Southeastern Dispute Resolution Services

09/01/2026

🎉 Whether you're a longtime partner or newly connected to the Network, this gathering is for you! Come network, share ideas, and help shape the future together. We hope you'll join us and be part of building what's next! Register today to secure your spot: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JCN_SeptQuarterlyGathering

09/01/2026

Be prepared. Bring your notes. Bring your questions. Most importantly, bring your voice.

Your voice matters in the Special Education process. Being prepared for your IEP or other Special Education meeting can help you feel more confident, informed, and ready to participate in the conversation.

If communication is difficult or your team is struggling to work together, Special Education Mediation Services (SEMS) is here to help. Our services are FREE and available throughout Michigan.

📞 833-543-7178
🌐 MiKids1st.org

09/01/2026

Last week, the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential released the final report from its Michigan Dual Enrollment Task Force, outlining recommendations to make dual enrollment more accessible, equitable and aligned across Michigan’s K–12 and postsecondary education systems.

“Expanding dual enrollment is about more than increasing participation — it is about building a system that makes opportunity accessible, sustainable, and meaningful,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, MiLEAP executive director. Read the full report here: https://buff.ly/Tn5gopX 🎓

09/01/2026

Marc McKenzie Stanley We are a certified center!

Celebrate certified centers, member programs, the Virtual Library work, improved public information, and the people who help NAFCM operate.

NAFCM Certified Community Mediation Training is another credible accomplishment.

The revised structure provides clearer public information about:
◾ What NAFCM certification represents.
◾ The community-centered and skills-based nature of the training.
◾ Annual review requirements.
◾ Current and expired certification status.
◾ Center contact and training information.
◾ Launch of the new certification badge.
◾ Accessibility and easier navigation of the certified-center listings.

Certified Centers' accountability is strengthened when certification dates and annual review expectations are visible, rather than when certification appears permanent.

NAFCM can celebrate the certified centers themselves while also recognizing the organization’s responsibility to protect the meaning and integrity of certification.

08/26/2026