Mediation services are offered by OSPI at no charge to
parents or school districts. Mediation is available to help resolve problems
that involve the initial identification of a student, evaluations of the
student, the educational placement, and the educational services provided to
a student (FAPE). Mediation provides the parties with an opportunity to come
to a resolution on their own, rather than one ordered through a due process
decision, or a citizen complaint decision.
Mediators have received training in conflict resolution techniques and
assist parties in communication that is focused on problem solving.
Mediators are neutral, third parties and do not act as advocates for either
the parent or the school district. Mediators also have specific training in
state and federal special education law and regulations.
During the mediation session, the mediator works with the parties to
clarify the issues in dispute, resolve conflicts and develop the terms of an
agreement between the parties, when an agreement can be reached. Parents and
school districts are the parties to the mediation, but may also invite
participants who they believe have important information about the issues
and will be able to assist in the mediation and/or resolution.
Mediation is a voluntary process for the parents and districts. Either
the district or the parent may refuse to mediate, and there are occasions
when parties are not able to reach an agreement. Mediation negotiations are
confidential and cannot be used as evidence in a due process hearing,
citizen complaint, or other court proceedings.
Mediation may not be used to delay or deny rights under IDEA or the right
to proceed to a due process hearing. When parties reach an agreement, those
agreements are in writing and are enforceable through the special education
citizen complaint process and in state and federal courts.
To request mediation, or obtain more information call:
Sound Options Mediation and Training Group, L.L.C.
1-800-692-2540
(206) 842-2298 (Seattle)
Washington State relay service numbers:
1-800-833-6388 (TDD) or 1-800-833-6384 (voice)
Website: http://www.somtg.com
|