Student Grievance Policy and Procedure

This procedure outlines the steps that students can take to raise and resolve grievances related to their academic experience, including issues with teaching, administrative services, or interactions with faculty and staff.

This procedure applies to all students enrolled in any program at Olivet Theological Seminary. It covers grievances related to:

• Academic issues (e.g., grades, teaching quality, course content)
• Administrative services (e.g., registration, facilities)
• Discrimination or harassment
• Any other matter affecting the student's education

Step 1: Address the Issue Directly

• Students are encouraged to first attempt to resolve the issue informally by discussing it directly with the person or department involved.
• This could involve a meeting with the instructor, course coordinator, or relevant staff member to seek a mutually satisfactory resolution.

Step 2: Seek Mediation

• If the issue is not resolved, the student may request mediation through a designated student support officer or counselor.
• Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party assists in resolving the issue.

Step 3: Submit a Written Grievance

• If informal resolution is unsuccessful, the student may file a formal grievance.
• The grievance should be submitted in writing to the Student Support Officer within 30 days of the incident.
• The written complaint should include:
  • A detailed description of the issue
  • Steps taken to resolve it informally
  • The outcome the student is seeking

Step 4: Acknowledgment and Investigation

• Upon receipt, the grievance will be acknowledged within 5 working days.
• The Student Support Officer will conduct an impartial investigation, which may include interviews with the student, faculty, and other relevant parties.
• The investigation will be completed within 10 working days.

Step 5: Decision and Notification

• The Grievance Committee will review the findings and make a decision.
• The student will be notified of the decision in writing within 5 working days of the investigation’s completion.
• The decision will include any actions to be taken or changes to be made.

Step 6: Submit an Appeal

• If the student is dissatisfied with the decision, they may appeal in writing to the Student Support Officer within 10 working days of receiving the decision.
• The appeal must clearly state the grounds for appeal, such as new evidence or procedural errors.

Step 7: Review of Appeal

• The Appeals Committee will review the appeal and any additional information provided.
• A decision on the appeal will be made within 10 working days and will be final.

Step 8: Final Outcome

• The student will be notified in writing of the final decision.
• If the student remains dissatisfied, the policies and procedures of the Sydney College of Divinity will apply thereafter and as stated in the document entitled STUDENT GRIEVANCE POLICY AND PROCEDURES

•  All grievance proceedings will be conducted confidentially.
• Records of grievances, investigations, and outcomes will be maintained securely for a minimum of 5 years.

OTS adheres to the SCD Grievance Policy and Procedures (see below).