Education Consultant Joy Simuel shares her experience guiding parents through the special education process

Somewhere in the Middle with Michele Barard

Somewhere in the Middle welcomes Education Consultant Joy Simuel

Joy is an energetic and experienced special education professional with a passion for pushing students to realize their full potential. With over 10 years of experience, she is a dedicated and resourceful educator with a solid commitment to the growth of the whole child. Giving parents the knowledge and confidence they need to advocate for their child.

It was during an annual review of IEP (individualized education plans) and re-evaluation meetings that Joy realized parents were signing documents, leaving meetings not feeling heard and overwhelmed. She decided that she would start her own special education consulting business to help parents navigate the special education process. After much prayer Joy resigned from her teaching position on June 13, 2019, from Fairfax County Public Schools and took the leap of faith to start Joy Simuel Consulting LLC.

Joy received her bachelor’s degree from Peace College in 2011 where she majored in Child Development and minored in Psychology. She received her special education license from East Carolina University in 2014. Joy has taught in the Wake County Public School System in North Carolina and most recently Fairfax County Public School System. This is where she developed a reputation for advocating for the diverse and unique needs of her students.