Download Compliant Procedures SOP

Sumter County Schools Nutrition Program
Civil Right Compliance, Definitions, Laws and Complaint
Procedures
1. Definitions
A. Civil Rights
1.The nonpolitical rights of a citizen.
2.The right of personal liberty guaranteed to U. S. citizens by the 13th and 14th Amendments to the U. S.
Constitution and by acts of Congress.
B.
Complaint
A complaint is defined as "a verbal or written allegation of discrimination which indicates that any NSLP,
SBP or SMP is administered or operated in such a manner that it results in disparity of treatment, benefits
or services being provided to a child or group of children because of their race, color, national origin, sex,
age or disability."
C. Discrimination
1.
2.
3.
The Act of distinguishing one person or group of persons from others.
Either distinguishing intentionally, by neglect, or by the effect of actions or lack of actions.
This act is based on the person’s protected bases.
D. Civil Rights Laws
1.
2.
3.
4.
Title VI of the Civil Right Act of 1964 addresses – race, color, national origin.
Title IX of Education Amendments of 1972 addresses – sex.
Section 504 of Rehabilitation Act of 1973 addresses – disability.
Age Discrimination Act of 1975 addresses – age.
E. Equal Opportunity for Religious Organizations
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Ensures a level playing field for faith-based and community-based organizations.
Creates new/more opportunities to serve more people in need.
Insures that USDA funding is available to groups, especially new potential partners.
Discrimination is prohibited on the bases of religion, religious belief, or religious character in the
administration of Federal funds.
Allows organizations to carry-out its mission without contributing to worship, religious instruction
or proselytization.
Religious art, icons, scriptures or other religious symbols are not required to be removed in order
for these organizations to receive funds.
7.
F. Authorized Non-Discrimination Statement
“In accordance with Federal law and U. S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited
from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, or disability”. To file a
complaint of discrimination, write to the following: USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400
Independence Avenue, S. W., Washington, D. C. 20250-9410 or call toll free: (866)632-9992 (Voice).
Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through Federal
Relay Service at (800) 877-8339 or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider
and employer.
All complaints, either written or verbal, alleging discrimination on the basis of race, color,
national origin, sex, age or disability, including anonymous ones, which are filed at the
school level must be forwarded to the USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400
Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call toll free (866) 6329992 (Voice). Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may
contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136
(Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
II. Procedures for Sumter County Schools Nutrition Program
Forms are located at http://www. sumterschools.org.
1. A complaint must be filed no later than 180 days from the date of the alleged
discrimination.
2. Written complaints
a. Should complete a SCS Complaint Form.
b. Should be forwarded as received to FNS Civil Rights Division or directly to an
FNS Regional Office.
3. Verbal complaints
a. Director will send a (20 day letter).
b. Must be completed on the SCS Complaint Form.
c. Verbal complaints should be written up by the person to whom the complaint is
made.
d. The complainant must provide the following information: name, address, phone
number, location and name of the organization or office that is accused, name of the
person complaint is against, details of the incident and the basis for the alleged
discrimination (age, race, color, sex, disability, religious creed, national origin, or
political belief).
4. Complete a COMPLAINANT CONSENT/RELEASE FORM.
5. Director will complete a SCS COMPLAINT ACCEPTANCE LETTER.
6. Director will complete a REFERRAL LETTER.
7. All information will be sent to FNS Civil Rights Division or directly to an FNS
Regional Office.