If you have a special needs school-aged child you’ve probably heard of Article 7. Article 7 provides the legal structure through the Department of Education to ensure that these special children receive the Free Appropriate Public Education (“FAPE”) to which they are entitled. Most parents are familiar with their right to file a complaint under Article 7. However, Article 7 also provides no-cost mediation as an alternative to work through the parent/school dispute. Under Article 7, the Department of Education appoints the neutral third party (“The mediator”) and pays for the mediator’s services. This procedure can streamline the resolution of the issue and help everyone focus on the educational needs of the child instead of upon litigation.
Dealing with special needs can be challenging, but everyone is entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education.
