Statement of Non-discrimination

It is the policy of the Etowah County Schools that no person within the district shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subject to discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability or age in any program, activity, or employment practice. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:

Etowah County Board of Education
401 Broad Street Gadsden, AL 35901 256.549.7560

Complaint Process

Complaints should involve contacting individuals in the following sequence:

  1. Teacher, coach, specialist, or other non-administrative staff member against whom a complaint is directed.
  2. Principal or counselor at local school
  3. Central Office Administrator(s)
  4. Superintendent

At each step, all students, faculty, and staff members at whom a complaint has been lodged will be afforded the right of due process.

Formal Grievance Procedures for Complaints & Discrimination

Students, as well as their parents/guardians, who feel they have a discrimination (civil rights, disability, or sexual harassment) complaint/grievance must first report the behavior or condition believed to cause the discrimination to any school staff member with whom he/she has confidence. The individual may also choose to contact the district coordinator appointed by the superintendent to handle complaints/grievances associated with discriminatory practices.

Any staff member receiving such a complaint shall immediately report the behavior/conditions to his/her immediate supervisor and/or the Title IX Coordinators. A conference will be held with the complainant and appropriate school personnel to arrive at a mutually satisfactory resolution of the complaint/grievance.

The following staff members have been assigned by the superintendent of the Etowah County Board of Education to handle discrimination complaints based on gender, disability, race, national origin, color, creed, or age:

Questions about: Title IX and/or Section 504 Etowah County Board of Education 401 Broad Street Gadsden, Alabama 35901 256.549.7560