Final answer:
States recommend that if parents believe their child with a disability is not receiving a proper education, they should initially use an IEP meeting or mediation to resolve the matter. This approach is supported by IDEA, following the precedent set by the pivotal Mills v. Board of Education case.
Step-by-step explanation:
Many states encourage parents who feel that a free and appropriate public education is not being provided to their child with a disability to resolve their issues in a preliminary process called the "resolution session" or "mediation" before requesting a legal due process hearing.
This preliminary process, often referred to as either the resolution session or mediation, aims to facilitate discussions and negotiations between parents and the school district or educational institution regarding the educational needs and services for the child with a disability. It provides an opportunity for both parties to come to an agreement or resolution without resorting immediately to a formal legal due process hearing. These processes are designed to foster communication, understanding, and collaboration to address concerns and find mutually acceptable solutions for the child's education.