If you are looking to resolve a dispute between parents and school officials about a student’s educational needs, mediation may be the best option for you. There are a few key things to keep in mind when participating in mediation, including the fact that it is a voluntary process.
Generally, mediation is a way to help parties reach a resolution without going to court. The mediator will work with each party to find a solution that is acceptable to all involved. The mediator may be a neutral third party, such as a retired judge or lawyer, or a family member or friend of one of the parties.
Before you participate in mediation, it is important to understand the process. You will need to provide information about your child, such as their current level of education and what type of special education services they may need. You will also need to provide information about the dispute between you and the school, such as the specific allegations made and what you believe should be done to address them.
Once you have gathered this information, you should contact a mediator. The mediator will review the information and will create a proposal for resolving the dispute. The proposal will provide a specific timeline for the resolution of the dispute, as well as specific steps that will need to be followed.
If you and the other party are willing to participate in mediation, it may be the best option for resolving your dispute. Keep in mind, however, that mediation is a voluntary process and it may not be available to all parents. If you are interested in mediation, be sure to speak with an attorney first to make sure that it is the right option for you and your child.
