Empowering Students Of All Ages

Services provided include executive function coaching, educational advocacy, and college counseling
 
 

Introducing the HES Team!

Patrick Sullivan, Founder/Owner


Patrick works with students in grades K–12 to develop essential executive functioning skills, including organization, time management, task initiation, planning, and study strategies. He also serves as a trusted resource for families seeking guidance with 504 Plans, whether they are navigating existing accommodations or exploring eligibility for new supports. Drawing on his extensive background in school counseling, Patrick also provides comprehensive college counseling services, helping high school students and their families navigate every stage of the college search and application process.

Dr. Melanie Miller, Special Education Consultant


Dr. Miller specializes in special education and serves as a trusted advocate for families navigating the special education process. She provides guidance to caregivers whose children have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or who are seeking to determine whether their child qualifies for services based on a disability. Drawing on her extensive experience in special education, Dr. Miller also helps families interpret and understand complex educational documents, including neuropsychological evaluations, educational assessments, and IEPs.

Ms. Katherine Schoppel. Writing Specialist


Ms. Schoppel specializes in the writing process and has helped countless students strengthen their writing skills through thoughtful instruction and individualized feedback. She is an invaluable resource for high school seniors as they craft compelling college application essays, an increasingly important component of the college admissions process.

Drawing on her expertise as an educator, Ms. Schoppel helps students develop authentic, well-written essays that effectively communicate their unique experiences, strengths, and aspirations.

 

Some Related Notes

Executive Function Coaching


As we approach the start of a new school year (gasp!), now is a great time to reflect on your child's academic experience from last year. Were there any challenges with organization, time management, task initiation, or completing assignments? Identifying these areas now can help ensure a stronger start this fall. Take a few minutes to read my latest blog on the benefits of executive function coaching, one of the core services offered at HES. Developing these essential skills can help students become more organized, confident, and independent learners—and may be exactly the support your child needs for a successful school year.

Educational Advocacy


When may you need an educational advocate:

  • Your child is being evaluated for special education for the first time.
  • You aren't sure whether your child qualifies for an IEP or a 504 Plan.
  • You have concerns that your child's current supports aren't working.
  • You feel overwhelmed during IEP or 504 meetings.
  • You're struggling to understand testing results or educational reports.
  • Communication with the school has become difficult.
  • You're preparing for a major transition, such as changing schools or moving from high school to college.
 

College Counseling


Regardless of the grade your child is entering this fall, there are always opportunities to begin preparing for the college search process. The goal is to make the experience as organized and stress-free as possible—and the best way to accomplish that is through early preparation. While there are many components that contribute to a strong college application, two factors that colleges consistently value are a student’s GPA and the rigor of their coursework. With that in mind, it is important to approach course selection thoughtfully for the upcoming school year. Encourage your child to choose a schedule that is challenging but manageable. Honors and AP courses can be valuable, but students should pursue advanced coursework in areas where they have genuine interest and are willing to put in the necessary effort. A balanced, authentic academic experience will always be more meaningful than simply taking the most challenging courses available.
 
 

August Reminders


-Make sure you are able to access the school's Student Information System (ASPEN, SkyWard, PowerSchool, etc.) to access class schedules, teacher assignments, bus assignments, etc.

-Take a look at the school district's 26-27 school calendar for the first day of school. Some districts stagger the first day of school based on grade level, particularly at the high school.

-The next administration of the SATs is August 22nd, with the deadline to register August 7th. Registration must be done on the College Board website.

-Now that we have hit August 1st, the 2026-2027 version of the Common Application is now open!!!

-Most importantly, enjoy the final few weeks of summer vacation!
 
 
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Hilltop Educational Services | 27 Anchorage Way | Barrington, RI 02806 US

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