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Conflict Resolution

Best practices for reporting concerns at school

During the school year, various issues or concerns may arise for families, students or third parties relating to different aspects of school. It is best practice to attempt to resolve issues at the school level first, beginning with the classroom teacher. Below is the order in which issues may be escalated (including for special education). 

Steps to Resolution

  1. The classroom teacher
    North Santiam School District believes that the best and most effective method for resolving conflicts is by starting with the classroom teacher first. 
  2. The Principal and/or School Administrator
    If contacting your teacher doesn't resolve the issue, it is recommended that families contact their principal or school administrator next. 
  3. The Program Director
    If reaching out to your classroom teacher and the school administrator does not resolve the issue, it is advisable to contact the program director next. For instance, if your student is in special education and you have already communicated with the classroom teacher and building administration, your next step should be to reach out to the Director of Special Programs. You can find a list of program directors on the Leadership Page. 
  4. The Superintendent
    If your issue is not resolved by working with the Program Director, you can contact the Superintendent, listed on the Leadership Webpage. 
  5. File a Complaint with NSSD
    You may also file a complaint directly with the District using the Complaint Form. More information below. 

Resources & Special Considerations

Special Education concerns

Concerns about special education services may also be addressed first by contacting the student's case manager and to Coordinator of Special Programs, found on the Student Services webpage.

Discrimination complaints

Any NSSD employee, student, parent, community member, concerned citizen, or other individual may file a complaint of discrimination. 

Complaint Form

North Santiam School District recommends the escalation of complaints as shown on this page under "Best practices for reporting concerns at school." The District also offers the use of the Complaint Form in order for community members to submit complaints. 

NSSD Online
Complaint Form

How are complaints handled by North Santiam School District? 

As a part of the complaint process, the assigned investigator– typically a school or district administrator– will interview all parties involved to gather information about the incident and, when possible, work towards a resolution. After completing their fact-finding, the investigator will issue a written response detailing their findings. Unless specified otherwise, a final decision will be communicated within 30 working days from the date of the initial complaint. 

Complaints can be submitted at any time using the Complaint Form, or by contacting the Civil Rights Coordinator at (503) 769-3059. For complaints related to sexual harassment or discrimination, you may also reach out to the Title IX Director at (503) 769-3059. 

Types of Complaints