Page 44 - Shared Solutions: A Guide to Preventing and Resolving Conflicts Regarding Programs and Services for Students with Special Education Needs 2007

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Conclusion
Delivering an education that is appropriate to the strengths and needs of students receiving special education programs and services is the goal of all partners in special education. The interests of these students are usually best served when conflicts are resolved promptly, without bad feelings, and with minimal stress for all parties. Conflict resolution approaches are useful and effective tools for achieving such a result.
Learning to apply the conflict resolution approaches and strategies outlined in this document can help students, parents, and educators in special education to build bridges between schools and families. The goal, as always, is to create a caring, productive, and collaborative environment that enhances the learning experiences of students with special education needs and allows them to realize their true potential.
It is important to remember that everyone brings different perspectives, values, and professional responsibilities, as well as different strengths, to the process of conflict resolution in special education. Parents have a wealth of knowledge and valuable information that can assist in the education of their children. Educators have training and experience and are guided by legal obligations and professional standards of practice and ethics. Through collaboration, students, parents, and educators can achieve the best outcome for students – and in the process set a good example of how to prevent and resolve conflicts successfully.