Purpose Statement
To establish a student complaint process
Procedures
Informal Complaint process
A student is encouraged to discuss or submit a complaint directly with the college employee(s) whose actions give rise to the complaint and/or with the supervisor to whom the employee(s) report(s) in order to clarify and/or resolve the complaint.
Formal complaint process
If no resolution can be reached in the informal complaint process between the student and staff member, the student may complete the SCC Student Complaint form. If a student is unable to complete this form, they are encouraged to seek assistance from a Student Affairs advisor, other college employee . A submitted complaint is routed to the Vice President for Student Affairs for assignment.
A submitted complaint will be designated to a reviewer within two business days.
- Academic complaints (grades, program requirements, faculty concerns, etc.) will be routed to the appropriate academic dean and department chair, if applicable.
- Business operations complaints (tuition, parking, bookstore, building and grounds) will be routed to the Vice President of Finance and Operations.
- Student Affairs department complaints (Admissions, Financial Aid, Registration, Advising, Academic Support, etc.) will be routed to the Vice President of Student Affairs.
- Student Code of Conduct and Academic Dishonesty complaints will be referred to other college procedures in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and Academic Dishonesty policies and procedures (see related policies).
- Other complaints will be routed to the appropriate supervisor.
After assigning a reviewer, the student will receive a response from the reviewer within ten business days. If the complaint cannot be resolved with the reviewer, the student may request a grievance.
Grievance Procedure
A complaint may become a grievance if the complaint involves allegations of improper, unfair, or arbitrary action by an employee involving the application of a college/university rule or regulation, board policy, or system procedure. For complaints on discrimination and harassment, see System Procedure 1B.1.1. For complaints on sexual violence, see System Procedure 1B.3.1. If the student does not agree with the outcome of the Complaint Process and the complaint constitutes a grievance, the student may submit a formal grievance in writing to the Vice President of Academic Affairs. After reviewing all documentation and meeting with the student, the Vice President will issue a response in writing.
Appeal Procedure
If the grievance involves a college rule or regulation, a student may appeal an official grievance to the college President or designee. The decision of the President is final and binding.
Retaliation Prohibited
Retaliation of any kind must not be taken against a student for participating, or refusing to participate, in a complaint or grievance process. Retaliation may be subject to action under appropriate student or employee policies.
List of Related Policies or Procedures
3.0601 Student Code of Conduct policy
3.0601.0001 Student Code of Conduct procedure
Date of Last Review: 05/1/2025
