Resolving Complaints & Concerns

The Guilford County Board of Education has a policy for handling complaints and grievances from students and parents. 

• A grievance is a formal written complaint by a student or parent that alleges a violation of a specific law or policy. 

• The Board encourages everyone to try to resolve grievances informally and at the most immediate administrative level. 

• If needed, there’s a formal process to resolve grievances. This process is private and confidential. 

• Students or parents involved in a grievance process can have a third party represent them. This person should act with courtesy and follow the rules for grievances. 

• No one will be retaliated against for participating in a grievance. 

This policy is for situations not covered by other board policies. If you’re not sure which policy applies to your concern, you should contact the principal or Superintendent or designee. They can help you understand the correct policies and procedures. 

For more details, see Board Policy 1740/4010 Student/Parent Complaints and Grievances. 

The grievance process is a positive way for parents, students, and school officials to improve relationships and communication. It’s a way to solve disputes in an orderly and fair way. Here’s how it works: 

• Step One: A student or parent can submit a written grievance within 15 days of the event that caused the grievance. The Deputy Superintendent will review it and decide if it meets the definition of a grievance. 

• Step Two: If the person who made the grievance isn’t happy with the response at Step One, they can request mediation within 5 days. The Deputy Superintendent can decide if mediation will help. 

• Step Three: If mediation doesn’t work, the person can appeal to the Deputy Superintendent within 5 days. The Superintendent or a chosen person will review all the information and make a final decision. 

• Step Four: If the person isn’t happy with the decision at Step Three, they can appeal to the Board within 5 days. 

During this process, everyone involved can have a representative. All meetings and hearings are private and confidential. The focus is on finding solutions, not punishing anyone. No one will be treated badly for using the grievance process. 

For more details, see Administrative Regulation 1740/4010-R Student Parent Grievance Process. 

If you are concerned that a specific law or policy has not been followed in GCS,

Use this form to send your complaint or concern to your school and their supervisor under "Schools"