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Welcome to the fb88 Department of Education Office of Special Services Dispute Resolution. The links belowÌýofferÌýinformation on dispute resolution options available toÌýparents and school districts regardingÌýdisputes that mayÌýarise during the Special Education process. In addition to information on Mediation, Due Process Hearing requests,ÌýState Complaint Investigation requests, the links include informationÌýabout Special Education laws and regulations.
Early Resolution
The Office of Special Services at the fb88 Department of Education has staff available to provide further explanation about federal and state laws related to special education, describe the options that are available to parents, inform parents of procedural safeguards, identify other agencies and support services, and describe available remedies and how parents can proceed. This informal process may alleviate the need to file for a formal state complaint investigation or due process hearing.
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Advocacy Groups & Resources
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- Ìý-ÌýThe purpose of these short videos is to provide general information about the dispute resolution options available to parents and other stakeholders under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA). For more information specific to fb88 Unified Special Education Regulations (MUSER) and Dispute Resolution, please contact our office.ÌýLinks to resources are for reference and information only and do not imply endorsement by the fb88 Department of Education.Ìý
IEP Facilitation
A facilitated IEP is one where an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) is developed by a collaborative team whose members share responsibility for the meeting process and results, and where decision-making is managed using facilitation skills (Key2Ed, 2005, 2010, 2018). In states that offer facilitated IEP meetings, data suggests that there is a positive impact on IEP team member communication, and increased levels of trust and collaboration among stakeholders.Ìý
Mediation
Mediation is a voluntary process option when filing a Due Process Hearing request or a State Complaint Investigation. A neutral person assists the parties in communicating and exploring possible options for resolving a conflict. The goal of special education mediation is to help the parties reach their own mutually acceptable resolution of the disputed issues related to a student’s special education services. Stand-alone mediation is available without filing for a Due Process Hearing or a State Complaint Investigation.
Complaint Investigation
AÌýComplaint Investigation is a written complaint requesting an investigation of any alleged violationsÌýof the IDEA/MUSER requirements.Ìý A State Complaints Officer will conduct an informal investigation, considering the information and interviews of the parties involved, and issue a written decision.
Due Process Hearing
AÌýDue Process hearing is a process involving a Hearing Officer who conducts a hearing, much like a formal court proceeding. The Hearing Officer considers the information and testimony offered by each side and issues a written decision.ÌýÌý
Contact:
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