ABOUT US
We're elevating education by delivering custom solutions that work.
CLP Consulting is a nonprofit organization founded on the belief that every student deserves access to a high-quality education. With decades of combined experience in K–12 education consulting, we specialize in providing tailored solutions that support districts in meeting the needs of all learners. Our work is grounded in a collaborative, student-centered approach that prioritizes the voices of students, families, and educators. We are proud to partner with districts across North America—particularly those serving rural and underserved communities—to help them navigate challenges, strengthen programs, and achieve long-term success.
Leadership Profiles.
Dr. Susan King
CLP Co-Founder
Special Education Professor
Dr. Susan King is a distinguished special educator, researcher, and professor based in the Washington, D.C. area. With extensive experience as a special educator in one of the largest school districts in the region, Dr. King has dedicated her career to supporting students with special needs. She has held faculty positions at Juniata College and The George Washington University, where she has become known for her expertise in assessment, teacher training, behavior management, and family engagement.
Dr. King recently completed post-doctoral studies at Harvard University, focusing on “Making Change,” which has further enhanced her ability to drive impactful transformations in educational settings. In addition to her academic roles, she has consulted with public and private schools, provided expert testimony in legal cases, and conducted independent educational evaluations.
Her leadership includes serving as Chair of The National Advisory Committee for the HEATH Resource Center, a national clearinghouse on post-secondary education for individuals with disabilities. She is also a member of the FirstServes National Advisory Board and the Committee of Disability Awareness. Additionally, Dr. King is an active member of the Harvard Business Review Advisory Council, an opt-in research community of business professionals. The primary focus of this group is participation in market research.
Dr. Jim Brown
Professor Jim Brown is a renowned educator and researcher who retired in January 2015 after a distinguished career in the Department of Organizational Leadership, Policy, and Development at the University of Minnesota. Throughout his career, Professor Brown made significant contributions to vocational education, directing the Minnesota Research and Development Center for Vocational Education and leading numerous statewide evaluation projects, including the Tech Prep system.
Since 1978, Professor Brown has educated future teachers and leaders, offering courses in instructional methods, student retention strategies, program development, diversity issues, and quantitative research methods. He has been instrumental in securing and directing over $1 million in research and development grants, and his work has been published in over 75 journal articles.
In addition to his expertise in education, Professor Brown has a professional interest in business training strategies, which aligns with his personal passion for flight training. His contributions to both education and special needs have left a lasting impact on the field.
CLP Consultant
Professor Emeritus, University of Minnesota
CLP Consultant
Assistant Professor Education & Leadership, Shenandoah University
Dr. Melissa Hartman
Dr. Melissa A. Hartman is an assistant professor of Education & Leadership at Shenandoah University. She has been a special education teacher, administrator, and served as an Assistant Director of Special Education for a large school district in Virginia. Her expertise is working with students with learning disabilities, emotional disturbance/behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, and Autism. As a national consultant and faculty member at CAST, she specializes in Universal Design for Learning, providing professional development and training to educators nationwide. Dr. Hartman completed her doctoral research on Asperger syndrome at The George Washington University, making significant contributions to the field of special education. She has been an adjunct professor at several universities, teaching courses on curriculum design, consultation, and methods for special education.
Her research has been published in Teaching Exceptional Children, and her work is widely recognized for its focus on transitioning students with disabilities, integrating technology in education, and improving outcomes for students with special needs. Dr. Hartman’s leadership extends beyond her current role, as she continues to contribute to the professional growth of educators through her expertise in professional development and school leadership. Passionate about using new technology to enhance educational experiences, Dr. Hartman strives to ensure that all students, regardless of their needs, receive an inclusive and supportive education. Recently, her book, Foundations of Special Education: Transcending Barriers was released by Kendall Hunt Publishing.
Mission Statement
“Our mission is to support K–12 school districts through expert, student-centered consulting that strengthens special education programs, empowers educators, and expands opportunities for every learner—especially in rural and underserved communities.”
Vision Statement
“Our vision is a future where every school district, regardless of size, location, or resources, can offer exceptional special education services that unlock the full potential of every learner.”
In addition to our leadership team, CLP Consulting is supported by a skilled network of consultants and a volunteer advisory board. Our consultants bring deep expertise across special education, financial planning, compliance, and program development, allowing us to provide hands-on, customized support to districts of all sizes. Complementing their work, our advisory board is made up of seasoned professionals who offer strategic guidance and mission-driven insight, helping ensure our nonprofit remains strong, accountable, and focused on meaningful impact. Together, these teams enable us to serve districts across North America with effective, lasting solutions tailored to their unique challenges and needs.
A Dedicated Team.
CLP Advisory Board
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Regis Canny, CPA, CMA, PMP
BOARD MEMBER
Regis Canny brings extensive experience in financial leadership, accounting operations, and organizational performance. A retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and certified CPA, CMA, and PMP, he has advised both public and private organizations on strategic financial management. Regis supports CLP Consulting by offering trusted financial insight and mission-driven guidance.
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Ford T. Clark
BOARD MEMBER
Ford Clark is an entrepreneur and strategic consultant who works with mission-driven organizations across the country. As founder of Clarkwork Consulting, he specializes in organizational strategy, marketing, and operational development. Ford brings strong insight into nonprofit growth, community engagement, and district partnerships, supporting CLP Consulting’s ongoing mission and impact.
