What do we do in mediation?
The mediation process is informal. Often everyone is in the same room, however sometimes the mediator meets with the participants separately.
The mediator explains the Agreement to Mediate and then asks the parties to sign it.
The mediator explains the mediation process and the mediator’s role.
The mediator asks participants to explain why they are here and what they would like to see as a positive outcome to resolve their dispute.
The mediator may ask questions to clarify, brainstorm, or create options.
There will be no audio, video or written record of the session unless a party provides a letter from a doctor stating the party needs the recording due to a disability,
Anyone may ask the mediator for a break at any time, or the mediator may decide to call for a break.
The length of the mediation session varies. The parties are asked to agree to a general schedule before the session begins. Sometimes more sessions are needed.
The parents and school district representatives work together to write down how they have decided to resolve their dispute. They both sign this written statement, which is called the mediation agreement. Some parties choose to have a lawyer review the agreement before it is signed. This is at the party’s own cost.
All participants and the mediator are asked to complete a survey about the session. The information is given anonymously and remains confidential. The survey helps WSEMS to measure how the mediation process is working.