About

I'm Cheryl Pankhurst and I've spent 25 years inside the education system you're trying to navigate.

I'm a Special Education Specialist, OCT-certified educator, family advocate, and host of Parenting Teens: Advice Redefined for Today's Complex World.

I left the education system when I realised I could do more for families from the outside. Now I help parents understand what's being said, what it means for their teen, and how to walk into any meeting steady and prepared.

Not combative. Not confused. Prepared.

What you walk away with:

Clarity

Reports, IEPs, and assessments translated into plain language so you know exactly what your teen is entitled to.

Confidence

You walk into meetings knowing what to ask, what to push back on, and what good actually looks like.

A real plan

Not just information but also a practical strategy built around your teen's situation, your school, and what comes next.

My story

I grew up in Toronto, started my working life as a hairdresser where I first discovered that real connection and genuine listening change people, then found my true calling in education.

For 25 years I worked inside schools as a classroom teacher, Special Education Specialist, and department supervisor, responsible at one point for over 400 students and a large staff.

I'm also a mom of two grown adults, a lifelong yogi, and deeply committed to the belief that when we do our own inner work, it ripples out to everyone around us.

  • OCT-certified educator

  • Accredited coaching certification

  • 25+ years in special education

  • Queen's University graduate

  • Speaker for parent councils and school boards

My vision is to hold the space where you feel heard and seen, and to be the catalyst for change, one heart, one conversation at a time.

Ready to stop navigating this alone?

You don't need to have it all figured out before you reach out. Bring your questions, your reports, or simply describe what's been happening. That's enough to start.

LET'S WORK TOGETHER

GET YOUR FREE GUIDE

The Grade 8 → Grade 9 Transition Checklist

A free 10-step guide for parents of students with an IEP so you know exactly what to do before high school begins.

Need more personalized support?

If you'd like guidance specific to your teen's IEP, school situation, or transition plan, I work with families one-on-one.

Inspiration in your Inbox!