May more than one mediator be selected to conduct a mediation process under § 300.506 of Part B of the IDEA?
No, for the mediation process required under IDEA, section 300.506 of Part B of the IDEA states that each mediation is to be conducted by one mediator. The use of a single mediator is important to ensure clear communication and accountability. The State is required to have such a system in place, however, it is voluntary on the part of the parent and the public agency. If, however, a State or local school district offers mediation in addition to that required by the IDEA, nothing in the IDEA would preclude the mediation not required under the IDEA from being conducted by multiple mediators. See, 34 CFR § 300.506 and Analysis of Comments and Changes, published as Attachment 1 to the final regulations, 64 Fed. Reg. at 12611-612 (Mar. 12, 1999).
Related Questions
- May an SEA use IDEA funds to establish and implement the mediation process, including providing for the costs of mediators and support personnel?
- Who is involved in the Mediation process through the NEIGHBOR Project? How are the mediators selected?
- During the mediation process, what is the role of the mediator?
