SPED Dispute Resolution

There are several ways to come to a resolution in a dispute over the rights and services afforded to students with disabilities and their families. The quickest and most efficient method is to contact the special education administration in the system. The special education director can often assist a family to work out the differences with minimal time and conflict. When a resolution cannot be worked out locally, there are processes guaranteed to families of students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). These include (1) formal complaints, (2) mediation and/or (3) a due process hearing.