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About Our Founder

Ashley Traylor, M.A. Ed.
Non-Attorney Special Education Advocate

Founder - Ashley Traylor, MA Ed.

A Parent's Heart. A Teacher's Insight. Your Child's Advocate.

Hi, I’m Ashley Traylor — founder of Bridges 2 Advocacy, special education advocate, and most importantly, a parent who’s been in your shoes.

Before launching this work, I spent years as a classroom teacher and later found myself on the other side of the IEP table — advocating for my own child. I know how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the special education system, ask the right questions, and make sure your child gets what they need to thrive.

That’s why I started EmpowerEd Consulting & Advocacy: to stand alongside families and help them not only understand their rights, but feel empowered to use them. I bring both professional expertise and personal passion to every case I take on.

I believe in collaboration over conflict, thoughtful planning over quick fixes, and family-centered solutions that last far beyond a single school year. Whether it’s reviewing records, attending meetings, or connecting you to trusted community resources, I’m here to help build a bridge toward the future you envision for your child.


Experience the EmpowerEd Advantage

Lived Experience. Professional Expertise.


Founder and Executive Director of Bridges 2 Advocacy, a non-profit special education advocacy organization


17 years of experience in education and disability services


Master’s Degree in Special Education


COPAA-trained advocate (Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates)


Board Member, Autism Society of the Quad Cities


Deep knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, and student/family rights


Specializes in autism, challenging behaviors, and transition planning


Parent of a child with special needs — bringing lived experience to every case

EmpowerEd Consulting & Advocacy

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