They may feel that the school is not listening to them. Likewise, the school may feel that the parents are not trying to understand. Although both the parents and the school want an appropriate program for the child, sometimes the two simply cannot agree on what that program should include. In the past, such an impasse could only be handled by formal proceedings such as formal complaint investigations, due process hearings, appeals and court cases. But these are expensive, emotionally draining and seldom satisfying to both parties.
Mediation can be an effective alternative.
An optional service which helps parents and school districts reach a mutual agreement, mediation is designed to be informal and flexible. Mediators are trained to encourage open communication in a confidential setting. They are state approved and appointed, but their services are funded through local school districts at no cost to parents. Whether or not an agreement is reached through mediation, either party still has the right to request a due process hearing. Mediation can be used before or during a request for a hearing.