Dispute Resolution

The Oregon Department of Education is required by the Oregon Administrative Rules to investigate alleged violations of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The dispute resolution options detailed on this page are open only to parties seeking to resolve disputes arising under the IDEA. If you are seeking information about dispute resolution options for disputes arising under 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, please consult our Civil Rights webpage.

Dispute Resolution Options Available

Comparison of Major Dispute Resolution Options in IDEA PDF Document
A chart comparing mediation, complaints, and due process.
Comprehensive Dispute Resolution Guidance
Oregon Department of Education documents in English.
Guía Comprensiva de Resolucíon de Disputas
Oregon Department of Education documents in Spanish.
Dispute Resolution Resources
Links to non-ODE websites concerning Special Education dispute resolution.
IEP Meeting Facilitation
A facilitated Individualized Education Program (IEP) is an optional dispute resolution process available to IEP teams. In a facilitated IEP meeting, a trained neutral facilitator guides IEP teams through a student-focused IEP process that ensures all team members have shared understanding and shared responsibility.
Mediation
Mediation is the process of solving problems about a child’s special education evaluation, program, or placement. A mediator helps parents and educators develop solutions to the dispute.
Complaints
A complaint is a written, signed statement alleging that a school district or other educational agency has violated federal special education law.
Due Process
A due process hearing is a formal hearing resulting in a legal order. It may be requested if parties disagree with the identification, evaluation, educational placement, or other issues relating to a child’s education.

Dispute Resolution

Dispute Resolution Options Available

Links