The complex needs of students receiving special education services often place strain on the relationships between families and school teams—especially in high-conflict situations. This session will explore how to strengthen trust, restore communication, and build collaborative partnerships even in the most challenging circumstances. Participants will learn actionable strategies rooted in a relationship-centered approach that fosters shared understanding, even during tense IEP meetings or emotionally charged conversations. Topics will include a practical framework for partnership-building, communication strategies tailored to IEP settings, and repair work after conflict occurs.