Dispute Resolution Options

The DODEA Ombudsman Program complements other dispute resolution programs available within DODEA. Often times the Ombudsman will refer visitors to these resources and in return these programs refer people to the Ombudsman Office for assistance. The difference between the Ombudsman Program and these other resources is that the Ombudsman is an “off the record informal resource.” Going to the Ombudsman does not rule out utilization of these other options.

Resolution Resources

Your Management Chain

Whenever possible concerns should be brought to your supervisor for help in resolving the issue.

DODEA Office of Human Resources

The Human Resource function is in place to meet the demands of the DODEA workforce. This group deals with issues in the areas of:

• Benefits and Pay
• Human Capital Management
• HR Policies and Programs
• DODEA Jobs
• Life Events
• Training and Development

DODEA Center for Early Dispute Resolution (CEDR)

The Center for Early Dispute Resolution is a neutral, confidential resource that assists DoDEA and its employees in addressing and managing conflicts and disputes constructively, at the earliest possible time, and at the lowest possible level. CEDR provides confidential, impartial assistance to help address and resolve concerns and differences encountered at DoDEA. CEDR also helps provide education and training for building conflict resolution capacity across DoDEA.

Alternative Dispute Resolution Program (ADR) (by Region)

DODEA Headquarters Diversity Management & Equal Opportunity Division has a Dispute Resolution Program that is designed to facilitate resolution of issues dealing with discrimination. This program functions in accordance with the EEOC regulation and is executed through a mediation process.

Near Miss Reporting

DODEA has a program to report an accident “that almost happened.” Such incidents may be reported via Accident/Injury Report System (AIRS). See DODEA AI 6055.01 DODEA Safety Program.

Employee Assistance (EAP)

The following information is only for HQ employees working at the Mark Center.

The EAP provides confidential and professional help to employees facing personal problems that might impact their performance, health, well-being or safety. There are two distinct sources available. Both are confidential and do not incur any additional initial costs to you. First, you are covered through the EAP services which are on site at the Mark Center as part of the Pentagon Employee Referral Service. You also have a 24 hours a day, 7 days a week service which provides many of the resources listed above. The DoD Employee Assistance Program is off site and the Toll Free Number is 1-866-580-9046 and is also available online. 

DODEA Diversity Management & Equal Opportunity

The Office of Diversity Management & Equal Opportunity (DMEO) helps create an environment where all employees and applicants associated with DODEA are treated fairly and without any forms of unlawful discrimination in any Agency Program.

• Discrimination complaints
• How to file
• Sexual Harassment
• Class Action

Inspector General

The DODEA Office of Inspector General is an independent office that provides a neutral perspective to management on issues regarding DoDEA's personnel, policies, and practices, through conducting investigations, inspections and audits. The DoDEA OIG operates and maintains the DoDEA Hotline, which is a confidential and formal reporting system for individuals to report fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement. Anyone may make a complaint to the DoDEA Hotline without fear of reprisal.

DoDEA Civil Rights Program

The Civil Rights Program is a collaborative process designed to help DoDEA recognize and take reasonable steps to eliminate unlawful discrimination in DoDEA schools, programs, activities, and workplaces, as required under Executive Order 13160.

Your Union

Your union can address issues of discipline and adverse action and inspect collective bargaining agreements.