In virtually all cases, mediation is less costly and adversative than a due process hearing and is completely voluntary for both parties. Mediation helps both parties let go of the past and focus on what is best for the student in the future. The Cost of Special Education and Section 504 Mediation Mediation can take place at no cost to the parents. Section 504 mediation will be a school expense. However, parties who choose to involve their attorneys are responsible for their own attorney fees.
Any incidental costs are the school's responsibility.
The ultimate responsibility for the administration of the mediation process is with the Branch of Exceptional Education. The Branch of Exceptional Education will ensure that mediators throughout the Bureau system are trained and receive appropriate follow-up training. Requesting Mediation A request for mediation may occur when parents and schools reach an impasse after having made good faith efforts to resolve their differences. A request for mediation will most likely occur when parties are unable to modify their positions without outside assistance. Mediation can be requested by the parents or school.