CARES GROUP, KERN COUNTY & BEYOND
Comprehensive Advocacy Resources & Educational Services
We remove the stress and worry from your child’s academic challenges.
Meet CARES:
Turning Experience Into Advocacy
You shouldn’t have to navigate the education system alone.
CARES (Comprehensive Advocacy Resources and Educational Services) was founded on a deep-seated belief in educational equity and a passion for helping every student reach their full potential. With nearly three decades of experience inside the education system—as a teacher, reading specialist, and principal—we’ve seen firsthand the challenges that families face.
What truly sets CARES apart is our comprehensive, “inside-out” understanding of the education system. As a Board Certified Educational Advocate trained through the National Special Education Advocacy Institute, we bring a level of expertise that looks at both your child and the entire educational landscape to create a holistic and effective plan.
We are committed to fostering a collaborative and respectful partnership between your family and your child’s school. With extensive experience in reading instruction and the Response to Intervention (RTI) model, we know what strategies and supports help students make real progress. We’ve been on both sides of the table, and we know how to build bridges between families and schools—always prioritizing your child’s well-being and success.
We help make sure your child’s IEP or 504 plan is not just compliant with special education law but truly reflects their learning needs. By ensuring appropriate accommodations, modifications, and related services are in place, we help remove barriers so your child can access their education and experience real success at school.
At CARES, our mission is simple: to ensure every child has the opportunity, support, and equity they need to thrive.
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
Your Child’s Success Starts Here
Taking the first step is easier than you think.
We’ll guide you through a simple process designed to get your child on the path to confident learning.
Step 1.
Book Your Free Consultation
Connect with our team to share your child’s academic challenges and goals.
Step 2.
Comprehensive Case Review
We analyze your child’s educational records and evaluations to ensure they receive the services and support they rightfully deserve.
Step 3.
Get the Right Plan in Place
We advocate to ensure your child has an effective IEP, 504, behavior or intervention plan to deliver outcomes and the supports necessary for success.
Services We Offer
Records Review and Recommendations.
We review all educational documents, (IEP’s, 504’s, behavioral records, assessments, grades, abilities) and make recommendations for moving forward. You will receive a report that makes difficult information easy to understand.
We support you through processes such as written requests for testing or meetings, interactions with your school district, strengthening the relationship between you and your school so everyone can work together as a team, while making sure your child’s rights are protected.
Services We Offer
IEP’s and 504’s.
We level the playing field by supporting families and students from ages 3-22. We know the system and can attend meetings, problem solve, offer solutions, explain complicated policies and laws, and make recommendations to insure your child receives the services and supports needed to be successful. No more going it alone – we will be there every step of the way. We make sure your voice is heard and you have full participation in the process.
Services We Offer
Assessments and Tutoring.
We offered research-based reading assessments administered by a credentialed reading specialist as well as tutoring/remediation for students reading below grade level.
We also offer remedial math tutoring as well as upper level math help (algebra to Calculus). Upper level tutoring is remote and times vary.
Services We Offer
Restorative Practices and Conflict Resolution.
We work with families, students and the community to build strong connections, repair relationships when harm has occurred, focus on accountability, build empathy and strengthen understanding.
What We Do
Ways the We Help.
Expert solutions designed to help you student achieve their true potential.
IEP help.
IEP AdvocacyNavigate the IEP process with confidence. We ensure your voice is heard and your child’s needs are met.
504 help.
504 Plan DevelopmentSecure the accommodations your child deserves. We make the 504 process clear and effective.
Student is falling behind.
Closing the GapIs your child struggling to keep up? We create personalized plans to address learning gaps and build momentum.
Anxious
students.
Supporting Anxious LearnersHelp your child overcome anxiety and rediscover their love of learning with compassionate, evidence-based strategies.
Students in need of tutoring.
Reading & Academic TutoringBuild strong foundations with expert, one-on-one instruction tailored to your child’s learning style.
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions.
We know that navigating the world of special education can bring up many questions. You’re not alone in wondering where to start, what services your child might need, or how to work effectively with your school. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from families. If you have additional questions or would like to discuss your child’s specific situation, we’re here to help.
What is an educational advocate, and how can they help my child?
An educational advocate is a trained professional who works on behalf of families to ensure their child receives the appropriate educational services and support. At CARES, we help you navigate the complexities of IEPs, 504 Plans, and school meetings. We bridge the communication gap between families and schools, ensuring your voice is heard and your child’s needs are met. With nearly three decades of experience inside the education system, we understand how schools operate and can help you work collaboratively with your child’s team to create the best possible educational plan.
How do I know if my child needs an IEP or a 504 Plan?
An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is designed for students who qualify for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It provides specialized instruction and related services tailored to your child’s unique needs. A 504 Plan, on the other hand, provides accommodations and modifications for students with disabilities who don’t require specialized instruction but need support to access their education equally. The distinction can be confusing, and that’s where we come in. CARES can help you understand which option is right for your child, guide you through the evaluation process, and ensure the appropriate services and supports are in place.
What should I expect during my first meeting with CARES?
During your first meeting, we’ll take the time to listen to your concerns, learn about your child’s strengths and challenges, and review any existing documentation such as report cards, evaluations, or current IEPs or 504 Plans. Our goal is to understand your child’s complete educational picture and your family’s priorities. From there, we’ll discuss the best path forward—whether that’s preparing for an upcoming school meeting, requesting evaluations, or developing strategies to support your child’s learning. We believe in a collaborative approach, and our first meeting is all about building a partnership focused on your child’s success.
Your Partner in Your Child’s Educational Journey
CARES was founded by Jennifer Dewey, a Board Certified Educational Advocate (Fellow Level) with nearly three decades of experience as a teacher, reading specialist, and principal. With her unique “inside-out” understanding of the education system and specialized training through the National Special Education Advocacy Institute, Jennifer builds collaborative partnerships between families and schools to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Best Support!
I’m a social worker and referred a client to CARES. She’s received the best support and the family feels more confident in asking for necessary accommodations in the IEP process because of CARES. I will be referring more clients, because of this experience. Thank you for matching and exceeding my support of this client!!
★★★★★
Let’s Talk About Your Child’s Future
Reach out today for a free consultation. We’re ready to listen, understand, and help.