(1) An appeal shall be taken by filing a notice of appeal with the state superintendent of public instruction. The date of filing shall be the date of actual delivery to the office of the state superintendent. A copy of such notice of appeal shall be served on the parties and the county superintendent. Failure of any party to take any step other than the timely filing of a notice of appeal does not affect the validity of the appeal but is grounds for such action as the state superintendent deems appropriate, which may include dismissal of the appeal.