401.4 - Employee Complaints

Complaints of employees against fellow employees should be discussed directly between employees as appropriate for the nature of the complaint.  Complaints should be made in a constructive and professional manner.  Complaints should generally not be made in the presence of other employees, students or outside persons.

If the complaint cannot be resolved, the employee may discuss the matter with their immediate supervisor.  If the matter cannot be resolved within 10 days of speaking with the immediate supervisor, the employee may discuss it with the principal within 5 days of the supervisor's decision.  If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the employee may discuss it with the superintendent within 5 days after speaking with the principal.

If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved by the superintendent, the employee may ask to have the matter placed on the board agenda of a regularly scheduled board meeting in compliance with board policy.  The board retains discretion as to whether to consider or take action on any complaint.

This policy is designed to create an appropriate process for pursuing general employee complaints.  However, employees wishing to address a complaint on a topic with a more specialized procedure such as master contract grievances, or bullying or harassment claims should follow the appropriate process set forth in the master contract, employee handbook or other board policies specific to that topic.

If necessary, complaints will be brought directly to the immediate supervisor, principal or superintendent and will be made in a constructive and professional manner. Complaints will never be made in the presence of other employees, students or outside persons.

A formal grievance procedure is contained in the Master Contract between the employee’s licensed bargaining unit and the Board. This policy will not apply to a complaint that has been or could be filed at the employee’s discretion under that formal grievance procedure.

 

 

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 20; 279.8

Cross Reference:
307 Communication Channels

Approved: 11-14-21
Reviewed: 08-15-22
Revised: ______