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Employee Ombuds

Franklin McCune

Employee Ombuds & Board Specialist 

Franklin McCune

Contact me as a first step, or as a last resort, or anywhere along the way. Come and share your concerns, evaluate your situation, and plan your next step–if you want to take the next step.

franklin.mccune@orange.k12.nc.us
(919) 245-4022 ext: 13501

My name is Franklin McCune, I serve as the Employee Ombuds and Board Specialist at Orange County Schools. In this role, I am a confidential, impartial, and independent resource for employees, offering guidance, conflict resolution, and a safe space to voice concerns.

As an Ombuds, I help navigate workplace challenges, foster open communication, and ensure fair processes while maintaining neutrality. I am committed to supporting a positive and productive work environment for all.

Any staff member can contact the Ombuds for help. The Ombuds is not part of the Human Resources Department (HR), and you do not need to go through HR to speak with Franklin.

I am excited to be this trusted resource for all employees!

What is an Ombudsman?

The word ombudsman (OM-buds-man) is a Swedish term meaning “representative of the people.” I use the shorter term “Ombuds.”

Here at Orange County Schools, the Ombuds helps staff solve workplace problems and give generic feedback on matters of general concern.

The purpose of the Ombuds position is to provide employees with access to an independent, impartial individual who can help facilitate a confidential and informal resolution of concerns, conflicts, and issues arising within Orange County Schools (OCS), and who is authorized to bring systemic and organizational concerns to the attention of the Superintendent and Board. 

What I Do

My responses are tailored to the individual’s situation and informed consent, so I…

  • Listen, which may be all you want 
  • Discuss your concerns and help clarify the most important issues 
  • Help identify and evaluate your options 
  • Gather information, explain policies, and offer referrals to other resources 
  • Serve as a neutral party to solve problems and resolve conflicts and work to achieve fair outcomes for all parties using mediation and other conflict resolution strategies 
  • Offer coaching, for example, to help you prepare for a difficult conversation 
  • Consult with District officials about broad issues and trends 
  • Make recommendations for District change when appropriate 
  • Operate under the code of ethics and standards of practice of the International Ombuds Association
  • Operate within Policy 7960 Employee Ombuds

What I Don't Do

  • Make decisions for anyone 
  • Offer legal advice 
  • Offer psychological counseling 
  • Participate in the District’s grievance process or any other formal process 
  • Testify in any judicial or administrative proceeding, unless required by law after reasonable efforts have been made 
  • Address issues involving staff not at OCS
  • I do not have the power to establish, change, or set aside any District policy or procedures

The Four Guiding Principles of the Ombuds

Independent

Independent in appearance, purpose, and practice and separate from other District departments.
 

Informal

A voluntary, supplemental resource. Does not participate in formal processes, investigations, or complaints.
 

Impartial

Does not take sides. Understands all sides and works collaboratively with all parties.
 

Confidential

Communications are confidential to the maximum extent permitted by law.

 

Learn More!

Staff Intranet

For more information and resources, view the Employee Ombuds page on the Staff Intranet! 

click here to access the staff intranet 

For Orange County Schools Employees only.