General Grievances
Students may file a grievance in they have a reasonable belief that a decision or action has adversely affected their status, rights, or privileges as a student.
College of the Redwoods Grievance Procedure follows a 2-step approach
- Informal Resolution Process
- Formal Grievance Process & Hearing
How to Report:
You can also request support with filing a grievance or requesting a hearing here
Informal Resolution
A student must make a reasonable, good faith attempt to resolve the matter through the informal grievance process before the formal process can be requested. At any point during the informal grievance process level, a student may also informally and orally present the complaint to the Grievance Officer.
- The student should discuss the problem directly with the person involved or see the grievance officer for assistance in problem resolution within sixty (60) instructional days from the date the student became aware of the problem/or the alleged act. Failure of the student to act within the above specified sixty (60) day period shall constitute a waiver of the right to pursue the matter further.
- If the problem cannot be resolved at the first step, the student shall discuss the problem with the immediate supervisor of the person against whom the complaint is directed. The immediate supervisor shall make every effort to resolve the problem with the student and the person being grieved. The supervisor will provide their decision in writing to the student.
- If the problem cannot be resolved at the second step, the student shall discuss the grievance with the next-level administrator within ten (10) working days from receiving a decision from the immediate supervisor.
If you need help identifying the correct supervisor or administrator please contact Stephanie Freyermuth at 707-476-4146 or stephanie-freyermuth@redwoods.edu
Formal Resolution and Hearing
If the complaint cannot be resolved at the informal level, the student may then initiate a Formal Grievance Process by requesting a hearing.
- First Step The student must deliver a "Statement of Complaint" and a "Request for Hearing" Form within 10 business days of receiving the written decision rendered by the area supervisor
- The Grievance Officer will review the complaint, the supervisor's decision to see if there are sufficient grounds for a hearing.
- If the Request for Grievance Hearing satisfies each of the requirements outlined in AP 5530, the College Grievance Officer shall schedule a grievance hearing.
- A hearing will be held to determine the validity of the complaint and what remedy, action, or decision is necessary. For more information on the hearing process, click here.