Appeals & Complaints

Procedure and Due Process

This section provides information about fair treatment for each student involved in a grievance, discrimination complaint, or a discipline action not involving suspension or expulsion.  In order to ensure fair treatment, school rules must be consistent with MCPS Code of Conduct and published existing laws and regulations.  Countywide and local school discipline codes are published and made available to Parents/Caregivers, students and staff members.

Appeal of Decision made by School Staff

If a student has a problem or complaint, including complaints of discrimination, the student may meet with the principal or designee to seek an informal resolution or request in writing that the principal or designee formally review the complaint.  If the student chooses to meet with the principal or designee to seek an informal resolution, but is not satisfied with the informal process or the proposed resolution or if no resolution is reached within 15 school days of its presentation, the student may file a written request for a formal review of the complaint by the principal.  When the principal formally reviews a student’s complaint, the principal shall provide the student with the opportunity to present witnesses and evidence in support of the complaint.  The principal shall render a decision and respond in writing within 10 school days of receipt of the written complaint from the student.

Appeal of Decision made by the Principal

1. Submitting an appeal:  If the student/parent/caregiver is not satisfied with the decision of the principal/ designee, the student/ parent/caregiver may appeal the decision to the superintendent or designee in writing within ten school days of the principal’s written decision.  The appeal statement should include the following:

   1. A request for a review of the complaint and the decision of the principal

   2. All pertinent factual information 

   3. The remedy requested

2. Review of an Appeal:  The superintendent or designee reviews the issue and related information.

3. Within 10 school days of receipt of the appeal, the superintendent designee renders a decision and notifies in writing the student and principal.

Appeal of Decision made by the Superintendent

Students or Parents/Caregivers may initiate an appeal of the superintendent’s decision by contacting the Office of the Board of Education.