About

About Me

Hi, I'm Matt Schoch.

I'm a special education teacher, IEP facilitator, and advocate who has spent my career working alongside students with extensive support needs and the families who support them. My goal is simple: to make sure every student has an IEP that actually works for them, not just on paper, but in real life.

Over the past decade, I've worked in nearly every setting within special education: non-public schools, public school classrooms, charter programs, and now at the systems level helping guide IEP teams across districts. I currently serve as an IEP Chair and Facilitator with the Santa Barbara County Education Office, where I support teams in developing legally compliant, meaningful, and student-centered IEPs.

Before that, I worked as an Education Specialist and Supervising Teacher, managing full caseloads of students with moderate to severe disabilities. I've designed individualized curriculum, coordinated related services, and worked closely with families to ensure that supports are not only appropriate, but actually effective.

What I Believe

Too often, families are handed documents full of technical language that do not translate into meaningful support. I work to bridge that gap by helping you understand what is being proposed, what your rights are, and what your child truly needs to succeed.

An IEP should be clear, practical, and actionable
Parents should feel confident and informed, not overwhelmed
Teams should focus on real progress, not just compliance
Every student deserves an education built around their actual needs

My Approach

I bring both sides of the system together.

Written and managed IEPs myself
Led IEP meetings as the chair
Collaborated with psychologists, SLPs, OTs, APE specialists, and administrators
Worked directly with students with autism, speech impairments, physical disabilities, and complex behavioral needs

Education & Training

I stay current on best practices, educational technology, and evolving special education law so I can provide guidance that is both relevant and effective.

Master of Arts in Teaching, Moderate/Severe Credential
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Certificate in Teaching with Artificial Intelligence (University of Pennsylvania)

Why I Do This Work

I've spent years sitting at IEP tables, sometimes on the school side and sometimes supporting families informally, and I've seen how confusing and overwhelming the process can be.

Families deserve someone who understands the system, communicates clearly, and focuses on what actually helps the student.

That's why I do this work.

Let's Work Together

Whether you need help preparing for an IEP meeting, reviewing a draft, or understanding your options, I'm here to support you. You do not have to navigate this process alone.

Next Step

Ready to talk through your questions?

Reach out by phone or email to schedule a free 30-minute consultation and take the next step with clearer information, stronger parent advocacy, and a steadier plan.

Start with a free 30-minute consultation to talk through your concerns, learn about available services, and decide what kind of support may fit your family best.

Schedule a Consultation Email Directly