GRIEVANCES                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 3.32

The superintendent will develop procedures to allow employees and students to attempt to resolve grievances.  Grievance matters under this policy are limited to employee or student/parent complaints that are based on alleged violations of board policy or alleged violations of laws directly affecting the rights of the complaining party. The normal procedure to be followed by each parent, student or employee is to discuss the matter with the teacher, school principal or supervisor directly in charge.  Procedures will embody the following objectives:

• Require all parties to attempt first informal resolution of differences before filing a formal written grievance;

Exclude issues covered by the tenure, fair dismissal or contract principal laws or any other matters for which more specific procedures are available that are more precisely tailored to the grievant's complaint;      

• Require timely filing of complaints;

If the problem remains unresolved the complainant may, within five (5) working days after the meeting with the superintendent, request in writing a full hearing before the Covington County Board of Education.

Upon receipt of request for a hearing, the Covington County Board of Education with whom the request is filed, shall set the time and place for the hearing, which time shall not be less than five (5) working days or more than fifteen (15) working days.  The Covington County Board of Education shall give notice of the time and place of such hearing to all interested parties.  Said hearing date may be reset by mutual agreement of both parties.

Encourage prompt resolution at the lowest level possible;

All parties shall have the right to legal counsel at personal expense, to present witnesses and documentary evidence, and to cross-examine witnesses offered by other parties.

All parties shall be given the opportunities to present (reasonable) oral argument and to file written briefs.  All written briefs must be presented to all parties concerned.

The Covington County Board of Education, before whom such hearing is held, shall, within a reasonable time, render in writing a decision.

• Permit the superintendent and/or his or her designee to investigate all claims as appropriate; and
• Allow review by the board.