Procedure 2.1.37 - Public Concerns
Procedure 2.1.37
Section 2.1: School Related Operations
Approved: June 2, 2015
Revised: May 5, 2026
PUBLIC CONCERNS
Procedures
1.0 It is the practice of District School Board Ontario North East (DSB1) that questions, feedback and concerns from students, families, and the community be addressed in a fair, respectful, and timely manner, and at the closest level to the issue.
The procedures below are aligned with PPM 170 and the DSB1 Student and Family Support Office, established as required by the Ministry of Education.
1.1 Step 1: Work with the student’s teacher:
The family will address the question or concern with the student’s teacher at a mutually convenient time.
1.2 Step 2: Work with the principal:
If the question or concern has not been resolved by working with the teacher, the family will address it with the school principal (or designate). The principal (or designate) will gather facts to clarify the concern or interest.
1.3 Step 3: Work with the superintendent:
If the question or concern has not been resolved by working with the principal (or designate), the family may work with the superintendent. The superintendent will review the matter as it relates to established policies and procedures.
1.4 Step 4: Contact the Student and Family Support Office:
Families who have attempted to resolve the matter directly with the school and appropriate superintendent may contact the Student and Family Support Office. If the family has not yet attempted to resolve the matter directly with the school and appropriate superintendent, the Student and Family Support Office will refer the family back to the appropriate person prior to opening a file and becoming involved.
Students and families may request to work with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) if their concern has not been resolved through the steps listed above.
2.0 Response Timelines
DSB1 staff, including teachers, principals, vice-principals, superintendents, the Student and Family Support Office, and the CEO, will acknowledge the receipt of family inquiries and concerns related to their child’s education within two business days and will endeavour to provide a response within five business days. If a response cannot be provided within five business days, the staff member will provide an estimated timeline for a response.
References