Hi, I’m Ashley Hinkle, educator, special education advocate (non-attorney), and mom to three littles age 5 and under. My favorite moment is seeing the “spark” in a child’s eye when they’ve finally got it! That is our driving motivation at Spark Education; to see children with diverse needs receive instruction that aligns with their special interests, gifts, and unique skills.
I have a Master’s degree in Reading Education from Towson University and a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Maryland, College Park. I’m a Marylander who loves crabs with old bay any day!
Advocating for neurodivergent learners to receive high quality education has been a passion of mine since I was teaching in the classroom. Now, I’m on the other side of the IEP table as a parent and advocate. Two of my children are neurodivergent which has changed how I view the world, how I practice as an educator, and how I approach being a mom. For me, special education advocacy is personal. Every child is entitled to a Free and Appropriate Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
When I represent clients, my first priority is to make sure the child is in an environment where they can thrive and that those educating them are using neurodivergent affirming educational practices. My goal is to equip, empower, and support parents to become fierce advocates for their child’s unique educational needs. Together, we will set up a plan to navigate the special education system. We will learn how your child’s neurodivergence affects them uniquely so we can put the appropriate supports in place and make choices to lay the foundation for future success.
