Special Education Mediation

Special Education Mediation is a process by which parents of children with disabilities and school districts meet with a neutral person, a mediator, to work out their differences. It is often chosen instead of an impartial hearing as a way of resolving disagreements about a student’s special education placement, services, evaluation, or classification. In most cases, the mediator is able to help develop a solution that is acceptable to both parent and school in a way that:

• Allows all concerns to be heard
• Build trust and improves communication
• Explores creative solutions
• Gives everyone a chance to have an equal say in all decisions

Mediation is provided at no cost to the parents or the schools.

For more information contact: Donna Durbin at ddurbin@cdsadr.org or (585) 546-5110 x108

ACCES-VR Mediation

ACCES-VR Mediation is a confidential process that brings together the consumer and an ACCES-VR representative to share concerns and points of disagreement. An impartial, qualified mediator facilitates the discussion. Each person will have an equal opportunity to express viewpoints and concerns. Possible resolutions, within federal and state regulations, will be explored.  In many cases, the mediator is able to help develop a solution that is acceptable to both parties in a way that:

• Allows all concerns to be heard
• Build trust and improves communication
• Explores creative solutions
• Gives everyone a chance to have an equal say in all decisions

Mediation is provided at no cost to the consumer or the ACCES-VR District Office.

For more information contact: Donna Durbin at ddurbin@cdsadr.org or (585) 546-5110 x108

Early Intervention Program

The Early Intervention Program provides early intervention services and supports to infants, and toddlers under age three with developmental delay or disabilities and their families. The Early Intervention Program is established in Public Health Law. The New York State Department of Health is responsible for its administration and oversight. All children in the Early Intervention Program have a written plan for services called the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).

Mediation assists parents and Early Intervention Officials (EIOs) to reach agreement about services to be provided to the child and family. Mediation brings EIOs and parents together to talk about their concerns. It is a confidential process that encourages parents and EIOs to speak freely about their concerns and services.

Mediation is provided at no cost to the parents or the schools.

For more information contact: Donna Durbin at ddurbin@cdsadr.org or (585) 546-5110 x108