Exploring Remedies from within

Two mechanisms for handling disputes widely used in United States public schools are discussed: code-grievance systems & alternative programs. Although both stem from anti-innovation orientations, each has broad possibilities for change. A recent survey of nearly 200 teachers in an urban Wisc school district using a code-grievance system indicates that teachers are poorly informed on the issue of student rights & that students know even less. Of 11 questions concerning this issue, only 6 were answered correctly by more than 50% of the faculty. Several alternative grievance mechanisms are discussed including the ombudsman, the semiprofessional school justice, & boards consisting of students & teachers. Alternative programs, consisting of forms of diversion, are seen as appealing but difficult to assess, due to lack of standards for comparison, & costly when considered in light of tight school budgets. 1 Table. M. Migalski.