Chief of Human Resources Tim Kubrick introduced Policy 3.285 at the workshop, describing a process that follows state statute and Florida Department of Education rule language for teachers who believe they are being directed to violate law or a state board rule. Kubrick said the policy provides clarity to teachers, principals and district staff on the steps and timelines for resolving complaints.
Under the procedure Kubrick reviewed, a teacher must submit a written complaint to the principal within five duty days specifying the statute or rule allegedly violated, how the directive would violate it and the resolution sought. The principal has 10 days to respond in writing; human resources provides support at that stage. If unresolved, the teacher may request appointment of a special magistrate through the Florida Department of Education website.
If elevated to the Department of Education, the district respondent — identified by Kubrick as the chief of HR — must provide confirmation that the complainant is a district teacher, the steps taken to resolve the matter, and any other relevant information within 15 days. Kubrick said the DOE will dismiss the complaint or appoint a special magistrate; if a magistrate is appointed, the district must secure payment to the magistrate within 20 days and participate in the hearing. Kubrick said the policy will return for development on Nov. 6.