Complaint / Grievance Policy

Purpose:
The Complaint & Grievance Policy provides students with a clear, respectful process for raising concerns about instruction, safety, conduct, or school operations. FORGE is committed to maintaining a professional training environment where concerns are addressed promptly, fairly, and without retaliation. This policy ensures fair treatment and complies with Washington State private vocational school regulations, protecting both the student and the school.

Student Right to File a Complaint

Every student has the right to:

  • Express concerns about instruction, safety, conduct, or school operations
  • Receive a timely and respectful response
  • File a complaint without fear of retaliation
  • Escalate unresolved concerns to the appropriate state agency

No student will be penalized for filing a good‑faith complaint.

Informal Resolution

Students are encouraged to first attempt to resolve concerns informally by speaking directly with the instructor.
Informal resolution may include:

  • Clarifying expectations
  • Addressing misunderstandings
  • Adjusting training approaches
  • Discussing safety or conduct concerns

Most issues can be resolved quickly at this level.

Formal Complaint

Appeal Process

If the concern is not resolved informally, the student may submit a formal written complaint to the school administrator.

A formal complaint must include:

  • Student’s name
  • Date of submission
  • Description of the concern
  • Any relevant details or documentation
  • Steps already taken to resolve the issue

Complaints may be submitted by email, text, or written letter.

If the student is not satisfied with the school’s response, they may submit a written appeal to the school administrator within 5 business days of receiving the decision.
The appeal must state:

  • Why the student disagrees with the decision
  • Any additional information the student wants considered

The school will review the appeal and issue a final written decision within 10 business days.
This decision is final at the school level

School Response

Non‑Retaliation

Within 10 business days, the school will:

  • Review the complaint
  • Conduct any necessary investigation
  • Meet with the student if clarification is needed
  • Provide a written response outlining findings and any actions taken

All complaints are handled professionally and confidentially.

FORGE strictly prohibits retaliation against any student who:

  • Files a complaint
  • Participates in an investigation
  • Raises concerns in good faith

Retaliation is a serious violation and may result in disciplinary action against the responsible party.

External Complaint Option

Documentation

If a student believes the school has not adequately addressed their concern, or if the concern involves a violation of Washington State private vocational school regulations, the student may contact the appropriate state agency.
The school will provide the required agency contact information in the catalog and on the website footer, as required by law.

FORGE maintains records of:

  • All formal complaints
  • Investigations
  • Written responses
  • Appeals and final decisions

Records are kept in accordance with state retention requirements.

Confidentiality

  • All complaints are handled with discretion.
    Information is shared only with individuals who need it to resolve the issue or as required by law.