Mediation

Mediation

Mediation is a voluntary process that gives disputants the opportunity to meet with independent third-party facilitators to assist them in resolving disputes. The mediator uses a variety of problem solving methods including clarifying issues, identifying interests, determining areas of agreement, and helping parties to self-determine an outcome. The mediator provides a problem solving structure and process and assures that everyone will be listened to with respect. The mediator does not make decisions for the parties.

Any issue regarding a child's eligibility for special education or their provision, scope, or delivery may be mediated at any time. During the mediation proceedings, the student's educational status remains the student's parents and Radford City School's agree to an alternative placement directed by the student's Individual Education Program (IEP) or Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP). Information can be obtained by checking out a video about Special Education Mediation from the Parent Resource Center.

The regulations do not preclude the use of mediation in the resolution of differences, but mediation shall not be used to deny or delay a parent’s rights. Such mediation may be conducted only by personnel who were not previously involved in the particular case. However, such mediation shall not extend the resolution of a hearing beyond the 45 calendar days unless otherwise approved and documented as in the best interests of the child by the hearing officer upon request of the parties. The hearing officer shall notify the parties and the SEA in writing of the specific number of days to be allowed for mediation.

To find out more information about the mediation process please visit: http://www.doe.virginia.gov/VDOE/Instruction/ssems.html

For a list of mediators available in Virginia visit: http://www.doe.virginia.gov/VDOE/Instruction/mediators.html