IEP Mediation or Attendance Mediation is the first step in the process which is less confrontational than a hearing. The goal is to help parents and the school district to reach an agreement.
The mediators are neutral parties which means they don’t take sides or pass judgement. They do not have any authority in the case and do not work for the school district.
If they don’t reach an agreement because of confidentiality nothing can be shared in the hearing. The sessions are completely free to both parties.
The mediators are neutral parties which means they don’t take sides or pass judgement. They do not have any authority in the case and do not work for the school district.
If they don’t reach an agreement because of confidentiality nothing can be shared in the hearing. The sessions are completely free to both parties.
Benefits of IEP/Attendance Mediation
- Allows parents the chance to understand the schools reasoning and point of view and gives the school a chance to hear the parents point of view.
- Helps to avoid the cost of a hearing.
- Helps maintain a good relationship with the school. This is very important if siblings or the child remains at the school.
- Both parties can help come up with the solutions.
- Most IEP/Attendance cases are closed in a meeting or mediation. Very few cases go to hearings.
