When a student believes that a situation exists that violates student rights, College policies, rules, standards, or procedures, the student has the right to initiate the grievance process.
The grievance process takes place between the student and faculty or administrator responsible for the area. This process will be conducted in a prompt and fair manner without fear of retribution. Some departments have developed a process based on federal or state guidelines. Student should contact the appropriate person to initiate the grievance process.
Students should contact the appropriate person to initiate the grievance process:
Academic Concerns
Faculty
Academic Suspension
Registrar
Americans with Disabilities Act
Accommodations Specialist
FERPA
Registrar
Graduation Requirements
Registrar
Student Conduct (classroom)
Faculty
Student Conduct (outside of class)
Dean of Student Success
Others Not Listed
Vice President of Academic Services
In cases of sexual harassment or discrimination, a student should work with the Title IX Coordinator to understand and initiate the formal process. In cases of student employment issues, a student should contact the Office of Human Resources. For concerns about tuition refunds, a student should contact the Business Office.
In cases of student academic dishonesty (Board Policy 4.15.3) or academic suspension, Richland has the right to bypass the grievance process.
A student has the option of working with a Student Advocate in either the grievance or appeal process. A Student Advocate is a Richland employee who serves as a neutral party to support students as they prepare for an Appeal Hearing or Special Committee Hearing.
Steps of the grievance process
Contact the faculty or staff member involved to resolve the matter within thirty (30) school days of the end of the course. The student may present relevant documents or other information in the discussion. If resolved with faculty, no further steps are necessary. If the issue is not resolved, proceed to step
Meet with the Program Director, Dean, or other appropriate administrator responsible for the area to resolve the matter. At this stage, the student should already have met with the faculty or staff. Take any documentation from step 1 to this meeting. If the issue is resolved, proceed to step 3. If the issue is not resolved, proceed to step 4.
If resolution of the grievance or disciplinary charge is reached, the Dean or Director will send an e‐mail documenting the components of the resolution to the student’s Richland e‐mail address. The student is encouraged to acknowledge receipt of the information. The resolution will be maintained by the Dean or Director of the area.
If a resolution is not reached after step 2, the student may meet with the Vice President over the area and present documentation from previous meetings. If the issue is resolved, the Vice President will send an e‐mail documenting the components of the resolution to the student’s Richland e‐mail address and to the Dean or other appropriate administrator. If the grievance is not resolved, go to step 5.
If a student grievance or disciplinary problem cannot be resolved through this process, the student may consider an appeal and follow the Student Appeal Process