Working with a Navigator does not limit a parent's right to use other means of conflict resolution, such as the help of an advocate, filing a complaint, requesting a mediator assigned by the state, or filing for a due process hearing.
Navigator Program
"Thanks to the Navigator helping us prepare and then attending the meeting, this was the best IEP we have ever had!" - a South Dakota parent
The Navigator Program, a partnership of the South Dakota Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs and South Dakota Parent Connection, provides a mediation program for parents of children and young adults with disabilities or special health care needs and school professionals. Click here to view the interview about the Navigator Program on TAKE 5.
Peer Navigator Consultants are located around the state and are trained in special education law and dispute resolution.
There is no cost to either parents or schools.
Navigators remain objective and neutral as they help both parents and school personnel to:
- Locate and utilize information and resources
- Improve family-school communication
- Build (or re-build) partnership
- Resolve disagreements, locally and voluntarily