FY26_OPS_Impartial Hearing Officers (IHO)

The contract solicits qualified hearing officers to conduct impartial due process hearings, mediations, and facilitations for special education disputes within the District of Columbia. These officers will be responsible for ensuring fair, timely, and legally compliant resolution of conflicts between families and educational entities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The position requires deep familiarity with special education law, procedural safeguards, and conflict resolution techniques to impartially evaluate evidence, manage proceedings, and issue binding decisions. Hearing officers must be available to serve across the District as needed, with responsibilities including scheduling sessions, preparing written determinations, and maintaining strict confidentiality and neutrality throughout all processes. The contract is forecasted by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education and will likely involve ongoing engagement throughout fiscal year 2026, though specific terms, durations, and selection criteria are not yet finalized. Interested parties should monitor the official portal for the formal solicitation, which will detail qualifications, application procedures, and expectations for performance and compliance.