The Appeals and Grievances policy outlines how students are informed of established complaint, appeal and grievance procedures, as well as information of where appeals may be submitted.

The process to resolve complaints is outlined in the Resolving Complaints – Appeals and Grievances Process (3320-2-01). A step-by-step process is outlined for reference. The first step to resolution of a complaint is an informal discussion between the student complainant and a faculty or staff member to explain resolution options. If a resolution is not achieved through informal discussion, the student complainant should fill out the Student Concern Form. Filling out the Student Concern Form allows the faculty or staff member to discuss the issues with others without committing to a formal appeal or grievance procedure.

If the complaint is not resolved to satisfaction, the student submits the Student Concern Form, with supporting documentation to the Vice President of Academic Affairs. The subsequent steps for resolution are outlined in the Resolving Complaints – Appeals and Grievances Process and include further investigation by the Vice President for Academic Affairs and may include moving the complaint to the Appeals and Grievance Committee. An log student complaints is maintained by Academic Affairs according to the Record of Student Complaints policy.

Definitions and Additional Explanation

Complaint: An oral claim by a student alleging improper, unfair or arbitrary discriminatory treatment. A student may complete a written ‘Student Concern Form‘ to allow the faculty member to discuss the issues with others without committing to a formal appeal or grievance procedure.

Appeal: A request for reconsideration of the application of a college policy or procedure. Student are encouraged to work with the Records Office in the One Stop for help in identifying the appropriate form and receiving information on process and timelines. More information in the Appeals and Grievances policy. For specific information about grade appeals, see policy 3320-1-02 Grade Appeals.

Grievance: A written claim raised by a student, alleging improper, unfair, arbitrary or discriminatory action by an employee involving the application of a specific provision of a college rule or regulation.