.

3

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Ongoing Support and Success Celebration

Experience continuous support with ongoing advocacy, progress monitoring, adjustments to IEPs and 504 Plans, goals review and revision, check-ins, communication with the school, crisis intervention, and resource provision while celebrating your child’s growth and achievements as they reach their goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you help my child on their educational journey?
With over 20 years of experience, I offer personalized advocacy, guiding you through the complexities of special education. From initial assessments to ongoing support, I ensure your child’s unique needs are addressed and met.
My extensive background as a director of special education, principal, assistant principal and teacher provides an insider’s perspective that most advocates can’t offer. My nurturing approach and commitment to collaborative goal-setting make me a dedicated partner in your child’s educational journey.
While I am based in Los Angeles, my services extend nationwide. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is federal law that protects students in all 50 states. Distance is not a barrier; I am dedicated to supporting families across the United States in navigating the complexities of special education and the education system as a whole.
Begin with a free personalized consultation. Contact me to discuss your concerns and aspirations, and I’ll guide you through the initial steps that can be taken to address your child’s specific needs, setting the foundation for a roadmap to success.
Absolutely! My expertise covers both Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans, ensuring a comprehensive approach to meet your child’s specific needs.
Absolutely! With my extensive experience across educational roles, I am able to help families with whatever their specific needs might be. This varies for each family and child, and is something we can determine during your free personalized consultation.
The initial consultation can be a phone call or Zoom meeting. It is a chance for me to learn about your child, family, and your unique circumstances. It sets the stage for understanding your concerns and establishing goals for your child’s educational pathway.

I leverage my insider’s perspective to effectively communicate with schools, using my knowledge of student and parents rights, legal timelines, and school decision-making processes to ensure they understand and implement the necessary services and supports that work for your child.

Yes! My commitment extends beyond one-time advocacy. I provide continuous support, monitoring your child’s progress, making adjustments as needed, collaborating with your family and the school, and celebrating achievements along the way.
Working with a special education advocate means having a dedicated partner in your child’s educational journey. I offer expert guidance on navigating the special education system, including developing and implementing IEPs and 504 plans, understanding educational rights, and addressing any challenges that arise. You can expect personalized support tailored to your child’s unique needs, clear communication, and proactive problem-solving to ensure your child receives the best possible education.

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