(a) The department shall, by regulation, establish and implement a voluntary mediation process in conformance with the requirements of federal law, including 34 C.F.R. 300.506. The department shall encourage the use of mediation for settlement of disputes under AS 14.30.180 — 14.30.350.
(b) The department shall (1) maintain a list of individuals who are qualified mediators knowledgeable in the federal and state statutes and regulations relating to the provision of special education and related services; and
(2) provide for qualification of mediators through a training program that is open to all individuals who meet the criteria set by the department by regulation.