When is mediation right for you?

Mediation is a process that is effective when there is:

  • An ongoing relationship between family and school representatives
  • A need for privacy
  • A need for creative and flexible solutions
  • A desire to retain control over the outcome rather than having a third party make the decision

Under special education law, mediation may be used for disputes involving:

  • Identification
  • Evaluation
  • Individualized Education Program (IEP)
  • Placement
  • Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)

Mediation is most effective when used early in a dispute.