"Is That Really Fair?"

Adequate grievance procedures for use by students are still relatively uncommon in public schools. A survey of a limited number of specialists in student grievance processes, designed to indicate the range of thinking in the field rather than to find a consensus, showed general agreement that due process and legitimate grievance channels are needed, but revealed a variety of opinions concerning grievability, outside review, student and parent participation, and implementation strategy. Robert McKay claims that adequate grievance procedures could alleviate the adversary relationship growing between students and schools. Paul Alphen discusses the concerns and roles of boards of education in grievance policies, including implementation and the effects of such policies on teacher contracts, program costs, and costs of court litigation. William Clifton argues that it is the state's duty to develop effective statewide grievance policies and oversee their application. Staff members from the Center for Community Justice analyzed six grievance processes used in junior and senior high schools and found all lacking. They recommend seven specific elements for inclusion in grievance procedures. Daniel Monti and James Laue discuss the failure of a court-approved grievance process in a Missouri district undergoing desegregation. Donald Murphy enumerates implementation strategies and tactics. (Author/PGD)