Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is TEA’s collaborative process for addressing concerns that can be most efficiently resolved between parents, students, or staff and their school system.  While not every concern submitted to ADR is resolved, this is generally the fastest way to get your concern addressed.

As part of the ADR process, we will connect you with your school district's superintendent, in writing, and formally ask that the district engage with you to attempt to reach an agreement that addresses your concern. If you notify us that your concern was not addressed through ADR, the agency can conduct a compliance review to ensure your district is following applicable policies and statutory and programmatic requirements.

Concerns ADR can address

• Parents and student complaints related to the following:
  • Enrollment 
  • Student Records 
  • Bullying prevention
  • Local complaint procedures process
  • Access to school premises
  • Sexual harassment policies and procedures
  • Student discipline
  • Suicide prevention
  • Truancy prevention
     
• Staff complaints related to the following: 
  • Duty Free Lunch
  • Provision of service records
  • Planning and preparation time

Relevant state law is hyperlinked for each issue. You can find information on how to read a statute here.

How to begin

To begin the ADR process, you must first file a complaint with TEA. You can do so using TEA's online form. 

For more information on ADR process and timelines, please click on the link below for a short webinar.