14201 School Lane
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Area 1 - Elementary Schools
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Ombudsman
Welcome to the PGCPS Ombudsman's Office!
School life can sometimes feel like a big puzzle, and you may have questions, concerns, or problems that feel too big to tackle on your own. That's where we come in!
Think of the Ombudsman Office (pronounced om-budz-man) as your school system's "Helpful Listener." We are here to ensure that everyone—students, families, and teachers—feels heard and treated fairly.
What Does the Ombudsman Do?
We adhere to three essential principles to assist you:
- Confidentiality: We keep your information private. What you share with us remains confidential.
- Neutrality: We do not take sides. We act as an impartial referee in the situation.
- Independence: We operate separately to ensure that we can find the best solution for everyone involved.
How We Help You
We focus on four major goals to improve PGCPS and create a better learning environment:
- Special Education Support: We assist families and students with special learning needs by providing them with the necessary tools for success.
- Problem Solving: We facilitate mediation sessions that encourage open communication, helping everyone to resolve conflicts.
- Identifying Trends: We analyze recurring patterns to inform the Board of Education on how to enhance the overall school district.
The PGCPS Resolution Hierarchy
Before reaching out to the Ombudsman, the Superintendent or the Board of Education, PGCPS asks that you follow the "Chain of Command." Most issues are resolved much faster when addressed directly at the source.
View our Guide to Addressing Questions and Concerns
|
Step |
Level |
Best for... |
|
|
1 |
Classroom Teacher |
Grades, classroom behavior, or assignments. |
|
|
2 |
School Counselor/AP |
Scheduling, social-emotional issues, or discipline. |
|
|
3 |
Principal |
School-wide policies and unresolved staff issues. |
|
|
4 |
Instructional Specialists |
If the Principal cannot resolve the issue (Area Office). |
|
|
5 |
Ombudsman Office |
Neutral mediation and navigating complex disputes. |
How to Report a Concern to the Ombudsman's Office
If you have a concern that needs to be addressed, you can report it to the Ombudsman's Office by following these steps:
- Gather Your Information: Prepare any relevant details about your concern, including dates, names, and any documentation that supports your case.
- Provide Clear Details: When reporting your concern, be as clear and concise as possible. Describe the issue, its impact, and what resolution you are seeking.
- Follow Up: After your report is submitted, you can follow up to check on the status of your concern. Keep any reference numbers provided for easier tracking.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your concern is reported effectively to the Ombudsman's Office.