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Reducing Parental Dissatisfaction with Special Education in Two School Districts: Implementing Conflict Prevention and Alternative Dispute Resolution

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Reducing Parental Dissatisfaction with Special Education in Two School Districts: Implementing Conflict Prevention and Alternative Dispute Resolution
Language: English
Authors: Mueller, Tracy Gershwin, Singer, George H. S., Draper, Lisa M.
Source: Journal of Educational & Psychological Consultation. Jul 2008 18(3):191-233.
Availability: Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 325 Chestnut Street Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Fax: 215-625-2940; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 43
Publication Date: 2008
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Disabilities, Educational Practices, Leadership Effectiveness, Special Education, Parent Attitudes, School Districts, Inquiry, Interviews, Instructional Leadership, Leadership Responsibility, Compliance (Legal), Parent Participation, Parent School Relationship, Individualized Education Programs, Federal Legislation, Administrator Role
Geographic Terms: California
Laws, Policies and Program Identifiers: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
DOI: 10.1080/10474410701864339
ISSN: 1047-4412
Abstract: Parental dissatisfaction with special education services is a national problem. This article presents two districts that have undergone systemwide changes to decrease the dissatisfaction of families who have children with disabilities. Using qualitative inquiry, the authors analyzed documents and observed and interviewed 24 informants about the system problems and changes. Data analysis revealed three themes within the systems problems category: (a) lack of leadership, (b) not keeping up with the law, and (c) parents excluded. Systemwide changes were organized into seven themes: (a) new leadership, (b) partnerships, (c) creative use of resources, (d) updated educational practices, (e) relationship building, (f) teacher and parent support, and (g) alternative dispute resolution. Findings revealed effective leaders who focused on all levels of the system. (Contains 2 figures and 2 tables.)
Abstractor: As Provided
Number of References: 38
Entry Date: 2008
Accession Number: EJ807284
Database: ERIC
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Description
Abstract:Parental dissatisfaction with special education services is a national problem. This article presents two districts that have undergone systemwide changes to decrease the dissatisfaction of families who have children with disabilities. Using qualitative inquiry, the authors analyzed documents and observed and interviewed 24 informants about the system problems and changes. Data analysis revealed three themes within the systems problems category: (a) lack of leadership, (b) not keeping up with the law, and (c) parents excluded. Systemwide changes were organized into seven themes: (a) new leadership, (b) partnerships, (c) creative use of resources, (d) updated educational practices, (e) relationship building, (f) teacher and parent support, and (g) alternative dispute resolution. Findings revealed effective leaders who focused on all levels of the system. (Contains 2 figures and 2 tables.)
ISSN:1047-4412
DOI:10.1080/10474410701864339