Initiation of Grievance
When a student believes that a situation exists that violates student rights, College policies, rules, standards, or procedures, the student has the right to initiate the grievance process. Every attempt will be made to resolve grievances or problems at the point of origin. With the exception of a complaint of discrimination or harassment, including sexual harassment, the following procedures should be followed. Complaints alleging discrimination and/or harassment, including sexual harassment, must be filed with the Title IX Coordinator, titleix@richland.edu.
Student Grievance Process
The grievance process takes place between the student and faculty or administrator responsible for the area. This process will be conducted in a prompt, fair manner without fear of retribution. Some departments have developed a process based on federal or state guidelines. Process guidelines and contact information are available on the website and in myRichland (log-in required). In cases of student academic dishonesty (Board Policy 4.15.3) or academic suspension, Richland has the right to bypass the grievance process and initiate a hearing.
Students should contact the appropriate individual or office to initiate the grievance process:
- Academic Concerns Instructor
- Academic Suspension Registrar
- Americans with Disabilities Act Violation Accommodations Specialist
- FERPA Registrar
- Financial Aid Suspension Director of Financial Aid
- Graduation Requirements Registrar
- Student Conduct (classroom) Instructor
- Student Conduct (outside of classroom) Dean, Student Success
- Sexual Harassment or Discrimination Title IX Coordinator
- Student Employment Career and Completion Coach
- Tuition Refunds Controller
- Others Not Listed Vice President, Academic Services
Initiation of the grievance process must begin within thirty (30) work days from the end of the course/semester.
In cases of sexual harassment or discrimination, a student has the right to bypass the informal process and request a hearing. In cases of academic dishonesty and academic suspension, the College has the right to bypass the grievance process.
Appeal Process
If a student grievance or disciplinary problem cannot be resolved through the steps outlines in the Student Grievance Process, the student may follow the Appeal Process, which includes a hearing before the Appeal Panel. The Vice President of Academic Services will convene the Appeal Panel. The appeal must be filed within sixty (60) schools days from the end of the course connected to the grievance. All information and evidence must be provided in the time frame provided by the appropriate administrative officer.
The student grievant may seek assistance from a Student Advocate, a Richland employee who serves as a neutral party to support the student during the grievance or appeal process. Information about the Student Advocate is available on myRichland (log-in required) or by e-mailing advocate@richland.edu
The student grievant must complete the online Request for a Formal Hearing and follow the steps outlined in myRichland (log-in required).
Online Student Complaint Procedure
Richland Community College is committed to serving all students efficiently and fairly. The College has a process in place to facilitate positive resolutions to student concerns.
Students with concerns about online courses who would like to discuss these concerns or get information about the Student Grievance Policy and/or Procedures should contact the Vice President of Academic Services, 217.875.7211, Ext. 6224, e-mail studentgrievance@richland.edu, or visit Room W141.
Online students who feel that a complaint has not been satisfactorily resolved through the Student Grievance Policy and Procedures may file a complaint through the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). Students from SARA states may file a complaint with the Illinois Community College Board. Out-of-state students may file a complaint with the state in which they reside. Contact information is available at www.richland.edu/academics/online-learning/online-student-complaint-procedure.