One year ago, Maleika Brown became Grand Rapids Public Schools’ first-ever Ombudsperson.
“I sit in a position to be able to help teachers, staff members, administrators, parents, students, and community members and organizations to be able to navigate through issues that they might be having with the organization here, which is the Grand Rapids Public Schools.”
Brown says she offers impartial, informal, independent, and confidential assistance to anyone needing help, as she operates outside the chain of command within the district.
“I act with honesty, integrity, and make sure that I promote fairness and support a fair process because of my impartiality, I don’t advocate for one side or another, but I am in support of a fair process.”
After a year of what Brown calls a slow launch of her office, she is now ready to offer her services to students who may need help navigating the system or resolving issues.
“I intend to engage the superintendent’s scholar advisory council and just ask them how the best way is to let their peers know that this office exists and then to get their input what the best way is to make myself available.”
You can learn more about the Office of the Ombuds online at grps.org/ombuds
