SELPA Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Request

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Resolving Disputes

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a voluntary and informal process designed to help resolve conflicts between schools and families of children with special needs. At the request of either the school district or the parent, the Monterey County SELPA can assist in facilitating this process. ADR promotes open communication and collaborative problem-solving, enabling all parties to work together toward a mutually beneficial resolution without the need for litigation.

The Process

The Dispute Resolution process uses communication, collaboration, and mediation to create mutually satisfying solutions and encourages all parties to remain focused on student needs while allowing for parents and districts to maintain the right to seek state-level due process.  At school district or parent request, Monterey County SELPA can provide assistance in the process of resolving disputes. 

Facilitated IEP Meetings

Facilitation is a voluntary process that is designed to aid in communication and problem solving.  In Facilitated IEP Meetings a neutral facilitator assists the IEP team in crafting consensus agreements that lead to IEPs with beneficial outcomes for students with disabilities.  A facilitator helps keep members of the IEP team focused on the development of the IEP while addressing conflicts and disagreements that may arise.  Communication skills are used to create an environment in which the IEP team members can listen to each other’s point of view and work together to complete the development of a high quality IEP. 

Benefits of Dispute Resolution

• Builds and improves relationships between the IEP team members (parents and schools) 
• Ensures the IEP meeting is student focused 
• Models effective communication and listening skills 
• Clarifies points of agreement and disagreement 
• Provides opportunities to resolve conflicts if they arise 
• Encourages IEP team members to identify new options to address unresolved problems 
• Costs less than more formal proceedings (due-process with attorney fees) 
• Less stressful than formal proceedings 
• Supports better follow-through and follow-up 
• Roles and responsibilities can be discussed and planned