Contract 117212

The Nebraska Department of Education has awarded a contract to Concord Mediation Center for the provision of mediation services related to special education disputes. The contract, effective October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027, carries a maximum value of $3,500. The contractor will deliver mediation services for disputes involving infants, toddlers, and students from birth to age 21 with suspected or confirmed disabilities as defined under Nebraska Administrative Code sections 51 and 52. Mediation sessions are billed at $150 per hour based on two mediators per session, while pre- and post-mediation work, including planning, communications, and documentation, is billed at $35 per hour, with case management limited to 10 hours absent prior written authorization.

In addition to direct mediation services, Concord Mediation Center is responsible for providing outreach and training to stakeholders, conducting periodic program evaluations, maintaining current lists of qualified mediators, and submitting summary reports to the Nebraska Department of Education, the Office of Dispute Resolution, and the Nebraska Mediation Association. Mediation services are to be provided at mutually convenient locations as soon as reasonably practicable, with all costs borne by the state and no charges imposed to participating parties. Funding derives from case-dependent Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Part B and Part C federal funds, with expenses allocated 50/50 between these sources. Invoicing requires detailed supporting documentation and is subject to a 45-day payment timeline following state acceptance.