Collaborative Advocacy Associates

I retained the services of Collaborative Advocacy Associates to advocate for my daughter (diagnosed with several neurological disorders but high functioning) after 1+ year of “fighting” her uncooperative elementary school with no results. Having Carole Pakkala on our team was a game changer!!! Her experience, expertise, tact and gentle tenacity made all the difference in the world, and helped my daughter get the 504 Plan that she so desperately needed (but that the school was against giving). Any parent who has ever faced a “recalcitrant” IEP team will tell you how daunting it is! Carole’s presence during meetings (which I’m incredibly grateful for) truly leveled the field and changed the tone. She “speaks” the educators’ language, understands the material and will advocate for your child in a smart, persuasive yet tactful manner. Most of all, she CARES. Carol left no stone unturned, taking the time to review evaluations and assessments, and do further research to better advocate for my daughter. I’m 100% convinced that I would have kept getting nowhere without her help, and I will 100% reach back to Collaborative Advocacy Associates and Carol when/if the time comes to convert my daughter’s 504 into an IEP. If you’re on the fence about spending the money, don’t hesitate! The $900 I spent on the 6-hour package was literally the smartest investment into my daughter’s education and future (and I must mention that Carole was quite generous with her time). Having Carol and Collaborative Advocacy Associates on our team was an invaluable help!nnUPDATE: It's now one year later, and we have an IEP!!! (and Carole is still part of our team!)