--- title: "Home – Special Education Advocate" description: "Special Education Advocate for Arizona & California Families Book Your Free Consultation Now Our Services Discover what we offer Consulting Services We offer tailored consulting to meet each child’s unique needs. Our services provide personalized support for children, families, and educators to address individual challenges. Learn More Advocacy Services  Our advocacy services guide parents and […]" url: "https://balloueducation.com/" date_modified: "2026-09-02T08:49:21-07:00" --- ![admin-ajax(1)](https://balloueducation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/admin-ajax1.png) --- # Special Education Advocate for Arizona & California Families [Book Your Free Consultation Now](#contact) ![Special education advocate supporting a family with an IEP meeting in Arizona and California](https://balloueducation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/hero-child-scaled.jpeg) --- ## Our Services ### Discover what we offer ![consulting-services](https://balloueducation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/consulting-services.jpg) ## Consulting Services We offer tailored consulting to meet each child’s unique needs. Our services provide personalized support for children, families, and educators to address individual challenges. [Learn More](/services/consulting/) ![advocacy-services](https://balloueducation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/advocacy-services-scaled.jpg) ## Advocacy Services  Our advocacy services guide parents and children through meetings. We ensure your child receives the necessary support and resources with a professional and sensitive approach. [Learn More](/services/advocacy/) ![coaching-services](https://balloueducation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/coaching-services.jpg) ## Coaching Services  Our coaching services help children build essential skills to succeed. We focus on developing personalized strategies to address each child’s learning strengths and challenges. [Learn More](/services/coaching/) ![expert-services](https://balloueducation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/expert-services.jpg) ## Expert / Forensic Services  Our educational assessments provide critical insights into a child’s learning needs. We use these insights to create tailored support plans to enhance each child’s educational experience. [Learn More](/services/expert-forensic/) --- ## Meet Our Team ### Advocating for Every Child ![about-us-photo](https://balloueducation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/about-us-photo.jpeg) ## Tamara Ballou ## Founder & CEO | Ballou Education  Tamara Ballou is an educational advocate with over 32 years of experience supporting families. She specializes in special needs and gifted education, helping parents navigate IEPs, 504 plans, and school communication. Her work focuses on building collaboration, resolving challenges, and ensuring every child receives the support they need to succeed. [Read More](/team/#tamara-ballou) ![WhatsApp Image 2026-08-11 at 4.10.19 PM](https://balloueducation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/WhatsApp-Image-2026-08-11-at-4.10.19-PM.jpeg) ## Devon Rose ## Educational Advocate  Devon Willer is an educational advocate who supports families through the complexities of special education. She specializes in IEPs, 504 plans, and school communication, helping parents feel confident and informed. Her approach focuses on clarity, compassion, and creating effective strategies to ensure each child receives the support they need to succeed. [Read More](/team/#devon-rose) --- ## Resources ### Essential Resources for Effective Child Advocacy ## Arizona Resources ## State and Federal Legal Resources - [Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)](https://sites.ed.gov/idea/) - [Title 34 Code of Federal Regulations](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-34/subtitle-B/chapter-III/part-300?toc=1) - [U.S. Department of Education](https://www.ed.gov/) - [Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)](https://www.ada.gov/) - [Arizona Department of Education](https://www.azed.gov/esa) - [Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)](https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/index.html) - [Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS)](https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/index.html) - [Vocational Rehabilitation Program](https://des.az.gov/services/employment/rehabilitation-services/vocational-rehabilitation-vr) - [Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD): Arizona Department of Economic Security](https://des.az.gov/ddd) - [Parental Rights Handbook Public School Districts](https://www.azed.gov/sites/default/files/2023/08/Parent_Rights_Handbook_Public_District_Schools_2023_Final.pdf) - [Arizona Statutes about Developmental Disabilities](https://www.azleg.gov/viewdocument/?docName=https://www.azleg.gov/ars/36/00551-01.htm) - [Arizona Administrative Code, Article 4 - Special Education](https://cms.azed.gov/home/GetDocumentFile?id=5a1353713217e1025434e49e) - [Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 15 (Education)](https://casetext.com/statute/arizona-revised-statutes/title-15-education) ## Learning Disability Resources - [LD Online (learning disabilities for educators)](https://www.ldonline.org/) - [International Dyslexia Association (national)](https://dyslexiaida.org/) - [Decoding Dyslexia Arizona](https://dyslexiaida.org/) - [Bright Solutions for Dyslexia](https://dys-add.com/) - [Fact Sheet - Warning Signs for Dyslexia](https://www.dys-add.com/resources/RecentResearch/DysWarningSigns.pdf) - [DyslexicHelp.org](https://dyslexichelp.org/) ## Autism Resources - [Arizona Autism United](https://azaunited.org/) - [Autism Society of Greater Phoenix](https://phxautism.org/) - [Autism Society of Southern Arizona](https://www.as-az.org/) - [Autism Speaks](https://www.autismspeaks.org/directory) - [AZ Assist (support for adults with autism)](https://phxautism.org/) - [The Gentry Foundation for Autism](https://phxautism.org/) - [Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center](https://autismcenter.org/) ## For Parents of Gifted Children - [National Association for Gifted Children](https://nagc.org/) - [Arizona Association for Gifted and Talented: Home](https://arizonagifted.org/) - [Mensa Gifted Youth Admission](https://www.us.mensa.org/join/gifted-youth-admission/) - [Acceleration Institute](https://www.accelerationinstitute.org/) - [World Council for Gifted and Talented Children](https://world-gifted.org/) - [Gifted Research & Outreach](https://gro-gifted.org/) - [Exceeds Expectations Learning](https://2e-learning.com/) - [2e News](https://www.2enews.com/) - [Northwestern's Center for Talent Development](https://www.ctd.northwestern.edu/) - [Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth](https://cty.jhu.edu/) - [Hoagies' Gifted Education Page](https://www.hoagiesgifted.org/) - [Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted](https://www.sengifted.org/) ## ADHD / ADD Resources - [HealthyChildren.org Article: Understanding ADHD](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/adhd/Pages/Understanding-ADHD.aspx) - [Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)](https://chadd.org/) - [ADDitude Magazine - Positive Parenting](https://www.additudemag.com/category/parenting-adhd-kids/positive-parenting/) ## Children's Mental & Behavioral Health - [National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health](https://www.ffcmh.org/) - [Bring Change 2 Mind](https://www.bringchange2mind.org/) - [Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation - www.bpkids.org](https://azaunited.org/) - [Children's Mental Health Network](https://www.cmhnetwork.org/) - [Parent to Parent USA](https://www.p2pusa.org/) ## California Resources ## California Education & Legal Rights - [California Department of Education (CDE)](https://www.cde.ca.gov/) - [Special Education Division – CDE](https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/se/) - [California Education Code](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes.xhtml) - [California Department of Developmental Services (DDS)](https://www.dds.ca.gov/) - [California Office of Administrative Hearings – Special Education](https://www.dgs.ca.gov/oah/case-types/special-education) - [Disability Rights California](https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/) ## Learning Disabilities & Dyslexia - [International Dyslexia Association – Los Angeles Branch](https://www.dyslexiala.org/) - [International Dyslexia Association – Northern California](https://norcal.dyslexiaida.org/) - [Decoding Dyslexia California](https://decodingdyslexiaca.org/) - [Learning Disabilities Association of California](https://www.ldaca.org/) - [Understood.org](https://www.understood.org/) - [UCLA Tarjan Center (Neurodevelopmental Disabilities)](https://www.semel.ucla.edu/tarjan) ## ADHD / ADD Resources - [CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD)](https://chadd.org/) - [ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association)](https://add.org/) - [ADDitude Magazine](https://www.additudemag.com/) - [UCLA ADHD Clinic](https://teams.semel.ucla.edu/adhd/service/attention-deficit-disorder-clinic) ## California Regional Centers For intellectual and developmental disability services, including Early Start. - [Frank D. Lanterman Regional Center](https://www.lanterman.org/) - [Westside Regional Center](https://westsiderc.org/) - [South Central Los Angeles Regional Center](https://www.sclarc.org/) - [Harbor Regional Center](https://www.harborrc.org/) - [Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center](https://www.elarc.org/) - [North Los Angeles County Regional Center](https://www.nlacrc.org/) - [San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center](https://www.sgprc.org/) ## Los Angeles Mental Health & Specialty Clinics - [UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience & Human Behavior](https://www.semel.ucla.edu/) - [Cedars-Sinai Psychiatry & Behavioral Health](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/psychiatry.html) ## Autism Resources - [Autism Society of California – Los Angeles](https://www.autismla.org/1/) - [Autism Speaks – West](https://www.autismspeaks.org/west) ## Additional Autism Resources - [UCLA PEERS Clinic (Social Skills Program)](https://www.semel.ucla.edu/peers) - [Child Mind Institute](https://childmind.org/) ## Children’s Mental & Behavioral Health - [California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)](https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/) - [California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA)](https://www.calmhsa.org/) - [National Alliance on Mental Illness California (NAMI CA)](https://namica.org/) ## Parent Rights & Safeguards - [Parent Rights & Procedural Safeguards](https://selpa.info/info/parent-rights-and-procedural-safeguards---translations) For assistance in navigating through all these agencies and resources, please contact us by clicking the button below. [Have any questions? Contact us](#contact) --- ## Blogs & Articles ### Insights and Updates on Child Advocacy: Essential Reads and More Mastering the Art of Effective IEP Goals: A Parent’s Guide to Child Success Mastering the art of crafting effective IEP goals is pivotal for parents eager to see their children with learning challenges thrive in their educational journey. Read More » August 11, 2026 No Comments What Happens to Special Education if the Department of Education is Abolished? As discussions about the potential abolition of the U.S. Department of Education circulate, many parents, educators, and policymakers ponder the future of special education and Read More » August 11, 2026 No Comments Understanding Key Differences Between IEP and 504 Plans: For Parents and Educators Navigating the educational landscape for children with learning disabilities can often feel overwhelming for parents and educators alike. Understanding the key differences between an Individualized Read More » August 11, 2026 No Comments [Read Our Blog](/blog) --- ## Testimonials ### Hear what others say Posted on Google Kenneth Davis Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great location and services Posted on Google Audrey Boone Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tamara is such an amazing advocate! If you have a child struggling emotionally or academically at school and need advice or someone who knows what they're doing in your corner, then you will not be disappointed using Tamaras services and it is definitely money well spent! I still am trying to wrap my head around dealing with my daughter's school and what im suppose to do. Its a nightmare, but Tamara has been helping me so much through this process to get my daughter who suffers from severe depression and anxiety an IEP through her school. Trust me when I say that she knows what she is doing and kills it at the meetings I have with the school, which can be intimidating with all the school leaders there. They act like we as parents understand way more than we do when I comes to how the school system works. My daughter would be in a way worse situation now had I not hired Tamara to help me deal with her school. I actually look forward to the meetings with her school since Tamara always has my back and doesn't give them any slack and makes sure my daughter will get everything she needs to help her through this difficult time in her life. Tamara you are an amazing person and advocate and I cant thank you enough for all you've done for us!! Posted on Google Meghan C. Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Posted on Google Putul Devi Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Posted on Google Kathleen Connor Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tamara is amazing. She directed me in the right direction for my son who was having challenges in the Scottsdale School District. I can’t thank her enough for her recommendations and direction. We are now moving in the right direction. It wouldn’t have happened with out her guidance. Thank You! Posted on Google Aislyn Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tamara is an amazing advocate! She took her time to review all my sons documentations/records and was very well prepared for all IEP meetings. She was always available for telephone consultations and communicated in a timely manner. She was very supportive, understanding, and helped me have a better understanding of all my sons academic needs. I would definitely recommend her services to friends/family and anyone in need of a dependable, knowledgeable advocate. Posted on Google Christina Cramer Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tamara has been our advocate for a couple of months now and I can not believe all that she has done for us in just a short amount of time. We are so grateful for her and my son is finally being put in the right path to be successful. I would highly recommend her to anyone that has a child with an IEP or with a disability that needs to be put on the right path. Tamaras knowledge is truly unbelievable and blew me away. Posted on Google Julie Wendt Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tamara gets the job done--is the most amazing advocate. Makes it look easy but after having 3 previous advocates, I know this is not the case. Posted on Google Lara Scott Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We wanted a knowledgeable, assertive advocate who could help us get what was needed for our daughter with special needs. Tamara Ballou was that person! We were so thrilled with her that we have referred her to many parents since!! Posted on Google Roxanna Dewey Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Simply put, Tamara is the best. Her expertise, insight, and experience are unparalleled. If you find yourself in the situation of needing an advocate, look no further. You will not want anyone else in your corner. We found Tamara after I discovered that my son, who is on the spectrum, was being grossly mistreated in his public school. She is a fearless advocate and will always base decisions and recommendations on what is best for the child; she knows that the child will always drive placement. Today, because of her guidance, my son is thriving. I will always recommend Tamara. Verified by Trustindex Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more --- ## FAQ ### Frequently asked questions > **Disclaimer:** Ballou Education offers education advocacy services and does not offer legal services. All opinions expressed on this website are the opinions of the advocate(s) based on their training and experiences in educational matters. These opinions are not legal advice. If you need legal advice, you are encouraged to consult with an attorney who has expertise in education matters. ## Mission Statement ## Committed to excellence The mission of Ballou Education is to support families and their children by providing them with comprehensive advocacy support and services that will assist them in obtaining the appropriate education their child deserves. We believe all children have the right to quality education so that the child can reach their full learning potential. What is a Special Education Advocate? A Special Education Advocate is a dedicated professional who stands up for the rights of children with exceptional needs. Their role is to support parents by providing information, guidance, and representation in matters related to their child’s education.Advocacy and SupportA Special Education Advocate is an ally who speaks on behalf of parents and their children with special needs. They work to ensure that families are aware of their educational rights and help them navigate the complexities of the educational system. This includes advocating for appropriate educational programs and services that meet the specific requirements of each child.Negotiation and ResolutionIf disagreements arise between parents and school districts regarding the educational needs of a child with special needs, a Special Education Advocate steps in to facilitate communication and negotiation. They aim to find amicable solutions that benefit the child’s education and well-being.It’s important to note that Special Education Advocates are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. However, they can recommend legal representation if a situation requires it, especially in mediation or due process cases.Partnering with Ballou EducationAt Ballou Education, our team of Special Education Advocates is committed to supporting families through every step of their journey. Whether you need assistance understanding your rights, navigating the special education process, or resolving disputes with your child’s school, we are here to help. What does a Special Education Advocate do? Representation of the Student: The primary responsibility of a Special Education Advocate is to advocate for the best interests of the student throughout the educational process.Legal Guidance: A proficient Special Education Advocate is well-versed in special education laws and regulations. They can inform parents of their rights and recommend suitable special education services and programs tailored to meet the student’s unique needs. In cases where specific legal issues arise, they conduct thorough research to address these matters, especially concerning Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).Assessment Understanding: A proficient Special Education Advocate understands various assessments and reports on students’ educational needs. They can interpret and explain these assessments to parents, clarifying their implications for the student’s education.IEP Preparation: Before an IEP meeting, the Special Education Advocate assists in preparing for the meeting by helping to define goals and objectives, reviewing relevant evidence, and providing guidance on documenting concerns and requests. They offer valuable insights to ensure the student’s needs are effectively communicated during the meeting.Document Review: The Special Education Advocate thoroughly reviews all special education and Section 504 documents, including student files, evaluation reports, IEPs, and Section 504 Plans. This ensures that the student’s educational plan aligns with their needs and rights.Meeting Support: Accompanying parents to IEP, 504, and other school meetings, the Special Education Advocate provides support, advice, and assistance throughout the process. They offer guidance on navigating these meetings and review any relevant documents before they are finalized.Written Communication: Drafting letters, requests, and complaints to school districts and relevant authorities is another crucial aspect of the Special Education Advocate’s role. They ensure that all communications are clear and concise and advocate for the student’s rights and needs.Empowerment and Education: The Special Education Advocate empowers parents and students by providing them with the necessary information and guidance to enhance their advocacy skills. This education helps them navigate the educational system more effectively.Dispute Resolution: In cases of disputes with the school district, the Special Education Advocate can help parents voice their concerns and work towards resolving issues. Their expertise facilitates constructive dialogue and problem-solving.Case Assessment: When considering legal action or filing a complaint, the Special Education Advocate assesses the strength of the case and provides recommendations on the next steps. They may also refer parents to specialized attorneys if legal representation is needed.Referral Services: With extensive knowledge of local professionals and services, the Special Education Advocate can refer parents to appropriate professionals for additional support or services beyond their scope. --- ## Locations ### locations we serve ## Arizona [Paradise Valley](/locations/paradise-valley) [Scottsdale - Central](/locations/scottsdale-central) [Scottsdale - Gainey](/locations/scottsdale-gainey) [North Scottsdale](/locations/north-scottsdale) [Far North Scottsdale](/locations/far-north-scottsdale) [Scottsdale "Magic Zip"](/locations/scottsdale-magic-zip) [Fountain Hills](/locations/fountain-hills) [Cave Creek](/locations/cave-creek) [Arcadia](/locations/arcadia) [Biltmore](/locations/biltmore) [Desert Ridge](/locations/desert-ridge) [Chandler](/locations/chandler) ## California [Beverly Hills](/locations/beverly-hills) [Bel Air / Holmby Hills](/locations/bel-air-holmby-hills) [Brentwood](/locations/brentwood) [Pacific Palisades](/locations/pacific-palisades) [Santa Monica](/locations/santa-monica) [Malibu](/locations/malibu) [Manhattan Beach](/locations/manhattan-beach) [Palos Verdes](/locations/palos-verdes) [Calabasas / Hidden Hills](/locations/calabasas-hidden-hills) [Encino / Sherman Oaks](/locations/encino-sherman-oaks) [La Cañada Flintridge](/locations/la-canada-flintridge) [San Marino](/locations/san-marino) --- ## Call Us ### (602) 614-9002 ## Mon - Fri, 8am - 5pm --- ## Contact Us ### We'd love to hear from you Select state.. Arizona California Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); ## Get In Touch ## Choose your location to contact the right team ## Arizona Clients [(602) 614-9002 ](https://balloueducation.com/) Mon–Fri, 8am – 5pm (PST) 9393 N 90th Street #102 Scottsdale, AZ 85258 [Map: 9393 N 90th Street #102 Scottsdale, AZ 85258](https://maps.google.com/maps?q=9393%20N%2090th%20Street%20%23102%20Scottsdale%2C%20AZ%2085258) ## California Clients [(424) 522-2984 ](tel:+17028581784) Mon–Fri, 8am – 7pm (PST) 9777 Wilshire Blvd Ste.400 Beverly Hills, CA 90210 [Map: 9777 Wilshire Blvd Ste.400](https://maps.google.com/maps?q=9777%20Wilshire%20Blvd%20Ste.400)