CMM centers provide independent facilitators to support effective communication in potentially challenging Individualized Education Program (IEP) Meetings. By providing facilitation as an early intervention, this service supports schools and parents to work collaboratively as they build plans for children receiving special education services. CMM works with the Maryland State Department of Education, local centers, and local school systems to provide these services in 11 jurisdictions. Evaluation data from FY13 finds that 68% of participants agree that through the facilitated meeting process they were able to understand other people on the IEP team better; and 66% agree that through the facilitated meeting process other people on the IEP team understood them better. CMM also provides communication and conflict management training for special education staff, students receiving special education services, and their parents.
