QUICKGUIDE: Filing Complaints

Unfair treatment based on race, gender, religion, or disability

Civil Rights Violations occur when a student is harassed or discriminated on the basis of the following:

  • age
  • sexuality or gender
  • racial or ethnic background
  • emotional or physical disablity
  • eligiblity for special education services
The law also includes provisions for discrimination regarding teenage pregnancy. If you suspect a violation of a student’s civil rights has occurred, a complaint should be filed.

Complaints to the Intermediate School District or Office for Civil Rights

The Intermediate School District (ISD) is the starting point in which to file a formal complaint. The ISD handles complaints regarding procedural problems, the actions of teachers or school officials, and general grievances. Sample ISD Complaint Letter

If the concern is of great seriousness, a complaint should also be filed with The Office for Civil Rights (OCR). The OCR is a federal governmental office that investigates complaints including Civil Rights violations, non-compliance with special education law and other federal legislation, and serious charges regarding inappropriate behavior by school personnel. Sample OCR Complaint Letter

General Information & Tips Regarding the Complaint Process

  1. The U.S. Department of Education oversees each individual state’s public education systems, and houses the federal Office for Civil Rights. The federal office seldom takes cases, however the complaint process is an essential step to the process of advocating for a child’s rights, and to pressure the school into taking action.
  2. Complaints can also be filed with the Michigan Department of Education, the state Office for Civil Rights, the state Office of Special Education.
  3. All formal complaints should be followed up by an additional letter one month after the initial complaint.

Sample Follow-Up Letter to ISD Complaint
Sample Follow-Up Letter to the OCR

For more information about the Office of Civil Rights or American Civil Liberities Union with Legal and Organizational Resources

 

 

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Ypsilanti, MI 48197