About Us

At Student First Consulting, we believe every child deserves a voice — and an advocate. Navigating the special education system can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.

Meet Our Founder — Norah Schumann

About Us

Woman in a beige coat sitting at a wooden table with autumn leaves, outdoors.

Norah Schumann brings over 25 years of expertise in Special Education and Educational Leadership.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Special Education from Illinois State University and two Master’s degrees from Indiana University — one in Severe Disabilities and another in Organizational Leadership.
Throughout her career, Norah has worn many hats: classroom teacher, assistive technology consultant, special education administrator, and most recently, Assistant Director of Special Education Advocacy at a prominent law firm.

Since moving from Chicago to North Port, FL, in 2015, Norah has seen firsthand how complex and challenging the special education process can be for families. Her mission is simple yet profound: to ensure families are informed, empowered, and supported at every stage of their journey.

Our Mission and Vision

Mission:
To empower families by simplifying the special education process, ensuring that every child receives the education they deserve through informed parental involvement and strong advocacy.

Vision:
A future where every family confidently participates in the special education process, where collaboration with schools is transparent and equitable, and where children’s diverse needs are recognized and supported with dignity and excellence.

Why Choose Student First Consulting?

  • Over 25 years of experience in Special Education and Advocacy

  • Deep understanding of school systems, legal protections, and parent rights under IDEA

  • Compassionate, family-centered approach to every case

  • Customized advocacy plans tailored to your child’s unique needs

  • Honest, transparent services — no upselling, just solutions that make a difference

Three women having a meeting or interview, with one woman facing the camera while the other two are blurred in the foreground.

What We Believe

  • Student-Centered: Every decision and action should put the child’s needs first.

  • Parent-Empowered: Parents are crucial partners in the education process and deserve respect and a strong voice.

  • Collaboration Over Conflict: We seek to build bridges with schools while firmly advocating for the child’s best interests.

  • Equity and Inclusion: Every child, regardless of background or ability, deserves access to a free, appropriate public education.

Group of five smiling people sitting outdoors

Hear from Families We've Empowered


  • "Norah was a game-changer for our family. She guided us through the IEP process with compassion, expertise, and a fierce dedication to our child's success. We finally feel heard and supported."
    — The Martinez Family

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

  • "Thanks to Student First Consulting, we secured the services our daughter desperately needed. Norah’s knowledge and advocacy skills are unmatched. We are forever grateful!"
    — Jessica W., Parent

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

  • "Navigating special education can be overwhelming, but Norah made it manageable. Her clear communication and dedication ensured our son's needs were met. Highly recommend!"
    — David and Lisa T.

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


  • "Professional, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable. Norah helped us advocate for a better educational plan and truly cared about our child's future."
    — The Singh Family

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

  • "From our first meeting, Norah made us feel empowered and informed. Her thorough understanding of special education law gave us the confidence to advocate for our son's needs — and we got results!"
    — Emily R., Parent of a Middle School Student

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

  • "Student First Consulting truly lives up to its name. Norah put our child's needs first every step of the way. She was our voice when we didn't know how to speak up, and we are so thankful for her support."
    — Mark and Alison B.

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Let's work together

Over 1,000+ clients worldwide trust our services

Ready to Get Started?

If you feel overwhelmed, unsure, or just want to ensure your child’s educational needs are fully met, we're here to help.