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In accordance with MnSCU Board Policy 3.8, a student has the right to seek remedy of a complaint or grievance through an established procedure. The Complaints and Grievance Procedure is not a substitute for the Student Conduct Code, the Non-Discrimination/Harassment Policy, or grade appeals. No retaliation of any kind shall be taken against a person who participates in a complaint or grievance.
Complaint and Grievance Definitions
- Complaint – An allegation of improper, unfair, or arbitrary treatment by an employee. A complaint may be submitted verbally. However, for purposes of appropriate follow-up, it is recommended that the complaint be submitted in writing.
- Grievance – An unresolved complaint may become a grievance if the complaint involves the application of a College policy or procedure.
Complaint Procedure
Step 1. The first step should always be to try to resolve concerns directly and informally with the person(s) involved. Oftentimes, talking directly with the person(s) involved helps to clarify the issues and reveal the resolution.
Step 2. If there is no resolution during Step 1, a complaint may be filed with the employee’s direct supervisor. The supervisor will review the facts of the complaint with the complainant, the employee, and others as deemed appropriate, and communicate a response to all parties.
Grievance Procedure
If there is no resolution in Step 2 and the complaint involves the application of a College policy or procedure, a written grievance may be filed. The written grievance must include the nature of the grievance, the facts on which it is based, the alleged violation and the resolution requested. An unresolved complaint/grievance may be appealed through three levels:
a. First, to the administrator to whom the employee reports.
b. Next, for matters pertaining to academics or student affairs to the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs, OR for matters pertaining to finance or facilities to the Chief Fiscal Officer.
c. Finally, to the President. The decision of the President is final and binding. (If the grievance involves a MnSCU policy, the student may further appeal to the Chancellor. The decision of the Chancellor is final and binding.)
NOTE: Appeals will not be considered at the next progressive level until/unless the appeal has received full consideration at the most direct/immediate level.
Grievance and Appeal Time Frames
The grievance, College response and any subsequent appeals/response are required to be in writing and follow the time frames below:
- A grievance must be submitted within 20 business days after the initial event giving rise to the grievance. Although the College may extend this time frame, it is not obligated to do so. Lack of awareness of posted policies, procedures or deadlines is not considered a reason for a complaint or grievance.
- All subsequent steps (response or appeal) must be conducted within a 10-business day time frame. This time frame may be extended upon mutual agreement.
- If the College fails to provide a response within 10 business days, the complainant may proceed to the next level. If the complainant fails to appeal within 10 business days, the grievance shall be considered resolved.
Assistance with Complaints and Grievances (optional)
Although a complaint or grievance may be filed without assistance, the College provides services to students and employees seeking resolution of a student complaint or grievance. The principal aim of these services is to help clarify the complaint and grievance procedure, provide referral assistance in filing a complaint or grievance, and provide resolution tips and strategies to both parties. Such assistance may be obtained from employees serving as Ombudpersons:
- Jim Borer, Associate Dean of Student Success Programs, LRC 155, 763-424-0736
- Karen Kraft, Dean of Student Affairs, ES 45, 763-424-0712
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