Expressing Concerns
Overview:
Concerns should be expressed as soon as possible to allow early resolution at the lowest possible administrative level. The District believes it is typically in the best interest of everyone involved to informally resolve concerns, if possible. Before filing a grievance, and pursuant to Board Policy, the District strongly encourages each individual to attempt to resolve his or her concerns with the appropriate teacher, principal, or other campus/district administrator who has the authority to address the concerns. Please keep in mind that any applicable timelines for filing a grievance are not affected by an attempt at informal resolution. Complaints that are not timely filed will be dismissed as untimely.
If any RISD stakeholder would like to share a concern, we encourage you to reach out to the appropriate RISD employee for assistance. Some suggested guidelines:
Start by raising your concern with the school personnel closest to the issue. Often, talking with a teacher can help resolve the matter satisfactorily. You can find contact information on your campus webpage or by contacting your campus.
If speaking with the teacher or another campus staff member does not resolve your concern, please discuss the issue with the school principal. They are available to help and support you.
If your concern remains unresolved at the school level, please contact the appropriate central office team. You can use our Let’s Talk platform to get in touch with RISD employees in the central office.
If you wish to formally start a grievance, please follow the instructions according to Board Policy. Submit the Grievance/Complaint form to the Grievance Coordinator within 10 business days of the date of the incident forming the basis for the complaint.
We value your feedback and want to ensure that we address your concerns in a timely and effective manner.