File a Complaint

How to Raise a Concern and What Happens Next

Lake Area Tech is committed to resolving concerns fairly, respectfully and as quickly as possible. This page explains how to raise a concern, file a formal complaint and access additional reporting resources when needed.

If something isn’t working, you should be able to say so.

Lake Area Tech provides a clear process for raising concerns, whether they’re academic, financial, service-related, or otherwise. The goal is to address issues fairly and resolve them as close to the source as possible.

Start Informally

Most concerns can be resolved by talking with the person or department involved.

If that doesn’t resolve the issue, you can escalate it to a department supervisor or the Dean of Academics.

Filing a Formal Complaint

If a resolution isn’t reached, you can submit a formal complaint to the Vice President using the official complaint form.

Once received:

  • The complaint is assigned to the appropriate supervisor
  • Action is taken and documented
  • The outcome is recorded for accountability and continuous improvement.

You will not face retaliation for filing a complaint or participating in the process.

Types of Complaints

This process applies to a range of concerns, including:

  • Academic (instructor concerns, grade appeals, other issues)
  • Campus Hazing
  • Student Services (customer service, accommodations, other concerns)
  • Human Resources (employee-related issues)
  • Financial (appeals of charges)
  • Distance education non-academic issues

For Title IX complaints, use the designated Title IX reporting process.

Distance Education Non-Academic Complaints & Appeals

Distance education students should first attempt to resolve concerns informally with instructors or staff.

If needed, a formal complaint can be submitted to the Vice President.

Students in SARA states may appeal decisions through the South Dakota SARA portal.

Students in California should contact the California Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education.

Lake Area Tech is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Concerns related to accreditation standards can be directed to HLC.

Program-specific concerns should be directed to the appropriate accrediting body, including:

hlc complaints

Additional Reporting

Complaints related to consumer fraud may be directed to the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office.