For health and safety reasons, WSEMS now offers virtual mediations and facilitations as a way for the parties to meet.
An in-person option may be available. WSEMS follows the current CDC, state, and local health and safety guidance for in-person gatherings.

The Wisconsin Special Education Mediation System helps parents and schools work together to resolve disputes about special education.
We do not provide legal advice or advocacy for either parents or districts, and we do not mediate 504 plan disputes.

What are the similarities in the role of the facilitator and mediator?

Modeling good communication skills for parties and districts for future conversations without the neutral.
Ensuring that active listening is taking place.
Helping parties look at common goals
Keeping the process moving forward
Keeping the process forward focused
Keeping the process focused on the student
Helping parties avoid blaming, shaming, “zingers,” and attacks by both parties
Manages group dynamics