Mediation: An Alternative to Due Process

Fact Sheet


When a parent and school district disagree in an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meeting, many people immediately consider going to a due process hearing. However, mediation is another way of dealing with a disagreement between the school district and the parent. Parents may want to try this less formal method before asking for a due process hearing.

Mediation

The Role of the Mediator

The mediator is not a judge who makes a decision for the parties. Instead, the mediator helps you and the school district solve the problem between you and will prepare written documentation of any agreements reached. During the discussions, the mediator will do the following:

The Mediation Process

Suggestions for Successful Mediation


This publication provides legal information, but is not intended to be legal advice. The information was based on the law at the time it was written. As the law may change, please contact P&A for updates.

This publication is funded by the US Department of Health and Human Services (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) and by the US Department of Education (Rehabilitation Services Administration). It does not necessarily represent the official views of the funding authorities.

P&A does not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, color, creed, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, citizenship, age, religion, sex or sexual orientation, veteran status or any other class protected by law in the provision of its programs or services. Pete Cantrell is P&A’s designated coordinator for Sec. 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Education 12/18

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