Page 42 - Shared Solutions: A Guide to Preventing and Resolving Conflicts Regarding Programs and Services for Students with Special Education Needs 2007

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A facilitator helps ensure that everyone stays on track by:
✓ making sure there is an agreed-upon agenda;
✓ keeping the discussion focused on the student’s demonstrated
strengths and needs and related program and service considerations;
✓ encouraging active participation by each party;
✓ identifying the issue and the purpose of the meeting;
✓ helping to clarify everyone’s position, including using inquiry to identify any unwarranted assumptions or misconceptions and bring to light all relevant information;
✓ allowing respectful disagreements;
✓ intervening to limit interruptions and stop abusive behaviour;
✓ promoting the exploration of possible shared solutions that are realistic and attainable.
Shared Solutions | 2007
Using a Facilitator
At times it can be helpful to bring in a neutral third party – a facilitator – to help guide the resolution process.
Potential facilitators may include educators or administrators not directly involved with the student’s education; professional support staff such as special education coordinators, social workers, or other professionals; or someone from the community whom the parents and educators can agree on. For facilitation to be successful, the facilitator must be someone whom all parties trust. Both par- ents and educators may suggest potential facilitators, with the understanding that the person chosen must be acceptable to both parties.
The facilitator’s job is not to propose or impose solutions but to help partici- pants identify the issue or issues, find common ground, and look for a mutually acceptable solution.