The investigator, with the approval of the principal, or the principal has the authority to initiate a harassment investigation in the absence of a written complaint.
INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE
The investigator shall reasonably and promptly commence the investigation upon receipt of the complaint. The investigator shall interview the complainant and the alleged harasser. The alleged harasser may file a written statement, refuting or explaining the behavior outlined in the complaint. The investigator may also interview witnesses as deemed appropriate.
Upon completion of the investigation, the investigator shall make written findings and conclusions as to each allegation of harassment and report the findings and conclusions to the principal. The investigator will outline the findings of the investigation to the principal.
RESOLUTION OF THE COMPLAINT
Following receipt of the investigator’s report, the principal may investigate further, if deemed necessary, and make a determination of the appropriate next step which may include discipline up to and including suspension and expulsion.
Prior to the determination of the appropriate remedial action, the principal may, at the principal’s discretion, interview the complainant and the alleged harasser. The principal shall file a written report closing the case and documenting any disciplinary action taken or any other action taken in response to the complaint. The complainant, the alleged harasser and the investigator shall receive notice as to the conclusion of the investigation.
POINTS TO REMEMBER IN THE INVESTIGATION
- Evidence uncovered in the investigation is confidential.
- Complaints must be taken seriously and investigated.
- No retaliation will be taken against individuals involved in the investigation process.
- Retaliators will be disciplined up to and including suspension and expulsion.
CONFLICTS
If the investigator is a witness to the incident, the alternate investigator shall be the investigator.
