Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
When disagreements arise between families and school teams about a student's special education program, there are options for resolving concerns collaboratively — often without the time, cost, or stress of formal due process proceedings. Santa Barbara County SELPA supports a range of alternative dispute resolution options designed to keep communication open and focused on what's best for the student.
This section provides information on available resources, including facilitated IEP meetings, mediation, and other informal problem-solving processes that can help families and districts reach agreement while preserving a collaborative relationship. You'll also find guidance on when and how to access these options, and how they differ from formal due process.
Our goal is to help families and school teams work through disagreements constructively, keeping the focus on the student's needs and continued progress.