Guidelines for Expression of Public Concern
Wytheville Community College (WCC) is an educational institution that engages in continuous and systematic evaluation for improvement. As such, WCC welcomes comments, suggestions, ideas, and constructive criticism from current and prospective students, employees, community members, and other persons affiliated with the college. Comments should be submitted in accordance with established protocol, below:
Feedback, concerns, comments, suggestions, ideas, or constructive criticisms about the college, its services or programs, shall be directed toward the appropriate college official verbally or in writing. If the complaint involves allegations of discrimination under federal laws such as Section 504, Sexual Harassment, Title VI or Title IX, the complaint shall be filed in writing with the Dean of Student Success and Academic Advancement. Ultimately, a complaint must be submitted in writing and signed by the complaining party. All formal complaints will be investigated within (30) days by the administrative officer having jurisdiction and a response will be communicated to the originator of the complaint at the conclusion of the investigation.
If those who have submitted concerns feel their issue has not been addressed, they are encouraged to speak with the administrator’s immediate supervisor. At this stage, the supervisor shall require a detailed written account from both parties and shall identify the nature of the issue(s) to assess what action, if any, is needed. The supervisor’s findings and actions shall be communicated, as privacy laws permit, to the person who brought forth the concern. If the individuals bringing forth the concern are dissatisfied with the findings and actions, they may request consideration through additional supervisors of the college official up to, and including, the President. The President’s decision is final. All findings and actions shall be internally documented, including justification for the finding and action taken. The appropriate supervisory chain-of-command is expected to be followed. Anonymous submissions will not be acknowledged or considered.
Please note that WCC has an internal grievance policy for students and employees and, when appropriate, that procedure should be followed. Students can access the Student Grievance Policy on Page 107 of the WCC College Catalog and Student Handbook. The appropriate employee grievance procedure can be found in the VCCS Policy Manual here.