Dispute Resolution
Contact Information
We encourage parents and school districts to work together to resolve disagreements about a student’s special education program. However, we understand there are times when additional support is needed to resolve a disagreement.
There are dispute resolution options available under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. These options can address concerns about the identification, evaluation, educational placement, and provision of Free Appropriate Public Education to a student (age 3–21).
The Center for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education (CADRE) has developedparent guides and a process comparison chart to assist individuals in understanding the differences between IEP facilitation, mediation, written complaints, and due process.
Request Facilitation
Facilitation is a voluntary process for parents and districts to meet to discuss their concerns with the help of a trained, neutral facilitator. There is no cost for the facilitation services.
Request Mediation
Mediation is a voluntary process for parents and districts to meet to discuss their concerns with the help of a trained, neutral mediator. There is no cost to the parties.
File a Community Complaint
Anyone can file a complaint alleging that a federal or state special education rule or law has been violated. OSPI can investigate allegations that occurred within the past year.
If you have any questions on how to file a special education community complaint, Partnerships for Action, Voices for Empowerment (PAVE) has created thisProcedural Safeguards: How to File a Special Education Complaint video for your use.
Request a Due Process Hearing
In a hearing, parents and districts appear before an independent administrative law judge. The parties present information and documents about the issues so the judge can reach a decision.