Grievance Policy
1. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to provide a clear and fair process for addressing grievances or complaints related to the operations of Al Andalus Institute of Pittsburgh. This ensures that issues are handled promptly, transparently, and with respect.
2. Scope This policy applies to all students, parents, staff, and any other individuals associated with the institute who may have grievances regarding academic, administrative, or operational matters.
3. Definition of Grievance A grievance is a formal complaint about any aspect of the institute’s policies, practices, or procedures that the individual believes is unfair or unjust.
4. Procedure
a. Informal Resolution
- Initial Discussion: Individuals are encouraged to address their concerns informally with the person involved (e.g., a teacher, administrator). This often resolves the issue promptly.
- Mediation: If informal discussion does not resolve the grievance, mediation may be sought through the school’s principal.
b. Formal Grievance
- Submission: If informal resolution fails, a formal written grievance should be submitted to the Principal. The grievance must include the nature of the complaint, relevant facts, and the desired outcome.
- Acknowledgment: The Principal will acknowledge receipt of the grievance within 2-5 business days.
- Investigation: The Principal or a designated admin will review the grievance, which may involve interviewing relevant parties and reviewing documents.
- Resolution: A decision will be made and communicated to the individual who filed the grievance within 2-5 business days of receiving the complaint. The resolution may include corrective actions, if necessary.
- Appeal: If the individual is not satisfied with the resolution, they may submit an appeal to the President of the Board of Directors. The appeal must be made in writing within 5 business days of receiving the Principal’s decision.
c. Board President Review
- Receipt of Appeal: The President of the Board of Directors will acknowledge receipt of the appeal within 5-10 business days.
- Review: The President will review the grievance, the Principal’s resolution, and any additional information provided by the complainant. This review may involve consultations with Board Members and/or relevant parties.
- Decision: The President will make a final decision regarding the grievance and communicate it to the Principal. The Principal will communicate the final decision with the individual who filed the appeal and copy the President.
- Documentation: The President will ensure that all documentation related to the grievance and its resolution is filed and maintained in accordance with the institute’s record-keeping policies.
5. Confidentiality All grievances and their investigations will be handled with the utmost confidentiality to protect the privacy of all parties involved.
6. Retaliation Retaliation against any individual for filing a grievance or participating in the grievance process is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.
7. Record Keeping All records related to grievances will be kept confidential and maintained by the Principal for 3 years.
8. Review This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.