On December 10, 2015, a new Federal education law was signed by the President. This law, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), requires schools that receive federal Title IA funding adopt written procedures for resolving complaints filed.

Definition – A “complaint” is a written, signed statement filed by an individual or an organization. It must include:

1. A statement that a school has violated a requirement of federal statute or regulation that applies to Title IA.
2. The facts on which the statement is based.
3. Information on any discussions, meetings or correspondence with a school regarding the complaint.

Complaint Resolution Procedures Referral – Complaints against the MASD should be referred to the Federal Programs Director Office:

Dr. Elizabeth A. McMahon, Assistant Superintendent

545 Route 228

Mars PA 16046

E-mail: [email protected]

Ph: (724) 625-1518, ext. 1503

Notice to School – The Federal Programs Director will notify the school Superintendent and building Principal that a complaint has been received. A copy of the complaint will be given to the Superintendent and Principal.

Investigation – The Federal Programs Director will investigate the complaint. Information will be shared with the Superintendent who will determine whether further investigation is necessary.

Opportunity to Present Evidence – The Federal Programs Director and Superintendent may provide for the complainant the opportunity to present evidence.

Report and Recommended Resolution – Once the Federal Programs Director has completed the investigation and the taking of evidence, a brief report will be prepared with a recommendation for resolving the complaint. The report will give the name of the party bringing the complaint, the nature of the complaint, a brief summary of the investigation, the recommended resolution and the reasons for the recommendation. Copies of the report will be issued to all parties involved. The recommended resolution will become effective upon issuance of the report.

Follow up – The Federal Programs Director and the Superintendent will ensure that the resolution of the complaint is implemented.

Time Limit – The period between the Federal Programs Director receiving the complaint and resolution of the complaint shall not exceed sixty (60) calendar days.

Right to Appeal – Either party may appeal the final resolution to the Department of Education. Appeals should be addressed as follows:

Ms. Susan McCrone, Chief

Division of Federal Programs

Pennsylvania Department of Education

333 Market Street, 7th Floor

Harrisburg, PA 17126‐0333

For a printable version of Mars Area School District's Title I Parent Complaint Procedures, click on the following: