502.4 Student Complaints and Grievances

Creating an environment where students feel comfortable addressing their concerns in a meaningful manner is vital to the learning process.  It is the goal of the board to resolve student complaints at the lowest organizational level.  Student complaints and grievances regarding board policy, administrative regulations, or other matters should first be addressed to the student's teacher or another licensed employee, other than the administration, for resolution of the complaint. 
 
If the complaint cannot be resolved by a student’s teacher or other licensed employee, the student may discuss the matter with the principal within 7 days of the employee's decision.  If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within 7 days after speaking with the principal.
 
If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved by the superintendent, the student may ask to have the matter placed on the board agenda of a regularly scheduled board meeting in compliance with board policy. The board retains discretion as to whether to consider or take action on any complaint.
 
NOTE:  There should be reasonable limits on the number of days a student has to pursue a complaint.  Cross reference with the number of days listed in policy 401.4 for consistency. 
  
 
 
Legal Reference:         Iowa Code § 279.8
 
Cross Reference:         210.8    Board Meeting Agenda
                                    213      Public Participation in Board Meetings
                                    502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                    504.3    Student Publications
 
 
Approved 2-18-03            Reviewed 03-12-18  2-21-19. 1/19/22    Revised 1/19/22