Special Education Mediation
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What is Special Education Mediation?
This program provides mediation for disputes between parents of students with disabilities
and school administration pertaining to the student’s individualized educational
plan (IEP). This process allows for parents of children with special educational
needs to meet with school districts, along with a neutral person, a mediator, to
work out their differences regarding the student’s needs. Mediation is often chosen
instead of an impartial hearing as a way of resolving disagreements about a student’s
special education placement, services, evaluation, or classification.
In most cases, the mediator is able to help develop a solution that is acceptable
to both the parent and school.
Mediation:
- Allows all concerns to be heard
- Builds trust and improves communication
- Explores creative solutions
- Gives everyone a chance to have an equal say in decisions
What Happens in Mediation?
A mediator meets with the parents and a person from the school. Each person talks
about the issues from their point of view and everyone suggests ways that might
resolve the problems. Any agreement that is reached is binding and is formalized
in writing. After the mediation, the Individualized Education Program (IEP) is updated
for the student.
Can I Schedule a Mediation and an Impartial Hearing?
Yes, due process rights are protected in this process. Parents can request both
an impartial hearing and mediation at the same time. Mediation can also be requested
independently of the hearing process. The impartial hearing can be canceled if all
concerns are resolved in mediation.
What is the Cost of Mediation?
Parties may access mediation services through the Center for Resolution and Justice
at no cost to them.
How Do I Access Mediation Services?
To request mediation services please contact any of our CRJ office locations. You
can find our office locations on the Conflict Resolution homepage. You may also
send a letter to the child’s school principal or special education director and
the CRJ with the following information:
- Parent name
- Address
- Phone Number
- The child’s name and date of birth
- Description of the problem
- Possible solution
Contact Us
The Center provides special education mediation services pursuant to a contract
between the New York State Education Department and NYSDRA in all counties across
Western New York. Please contact a CRJ office location nearest you. To find our
office locations click on contact us on our Conflict Resolution homepage.