Overview of Alternative Dispute Resolution Pilots

Since September 2002, the Office for Dispute Resolution has engaged in a series of pilot projects funded through a federal enhancement grant to promote alternative dispute resolution options. Approximately 2,500 participants across the state (including parents, teachers, school and intermediate unit administrators, advocates, and attorneys) were trained in a variety of dispute resolution techniques. In addition, IEP facilitations were held in 11 pilot sites throughout the state, and two intermediate unit regions were trained in a local dispute resolution technique called a Solutions Panel. As a result of the these pilots, several services are now available in Pennsylvania, either through the Office for Dispute Resolution, or as local options:

• IEP Facilitation
• Conflict Resolution Training
• Training in a local dispute resolution technique called a Solutions Panel

For more information about these alternative dispute resolution pilots, please contact the Office for Dispute Resolution at 1-800-222-3353.

Optional IDEA Alternative Dispute Resolution

This In-Depth Policy Analysis by Kelly Henderson of Project Forum is the result of findings based on a survey sent to all special education units of state education agencies.  The survey requested information about the use of 10 alternative dispute resolution processes not specifically required under IDEA, the extent of their use, and other information.  Pennsylvania paritcipated in the study.  The 10 processes studied were:

• Conflict resolution skills training;
• Stakeholder management or oversight council;
• Parent-to-parent assistance;
• Dispute resolution case managers;
• Telephone intermediary;
• IEP facilitation;
• Third-party opinion or consultation processes;
• Early complaint resolution; and
• Resolution meeting facilitation

Each of these processes is defined and findings are described under each process.  Factors that impact the use of these processes are discussed and conclusions are drawn.