Massachusetts Innovation: How Notification, Content-Specific Mediators, and Emphasis on Accessibility Promotes Dynamic and Effective Mediation

Each year in Massachusetts, the Bureau of Special Education Appeals (“BSEA”) convenes nearly 800 mediations with an 85% agreement rate and facilitates roughly 130 Team Meetings. The BSEA builds an inclusive and informed system that promotes universal access to due process and invites diverse and active stakeholder participation. This presentation discusses Massachusetts’ unique model, specifically: regulations that require notification of due process rights; the model of permanent staff mediator; ease of access to mediation and Facilitated Team Meetings; and the BSEA’s investment in conducting stakeholder trainings. The presentation encourages discussion and offers practical applications for other states.