Karla Joseph-Bartkiw

IEP Advocate • Guidance Counselor • Social Worker • Life Coach

A calm river with reflections of the sky and trees, surrounded by green foliage and mountains in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.

For over 16 years, I’ve dedicated my career to helping families navigate both the emotional and academic sides of education. With a background in behavioral and trauma therapy, I’ve supported diverse student populations and families facing complex social, emotional, and learning challenges.

My mission is simple: bridge the gap between families and schools so every child is seen, supported, and heard.

Letter To Parents

My Philosophy

A woman with curly hair in a puff styled with a headband, wearing glasses and a black hoodie, smiling in a bathroom with gray tiled walls and a blue door.

“IEPs are not just legal documents to me—they are tools for empowerment, progress, and hope. I believe every child can learn with the right supports, resources, and advocates in place.

Families should never feel intimidated, confused, or shut out of their child’s education. My approach centers on compassion, clarity, and collaboration.”

What I Do

A panoramic view of a rocky beach with a concrete walkway leading into the water. In the distance, hills and mountains are visible under a partly cloudy sky. A few people are walking along the beach, and buildings are seen on the right side.

I help parents understand and navigate the special education system with confidence. I offer per diem advocacy and consultation services to families. My support includes:

Requesting evaluations and services
Preparing for IEP and annual review meetings
Understanding rights and school responsibilities
Asking the right questions during the process
Building strong partnerships with educators
Accessing early intervention and student supports

Advocacy Approach

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I advocate with:

Empathy and clear communication
Deep knowledge of both policy and practice
Respect for each child’s strengths and needs
Cultural and linguistic sensitivity
A belief in early and proactive intervention

I’ve sat at many IEP tables—as a counselor, a social worker, and sometimes simply as the voice a child needed.

Multilingual Support

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I am especially committed to supporting multilingual families who may be new to the U.S. education system or unsure how to advocate.

I speak:

French (fluent)
Creole (fluent)
Spanish (working knowledge)

This allows me to ensure families feel included, respected, and fully involved in decision-making.

Beyond the Work:

Who I Am

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My work is deeply meaningful to me, but so is the life I’ve built outside of it.

I’m a proud mom of two boys, and I love spending time with my husband and family. When I’m not advocating for children, you can usually find me:

Traveling and exploring new places
Being adventurous and trying new experiences
Hiking and enjoying the outdoors
Sitting near water to recharge
Taking in the beauty of the mountains I love

These parts of my life keep me grounded, joyful, and connected to my purpose.

Why Families Trust Me

A woman with curly hair wearing glasses and a black top, smiling against a red background.

“Over the years, I’ve become a trusted resource for parents seeking clarity, advocacy, and emotional support. Families come to me when they feel unheard or overwhelmed—and leave with confidence and a plan.