**JII - STUDENT COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES** **Last Updated Date:** 05/27/2014 **Adoption Date:** 01/10/2006 **Revision History:** 11/18/2014 **Related Policies:** [JIC](https://www.southhadleyschools.org/site/default.aspx?PageType=2&PageModuleInstanceID=16130&ViewID=1c43854f-5875-4d47-be5f-0e18028c22cb&FlexDataID=21397) The School Committee recognizes that there may be conditions in the school system that are in need of improvement and that students should have some means by which their concerns may be effectively expressed, considered, and dealt with fairly.  Such means, if well conceived and understood in advance, can do much to maintain harmonious relationships among the schools and the students and community. The traditional "open door" policy in the public school system will be continued.  Students--and their parents and/or guardians--who believe that a student has received unfair treatment may bring forward their grievance.  Appeals of individual disciplinary cases will be required to follow the district’s policy on student discipline. Any applicable provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws or federal law will be followed by school officials in conducting hearings and reviews of student grievances.  In general, procedures will begin with the authority imposing the penalty (for example, principal or teacher) and may ultimately be referred to the superintendent and on to the School Committee if a policy needs to be approved or changed. Every attempt will be made to seek a satisfactory solution to any legitimate grievance in a friendly and informal manner.