AF Amistad High School Family Handbook 2017-2018 | 89 At the time the alleged discrimination complaint is filed, the Coordinator shall review and explain the grievance procedures with the complainant and answer any questions. An investigation of the complaint shall begin as soon as practical, but in no case, more than ten (10) school days from the time the complaint was received. Within this time limit, the Coordinator shall meet separately with the complainant and the individual(s) against whom the complaint was lodged. The Coordinator and/or his or her designee shall conduct a prompt, adequate, reliable, and impartial investigation of the complaint. The Coordinator shall provide confidential counseling where advisable and shall seek an informal agreement between the parties concerned, where appropriate. Every attempt shall be made to seek a solution and resolve the alleged discrimination complaint at this level. It is important to note, however, that the informal process can be ended, by the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint was lodged or by the Coordinator, at any time in order to begin a formal stage of the complaint process. If the complainant is not satisfied with these initial informal procedures, within twenty (20) school days from the date of the original discussion with the Coordinator, more formal procedures may be initiated by the complainant to further explore and resolve the problem. Formal Procedure 1. Level One –School Principal: If a complainant is not satisfied with the disposition of the problem through informal procedures, he/she may seek review of his/her claim as a formal grievance or appeal in writing to the Principal. Level One Grievances shall be submitted to the School Services Manager (SSM) on the Parent Grievance Process Form (“Grievance Form”) or by letter, who will then forward the Grievance to the Principal. The SSM is responsible for monitoring the implementation and documentation of the complaint system.2 The Principal shall reply in writing within three (3) school days acknowledging receipt of the Grievance to the complainant and the individual(s) against whom the complaint was lodged. The Principal shall review the Coordinator’s investigation and information submitted by the complainant and may conduct additional investigation as necessary. Within ten (10) school days the Principal will render a decision and the reasons therefore in writing to the complainant and the person who allegedly discriminated against the complainant, with a copy to the Regional Superintendent. 2. Level Two – Regional Superintendent Hearing: If the complainant or the person alleged to have discriminated against the complainant, if applicable, is not satisfied with the disposition of the grievance at Level One, or if no decision has been rendered within 2 The SSM will put a copy of the complaint form and the principal’s response in the student’s file, and the SSM will also ensure that a summary of the complaint and resolution is logged in the school’s student information system. The SSM will also copy the Coordinator and the DSO as appropriate.