RIDE Dispute Resolution Process

The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) recognizes that shared decision-making can be challenging. There are times when family and school team members do not reach agreement or when a student’s entitlements may come under question. RIDE offers several state level options to assist families and schools in resolving issues that remain after attempts for resolution at the local school level have been exhausted.

There is a certain process that must be adhered to before RIDE can assist a party with dispute resolution. Prior to contacting RIDE it is important that all attempts to resolve your issue be handled at the local level. This resource includes steps to resolve disputes at the school level.

The Legal Office provides legal consultation and guidance to all agency offices; enforces educational statutory and regulatory compliance; and investigates civil rights complaints for referral to the United States Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights.

For more information on RIDE’s Legal Office, click HERE.