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West Orange County Consortium For Special Education

Resources » Alternative Dispute Resolution

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Child-Centered • Collaborative • Supportive

Sometimes families and schools see things differently about a student’s special education program. ADR is a voluntary, informal way to work through those differences together with the shared goal of supporting your child’s success. ADR brings families and school teams together to talk openly, build understanding, and find solutions that work for everyone. It isn’t about “winning” or “losing”; it’s about finding common ground and keeping the focus on your child’s needs.

 

Why choose ADR

  • Provided at no cost to families, confidential, and voluntary

  • Helps maintain positive relationships between families and school staff

  • Typically faster and less stressful than formal legal processes

  • Keeps everyone focused on what matters most,  your child

 

What ADR can include

  • Informal problem-solving meetings

  • Facilitated IEP meetings

  • Resolution sessions

  • Coaching or training for communication and collaboration

 

WOCCSE offers trained, neutral facilitators to help parents and districts in West Orange County address special education concerns in a respectful, solutions-oriented way.

 

Get started
Contact your district’s Special Education Director, or reach out to Nicole Gunsaulus at (714) 903-7000 ext. 50602 for more information or to request ADR support.