Pearl River Business Spotlight: Helping Parents Help their Children

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. The plan behind this series at Patch is to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

This is as much about supporting local businesses as it is about celebrating the places and faces that make our community special. Click here to get to a simple form where local business owners can answer a few quick questions to be part of this ongoing feature.

Our spotlight today is on Ilene Weiss.

Business: Special Education Consultant, Advocate & Tutor
Owners: Ilene Weiss
Website: www.prizeteacher.com
Address: Although I am located in Rockland County, I work with clients in Westchester and Bergen Counties.

How did you come up with the name?

It accurately describes the services I provide for parents and their children.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?

I grew up and live in Rockland County. I know the school districts and would like to help parents successfully navigate these systems.

Briefly, what business are you in?

Special Needs Education

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

Discussing a child’s disability and special needs is not easy for many parents. Remaining patient and positive is the key to helping parents advocate for their child.

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?

Starting my consulting business was a natural progression from everything I accomplished during my career in Special Education.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

My favorite moment was parents hugging and thanking me for my help when their child graduated from elementary school with their non-disabled peers.

What’s the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?

Innovation and adaptation is part of being a Special Education teacher. I find ways for students to learn and access the general education curriculum. This year I developed 4th grade instructional units for a student who was a non-reader. He was successful in Math, Science, and Social Studies using hands-on activities and technology.

How do you deal with difficult customers?

I use active listening techniques to diffuse difficult situations and develop compromises.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

Parents often call looking for information. I freely share my knowledge and suggestions, even when I know they may not need my services. Parents need knowledge so they can advocate for their children effectively.