The purpose of mediation is to offer both the parent and the school district an alternative to a formal due process hearing. Mediation is voluntary and requires the consent and agreement of both parties. Mediation cannot be used to deny or delay access by the parents to a due process hearing. Mediation is used to resolve disagreements concerning the identification, evaluation, and delivery of educational services or provision of a FAPE to a special education student. Mediation may be terminated by either party at any time during the process.

The primary participants are the parents, school district representatives and mediator. The process is voluntary, confidential and informal. It is a collaborative process, conducted in a non-adversarial manner. The District utilizes mediation services provided by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction at no cost to either party.

The district’s special education director is responsible for coordinating requests for mediation. If a parent requests mediation, notify the director and the director will respond to the parent and coordinate with OSPI’s contracted agent. Staff members are reminded that discussions that occur during the mediation process are confidential.

One person designated by the district to attend the mediation must have authority to bind the district in any agreement reached through mediation.

*See the Special Education Terms & Definitions page for more information.

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