File a Complaint
Citizen Complaint: The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board prefers that complaints be submitted in writing. Reports are not accepted via email due to data privacy concerns and computer security issues. The complaint should contain the name of the teacher, school and school district; specific information about the alleged misconduct; name and mailing address of the complainant. Complaints can be sent to Teacher Ethics, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, 1021 Bandana Blvd. E., Suite 222, St. Paul, MN 55108-5111.
District Report: Based on Minnesota Statute 122A.20, Subd. 2(a), a district must report a teacher to the board within 10 days “when its teacher or administrator is discharged or resigns from employment after a charge is filed with the school board under section 122A.41, subdivisions 6, clauses (1) , (2), and (3), and 7, or after charges are filed that are grounds for discharge under section 122A.40, subdivision 13 , paragraph (a), clauses (1) to (5), or when a teacher or administrator is suspended or resigns while an investigation is pending under section 122A.40, subdivision 13 , paragraph (a), clauses (1) to (5); 122A.41, subdivisions 6, clauses (1) , (2), and (3), and 7; or 626.556 , or when a teacher or administrator is suspended without an investigation under section 122A.41, subdivisions 6, paragraph (a) , clauses (1), (2), and (3), and 7; or 626.556 .” Submit this information in writing to Teacher Ethics, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, 1021 Bandana Blvd. E., Suite 222, St. Paul, MN 55108-5111.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I file a complaint against a licensed teacher?
The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) prefers that complaints be submitted in writing. Reports are not accepted via email due to data privacy concerns and computer security issues. The complaint should contain the name of the teacher, school and school district; specific information about the alleged misconduct; name and mailing address of the complainant. Complaints can be sent to Teacher Ethics, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, 1021 Bandana Blvd. E., Suite 222, St. Paul, MN 55108-5111.
Do I have to provide my name and address?
Yes, however, the name of a complainant is classified as private data and cannot be released unless the complainant consents.
What happens when I file a complaint?
The allegations must fall within Minnesota Statute and PELSB’s jurisdiction to take action. In other words, the alleged misconduct must violate either Minnesota Statute 122A.20, Subdivision 1 or Minnesota Rule 8700.2100 the Code of Ethics for Minnesota Teachers. PELSB staff will send you a letter explaining the process.
Will a criminal conviction keep me from getting a teaching license?
Any criminal conviction listed in Minnesota Statute 122.A.20 subd. 1(b) will prohibit someone from obtaining teacher licensure. All other convictions and conduct are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Is this where I report an allegation of maltreatment of minors?
No. Report to the Student Maltreatment Program at the Minnesota Department of Education. If that department concludes a finding of maltreatment against a licensed teacher, they will share the report with PELSB and the Discipline Committee will conduct an inquiry.
Does PELSB take complaints against administrators?
Complaints against licensed administrators should be sent to the Board of School Administrators pursuant to MN Statute 122A.13 . If the school administrator is a licensed teacher, PELSB may have jurisdiction over the complaint.
How can I find out if a teacher has had their license suspended, revoked or denied?
You can access the Minnesota Educator License Lookup to determine if the teacher has a current or valid license. All final disciplinary actions involving teacher licenses are public information. Copies of orders can be sent upon request.
Can I find out if a complaint has been filed against me?
If a complaint has been filed against a teacher and PELSB is conducting an inquiry, that teacher will receive a letter from PELSB and have an opportunity to respond.
How long does it take to finish and investigation?
The length of an investigation will depend on the facts of the case.
