Maricopa Community Colleges

Maricopa Steward

Resolution of Controversy: Non-Policy Issues

Although the process noted below is taken from the Crafts and M&O policy manual, the steps of the process are similar for all employee groups. Each employee group has negotiated a specific time frame to expect a response in each stage of the process noted below. Please refer to the appropriate policy manual for specific information for each employee group. Policy manuals can be found online at www.maricopa.edu/hrweb/poldwnld.php

Informal Resolution of Non-Policy Issues

An employee who has a problem or concern shall have a meeting/discussion with his/her immediate supervisor prior to initiating a written request for formal resolution. The meeting shall take place within three (3) working days of the employee’s request. The purpose of this meeting/discussion is to seek informal resolution of the problem. The employee and supervisor shall meet to discuss the employee’s specific concern in an attempt to reach an agreement.

If the supervisor and employee are unable to resolve the issue informally, the employee may proceed and file for formal resolution.

If the problem involves the employee’s immediate supervisor, the employee shall have the right to meet informally with the next higher level of authority.

Formal Resolution of Non-Policy Issues

In the event of a perceived inequity or a circumstance which is not covered either by a policy manual or Board policy, an employee shall have the right to appeal for resolution by the following procedures:

  1. A written statement of the situation or decision in question shall be appealed to the appropriate level as follows:
    • Department Director/Manager
    • College Vice President
    • College President
    • Vice Chancellor
  2. The appeal process shall start at the level next higher than the person involved in the decision in question. If the decision under appeal was made at the highest college level, the process will move to the District Office.
  3. Employee representatives will be allowed reasonable release time to sufficiently assist employees in meetings with management. The employee may be accompanied by an employee representative of his/her choice when meeting with the above individuals.
  4. The employee shall receive a written decision from each of the above levels of authority.