Building Inclusive Schools.
we are proud to partner with schools in creating safe, supportive spaces where every student—and every educator—can thrive.
Through thoughtful collaboration and skilled consultation, we help turn challenges into opportunities for growth and learning.
Supporting Students.
Empowering Educators.
School Consultation
At Family First, we recognize that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed in a supportive, well-equipped educational environment. Our School Consultation Services are designed to partner with school teams in fostering positive behavior, increasing student engagement, and promoting inclusive practices. Through individualized assessments, staff training, and ongoing coaching, we empower educators to respond effectively to behavioral challenges and support student success.
Our Approach
Rooted in Applied Behavior Analysis and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), our school consultation model is collaborative, strengths-based, and outcome-focused. We work directly with administrators, teachers, paraprofessionals, and related service providers to design and implement practical strategies that align with each student’s needs and the school’s capacity.
Our consultants prioritize relationship-building and sustainable practices—offering training and coaching that increase staff confidence, improve student behavior, and create consistent, trauma-informed learning environments. Whether conducting an FBA, consulting on an IEP, or leading a school-wide training, we bring a responsive and solution-oriented approach to every partnership.
Who We Serve
K–12 students with social, emotional, or behavioral challenges
General and special education staff needing behavior support tools
School districts seeking to strengthen PBIS or MTSS frameworks
Public and Charter Schools
Schools supporting students with developmental disabilities, ADHD, autism, trauma history, or other high needs
IEP teams requiring Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) or Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs)
What We Offer
Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) grounded in observation and data
Development and revision of individualized Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs)
In-class modeling and real-time coaching for educators and support staff
Targeted training in behavior de-escalation, proactive supports, and reinforcement strategies
Workshops and professional development for staff, paraprofessionals, and administrators
IEP meeting participation and consultation on goals, services, and accommodations
Support integrating PBIS practices at the classroom and school-wide level
Tools and resources for progress monitoring and team collaboration
Culturally responsive, trauma-informed practices woven throughout all services
Curriculum & Teaching Strategies
We support school teams using proven, evidence-based frameworks, including:
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Trauma-informed practices and restorative strategies
Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and PBIS
Behavior Skills Training (BST) for staff development
Structured data collection tools and analysis
Coaching aligned with CASEL’s social-emotional learning competencies
Practical classroom management strategies tailored to each setting
Anticipated Outcomes
Clear, functional understanding of student behavior
Effective, individualized Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs)
Increased staff confidence and consistency in responding to behavior
Reduction in disruptive, unsafe, or off-task behaviors
Improved student engagement, regulation, and learning outcomes
Strengthened collaboration among school teams and families
More inclusive, equitable school environments that support all learners
Meraki Learning Center
Joyful Learning Starts Here
At Meraki Learning Center, we offer an inclusive, play-based preschool program where every child is celebrated for who they are. Our expert team combines evidence-based practices with a warm, nurturing environment to support each child’s social, emotional, and developmental growth. With small class sizes, compassionate educators, and engaging daily routines, we meet children where they are and help them thrive. At Meraki, we believe learning should be joyful—and every day is filled with discovery, connection, and growth!
At Meraki Learning Center, we offer an inclusive, play-based preschool program where every child is celebrated for who they are. Our expert team combines evidence-based practices with a warm, nurturing environment to support each child’s social, emotional, and developmental growth. With small class sizes, compassionate educators, and engaging daily routines, we meet children where they are and help them thrive. At Meraki, we believe learning should be joyful—and every day is filled with discovery, connection, and growth!
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Meet the Director of School Programming
Danielle Bustamante
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Specializing in autism and ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)
A Petaluma native, Danielle relocated to San Diego to earn her bachelor's degree at San Diego State University. Intending to become a teacher, she found her calling in special education while pursuing her master's degree. Danielle has gained experience in diverse settings, including in-home therapy with clients and their families, support for charter school staff, and management of a nonpublic program for students with moderate to severe disabilities.
A Petaluma native, Danielle relocated to San Diego to earn her bachelor's degree at San Diego State University. Intending to become a teacher, she found her calling in special education. While pursuing her master's degree, she developed a strong interest in applied behavior analysis, specializing in autism and ABA. As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Danielle has gained over 10 years experience in diverse settings, including in-home therapy with clients and their families, support for charter school staff, and management of a nonpublic program for students with moderate to severe disabilities.
In 2023, Danielle moved to Chico with her family and joined Family First. Working within the infant and developmental program, providing ABA services, and supporting various local schools, she recognized a significant need for enhanced early intervention support, particularly for preschool-aged children. In collaboration with Family First, Danielle has been instrumental in developing a program at Meraki Learning Center to provide necessary support for children who may find mainstream classrooms or larger settings challenging. Danielle is excited about partnering with families and the community to positively influence the lives of children. Outside of work, she enjoys walking her dog, spending time at the park with her daughter, and exploring Butte County.
In 2023, Danielle moved to Chico with her family and joined Family First. Working within the infant and developmental program, providing ABA services, and supporting various local schools, she recognized a significant need for enhanced early intervention support, particularly for preschool-aged children. In collaboration with Family First, Danielle has been instrumental in developing a program at Meraki Learning Center to provide necessary support for children who may find mainstream classrooms or larger settings challenging. Danielle is excited about partnering with families and the community to positively influence the lives of children. Outside of work, she enjoys walking her dog, spending time at the park with her daughter, and exploring Butte County.
