Student Complaint and Grievance Policy

Purpose

To provide students with an avenue to seek remedy for a complaint or grievance.

Definitions

Appeal of a Grievance Decision

A written request for reconsideration of a grievance decision under the Student Complaint and Grievance Policy.

Complaint

A written claim made by a student using the college’s Student Complaint and Grievance Form, alleging improper, unfair, or arbitrary treatment or action taken by a college employee or student.

Business Day

Business days do not include Saturday, Sunday, other days when the college is closed, and official breaks between semesters and summer session(s).

Grievance

If a student determines a complaint is not satisfactorily resolved and the complaint alleges improper, unfair or arbitrary action by an employee involving the application of a specific provision of a college or system policy or procedure, a student may file what is considered a grievance.

Student

An individual who is enrolled at the college.

Policy

In accordance with Minnesota State system Board Policy 3.8 Student Complaints and Grievances, a student has the right to seek remedy for a dispute or disagreement through the College’s Student Complaint and Grievance Policy and Procedures. This policy and related procedures shall not:

• Substitute for other complaint or grievance policies or procedures specified in college or Minnesota State system policies or procedures, regulations or negotiated agreements.
• Apply to academic grade disputes. Grade appeals shall be handled under the Grade Appeal Policy and Procedure.
• Apply to alleged violations of the student conduct code. Those shall be handled under the Student Code of Conduct Policy and Procedure.
• Apply to the Minnesota State system Board Policy 1.B.1 Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination in Employment and Education. Allegations of discrimination and/or harassment shall be handled under the 1.B.1. Policy and Procedure.
• Apply to the Minnesota State system Board Policy 1.B.3 Sexual Violence Policy. Allegations of sexual violence shall be handled under the 1.B.3. Policy and Procedure.

Responsibility

Vice President of Student Affairs

Ensure the policy is implemented.

Dean of Students

Ensure the complaint or grievance is assigned to the appropriate College Designee.

College Designee

Work with students to help them resolve their complaint or grievance.

Associated Policies and Procedures

Minnesota State system Board Policy 3.8 Student Complaints and Grievances

Minnesota State system Procedure 3.8.1. Student Complaints and Grievances