What is the process for mediating disputes in the school setting?

In Washington, the process for mediating disputes in the school setting is based upon the state’s education law. According to this law, all disputes concerning the public school system are to be addressed at the district level. Disputes that arise at the district level can be further escalated to the Education Ombudsman. The first step in the mediation process is for the parties involved to reach out to the Education Ombudsman for assistance. The Ombudsman will listen to both sides of the dispute and will attempt to come to a resolution that is agreeable to both parties. If the parties cannot come to an agreement, the Ombudsman may refer the dispute to mediation. Mediation is a process through which a neutral third-party mediator facilitates communication between the parties and attempts to reach a resolution. The mediator will review the dispute and will work with both parties to evaluate potential solutions and resolve the dispute. During the process, the mediator will remain neutral and will not take sides. If the parties are unable to reach a resolution through mediation, the dispute may be referred to an arbitration hearing. During the hearing, each party presents their case and the arbitrator will make a binding decision. The process of mediating disputes in the school setting is designed to ensure the parties involved are able to come to an agreement and avoid adversarial outcomes.

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