Section 226.630  Qualifications, Training, and Service of Impartial Due Process Hearing Officers

a)         Impartial due process hearing officers must possess qualifications in conformance with the requirements of 34 CFR 300.511 and Section 14-8.02c(b) of the School Code [105 ILCS 5/14-8.02c(b)].  "Relevant experience", as used in Section 14-8.02c(b) of the School Code, means at least three years' experience, whether paid or voluntary, in special education, disability-related issues, or advocacy.

b)         An individual wishing to be considered as an impartial due process hearing officer shall submit an application to the State Board.  In completing the application form, which shall be provided by the State Board, the individual shall disclose at least the following information:

1)         name and address;

2)         degrees held;

3)         current employment status, including, if applicable, the employer's name and the title of the employee's position;

4)         school district of residence; and

5)         professional background and relevant experience.

c)    Conditions of Service

Hearing officers' terms of service and subsequent reappointment shall be as provided in Section 14-8.02c(d) and (e) of the School Code.

1)         A hearing officer shall accept each case to which he or she is assigned, unless:

A)        the hearing officer is ill;

B)        the hearing officer has a personal, professional, or financial interest that would conflict with his or her objectivity with respect to a particular case; or

C)        the hearing officer is ineligible to accept a particular case pursuant to Section 226.635(a) of this Part.

2)         A hearing officer whose other commitments will interfere with his or her ability to accept cases for more than 15 days shall so notify the State Board of Education in writing.

(Source:  Amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 9915, effective June 28, 2007)