Complaints and matters of concern

Any general complaint involving a particular school shall be handled at the school level through the established channel of responsibility. If the complaint cannot be resolved by the principal, it shall be referred to the appropriate central office administrator. If the central office staff and complainant cannot reach a satisfactory solution, the matter may be referred to the superintendent. (OCPS Policy KL 6/09) In accordance with selected School Board policies and regulations, some matters may be referred to the School Board. In accordance with Virginia Code and School Board Policy, the School Board chairman shall determine if such matters shall be heard during closed session or during the regular open session. (OCPS Policy BDDH 7/08; OCPS Policy KD 7/08)

Any parent or guardian of a student enrolled in the Orange County Public Schools or any resident of Orange County may also file a specific complaint regarding an employee of the Orange County Public Schools. Such complaint will be filed with the school principal or the Human Resources Officer as the superintendents’ designee. Individuals lodging a complaint will be sent a letter noting that the complaint has been received and is in the process of being investigated. The complaint must be filed within 30 days after the alleged incident and should be processed after a reasonable period of time, normally within 60 days or less. (OCPS Policy GBLA 7/08)

If the complaint involves allegations that an employee of the Orange County Public Schools has abused or neglected a child in the course of his educational employment, the complaint will be investigated in accordance with Va.. Code §§ 63.2-1509 and 63.2-1511. (OCPS Policy JHG 7/08; OCPS Policy JHG-R 11/09)

General matters of public interest

Any citizen may address the School Board concerning matters at any regular School Board meeting. Persons wishing to appear before the School Board are requested to contact the superintendent or the School Board chairman for placement on the agenda.

The chairman is responsible for the orderly conduct of the meeting and shall rule on such matters as the appropriateness of the subject being presented and length of time for such presentation. No one will be allowed to make additional presentations until everyone has an opportunity to make an initial presentation.

A reasonable period of time, as determined by the School Board, will be allocated by the Chairman at each regular meeting for citizens to present matters of concern. (OCPS Policy BDDH 7/08; OCPS Policy KD 7/08)