The Pennsylvania Office for Dispute Resolution (ODR) provides a variety of resources for families of children with disabilities or giftedness and educational agencies working with them to resolve disagreements on the child’s educational program. An important component of ODR is its mediation program, and ODR and its Stakeholder Council are working to encourage the increased use of mediation. For rates of special education mediation in Pennsylvania, see ODR’s Annual Report.
ODR is looking for mediators with special education knowledge (both state and federal law including IDEA and Chapter 14) to work with families and schools on these issues. Many ODR mediators also work as facilitators for ODR’s IEP Facilitation program. This rewarding, child-focused work assists the educational team in working through differences in a productive manner.
ODR is seeking applicants living in all areas of the state. Mediators must be able to conduct mediations both in-person and virtually. ODR is an equal opportunity employer and, as such, encourages those from any and all diverse groups to apply, including without limitation those who are bilingual, have disabilities, or are minorities not specifically enumerated here.
The position is that of an independent contractor and contracts are for one year, with the opportunity for renewal yearly. Mediators are paid $400-$500 for services rendered. In addition, mediators are reimbursed for travel, mileage, tolls, and parking. Lodging is reimbursable; however, it must be pre-approved by ODR. If a mediator is in overnight status, meals will be reimbursed up to a certain amount determined by the U.S. General Services Administration.
Contractors are asked to provide proof of liability coverage and state required clearances. Additional information can be found here.
Interested applicants should email a cover letter and resume to Samantha Pudloski, Program Manager, spudloski@odr-pa.org, by April 7, 2023.
No telephone calls please.
(March 17, 2023)