STUDENT BEHAVIOR AND EXPECTATIONS

At Apple Valley our goal is to work with our students as they learn and grow into responsible positive role models in our school and society. Through our positive interventions and discipline procedures, students will gain respect towards themselves and others. Our commitment is to establish and maintain appropriate student behavior while assisting in developing self-discipline. However, there are consequences for students who make poor choices in or out of the classroom. The teachers at Apple Valley do an excellent job of managing student behavior in their classrooms. They each have a behavior plan that outlines the classroom expectations as well as the consequences if a student chooses to not follow those expectations. Policies and consequences are outlined below; however the principal and staff will use their best judgment when dealing with inappropriate behavior. All teachers enforce the building rules:

Respect for People, Respect for Property, and Do Your Best.

Discipline Procedures

All discipline (classroom, playground, and bus) will be dealt with in a fair, firm, and consistent manner, while considering the difference in circumstances and situations. Continuation of poor choices will result in progressive discipline.

The following procedures may include:

Examples of Unacceptable Behavior: Level One Behaviors

 

UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR: Level Two Behaviors
SEVERE VIOLATIONS
These behaviors are examples that will result in a direct referral to the office:

The proper authorities will be called in cases of arson, possession of alcohol or other drugs, weapons, assault or any other behavior which is considered a danger to you or others and at the discretion of the administrator. Consequences may result in a long term suspension or expulsion from school.

Detention Procedures

Students who have earned detention are responsible for bringing academic work to the session. Parents will be notified if a student is required to serve a detention.

Suspension/Expulsion:

1. ISS will be imposed by the principal or designee. The parent/guardian will be notified by phone regarding suspension arrangements. Students will be expected to gather and complete all of their classroom work during the time of the suspension

2. Short-term (as defined by district policy and state law). Upon proper justification, a short-term suspension may be imposed by the principal or her designee. The parent/guardian will be notified in writing of the length of suspension, reason(s), and due process procedures (copy to district hearing officer). The parent/guardian will be notified by phone prior to the student being sent home.

3. Emergency Expulsion: The principal or designee may expel a student from school for an emergency as per WAC 180-40 and West Valley School District No. 208 Rules and Regulations. The length of expulsion is determined by the nature of the emergency and whether the emergency still exists.

4. Reinstatement to school after a short-term suspension may require a conference with principal or designee, student, and parent/guardian; reinstatement to school after a long-term suspension and emergency expulsion will require a conference with principal or designee, student, and parent/guardian(s).

5. Expulsion: Permanent exclusion from school requires superintendent action for expulsion and for reinstatement from expulsion.

 

Apple Valley Cougar Pride

*Trustworthiness *Responsibility * Caring *Tolerance

* Respect * Citizenship * Fairness *Sportsmanship *Consideration

Apple Valley Pillars of Character .

Our students will demonstrate respect towards one another. Every month a new trait will be introduced and shared with students. Cougar Pride tickets will be given to students who demonstrate the character trait and are showing pride in our school. These tickets will be placed in a drawing box for random prizes by Mrs. Sutton. Teachers will also nominate Classroom Achiever of the Month students who are working hard on academic and social goals, as well as demonstrating great Cougar Character.

Pillars of Character

August/September-Responsibility

October-Trustworthiness

November-Citizenship/Friendship

December-Caring

January-Fairness/Sportsmanship

February-Respect/Tolerance

March-Respect

April-Sportsmanship

May-Consideration

June-Fairness/Citizenship

Monthly Cougar Pride Days

Every Friday we show off our Cougar Pride by wearing our Cougar school colors (red, white, and blue) or our school shirts. On the last Friday of the month we will celebrate with Spirit Day! It's a great time to show off your school spirit and enjoy Fridays.

September 24 - Crazy Hat Day

October 29 - Halloween

November 19 - Crazy Hair Day

December 17 - Pajama Day

January 21 - Sports Day

February 25 - Western Day

March 25 - Hawaiian Day

April 29th - Superhero Day

May 27 - Twin Day

June 10 - Summer Fun Day

 

 

Anti-Bullying, Intimidation, and Harassment - WVSD Board Policy 3207

Our school is committed to a safe and civil educational environment for all students, employees, volunteers and patrons, free from harassment, intimidation, or bullying. This includes bullying, teasing, name calling, verbal and any forms of sexual harassment.RCW 28A.300.285 (2) "Harassment, intimidation, or bullying" means any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, including but not limited to one shown to be motivated by any characteristic in RCW 9A.36.080 or other distinguishing characteristics, when the intentional written, verbal, or physical act: (a) Physically harms a student or damages the student's property; or (b) Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student's education; or (c) Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or (d) Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school. Nothing in this section requires the affected student to actually possess a characteristic that is a basis for the harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

To report an incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, contact a staff member or the school principal. Engaging in harassment will result in appropriate discipline or other appropriate sanctions against offending students, staff. It is important for all students to learn how to deal with conflict in a safe and healthy manner, without resorting to intimidation or violence.

Our students and parents/guardians at Apple Valley will be asked to sign and support an Anti-Bully Pledge which pledges to keep all our students safe and free of bullying.

 

  Disruptive Items

Pagers, Laser pointers, electronic devices, Gameboys, MP3 players, CD players, IPods, toys, roller shoes, skateboards, playing or trading cards, etc. are not allowed at school as they are a disruption to the learning environment. Cell phones must be in a student’s backpack and turned off during the school day. Usage of a cell phone during school hours will result in the phone being confiscated and turned into the office for a parent to collect. West Valley Schools are not responsible for lost or stolen items as listed previously.

 

Playground Rules

Our playground is a place for play and activities. Students will be expected to show respect to others and our equipment on the playground at all times.

The following are guidelines for creating a safe environment.

1. Students will keep hands, feet and objects to themselves and play on the playground safely and fairly.
2. Students will show respect for others and follow instructions given by adults. Any kind of profanity is prohibited. Students are not permitted to swear or use language, which is offensive to others. Students will cooperate with the playground teacher by seeking help when asked.
3. Students will stay outside in the morning before school, recess, and noontime, unless they have a “pass”, or are under direct supervision of an adult. The courtyard and parking lot are off limits at recess.
4. Students will show pride in their school by keeping the building and grounds free of litter.
5. Students will use equipment as it is meant to be used. Students will take turns on equipment, use vacant swings, and “count off” to 50 for use of swings being used by others. Jumping out, bailing out and twisting is not allowed.
6. Food and gum are not allowed on the playground.
7. Students will settle differences peacefully and respectfully.
8. Students will respect and follow the directions of our school patrol.
9. All equipment used at recesses is to be shared. There are no closed games. These rules apply to personal equipment brought to school and used at school recess.

 

Visitor Check-In

We ask that all visitors and volunteers check in with the office first and make us aware of your presence. At that time, you will be given a visitor’s badge. When picking up a child for appointments, etc., stop at the office and identify yourself and sign the clipboard provided for this purpose. Students are not allowed to leave school grounds without prior arrangement through the office. We will call the student from the classroom to meet you in the office. No child will be released to a person other than the parent unless the person’s name appears on the child’s emergency card, which is on file in the school office.

To conference with a teacher, schedule an appointment after 3:40 , when teachers have completed "end of the school day" responsibilities with students.

Visiting relatives and friends of students are not allowed to attend classes . You are welcome to join us for lunch. Please call the office (965-2060) by 9:15 to reserve a lunch.

 

Change of Address

Please notify Central Registration at 972-5909 as soon as possibleif there is a change of address, phone number, or emergency contact person. Notify the school office a week in advance if you plan to move.

 

Checking Out of School Early-- WVSD Board Policy 3124

Early dismissals are sometimes unavoidable. If you need to pick up your child earlier than the regular dismissal times, we request a written excuse be sent to the teacher that morning. In this way, the teacher can plan for the child’s absence. Parents finding it necessary to pick up their child early must check in with the office first and sign out their child. Please do your best to schedule medical appointments during non-school hours. Students with excellent attendance tend to be excellent learners .

Child Abuse Reporting - WVSD Board Policy 3421

State law requires that staff members report matters of child abuse and neglect. Those who in good faith report suspected child abuse or neglect shall be immune from criminal and civil liability. It is a misdemeanor for a staff member to knowingly fail to report child abuse and/or neglect.

Closed Campus School

Apple Valley is a closed campus school. Students may enter the building at 8:45 and must remain on the school grounds until dismissed. We require a permission slip to leave the school for any reason. Please send a note to the teacher. Students need to check out at the office when they leave and check in upon their return. All visitors must check in at the office and wear a visitor’s badge.

Conferences

Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences will be scheduled in November and again in March. At these conferences, participants are encouraged to share any joys or concerns they might have regarding the student’s school experience. A parent may also schedule a conference with a teacher and/or the principal at any time during the school year to discuss a particular concern.

Computer Technology

Students will be learning about computers, and using computers to enhance their learning, beginning in kindergarten. Computers are located in each classroom and in the Library. Students will use computers for technical and creative writing, for practicing their basic academic skills, and for experiencing simulations that stimulate higher level thinking.

 Internet Acceptable Use Policy - WVSD Board Policy 2022

Access to the Internet and other district network resources provides great educational opportunity for students. However, this opportunity must be balanced with responsibility and awareness on the part of the student. Student behavior on the Internet should be to the same high standards expected for any other school activity. The content of work on the district’s network is open to examination by network administrators. Although one might feel “anonymous” on the Internet, one’s activities can be monitored and tracked by others. In order to access the Internet, a student must have a signed Internet Use Parent Permission Form (2022F) on file. Students who abuse their Internet privileges may lose such privileges.

 

Emergency School Closure Information

When weather conditions are extreme, please listen to one of the following radio stations or watch one of the following T.V. stations to find out if schools are operating. DO NOT call stations for closure information.

Radio - AM KIT 1280, KMWX 1460, KBBO 1390, KYXE 1020

Radio FM - KATS 94.5, KFFM 107.3, KXDD 104, KRSE 105.7

Television - KNDO CH 23, KIMA CH 29, KAPP CH35

 

Lunches

The West Valley Child Nutrition program provides Apple Valley with a hot lunch program. All students will be provided information to establish their qualification in the federal free or reduced price lunch program. Our lunch program is computerized by student numbers. Separate checks for each child are required for lunch purchases. Please indicate on the check your child’s name and the teacher’s name. Make checks payable to: West Valley Child Nutrition or call 972-6040 to add money with a Visa/Master Card. Please call this number to check your child’s account balance.

Adults are welcome to have lunch with their children at school. If you’d like to join your child for lunch, please make your reservation by calling the school office (965-2060) before 9:00 a.m. Always remember to check in at the office when you arrive.

Lunch Prices
Students K-5	$2.25
Reduced	.40
Adult	$3.25
Milk	.50

Students who lose or forget their money will be served cheese and crackers. Students will not be allowed to call home for lunch money. Please look for stamped hands or slips from the kitchen indicating an account is low. Thanks for your help in encouraging responsibility at school.

Fines and Fees - WVSD Board Policy 3520

Students must demonstrate care and respect for both personal and school property. Fees and fines will be charged to replace or repair library books, textbooks, musical instruments, magazines, or any other lost or damaged items. Grades, i.e. report cards, will be held until payment is received.

Early Dismissal – WVSD Board Policy 3124

Students with excellent attendance tend to be excellent learners. For this reason, please do your best to schedule medical appointments during non-school hours. If you find it necessary to pick up your child early, you must check in at the office first and sign out your child. We also ask that you send a written excuse to the teacher that morning so that she may plan for your child’s absence.

Emergency/Safety Procedures

If it becomes necessary to close or delay school due to an emergency or inclement weather, information will be broadcast on the local radio stations. Inform your child of where he or she should go in case of early school closure. We have regularly scheduled fire drills and lockdowns to ensure student safety. When school is delayed 1-hour, students may arrive on school grounds at 9:40 . If there is a 2-hour delay, they may arrive on school grounds at 10:40 .

Dress and Appearance - Students, staff, and parents

All dress requirements are based on health, safety, good taste, and decency. Please provide your children with clean, neat, weather-appropriate attire. Shirts with thin straps (spaghetti or shoestring) are discouraged. Underwear (including sports bras) and midriffs must be covered. Excessively scooped armholes or neck openings are not allowed. Skintight or see-through mesh tops/shorts/skirts may not be worn at school. Shorts and skirts should be of longer length. Clothing should be tasteful, without offensive designs or writing, and free of alcohol/tobacco advertising. Hats and scarves are considered outside apparel and may not be worn in the building. Clothing that causes an undue disruption to the educational process is not allowed. Students dressed inappropriately may be required to change.

Children will have outdoor recess except in extreme weather conditions.Shorts should be worn only in warm weather. We count on parents to supervise what children wear to school.

Mark those belongings: Coats, hats, backpacks, etc. should be clearly marked with your child's name. Check Lost and Found for missing items.

Field Trips

The Board recognizes that field trips when used as a device for teaching and learning integral to the curriculum are an educationally sound and important ingredient in the instructional program of the schools.

Such trips can supplement and enrich classroom procedures by providing learning experiences in an environment beyond the classroom. Field trips that take students out of the state or are planned to keep students out of the district overnight must be approved in advance by the Board. Outdoor education resident school plans shall be presented to the Board for annual approval. The Superintendent has the authority to approve all other field trips.

The Superintendent shall develop procedures for the operation of a field trip or an outdoor education activity that shall insure the safety of the student shall be protected and that parent permission is obtained before the student leaves the school. Each field trip must be integrated with the curriculum and coordinated with classroom activities that enhance its usefulness.

No staff member may solicit students for any privately arranged field trip or excursion without Board permission.

Home-School Communication

Please check your child's backpack daily for schoolwork and information sent home. Notices and newsletters will be sent home frequently to keep you informed of schedule changes, field trips, school picture schedules and fees, holidays, early dismissal days, and other miscellaneous items.

Check your child’s backpack for notes and publications!

 

Homework Policy - WVSD Board Policy 2422

The Board believes that homework is a constructive tool in the teaching/learning process when geared to the needs and abilities of students. Purposeful assignments not only enhance student achievement but also develop self-discipline and associated good working habits. As an extension of the classroom, homework must be planned and organized; must be viewed as purposeful to the students; and must be evaluated and returned to students in a timely manner.

Homework may be assigned for one or more of the following purposes:

A. Practice --- to help students to master specific skills which have been presented in class;

B. Preparation --- to help students gain the maximum benefits from future lessons;

C. Extension --- to provide students with opportunities to transfer specific skills or concepts to new situations; and

D. Creativity --- to require students to integrate many skills and concepts in order to produce original responses.

The purposes of homework assignments, the basis for evaluating the work performed and the guidelines and/or rules should be made clear to the student at the time of the assignment.

The school principal shall establish guidelines which clarify the nature and the use of homework assignments to improve school achievement.

Insurance

Schools do not provide insurance to cover students in the event of injury. If your child(ren) are not covered by a health insurance program, you may want to consider the student insurance program selected by the district to provide affordable coverage options. If you decide to enroll your child in this program, please make payment and send correspondence to the provider and NOT to the school. We are not selling the insurance.

Child Care

Before and after school day care is available through the Apple Valley Child Care (West Valley Child Care) Program. Prior registration is required. Please contact them directly during operating hours at 965-1172 or 930-7876.

PTA

The Parent Teacher Association at Apple Valley Elementary is a very supportive group of people who sponsor special events and fundraisers for the purpose of enriching our students’ educational experience. Your participation is optional, but strongly encouraged. Playground equipment, assemblies, books, and other special gifts are examples of purchases made possible by our PTA . Please plan to join this group and contribute to their efforts to making our school the best it can be. Watch the school newsletter for meeting dates.

 

Personal Safety

The beginning of the school year is a good time to re-teach personal safety, particularly regarding strangers, how to get help, etc. Teachers teach and re-teach personal safety periodically. This is not to alarm you, but simply to make sure our children have the skills to increase their personal safety.

All classrooms will repeatedly practice both fire drills and other emergency procedures. Students and staff are as prepared for emergencies as they can be. In our efforts to maintain a safe learning environment, we require all visitors (including parents) to check in at the office upon arrival. Please do your part by picking up a visitor’s pass at the office when you visit the school.

 

Reading Promotion
At Apple Valley Elementary, it is our goal to make EVERY CHILD A READER. To accomplish this goal takes encouragement and practice. Therefore, all Apple Valley students are expected to participate in the West Valley “20-20” Reading Promotion . How can you help? It’s easy! Every day, find a quiet place to sit and read a good book with your children.

• Students receive a reading calendar sheet at the beginning of each month.
• The “20-20” goal is 400 minutes each month. Students may read, or have someone read to them, 20 minutes a day for 20 days, or any combination to total 400 minutes in a month.
• A responsible adult helps the student record the number of minutes read each day and then initials the reading record sheet.
• Completed record sheets are returned to school at the end of each month.

Make time to read to your little ones, or to listen to your older children read to you. Together, you will enjoy the simple pleasures of reading and the satisfaction of reaching a worthy goal.

School Patrol

The purpose of the school patrol at Apple Valley Elementary is to assist members of the student body to and from school at designated crossings. These crossings have been determined to be the safe walking routes to and from this school. In addition, the safety patrol strives to provide a model to foster the development and use of good safety habits by the entire student body at Apple Valley School . Your child must cooperate with the School Patrol. Their job is to help keep your child safe. Being uncooperative, non-compliant, or disrespectful toward school patrols will result in a school disciplinary action.

Patrols will be located at the crosswalks from 8:30-8:50 and then from 3:30 until the buses depart.

Pet Policy

We ask that for safety and health reasons student do not bring live pets to school. Photos are a great way of sharing special animals with classmates.

 

Secrets of Excellent Students

·   They avoid interruptions.  When studying, they don’t take phone calls, watch TV, or eat.  They're serious.

·   They may study at unusual places or times.  Whether the time was early morning, late at night, or afternoon, they were consistent.  They never missed it.

·   They are organized.  They keep materials together in a desk, a drawer or a backpack.  Many filed each day’s papers by subject so they could be reviewed before a test.

·   They learn how to read better.  The secret of good reading is to be an active reader, one who asks questions that lead to fuller understanding.

·   They schedule large tasks and make the deadlines.  For a report, they may divide the project into parts such as research, outline, write, review, and finalize.

·   They take good notes.  Teachers test on what they summarize, so notes are vital.  Good students also take notes on what they read.

·   They are neat.  Their papers are clean and easy to read.

·   They ask for explanations if they don’t understand what the instructor says.

·   They test themselves.  Before a test, great students predict what will be asked and determine whether they know the answers.

·   They do more than required.  Part of learning is practicing, they say.  The more you practice, the more you learn.

The most important secret of super achievers is the contribution of their parents.  They set high standards for them and help them to develop a love of learning.

 

 

  The Following are West Valley School District Board Policies

DUE PROCESS: No pupil shall be deprived of educational opportunity by the school district without due process of law. These include rights of appeal.

Notification of Due Process to Parents - WVSD Board Policy 3200

DUE PROCESS: No pupil shall be deprived of educational opportunity by the school district without due process of law. These include rights of appeal. It is the goal of the West Valley School District to effectively handle complaints and concerns on the part of students, staff, parents, and patrons. To that end, we believe that these issues are best resolved at the classroom, building, or departmental level. If the problem is not resolved at this level, then a written statement that describes the complaint or concern and a possible solution may be filed with the District Office. If still unresolved after meeting with the Superintendent or his/her designee, the matter may be brought before the Board of Directors.

It is the goal of the West Valley School District to effectively handle complaints and concerns on the part of students, staff, parents, and patrons. To that end, we believe that these issues are best resolved at the classroom, building, or departmental level. If the problem is not resolved at this level, then a written statement that describes the complaint or concern and a possible solution may be filed with the District Office. If still unresolved after meeting with the Superintendent or his/her designee, the matter may be brought before the Board of Directors. (See Policy 4312P/4312F)

Immunizations-- WVSD Board Policy 3410, 3413

State law requires that all students meet state immunization requirements before entering a Washington State Public School . The school must have a written record of the dates of the immunizations before the student may attend. Please contact the school office for details.

Medication WVSD Board Policy 3416

We understand that children sometimes need to take prescribed or over-the-counter medication during the school day. Our district policy requires a completed medication request form that has been signed by both the parent and a physician, giving complete instructions for administering the medication. Parents (not students) must bring the medication to the office in the original pharmacy container.

Over-the-counter drugs (aspirin, Tylenol, cough medicine, cough drops, etc.) will be treated the same as prescriptions. Again, we must have a signed medication form giving authorization for your child to receive the medication. Students cannot administer medication on their own. Your physician must sign all forms.

See Medication forms in the appendix

Parental Notifications of Professional Qualifications

In accordance with ESEA 1111(h)(2), parent/guardians may request information regarding the professional qualifications of their student's classroom teacher and paraprofessionals. In accordance with RCW 28A.320 and RCW 42.17, parent/guardians may request public records regarding school employee discipline.

 

Pesticide Notification - WVSD Board Policy 6895

Pesticide Notification, Posting and Record Keeping Requirements

The District shall comply with all legal requirements for record keeping regarding the application of pesticides to school grounds or school facilities. This includes creation of an annual summary report of pesticide usage and compliance with state department of agriculture rules regarding record keeping. Such records will be available on request by interested persons under the state Public Records Act and other laws.

Procedure 6895 shall be printed and distributed annually in employee handbooks and student handbooks to employees, students and parents at the start of the school year or when an employee begins work or a student enrolls.

At least 48 hours before the application of a pesticide to school facilities or school grounds, the District shall notify parents and staff of the planned application in writing, including the heading, “Notice: Pesticide Application.” This notice shall be posted in a prominent place in the building office in addition to being provided to parents and staff. This pre-notification is not required if the school grounds or facilities will not be occupied by students for two days following the application of the pesticide. If the application is not made within 48 hours of the notification, an-other notification shall be made prior to the application. This pre-notification is not required in the case of any emergency application of pesticides to a school facility, such as an application to control stinging pests, but full notification shall be made as soon as possible after the application.

Following the application of a pesticide to school facilities (structures and vehicles) a sign shall be posted at the location of the application. The notice shall be at least 8.5 x 11 inches in size, shall include the heading, “Notice: Pesticide Application,” and shall state the product name; date, time and specific location of the application; the pest for which the application was made; and a contact name and telephone number. The notice shall remain posted for 24 hours, or longer if required by the label of the pesticide.

Following the application of a pesticide to school grounds notice shall be posted at the location of the application and at each primary point of entry to the grounds. The notice shall be at least 4 x 5 inches in size and state that the landscape recently has been treated with a pesticide and pro-vide a contact name and telephone number. The notice shall remain posted for 24 hours, or longer if required by the label of the pesticide.

These notices are not required for the application of anti-microbial pesticides (substances used to sanitize or disinfect for microbial pests: viruses, bacteria, algae and protozoa). These notices are not required for the placement of insect or rodent bait that are not accessible to children.

For outside playground, grass areas, and athletic fields the District will normally use Round-up (ground killer), Turflan, Horsepower, and Weedar (broad leaf), Casaron and Surflan (Pre-emergent), and Scyth (burns lines into the athletic fields). For insects, the name brands may change, but the use of some kind-of sprays for insect will be used. Presently, the District is using Fast Kill III (roach and ant killer), Flying Insect

Killer (Flies, mosquitoes, cockroaches, beetles, etc.), and Jet Force II (wasp and hornet)

Revised: 08.12.03

 

  Sexual Harassment– WVSD Board Policy 3207, 6590

Sexual harassment is unwanted sexual attention, usually in the form of repeated verbal or physical sexual advances, sexually implicit or derogatory statements, or discriminatory remarks made by someone in your school, any one of which causes you discomfort or interferes with your academic performance or creates a hostile/offensive environment .

Any victim of sexual harassment should immediately report the offense to a teacher, counselor or other staff member. Keep in mind that all inquiries are handled discreetly and held in confidence. Staff members will work with you to stop the offensive behavior.

Sexual harassment is sometimes hard to talk about because it’s a sensitive topic and can be a serious problem for both adults and students. Our school considers sexual harassment a serious offense, and it is subject to a range of disciplinary actions, including warning, suspension and expulsion.

Student Information

West Valley School District is prohibited from releasing any personally identifiable records or files about an individual student without parental consent. However, the district may release directory information or a list of students belonging to a group (e.g. sports teams, award recipients, participation in special activities, etc.). Such information may include the student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized organizations, activities, and sports, and awards received. Occasionally, the district may also release photographs of students for public information purposes.

Parents have a right to request in writing that any or all of these categories of information, including personally identifiable information and photographs, not be released without their prior consent.

Send such requests to the principal in writing annually.

 

Substance Abuse Program - WVSD Board Policy 2121

Actions taken by staff in dealing with student use of alcohol and the use and abuse of controlled illegal, addictive or harmful substances including anabolic steroids will have as their first concern the welfare of the student involved and the other students in the school. Although a helping relationship rather than an investigative and punitive approach will be emphasized, necessary and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken when laws or school regulations are violated. Law

enforcement agencies will be called upon for investigative and consultative assistance where illegal drug or alcohol activity has occurred.

Intervention

The West Valley School District ’s intervention strategy is aimed at eliminating student use of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs.

•All schools will establish and maintain an assistance program, which utilizes a team approach. The team will assess the student’s level of use/abuse, develop goals, and make recommendations for needed services for the student.

•Team members will receive training in confidentiality procedures, alcohol and drug abuse, and intervention strategies.

Ongoing in-service will be provided for faculty and staff focusing upon those characteristics of a comprehensive program that are crucial for successful implementation.

Drug, Alcohol, and Prevention - WVSD Board Policy 2121

The board recognizes that a significant number of parents, students and others are seriously concerned about the adverse effects of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco, and that the schools share the responsibility for providing appropriate information to young people.

The district shall cooperate with parents, professional authorities, community agencies and others in developing an effective educational program dealing with this important area.

Telecommunication/Electronic Devices - WVSD Board Policy 3233 (Students) All students are strongly encouraged not to have in their possession at any time on any school district property any electronic or telecommunication device. However, in recognition of parents’ decisions regarding the safety and communication needs of their families the following procedures are placed into effect so as to establish and create as positive a learning atmosphere as possible. The district prohibits the use of all personal telecommunication/electronic devices (including cell phones) during the school hours for students in grades P-7 and during instructional time for students in grades 8-12. If a parent/guardian wishes his/her child to have a cell phone, it must remain out of sight and be turned off during school hours. All communication between parents and students in grades P-7 must go through school personnel during the school day.

Students in the possession of telecommunication or other electronic devices shall observe the following conditions:

• All telecommunication/electronic devices may not be in visible sight or operated in school at the elementary and middle schools or in class or during instructional time at the junior and senior high schools, unless an emergency situation exists that involves imminent physical danger or a school administrator authorizes the student to do otherwise.

• At the junior and senior high schools, students may use telecommunication/electronic devices during lunch, before or after school and during passing time.

• Students who violate this policy will be subject to progressive disciplinary action up to and including confiscation of the device. The first step in most cases shall be confiscation, after which the student my pick the device up at the end of the school day. A device which has been confiscated more than once shall only be returned to the student’s parent or guardian.

• Teachers may allow the use of telecommunications/electronic devices in their own classrooms if such use contributes to instructional and/or educational purposes. Teachers will notify principals, in writing and prior to the beginning of the year, the details of allowable use. Further, so that all students and parents/guardians are aware of the appropriate use, if any, of telecommunications/electronic devices in a particular teacher’s classroom, the teacher will include the details in the syllabus of the course.

• Students are responsible for telecommunication/electronic devices they bring to school or onto district-owned transportation. The district shall not be responsible for loss, theft or destruction of such devices brought onto school property even when confiscated. Nor will the school investigate the loss or damage of such an item.

While on school property after school hours or while attending school-sponsored or school-related activities occurring after school hours, students may possess and use personal telecommunication/electronic devices. These include, but are not limited to, pagers, beepers, MP3 players and cellular phones. The possession and use of such devices must not pose a threat to academic integrity, disrupt the learning environment or violate the privacy rights of others.

Legal References: RCW 28A.320.135 Telecommunication devices – Limits on possession – Policies Adopted Date: 12/07

 

Washington State learning Goals

All students will demonstrate ability to…

1. Read with comprehension, write with skill, and communicate effectively and responsibly in a variety of ways and settings;

2. Know and apply the core concepts and principles of mathematics; social, physical, and life sciences; civics and history; geography; arts; and health and fitness;

3. Think analytically, logically, and creatively, and integrate experience and knowledge to form reasoned judgments and solve problems;

4. Understand the importance of work and how performance, effort, and decisions directly affect future career and educational opportunities.

 

Regulation of Dangerous Weapons on School Premises - WVSD Board Policy 4200, 4210

It is a violation of district policy and state law for any person to carry a firearm or dangerous weapon or maliciously display an instrument that appears to be a firearm on school premises, school-provided transportation or areas of other facilities being used exclusively for school activities.

The superintendent is directed to see that all school facilities post "Gun-Free Zone" signs, and that all violations of this policy and RCW 9.41.280 are reported annually to the superintendent of Public Instruction.

The following persons may carry firearms into school buildings, as necessary, although students engaged in these activities are restricted to the possession of rifles on school premises:

• persons engaged in military, law enforcement, or school district security activities;

• persons involved in a school authorized convention, showing, demonstration, lecture or firearm safety course;

• persons competing in school authorized firearm or air gun competitions; and any federal, state or local law enforcement officer.

The following persons over eighteen years of age and not enrolled as students may have firearms in their possession on school property outside of school buildings:

• persons with concealed weapons permits issued pursuant to RCW 9.41.070 who are picking up or dropping off students; and

• persons conducting legitimate business at the school and in lawful possession of a firearm or dangerous weapon if the weapon is secured within an attended vehicle, is unloaded and secured in a vehicle, or is concealed from view in a locked, unattended vehicle.

Persons may bring dangerous weapons, other than firearms, onto school premises if the weapons are lawfully within the person's possession and are to be used in a school-authorized martial arts class. Persons over eighteen years of age and persons between fourteen and eighteen years of age with written parental or guardian permission may possess personal protection spray devices on school property. No one under eighteen years of age may deliver such devices, nor may anyone eighteen years or older deliver a spray device to anyone under fourteen or to anyone between fourteen and eighteen who does not have parental permission.

Students who violate this policy are subject to district discipline policies, including the due process provisions regarding notification of parents. Students who violate the firearms provisions are subject to a minimum one calendar year expulsion, with possible case-by-case modification by the superintendent. The district shall also comply with federal protections for disabled students in the application of this policy.

Spray devices may not be used other than in self-defense as defined by state law. Possession, transmission or use of personal protection spray devices under any other circumstances is a violation of district policy.

School officials shall notify the appropriate law enforcement agency of known or suspected violations of this policy. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to discipline, including a one year expulsion for a violation involving a firearm.

 

Weapons Policy

State law and district policies are specific regarding weapons of any kind on school property.

Students in possession of firearms on school property will be turned over to local authorities and will face immediate expulsion . A firearm is defined as a weapon or device from which a projectile may be fired by an explosive. For obvious reasons, toy weapons are also prohibited.

Other Weapons

Weapons include but are not limited to the following:

• knives and other pointed objects (cutting or stabbing instruments with a sharp blade set in a handle)
• slingshots
• clubs
• metal knuckles
• air guns/pistols, rifles
• any device consisting of two or more lengths of wood, metal, plastic, or similar substance connected with wire, rope, or other means
• devices designed to propel a BB, pellet, rock, or other projectile
  

Leave these at home also:

-any device that has the potential of being a weapon.

-any water squirting or delivering device.

-roller skates, skateboards, motorcycles, or motor bikes.

-hardballs or baseballs.

-drugs, tobacco or alcohol.

Consequences for possession of weapons include suspension and/or expulsion from school. Parents and juvenile authorities may be notified of criminal acts. Due process requires that parents/guardians be informed when suspension or expulsion occurs. Appropriate reasons with documentation are conveyed to the parent and student. Grievance/appeal procedures are provided and explained.

Progress Reporting

Apple Valley School issues grades and progress reports on a regular basis as a means of evaluating your performance and to determine changes that might be made to help to improve your performance. These reports must be signed and returned by Parents. Parents/students will be notified via newsletter of webpage regarding the release date of report cards.

PROGRESS REPORTS will be issued to all students at the mid-point of each trimester. You will receive a grade for each class to use as an indicator as to how your performance has been up that point in time. Parents may also request receiving progress reports on a more regular basis by contacting the Counseling Office at 965-2060.

REPORT CARDS will be issued at the end of each trimester during the school year, within two weeks after the end of the trimester. The final report in June will be mailed to your home.

 Student Records

Student records containing academic and testing information on each student are kept in the Counseling Office and move with you from elementary school to the Middle School to the Junior High to the High School as you progress through the system. The records are available to school personnel on a need-to-know basis. The records are also available for inspection by students and/or parents/guardians by appointment during regular school hours. It is important that we have an up-to-date address.

Search and Seizure

G iven that school lockers and desks are the property of the school district, the school may conduct searches of school property assigned to a specific student and seize items in his/her locker or desk. Student personal searches will be conducted in accordance with Washington State Law and adopted School District Policy.