Dispute Resolution in Special Education: What Are Your Rights

If you're facing a disagreement with your child’s school over special education services, this episode is for you.

Karen Mayer Cunningham, the Special Education Boss®, breaks down the four state-level dispute resolution options every parent, guardian, and advocate must know:

✅ IEP Facilitation
✅ Mediation
✅ State Complaint
✅ Due Process Hearing

This episode covers:

• What each option is and when to use it
• Pros, cons, timelines, and what to expect
• Real-talk about when being “nice” won’t get your child the services they deserve
• How to choose the right path—and why you only get one shot

Karen shares insights from 28 years of experience advocating across the country, including how to use these tools to hold school districts accountable—and most importantly, to secure a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for your child.

📚 Mentioned in this episode:
– Federal Law: IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
– Code of Federal Regulations, Title 34
– State-specific dispute forms (check your SEA website)

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👩‍⚖️ Hosted by Karen Mayer Cunningham, Advocate & Special Education Boss®
Each week, Karen shares real stories, legal insights, and no-nonsense strategies to help you navigate special education with clarity and confidence.

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🧠 Want to level up your advocacy game?
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