Today we’d like to introduce you to Evelyn Roman-Santos.
Hi Evelyn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born in Caguas, Puerto Rico. In 1977, my family settled in the United States. I married Samuel Santos 38 years ago, and I am the proud mother of two daughters, Lizette and Carina Santos. I completed a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Illinois State University and a master’s degree from the University of Chicago. I hold active certificates as a School Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida.
I consider myself a passionate advocate for special education and have dedicated my life to supporting parents and children with special needs. I am the mother of a child with Autism and another with ADHD/LD. I can understand and connect with families facing similar challenges. For the past 30 years, I have worked empowering parents and children, ensuring they receive the support and services they are entitled to within the school system in Chicago. As the Latino population, especially children, continues to grow in the United States, there is an increasing need for advocates who can bridge the gap between families and educational institutions. I have been a tireless advocate within the IEP process and have provided valuable workshops to school staff and parents, enlightening them about the diverse disabilities children face and how best to support them. I understand the specific needs and priorities of Latino families with children who have special needs, and I am committed to addressing these concerns effectively. As a School Social Worker and Certified Special Education Advocate, I am dedicated to facilitating positive and cooperative relationships between parents, schools, and the broader community for the betterment of children.
I retired and relocated to Florida with my family in 2021. After settling in Florida, I had the opportunity to meet Pam Lindenman, known as
THE IEP ADVOCATE. Pam founded her organization over 15 years ago and is highly respected in Florida. She graciously offered to mentor me in advocating within the school systems of Florida. Pam encouraged me to consider establishing an agency to support the Latino community. I am incredibly thankful for the guidance and support provided by Pam Lindenman.
Along with owning IEP Advocate Español, I am the owner of Evelyn’s Adult Social Day Care and PRCLES PURE Entertainment.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting a new business is never an easy task, and the challenge becomes even greater when doing so in a new community. Not only must one handle the logistics of establishing the business itself, but there is also the added task of becoming familiar with the local landscape. I have had to research available resources, build connections, and identify the most effective ways to promote my businesses within the community. This process has required persistence, adaptability, and creativity, as I continue to explore strategies that will both raise awareness and highlight the unique value my services bring.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about IEP Advocate Espanol, Evelyn’s Adult Social Day Care, PRCLES PURE Entertainment?
IIEP Advocate Espanol: Many parents feel intimidated and overwhelmed during IEP meetings, often due to the heavy use of technical terms, abbreviations, and unfamiliar phrases. For parents who do not speak English, the challenge is even greater because of the language barrier.
As a mother of two children with disabilities, I understand the uncertainty and frustration parents may experience in these situations. As a bilingual IEP Advocate, my mission is to guide families through the process, helping them prepare for meetings and ensuring they fully understand what is being discussed. I advocate for the best interests of each child, working to secure the services and supports they are legally entitled to receive.
I am deeply committed to protecting and promoting the rights of students with disabilities. To support families, I offer a comprehensive range of services, including:
Parent consultations on Early Intervention and Transition planning
Letter writing and formal communication with schools
IEP review and development
Behavior Plan and Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) analysis
Assistance with writing state complaints
Online IEP meeting advocacy
Support in Manifestation Determination meetings
Online parent support groups and training sessions
The presence of a skilled advocate can transform the dynamics of an IEP meeting, empowering parents and ensuring that every student’s needs are appropriately addressed.
Evelyn’s Adult Social Day Care is a small, home-based program designed for a maximum of five participants. This intimate setting fosters close connections, shared home-cooked meals, and engaging, meaningful activities that promote both physical and cognitive growth. Participants receive the individual attention and dignity they deserve, in a space that feels like family—a “home away from home.” Yet they would return each evening to sleep in their own homes or with loved ones, preserving that vital family connection. It’s the best of both worlds: social engagement and personal care during the day, and family life in the evenings. Meanwhile, caregivers—sons, daughters, and spouses—can continue their careers, knowing their loved ones are in a safe, enriching environment.
PRCLES PURE Entertainment brings lively and interactive programs to senior facilities, creating exciting and memorable experiences that strengthen social, cognitive, and physical skills.
Our wide variety of activities includes:
Karaoke
“Fastest to Win It” challenges
Board and Wii games
Salsa & Merengue dancing
Arts & crafts
Game shows such as Family Feud and Name That Tune
Support groups and Bible study
Choir and music-making
Crochet and quilt making
Virtual travel experiences
Video creation workshops
Spanish classes
Book clubs
Each activity is designed to spark joy, encourage participation, and bring people together. Participants are invited to compete, collaborate, and—most importantly—share laughter and meaningful moments.
At PRCLES PURE Entertainment, we tailor every program to the unique needs of each organization. Services are available in both English and Spanish, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility. With years of experience and a strong commitment to excellence, we create an atmosphere that feels less like a scheduled program and more like a joyful family celebration.
Participants can count on us to provide professional, high-quality entertainment while treating every event with the care, respect, and enthusiasm we would bring to our own family gathering. Our reputation and work ethic are built on dedication, passion, and a commitment to your complete satisfaction.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t believe in luck; I believe in blessings. I have a keen ability to assess an environment, identify gaps, and find opportunities to make a meaningful impact. God has truly blessed me in the journey of establishing and growing my businesses, guiding me through challenges and successes alike.
I am grateful for the unwavering support of my husband, who manages our technology and financial operations, allowing me to focus on developing programs and serving our community. Along the way, I have also been fortunate to connect with individuals who share my vision—partners, mentors, and collaborators who encourage, inspire, and challenge me to reach higher. Their support, combined with faith and determination, has been instrumental in shaping the work I do today.
Pricing:
- IEP Advocate Espanol $120.00 per hour (50% discount for families who meet the federal poverty guideline, for example, the 2025 guidelines for a household of four are $32,150)
- Evelyn’s Adult Social Day Care $120.00 per day from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
- PRCLES Pure Entertainment $150.00/hour
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.iepadvocateespanol.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iepadvocateespanol/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571482133285
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evelyn-roman-santos-b44531335/
- Twitter: iepadvocateespanol@IEPEspanol.
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@IEPAdvocateEspanol
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/iep-advocate-espanol-leesburg
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/6FxfTMr6iUAreLCKtoGNHy
Image Credits
Seniors playing games are from Vista Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care in Leesburg, Fl
