About Me

Hi! I am Jennifer Horton, the founder of Unlocking Exceptional. I was born and raised in Ohio (GO BUCKEYES!) and have been living in Arizona since 2005. I, along with my husband Larry and daughter Emery, love traveling and making memories together with family and friends. I joke that my love language is coffee...but seriously it might just be!

I am a certified teacher in the areas of Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, and Special Education Cross Categorical K-12. I was a special education teacher for 14 years and that is where I found my passion! I knew from the first week I stepped foot into my classroom, I had found where I wanted to be and who I wanted to be with...exceptional learners.

And that passion is what led me to create Unlocking Exceptional!

Jennifer Horton

FOUNDER OF UNLOCKING EXCEPTIONAL

About Unlocking Exceptional:

Unlocking Exceptional was created based on my years of experience as a special education teacher and working alongside students and their families. Throughout the years, I discovered a significant disconnect; the gap between my knowledge of their child's Individual Education Plan (IEP) and the family's knowledge was far greater than it should be. I mean after all, we were supposed to be collaborative partners and that is not possible without everyone having the information they need to make informed decisions.

Families continued to seek my help and guidance even after I was no longer their child's teacher and even after I left the classroom. Through the numerous conversations with these families, I found myself excited. Excited to be able to have the in-depth conversations that I couldn't while I was teaching. Excited to share my "behind the scenes" knowledge of how they can help their children. Excited at the opportunity to be able to build truly collaborative IEP teams that focus on problem solving.

I realized there was a better way to support and empower them on their journey. I felt called to help them become lifelong advocates for their children.

Services/Resources Offered:

IEP Blackbook

This FREE downloadable resource provides new strategies, tools, and information that you can use immediately to review your child's current IEP and help you prepare for the next meeting. This is the first step in you becoming a truly equal and collaborative partner in your child's IEP. Get the IEP Blackbook today by clicking HERE.

IEP Insights Parent Training

Register today and begin your journey to becoming a better advocate for your child! This FREE virtual parent training session will allow you to discover insider tips for navigating the IEP process. You'll learn how to confidently advocate for your child's needs and gain actionable takeaways that you can implement immediately! Sign up HERE and start making a difference in your child's education!

Facebook Community

Join my private Facebook group, BECOMING ALL YOUR CHILD NEEDS for Parents of Exceptional Learners and follow Unlocking Exceptional on Facebook so you never miss an update! Come join a community of parents who understand your journey and are also working towards becoming their child's best advocate.

Exceptional Insider Membership

Become an Exceptional Insider and enjoy access to a growing library of resources, videos, recordings, printables and virtual trainings! You will also gain access to bi-weekly virtual meetings with Jenn, including guest speakers, Q&A sessions, and opportunities for face-to-face interaction. Best part...you can try it all for FREE! Click HERE to get a 14-day FREE trial!

Discovery Call

Schedule a free, 30-minute discovery call with me to discuss specific questions you may have about your child, your family's journey, or the services Unlocking Exceptional can offer. Just click HERE to schedule your call. After our call, I will follow up with an email that recaps our discussion and proposes an action plan for your family moving forward.

One-on-One Coaching

While Unlocking Exceptional's mission is to empower and educate parents to become their child's greatest advocate, that doesn't mean you have to do it alone! Jenn provides personalized, one-on-one support to families navigating the complexities of their child's education. This is done in a variety of ways including, helping to plan and prepare for upcoming meetings, problem solving and collaborating with your child's school team, and attending IEP and 504 meetings to name a few. Click HERE to learn more. *availability for this service is limited.

Testimonials

Testimonials Section

Working with Jenn was an absolute game-changer for our family. She not only helped me navigate the IEP process... but also provided emotional support during the most challenging times. Her expertise in special education law and advocacy helped us secure the services our child desperately needed. Jenn's approach is both professional and deeply caring, making her an invaluable ally for any family navigating the special education system. READ MORE

Jennifer G. CA

I am incredibly grateful to have had Jenn as part of our IEP team during our kindergarten transition. Given that the district... was initially resistant to providing adequate services, Jenn's advocacy made all the difference. She helped us understand our rights, prepared us for meetings, and ensured our child received the appropriate accommodations. Her knowledge of the system and dedication to families is truly remarkable. READ MORE

Krystle B. AZ

Jenn Horton has been a true blessing in our daughter Kenzie's life. From day one, she saw the potential in Kenzie that... others had overlooked. Through her expert guidance and unwavering support, Kenzie has made incredible progress academically and socially. Jenn's ability to connect with children and understand their unique needs is extraordinary. She has given our family hope and a clear path forward. READ MORE

Diana C., CA

What Jenn Horton did for our daughter Kenzie goes far beyond paperwork or school meetings—she helped change... our entire perspective on what was possible for our child. Her strategic approach to advocacy and her deep understanding of educational law resulted in significant improvements in Kenzie's IEP. Most importantly, she helped us become better advocates for our daughter's future. READ MORE

Lee C., CA

Jenn Horton has been, without question, the best teacher any of my kids have ever had. What sets her apart isn't just... her incredible knowledge and experience, but her genuine care for each child's individual needs. She has the rare ability to see beyond disabilities and focus on possibilities. Her impact extends far beyond the classroom, influencing our entire family's approach to supporting our child's education and development. READ MORE

Josh M., TX

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