Petworth resident Martha Hoffman started Grounded Learning to help parents navigate the difficult DCPS processes around IEP, 504 and other special learning needs of neighbors. (photo: Grounded Learning)

by Ashley Cobb

In another take on the expertise you may not have realized exists in your next door neighbors, Petworth resident Martha Hoffman started a company to help parents and teachers navigate the difficult to understand world of special learning needs in DC’s public school.

How often has your child come home with questions about their math homework, and you give them a blank stare because it's not “the math” you've learned?

Navigating the class and homework process is complex in itself. Now imagine navigating the academics of students who may struggle to keep up with their peers, whether there is a diagnosis or not.

Here is where Martha’s expertise comes in. Martha is a learning expert with more than 20 years’ experience in education and a Master's degree in Special Education and Learning Disabilities from American University. While she has a broad range of experience, she has a surplus of knowledge in learning disabilities, dyslexia and ADHD. Martha said that beyond her degrees and experience, “My time spent with kids, families and teachers is what really makes me qualified.”

Martha founded Grounded Learning, a company that delivers consulting, coaching, and professional development to families, teachers, and schools in the area. The services for families include:

Navigating the referral and IEP process
Understanding a child's eligibility for an IEP or 504 Plan
Specialized tutoring for students with learning disabilities, dyslexia, and ADHD
Fostering collaborations among all key stakeholders involved in the child's life

Grounded Learning helps teachers, especially new ones, integrate themselves into the world of education by teaching techniques to reduce stress and feelings of overwhelm, and also gives strategies for effective co-teaching models used in inclusion classrooms.

For schools, Grounded Learning offers a wide range of professional development services for staff that can be one-time or multiple, and covers the special education spectrum.

If you are interested in the services provided by Martha, be sure to reach out.

Grounded Learning DC
GroundedLearningDC.com
martha@groundedlearningdc.com