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What is an Ombudsman (OM-
budz-man)?A person who assists individuals
resolve conflicts or concerns.
Works in a variety of organizations, such as government agencies, colleges, corporations, medical facilities, and news organizations.
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An Ombudsman is:
•Neutral, impartial;
•Confidential (consistent with law);
•An advocate for a fair and meaningful problem resolution process.
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About the HCPSS Ombudsman:
•Established by BOE Policy 2030, Ombudsman, January 2005
•Serves HCPSS parents, staff and community members
•Oversight by the Board of Education of Howard County
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Examples of concernsinvolving the Ombudsman:
•Bullying/Harassment
•Curriculum/Instruction
•Discipline
•School-based Personnel
•Special Education Services
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How does the Ombudsman serve the HCPSS
community?•Identifies Board policy and procedures applicable to the problem
•Identifies individuals who can help resolve the problem
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How does the Ombudsman serve the HCPSS
community?•Facilitates discussion toward solution options
•Assists persons who may be uncomfortable addressing issues and concerns by themselves
•Treats all parties with respect
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The Ombudsmandoes not:
•Advocate for either side
•Place blame or decide who is “guilty” or who is “innocent”
•Guarantee that the problem will be resolved to the satisfaction of everyone involved
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Why bother?•Your concern may not be
addressed if you don’t bring it to our attention
•An individual’s communication can reveal a problem that was not previously identified
•Addressing a concern can result in changes that positively affect circumstances for others
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How do I resolve concerns at HCPSS?
•That may be a teacher, a coach, the school nurse, a counselor or an administrator.
•Step 1: Discuss your concern with the person most closely involved with the situation.
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How do I resolve concerns at HCPSS?
Step 2: Discuss your concern with the assistant principal or principal. Always involve the principal before going to Step 3. Most situations are resolved here.
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How do I resolve concerns at HCPSS?
Step 3:
•Outline specific concerns on Part 1 of the Parent Concern Form send to the Principal.•The Principal will arrange a meeting, document agreements and next steps, and then complete Part 2 of the form.
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How do I resolve concerns at HCPSS?
Step 4:
•Contact the Administrative Director for your school
•Send all documents that apply
•Your concern is investigated and a response sent in writing to all involved
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How do I resolve concerns at HCPSS?
Step 5:
•Send a letter requesting a review of your concern by the Executive Director of School Improvement and Administration
• Include all documents
•A written response will be sent to you within 15 days
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How do I resolve concerns at HCPSS?
•Per Board of Education policy or state law, final decisions rest with the Superintendent/designee. Some decisions may be appealed to the BOE.
•Refer to applicable school system policy for guidance regarding your specific situation.
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Contact the Ombudsman
•Telephone: 410-313-6850
•E-mail: [email protected]
•Cell phone: 443-869-1474
•Private fax: 410-313-1590