Mediation: A Process that Works

Abstract

A comment to P.L. 94-142, The Education for all Handicapped Children Act, encourages mediation as an intervening step prior to a formal due process hearing. It also emphasizes that the mediation process may not be used to deny or delay a parent's right to formal due process. This article offers practical thoughts on mediation to school systems which are involved in disagreements related to the implementation of the Act and notes some of the potential advantages of this intervening step. The authors recommend training programs for school personnel who may be designated as mediators as well as for other staff members who may participate in mediation sessions, IEP meetings, placement meetings, and due process hearings.