The paper is an outgrowth of a Utah task force composed of school personnel and parents examining conflict in the individualized education program (IEP) process for handicapped children. An introductory section examines the history of parent-school relations, reviews the steps in the IEP process, and describes such conflict resolution strategies…

Staffings are designed to be problem-solving meetings. In theory, all participants come to a staffing with information, knowledge or general input aimed at designing an effective educational program for a child. However, in some cases, staffings become discordant sessions laced with conflict. In order to avoid this negative outcome, it may be…

This article presents a perspective for viewing mediation in resolving conflicts between parents and school personnel about the education of handicapped students. The appropriateness of mediation as well as its limitations are discussed, as are current uses of mediation in special education and legal problems and issues arising from its use.…

This article describes how parents may use individualized education program reviews, prehearing conferences, and mediation to resolve parent-school disputes in accordance with Public Law 94-142's due process hearing system. Specific guidelines for meetings with school personnel are offered. Examples are given of prehearing conferences and parents'…

This article provides guidelines to help school personnel establish and maintain productive relationships within the legal framework governing special education. Special attention is given to conflict resolution, especially in cases of disagreement on students' individualized education plans. The role of parents in these team efforts and relevant…