Issue link: http://denverseminary.uberflip.com/i/662200
2015-2016 Student Handbook 47 Student Grievance Process The student grievance process is intended to provide procedures for the resolution of disputes between students, as well as procedures for handling complaints alleging inappropriate application of any written rules or policies upon a student. Students who wish to file a formal grievance should use the following procedures. These procedures are not intended to create a contract; rather their purpose is to establish a process. The Seminary reserves the right to alter or change these procedures as it deems appropriate while preserving due process and the integrity of the case. All student grievances should be typed and submitted with all relevant materials attached. All grievances will be addressed in a reasonable timely manner. Informal Grievance Resolution Students have the option of seeking an informal resolution to concerns that arise. An informal resolution consists of communicating with the other party about the concern in question and attempting to resolve the matter without formal intervention on behalf of the Seminary. Students are not obligated to attempt an informal resolution before filing a formal grievance and should only proceed with an informal resolution if he/she feels safe doing so. Students engaging grievances through an informal process are encouraged to keep documented records, including a detailed summary of the situation along with dates and times of communications and outcomes. A student may decide to escalate the matter at any time to the formal grievance process by notifying the Dean of Students. Subsequently, one of the following two procedures will be applied: Formal Grievance Resolution – Involving a Faculty Member: 1. Students who wish to file a grievance against a faculty member must submit a typed written complaint with any additional pertinent supporting material to the Provost/Academic Dean. 2. The Provost/Academic Dean will review the submitted material as quickly as is reasonably possible and, depending on the nature and seriousness of the grievance, may choose to adjudicate the matter himself/herself or submit it to the Faculty Concerns Committee (FCC). After being reviewed, a decision will be rendered and the student will be notified. Note: the FCC does not meet during the summer or intersession. 3. If the student wishes to appeal the decision of the Provost/Academic Dean or FCC, he/she may do so by submitting a typed written letter of appeal to the Provost's Office within three (3) business days of being notified of the original decision requesting a review by the Administrative Committee of the Seminary. In the appeal the student should articulate the reason why he/she believes the decision should be readdressed based upon the following criteria: 1) Substantive errors in due process; 2) Presentation of new evidence/information that was not in the original submission and/or; 3) Other outstanding factors. 4. The Administrative Committee will review the appeal at their next meeting and make a final ruling on the matter. The student will be notified accordingly within the next 1-2 business days. Formal Grievance Resolution – Involving Staff or Another Student: 1. Students who wish to file a grievance against a staff member or fellow student must submit a typed written complaint with any additional pertinent supporting material to the Dean of Students.