OFFICE OF THE OMBUDS
MiraCosta College Faculty Assembly
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE FACULTY OMBUDS PROGRAM
1. What is an ombudsperson?
At MiraCosta College, the ombudsperson is an executive member of the Faculty Assembly. Article III.3 of the Faculty Assembly Bylaws indicates that the Ombudsperson shall:
-Work through appropriate channels to resolve grievances impacting the working conditions of one or more members of the Faculty Assembly.
-Update the FA Council on working conditions grievances and to advise the FA Council on such matters should they emerge in formal negotiations. Such updates shall occur in closed session when necessary to protect the privacy rights of individual faculty members or other district employees.
-Address individual faculty complaints, including grievances related to working conditions. For that reason, the Ombudsperson should not be a member of the negotiating team.
-Remain current on all district policies, laws, and regulations related to grievances and faculty rights.
-Work with district personnel and other campus constituencies to formulate policies and offer training designed to limit and resolve conflicts.
-With regards to disputes between members of the FA, the Ombudsperson will advise members and mediate as necessary without taking sides.
-With regards to disputes between faculty members and the district or others outside the membership of the FA, maintains an interest in resolving the issue to the advantage of faculty interests.
-Calm, reasoned sincerity should govern the ombudsperson’s efforts in all cases. The ability to listen carefully without interruption or the imposition of personal bias are essential qualities.
-Other duties as determined by the Council and established in FA Rules
2. Who may use the services of the Faculty Assembly Office of the Ombuds?
Full-time faculty members.
3. I have an isue, but I don't know exactly what to do or where to go?
You should contact the Ombudsperson for a confidential meeting to discuss your issue and get some guidance and options for addressing it.
4. For what reason might a person contact the FA Office of the Ombuds?
Full-time faculty who need facilitation in resolving complaints, problems, concerns, and/or grievances impacting working conditions.
5. How do I go about filing a grievance?
More information on this process can be found at this link: Submit an Issue for Review.
6. Is the information I share confidential?
Information provided will be shared with the Office of the Ombuds and its members for review. The Office of the Ombuds strives to maintain confidentiality throughout the REVIEW and at all levels of the Grievance Procedure process.
7. What are the qualifications of the Ombudsperson and committee members?
Full-time faculty who are objective, knowledgeable of colleges policies, procedures, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement (contract). Other qualifications include calm, reasoned consideration of issues, effective communication, and the willingness to maintain confidentiality.
8. Does the Faculty Assembly have legal counsel?
Yes. Lawrence Rosenweig.