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Zeleski, Mary M.

College of Education and Social Services

2007

Ed. D.

A multi-school qualitative study of three school systems was conducted between 2006-2007 to investigate the context and factors associated with low or no due process hearing requests. Data were collected from archival sources between 2000-2005, as well as qualitative responses from parents, special educators, principals, and special education administrators. The study was designed to identify fundamental beliefs, strategies, and practices that lead to the resolution of disputes with parents while limiting the number of formal due process hearing requests. School personnel from all three sites described beliefs, strategies, and practices that suggested a strong commitment to a family-focused approach to special education. Parents underscored the need for continued advocacy for mandated services, as well as the practice of least restrictive environment.