• ESSA Complaints Procedure 

    The ESSA programs for which an individual or entity may submit a complaint to the LEA or NYSED include:

    Title I, Part A: Grants to Local Educational Agencies

    Title I, Part C: Education of Migratory Children

    Title I, Part D: Prevention and Intervention Programs for Children and Youth Who Are Neglected, Delinquent, or At-Risk

    Title II, Part A: Supporting Effective Instruction

    Title III, Part A: Language Instruction for English Learners and Immigrant Students

    Title IV, Part A: Student Support and Academic Enhancement Grants


    1. What is a complaint? For these purposes, a complaint is a written allegation that a local education agency (LEA) has violated a federal statute or regulation that applies to a program under ESSA.

    2. Who may file a complaint? Any individual or organization may file a complaint.

    3. How can a complaint be filed? Complaints can be filed with the LEA or with the NYS Department of Education.

    4. What is the district complaint procedure? Complaints by citizens regarding any facet of the school operation often can be handled more satisfactorily by the administrative officer in charge of the unit closest to the source of the complaint.  In most instances, therefore, complaints will be made to the Building Principal and/or his/her assistant if the matter cannot be resolved by the teacher, coach or other school employee.

     If the complaint and related concerns are not resolved at this level to the satisfaction of the complainant, the complaint may be carried to the Superintendent or their assistants.  Unresolved complaints at the building level must be reported to the Superintendent by the Building Principal. The Superintendent may require the statement of the complainant in writing.

     Any complaints that are brought to the Superintendent that are not resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant may be brought before the Board of Education.  The Superintendent should report any unresolved complaints independently to the Board of Education. However, the Superintendent is not required to respond to anonymous complaints.  The Board of Education reserves the right to require written reports regarding complaints brought before it from appropriate parties.

    NOTE: Refer also to: Policies #3420 -- Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment in the District
                                                    #8330 -- Objection to Instructional Materials and Controversial Issues
                                                District Code of Conduct

    5. What happens if a complaint is not resolved at the local level? A complaint not resolved at the local level may be appealed to the NYS Education Department. For more information, visit the following link: New York State ESSA-funded programs complaint procedures