DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Options for Resolving Disputes

Differences of opinion may develop regarding evaluation, eligibility, placement, and the provision of free, appropriate public education (FAPE) for eligible infants and toddlers. IFSP teams should attempt to resolve differences between individuals with differing opinions.

If an IFSP team is unable to resolve differing opinions, the IFSP team should consider the following options:

• Consulting with other professionals, including AEA administrators
• Utilizing a facilitator in meetings when disagreements are anticipated
• Adjourning meeting to reconvene later with a facilitator
• Adjourning meeting to reconvene later with additional information and other approaches

If IFSP teams are not able to resolve their differences, IDEA outlines three options available to parents as they seek to resolve their differences which include:

• A state complaint
• Due process complaints
• Due process hearings

Dispute Resolution Resources

For more information on Dispute Resolution options, visit the Iowa Department of Education’s website. which includes a dispute resolution process comparison chart, or view our Procedural Safeguards Manual on our Resources page.