Common use of Optional Mediation Clause in Contracts

Optional Mediation. Within the time limits for appeal to Level III, the District, Grievant, or the Association on behalf of the grievant, may propose that the grievance be submitted to mediation prior to proceeding to Level III of the grievance procedure. Upon receipt of the request to submit the grievance to mediation, the District will contact the California State Mediation and Conciliation Service and request that a mediator be appointed. The mediator shall attempt to assist the parties in resolving the grievance and shall have no power to render a decision or recommendation on the grievance in the absence of a mutually agreeable resolution. All statements made during the mediation process shall be inadmissible in any future administrative or judicial proceeding. If the mediation level does not satisfactorily resolve the grievance, the Association may appeal the grievance to Level III within ten