Communication Avenues

Informal Complaint Process

Katy ISD values open communication with community members as there is a direct and intangible benefit when students see the home and school working together. The first step in resolving an issue or concern is to contact the staff member closest to the matter as our policy and procedures require that each issue be addressed at the level closest to the matter prior to PPAC involvement.

The PPAC is a confidential resource responsible for serving the Katy ISD community in resolving concerns, complaints, conflicts and other school-related issues in an informal manner. The PPAC is available to listen to and analyze problems; identify and explain relevant District policies and procedures; and explore options for Katy ISD parents and patrons. The PPAC exists to serve the Katy ISD community as a way to support the District’s commitment to fundamental fairness and customer service.

If the complaint is not resolved to the parent’s/patron’s satisfaction, they have the option of initiating the formal grievance/complaint process described in Board Policy FNG (Local).

Level I

If the complainant does not accept the staff position via the informal process, the administrator closest to the issue will inform them of their rights under Board Policy FNG (Local).

The complainant must put in writing, with a dated and original signature, their specific complaint and specify the resolution they are seeking within fifteen (15) days of the date the student or parent first knew, or with reasonable diligence should have known, of the decision or action giving rise to the complaint or grievance. The complainant should also provide written documentation supporting their position prior to or during the Level One conference see Board Policy FNG (Exhibit).

A conference is held to hear substantiation of the issue on the written complaint and to review the documentation offered in support of the complainant. This is not the time to engage in conversations over items unrelated to consideration of the written complaint.

The administrator’s written response is due within ten (10) business days following the Level One conference.

Level II

Upon receiving the Level One response, the complainant may appeal in writing, within ten (10) business days, to the Assistant Superintendent of Governance, Legal Affairs, and Special Programs for a Level Two hearing.

The Assistant Superintendent of Governance, Legal Affairs, and Special Programs, or his designee, will schedule and hold a Level Two conference within ten (10) business days upon receiving the Level Two request with the complainant. Only the issues and documents presented at the Level One will be considered at this level. The issue shall not be expanded at this level and new documentation that should have been known at Level One shall not be introduced.

Level III

Within 10 business days upon receiving the Level Two response the complainant may request a hearing before the Board of Trustees by written request to the Assistant Superintendent of Governance, Legal Affairs, and Special Programs. Only items presented at Levels One and Two may be considered at Level Three.

The Board may render its own ruling. Lack of response from the Board upholds the decision rendered at Level Two.

Public Complaints: BED (Local), GF (Legal), GF (Local)

Student Code of Conduct Complaints and Appeals: FNG (Legal), FNG (Local)

You may also wish to browse the Katy ISD Web site for information about the schools and the school district. Thank you for your support of Katy ISD.