TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY SPECIAL EDUCATION DISPUTE RESOLUTION SYSTEMS HANDBOOK

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) Special Education Dispute Resolution Systems Handbook provides guidance for resolving disputes related to special education services in Texas. This handbook outlines several key processes designed to assist parents and schools in addressing disagreements and ensuring that students with disabilities receive appropriate educational support.

Key Dispute Resolution Options:

Individualized Education Program (IEP) Facilitation: IEP facilitation is a voluntary process where a neutral facilitator assists the IEP team, including parents, in developing a student's IEP. This process aims to improve communication and help the team reach agreements more efficiently.

Mediation: Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where a neutral mediator helps parents and school representatives resolve disputes. It is designed to be a non-adversarial method of resolving conflicts and can be used at any time, even if a due process complaint has been filed.

State Complaint Resolution: Parents or other parties can file a formal complaint with the TEA if they believe a school has violated IDEA or state special education regulations. The TEA will investigate the complaint and issue a written decision, typically within 60 days.

Due Process Hearings: A due process hearing is a formal, legal procedure where an impartial hearing officer hears evidence from both the parents and the school district. The hearing officer then makes a decision based on the information presented. This process is available when there are disputes over a child's identification, evaluation, educational placement, or the provision of FAPE.

Resolution Sessions: Prior to a due process hearing, the school must convene a resolution session with the parents and relevant IEP team members to discuss the complaint and attempt to resolve the dispute without further legal proceedings.

These mechanisms are in place to ensure that disputes are resolved in a fair, timely, and effective manner, prioritizing the best interests of the student. The TEA handbook also emphasizes the importance of communication and cooperation between parents and school personnel to prevent and resolve conflicts amicably.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Texas Education Agency website​ (Texas Education Agency)​​ (Texas Education Agency)​.

For more information ... https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/government-relations-and-legal/se-dispute-resolution-handbook-english.pdf