Description
The Colorado Department of Education is seeking mediators to provide mediation services for special education disputes. The mediators will assist parties in resolving disputes related to the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of a child with a disability or the provision of a free appropriate public education. Mediators must have experience in mediation and special education law, and must be willing to travel throughout the state. The contract will be for a period of one year, with the option to renew for up to four additional years. The department estimates that it will need to award contracts to between 7-12 mediators.
Some key points include:
• Mediators must meet mandatory qualifications, including completion of a 40-hour mediation training program and at least five years of experience in mediation or special education.
• Mediators will be assigned to cases on a rotational basis and must be available to conduct mediations at any time of the year.
• Mediators will be paid a flat rate for each mediation, based on the travel zone and length of the mediation session.
• The department will evaluate proposals based on the mediator's experience, mediation techniques, availability, and proficiency in computer skills.