Special Education Leadership and Facilitation

Facilitation in the context of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) is a powerful skill set that promotes productive, student-centered collaboration. Within the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) process, facilitation empowers teams to apply structured communication and problem-solving strategies that support consensus-building and help overcome impasses. Trained facilitators foster trust, manage conflict, and guide teams toward shared decisions that reflect the student’s needs.

Building capacity for facilitation ensures that all voices are heard and that the ARD committee stays focused on creating meaningful outcomes. While not required, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) encourages the use of IEP facilitation as an effective alternative dispute resolution method. Strengthening facilitation skills equips educators to lead ARD meetings with confidence, cultivate collaborative environments, and prioritize student success.

At Region 4 ESC, we offer a wealth of resources and training opportunities to build capacity around building consensus, having productive difficult conversations, accountability, and other leadership skills for school leaders.