Empowering Parents, Supporting Educators, Transforming Special Education

Advocacy, Parent Coaching, and Consulting for School Districts in Middle Tennessee

Happy students on schoolyard- including a wheelchair boy

The Challenge Navigating Special Education

Parents of children with disabilities often face overwhelming challenges navigating the special education system. From understanding IEPs and 504 plans to ensuring schools provide necessary services, the process can feel complex and isolating. Many parents struggle to advocate effectively for their child's needs, leaving them frustrated and unsure where to turn.

At Elevate, we empower families with the tools, knowledge, and support to overcome these obstacles, ensuring children receive the education and opportunities they deserve.

Our Services Your Partner in Special Education Advocacy

Elevate provides expert guidance and support to help families navigate the education system and empower schools to create inclusive environments.

Advocacy for Families

Guiding parents through the special education process, from IEP meetings and document reviews to developing personalized strategies to optimize educational outcomes for their children.

Parent Coaching

Empowering parents with the skills and knowledge to confidently advocate for their children. Includes guidance on special education laws and strategies for effective communication with schools.

Consulting for Schools

Providing schools with expert training on special education laws, family engagement strategies, and system-level improvements to better support students with disabilities.

A girl with down syndrome is in a classroom with her teacher. She is happily playing with a tablet computer while being watched by her teacher.

About Erin Richardson

Erin is a Mother to three grown children, including a 24-year old son with Autism, a chromosomal abnormality and epilepsy. A formerly-practicing attorney, she has been advocating for students with disabilities in Middle Tennessee for over 15 years. She is passionate about educating parents on their rights and those of their children, and about ensuring that students with disabilities achieve their full potential through receiving a free, appropriate public education.

Schedule a Call with Erin

Testimonials

I have a daughter with Autism and ADHD, but her school denied her exceptional education services like an IEP or 504. After years of back-and-forth with the school and no accommodations, a friend recommended Erin Richardson. Erin’s extensive knowledge and experience in special education, combined with her ability to navigate the system, was invaluable. She knew exactly what to ask for and ensured the school delivered on their promises. With Erin’s help, my daughter now has a tailored IEP and is receiving the support she needs. She’s doing better in school, is happier, and even looks forward to attending. I highly recommend Erin for anyone navigating the complexities of securing an appropriate education for their child.
Kathleen, parent of a 9th grader

We were really struggling with the school system. My child’s educational disability is less common or understood than many and was initially unrecognized, resulting in numerous disciplinary complaints, frustrated teachers and administrators, frustrated child, and frustrated parents. Erin Richardson came into our process and guided us through. With her knowledge of the system, what is possible, what is required, and what is available if you know how to ask, she was instrumental in advocating for our child. She walked with us through a very challenging process of getting an IEP in place and navigating maximally difficult issues that arose afterward. The challenges Erin helped us with could have gone so poorly for my child but she helped us to effectively fight for what was needed to succeed rather than my child being discarded. We would not be in the much better place we are today without Erin.
Raquel, parent of a 4th grader