Influential Woman · Education
Yamiley Jean-Simon, Ed.S.
Ed.S.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Liberté Educational Consulting
North Barrington, IL 60010
Her Story
About Yamiley
Yamiley Jean-Simon, Ed.S., is an educational consultant and special education expert with more than 20 years of experience in education. After initially pursuing a career in law and completing approximately three years of law school, an internship at a juvenile detention center shifted her professional direction toward education and advocacy. She went on to serve as a gifted education teacher, special education teacher, co-teacher, administrator, principal, and director, gaining experience across multiple areas of K–12 education and developing a deep understanding of the needs of students, families, and educators.
Today, Yamiley is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Liberté Educational Consulting, which she established in 2019. Through the firm, she provides special education advocacy and guidance to families navigating evaluations, eligibility, IEP services, 504 accommodations, and other aspects of the special education process. She also works with educators and school districts through professional development, coaching, and training designed to provide practical strategies for supporting diverse learners. In addition to her consulting work, Yamiley serves as a National Co-Teaching Trainer and presenter with the Bureau of Education & Research, extending her expertise to educators across North America. Liberté has also expanded its services to include multilingual support for French, Haitian Creole, and Spanish-speaking families.
Beyond her professional roles, Yamiley is committed to advocacy and community impact. She serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), supporting children and helping ensure their needs and best interests are represented. She is also preparing to launch Champions for Children in Education, a nonprofit initiative intended to partner with schools and communities to provide educational resources and advocacy support. Through her consulting, training, and community work, Yamiley remains focused on strengthening the connection between families, educators, and schools so that students with disabilities receive consistent, meaningful support and opportunities to succeed.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Yamiley
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to patience, perseverance, advocacy, and staying focused on the needs of children. I genuinely love the work I do, and I remain committed to advocating for students, even when navigating challenges or differing perspectives. Above all, I stay grounded in my purpose: helping children receive the support and opportunities they need to succeed.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received has come from my mentor, Sunny McNeil, whose encouragement, perspective, and support have guided me throughout my professional journey. Her mentorship has taught me the importance of having someone I trust to provide guidance and perspective through both challenges and opportunities for growth.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering education is to be patient and stay focused on what is best for children. When you are advocating for children and doing what is right for them, don’t let naysayers discourage you. Stay committed to your purpose and keep moving forward.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I see a major opportunity to strengthen connections among families, educators, schools, and advocates, particularly in special education. Families need help navigating educational systems, while teachers need practical training and resources to support diverse learning needs. Through advocacy, professional development, multilingual services, and the growth of Liberte Educational Consulting, I’m working to bridge these gaps and expand access to meaningful support for children and families.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are advocacy, patience, compassion, equity, education, service, and perseverance. I believe children should always remain at the center of educational decisions, and families should have accessible resources and support, regardless of language barriers. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking and spending time with my family, especially trying new recipes with my teenage children. I’m also passionate about finding meaningful ways to support children, families, and educators through education and community service.
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