Wisconsin was profiled by CADRE as an exemplary dispute resolution system in 2010. The WI Dept of Public Instruction (WDPI) has historically engaged stakeholders in the planning, design and management of its dispute resolution system, including for the WI Special Education Mediation System (WSEMS). WSEMS partners and staff will provide an overview of WSEMS, including: intake process using an impartial system administrator; Wisconsin Stakeholder Council, stakeholder outreach and training initiatives; culturally relevant efforts; roster of neutrals; system evaluation; and an overview of mediation, IEP facilitation and resolution session facilitation processes. WDPI staff will discuss their experience with the use of a dispute prevention process, collaborative rulemaking with stakeholders, to reach consensus on state special education laws prior to public hearings. In addition, the WDPI management system for state written complaints and due process hearings will be addressed.
The Center for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education
Supporting the prevention and resolution of disputes through partnership and collaboration
