Lehigh University's College of Education

Spring 2009

DIXIE RIDER is with the Office for Dispute Resolution (ODR). As Dispute Resolution Coordinator, she oversees the administration of Due Process Hearings and Mediations for Pennsylvania, as well as early dispute resolution mechanisms supported by ODR, including IEP Facilitation. In addition, Ms. Rider is a statewide trainer for the ODR supported Dispute Resolution Skills Training. Prior to this position, Ms. Rider spent seven years as a Specialist with ODR’s Special Education ConsultLine, assisting parents and advocates of children with disabilities in understanding federal and state special education laws and procedural safeguards. Before coming to ODR, Ms. Rider spent four years as Program Facilitator for the Preparation for Adult Life (PAL) Project, a Statewide Support Initiative of the Bureau of Special Education. Prior to this, Ms. Rider served in varying capacities within the Capital Area Intermediate Unit, Special Services Division, and Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN). Ms. Rider is a graduate of Eastern University. Ms. Rider received certification in Applied Behavior Analysis, and holds certification in Advanced Special Education Mediation and Conflict Resolution Skills from the Justice Center of Atlanta, and Alternative Dispute Resolution training from Crossing Alligator River Training Series.