Special Education Advocacy, Educational Assessment and IEP Parent Coaching
When the World Sees in Black and White, We See the Color in Every Child.
Every Child Deserves to Be Heard
“When we understand how a child’s mind works, we can stop punishing what is hard and start celebrating what is strong.”
— Rhonda Austin, M.Ed.
Rhonda Austin - Special Education Advocate | Assesment Specialist | IEP Coach
After working 27+ years in education as a general education and special education teacher, assistant principal, and diagnostician. I’ve sat in every seat at the IEP table, and now, I sit in the one that matters the most, next to you.
Working with parents who feel confused and overwhelmed by their child’s struggles in school.
Let’s Talk!
Let’s Start with a Free
20-Minute Consultation.
To ask questions, explore services, or just get unstuck. After, you’ll receive customized support tailored to your family's needs.
rhonda@raustinbucketsandbarrels.com
How Can I Help?
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• Cognitive G explanations and data breakdown
• Full IEP or 504 Plan walkthrough
• Reviewing assessments for accuracy and clarity
• Translating testing into plain language
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• Goal-setting and service strategy
• Special education and Section 504 advocacy
• Coaching before, during, and after meetings
• Support with PLAAFPs, accommodations, and Prior Written Notice (PWN)
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A Framework inspired by the CHC Theory of Intelligence
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Gc – Comprehension Knowledge: The Knowledge Barrel
Gf – Fluid Reasoning: The Problem-Solving Barrel
Gq – Quantitative Knowledge: The Number Barrel
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Gsm – Short-Term Memory: The Working Bucket
Glr – Long-Term Retrieval: The Memory Retrieval Bucket
Gv – Visual Processing: The Mental Imagery Bucket
Gs – Processing Speed: The Quick-Thinking Bucket
Ga – Auditory Processing: The Sound Understanding Bucket
Additional Areas We Track:
Grw – Reading & Writing: The Literacy Bundle
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• Cognitive testing (measuring the Gs)
• Academic achievement: Reading, Written Expression, Mathematics, Oral Expression, Listening Comprehension, and Phonological Awareness
• ADHD, Anxiety, and Executive Functioning
• Rating Scales and Behavior Checklists
• Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Learning Disabilities
• Full written report with strengths, needs, and next steps
• Designed to support IEP, 504, or home-school planning
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“Rhonda is a passionate advocate who always goes the extra mile for kids. Her knowledge, organization, and deep commitment make her an incredible asset in the special education world.”
Lacey Beachum, Special Education Teacher, Marcus 9th Grade Center, Lewisville, ISD
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“We are so grateful for Rhonda’s guidance through the IEP process. She helped secure the right supports for our daughter with dyslexia and math challenges—boosting her confidence, keeping her on track, and helping her earn her diploma. She’s now in college. We couldn’t have done it without Rhonda!”
Kerri Langford, Lantana, Texas
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“Rhonda is intuitive, compassionate, and fiercely committed to doing what’s right for children. Her expertise in special education law, assessment, and accommodations—combined with strong communication skills—has led to successful outcomes in every IEP meeting I’ve attended with her.”
Jennifer Miller, Lead Special Education Teacher, Marcus 9th Grade Center, Lewisville, ISD
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“Rhonda’s assessment uncovered several undiagnosed learning challenges for our daughter just before senior year. She not only identified the issues, but helped us secure a 504 plan and accommodations that boosted our daughter’s confidence and grades. Rhonda went above and beyond—we always knew she had our backs. I highly recommend her.”
Brian and Debra, Coppell, Texas
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“Rhonda helped me get answers I couldn’t get from my child’s school. She worked around my schedule, explained everything clearly, and made the testing process easy—even fun—for my child. I highly recommend her if you need help understanding your child’s learning needs.”
Christina Johnson, Celina, Texas
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“Rhonda brings professionalism, warmth, and one of the strongest work ethics I’ve seen. Families and teams can expect expert support and a compassionate advocate who truly makes a difference.”
Rosemary Frederickson, Ph.D. School Psychologist Retired Lewisville ISD
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“Rhonda has a sharp understanding of both students and systems. She brings compassion to the table, but also holds everyone accountable. When she speaks, people listen — because what she says is always grounded in experience and student-centered clarity.”
B.C.- School District Team Member
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“I met Rhonda when she came to Douglas Elementary as our educational diagnostician. From day one, she stood out — sharp, compassionate, and unwavering in doing what was right for kids. Later, I had the honor of working alongside her again when she became our assistant principal. I watched her support students, families, and staff with a rare mix of heart and backbone. Rhonda doesn’t just know the system, she knows people — and she fights for them. Even after I retired, our friendship has remained one of the greatest gifts of my life.”
Catherine Mitchell, Retired Educator—Lifelong Friend, Tyler ISD
