Resolving Concerns: Uniform Complaint Procedures at Sonora Elementary School District

Sonora Elementary School District is committed to ensuring that all individuals have equal access to educational programs and services. As part of this commitment, the district has established uniform complaint procedures to address allegations of unlawful discrimination, harassment, or other violations of applicable laws and policies.

Purpose

The purpose of the Uniform Complaint Procedures is to provide a fair and impartial process for resolving complaints filed by students, parents, employees, and members of the public. These procedures apply to complaints regarding:

• Discrimination or harassment based on actual or perceived characteristics, such as race, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or any other protected category.
• Denial of access to educational programs, activities, or services on the basis of a protected characteristic.
• Failure to comply with state and federal laws and regulations relating to student programs and services.

Filing a Complaint

Any individual who believes they have been subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or a violation of their rights may file a complaint with the district. Complaints should be submitted as soon as possible, but no later than six months from the date of the alleged incident or violation. Complaints can be filed using the district’s official complaint form, which is available at each school site and the district office.

Complaints should include the following information, if known:

1. The complainant’s name, contact information, and relationship to the district (e.g., student, parent, employee).
2. The name(s) of the individual(s) responsible for the alleged violation, if known.
3. A detailed description of the incident or violation, including relevant dates, locations, and any supporting documentation or evidence.
4. Any steps taken to resolve the issue informally, if applicable.
5. The desired resolution or outcome sought by the complainant.

Investigation and Resolution

Upon receiving a complaint, the district will initiate an impartial investigation. The district’s designated compliance officer will be responsible for overseeing the investigation process. The investigation will be conducted in a timely manner and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

During the investigation, the district may interview relevant individuals, review relevant documents, and gather other evidence as necessary. The complainant and the individual(s) accused of the violation will have an opportunity to provide their respective accounts of the incident. Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible, consistent with the district’s legal obligations and the necessity to conduct a thorough investigation.

Once the investigation is complete, the district will issue a written decision that includes findings of fact and conclusions. If the complaint is substantiated, appropriate corrective actions will be taken to address the violation and prevent future occurrences. The district will also provide the complainant with information regarding their right to appeal the decision, if applicable.

Non-Retaliation

Sonora Elementary School District strictly prohibits any form of retaliation against individuals who file complaints or participate in the complaint resolution process. Retaliation is a violation of district policy and may result in disciplinary action.

Contact Information

If you have a complaint or need further information about the Uniform Complaint Procedures, please contact:

Cheryl Griffiths
Superintendent
830 Greenley Road, Sonora, CA 95370
(209) 532-5491
cgriffiths@sesk12.org

You may also contact the California Department of Education or the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) if you believe the district has not appropriately addressed your complaint. The contact information for these agencies is as follows:

California Department of Education

1430 N Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 319-0800

Office for Civil Rights
U.S. Department of Education
Lyndon Baines Johnson Department of Education Bldg
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-1100
(800) 421-3481
OCR@ed.gov

Sonora Elementary School District is committed to addressing complaints promptly and equitably to ensure the rights and well-being of all members of our school community. We encourage open communication and collaboration to foster a safe and inclusive educational environment.