Five Key Ideas: Dispute Resolution in Special Education: IEP Facilitation, Mediation and Resolution
Published on Aug 07, 2025
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Before escalating to Due Process, an IEP Facilitation meeting may be utilized.
According to the Office for Dispute Resolution's video entitled, "IEP Facilitation," a facilitator assists in creating an atmosphere for fair communication and keeps the focus on the student.
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Facilitation meetings are a good option if the IEP meeting is expected to run into some conflict.
According to CADRE's Quick Guide to Special Education Dispute Resolution Processes for Parents of Children & Youth, “A parent or school district may request IEP facilitation. A state educational agency may also recommend this, as an alternative to a more formal process.”
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Mediation is another process that can take place when there is a dispute regarding an IEP.
According to the Office for Dispute Resolution’s website, “Mediation can be requested at any time, even if a due process hearing has already been requested or is underway.”
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Once a parent has requested a due process hearing, the school district is required to hold a Resolution Hearing.
According to the Office for Dispute Resolution's video entitled, “Resolution Meetings,” these meetings serve as a way for the parents to explain why they are filing for due process.
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If a mediation meeting or a facilitation meeting were not successful, the parent can continue the complaint to a due process hearing.
According to the article entitled “What to expect at a due process hearing” on the website Understood.org, Mediation is "a formal legal setting where you and the school present your sides of the dispute. Both sides can call witnesses, give evidence, and make legal arguments."
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