Section I: General Information s1

SECTION I: GENERAL INFORMATION S. Weather and Emergency Notices 22SECTION IV: CURRICULUM AND A. Welcome...... 1 GRADING Committee for Parent Involvement...... 1 Parent Volunteers...... 1 A. Conferences...... 23 B. School Calendar...... 2 B. Eligibility/Extracurricular Activities...... 23 C. Staff Information...... 3 C. Grading...... 23 D. Notice to Parents - Asbestos...... 4 D. Report Cards...... 24 E. Special Services...... 24 SECTION II: GENERAL SCHOOL RULES F. Section 504...... 24

A. Mission Statement...... 5 SECTION V: DISCIPLINE POLICIES B. Vision and Value Statements...... 5 C. School-Wide Title I...... 6 A. Elementary Procedure...... 26 D. Title I-School Parental Involvement Policy.....6 Love and Logic Roots...... 26 E. Philosophy of Discipline...... 12 Behavior that May Result in Consequence...26 F. Behavior Management...... 13 G. Rules...... 14 SECTION VI: POLICIES School-wide Positive Behavior Plan...... 14 General School Rules and Regulations....14 A. Bullying Policy...... 29 Playground Rules and Regulations...... 14 B. FERPA Policy ...... 33 Hallway Rules and Regulations...... 15 C. Homework...... 34 Lunchroom Rules and Regulations...... 15 D. Internet Use/Agreement...... 34 Busing Responsibilities...... 15 E. Carrying Weapons Policy...... 38 School Bus Rules and Regulations...... 15 Carrying Weapons Exception...... 39 F. Communicable Disease/Significant SECTION III: SCHOOL REGULATIONS Infectious Disease Policy...... 39 G. Field Trips Policy...... 40 A. Absences, Excused and Unexcused...... 16 H. Guidance and Counseling Services...... 40 B. Age Requirements - Pre-School/ I. Medication/Administering to Students..41 Kindergarten...... 16 J. Retention and Promotion Policy...... 43 C. Animal Regulations...... 16 K. Summary Rights as a Parent/Guardian...... 44 D. Attendance / Students...... 16 L. Vandalism/Use of School Equipment and E. Breakfast and Hot Lunch Program/Snacks..17 Material Policy...... 45 F. Certificate of Immunization...... 17 M. Visitors to Elementary School Policy...... 45 G. Chain of Command...... 18 H. Contagious Diseases/Head Lice...... 18 I. Dress and Grooming...... 18 J. Drug Use/Abuse - Students...... 19 K. First Aid / Accidents...... 20 L. Health...... 20 List of Updated Policies...... 46 M. Kindergarten...... 21 N. School Age...... 21 O. Physical Education...... 21 P. Telephones...... 21 Q. Textbooks...... 22 R. Warning Drills, Fire/Weather/Emergency..22 SECTION I: GENERAL INFORMATION

A. WELCOME

It is our pleasure to welcome you to our school for the upcoming school year. We hope that your child will find this year an enjoyable and rewarding one.

We look forward to working with you and your child as well. It is here that your child develops lasting attitudes about school, teachers, and classmates. It is also here that the student learns to accept other children and to be accepted by them.

Close cooperation between the teacher and the parent is highly supported and recognized at TRE. This cooperation can be established when the ingredients of love, patience, and understanding are present in the home and at school. It is our wish that your child may come happily and willingly to school and make a comfortable transition to our school.

We feel extremely proud to be able to serve the patrons of the Richardton-Taylor School District who have traditionally been very supportive in their role as concerned parents and active members of the school community.

We welcome each of our parents to visit school anytime. Please call us if you have a concern on anything school related. We will be happy to help you at any time, and our door is always open to you.

The handbook which follows is designed to give you and your child some helpful information regarding the Taylor-Richardton Elementary School. We hope you will read it carefully and place it in a convenient location for quick and easy reference.

COMMITTEE FOR PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Taylor-Richardton Elementary encourages parental involvement in educational decision making. Parents are invited to call the school or a PAWS officer if they are interested in being part of PAWS (Parents Active With School).

PARENT VOLUNTEERS

We are happy to have parents and community members serve as volunteers in the school. There are many tasks that could be handled by a volunteer that would be rewarding to both volunteers and students. Our regular meeting day is Wednesday this year, but this could change. Please join us!

1 C. STAFF INFORMATION SCHOOL BOARD

Duane Zent President Casey Hoff Paraprofessional Shannon Goetz Vice President Jacque Kitzan Food Service-St. Mary’s Jody Hoff Director Mark Kobriger Custodian Judy Hoff Director Jeremy Portcheller Custodian Ty Dressler Director Kellie Redka Paraprofessional Lindsey Taylor Food Service-St. Mary’s Mariann Voegele Food Service ADMINISTRATION Hollie Wilson Paraprofessional

Brent Bautz Superintendent Scott Bohn Elementary Principal BUS DRIVERS

ELEMENTARY STAFF Brandi Harrington Route #3 Glenn Gullickson/Kodi Hazen Route #4 Leighton Ward Preschool Portia Somora Route #5 Kayla Skaley Kindergarten Vicky Tormaschy Route #6 Devon Burbidge First Grade Ben/Eva Messer Route #11/shuttle Chelsea Christensen First Grade Kerry Eide Route #12/shuttle Sarah Poswilko Second Grade Bernie Staudinger Route #14/shuttle Pat Disrud Third Grade Ray Fettig Activity Bus BryAnna Ahrens Fourth Grade Lindsey Gullickson Fourth Grade Devin Rummel Fifth Grade Sharon Messer Sixth Grade Justene Gjermundson Speech Pathologist Deb Huffman Reading Specialist Barb Bemis Elem Band/Music Catie Hoselton Elem Music/Art Tyler Ward Physical Education Mary Quintus Special Ed Julie Caranicas Special Ed Kris Bartz Title I Jennifer Jung Counselor Moira McNichols Resident in Training

Beth Alpert Paraprofessional Jerry Aluise Technology Coor. Amber Bartz Office Assistant Pam Begley Paraprofessional Shawn Carey Custodian Tara Colgrove Food Service Cindy Dohrmann Office Admin/Tech Tammy Friedt Food Service Rachel Gaab Food Service-St. Mary’s Joni Gjermundson Librarian

3 D. NOTICE TO PARENTS - ASBESTOS

As you know, Richardton Taylor Public School District is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment for all children and occupants of our school. As a result of improved methods in medical research, we have an increasing awareness of the presence of substances in our environment that may be dangerous to our health. Certain materials known generally as "asbestos" have been identified as among those substances. In fact, while materials containing asbestos were used for years as insulation and fire retardants in the construction of schools and other buildings, we now know that exposure to and inhalation of asbestos fibers that are released into the air may pose a hazard to the health of school children, teachers, and other employees.

In 1980, the United States Congress passed a law to authorize funds for local educational agencies to conduct programs to detect construction materials that can release asbestos fibers into the air in school buildings to assure the continued safety of school children. Likewise, the Federal Department of Education issued regulations recommending the proper measures to be taken in order to obtain federal funds.

In October of 1987, the Environmental Protection Agency issued regulations that require all local educational entities to look for asbestos in schools and buildings under their control and to take actions reducing or eliminating potential exposure to asbestos. Your school district is committed to taking all appropriate steps necessary to protect the health of its' pupils. In keeping with this commitment, HTI Laboratories and Industrial Consultants of Fargo, North Dakota, have conducted an independent inspection according to the new USEPA regulations to determine the extent of asbestos- containing materials in our schools and the potential for those materials to introduce respirable fibers into the air. The inspection revealed that our schools were not exception to the general construction practices, and that asbestos-containing materials have been used in certain construction materials. Specifically, we have determined that friable asbestos-containing materials are present at the specific locations indicated in the Taylor-Richardton Elementary School. The Taylor-Richardton Elementary School intends to continue to implement the Department of Education's recommendations, and has either totally removed or has safely maintained these materials via recommended USEPA methods. A record of the inspection, a diagram of the locations of friable and non-friable asbestos containing materials, and a copy of relevant federal regulations are available in the Taylor School office.

4 SECTION II: GENERAL SCHOOL RULES

A. Mission Statement - AA

The mission of the Richardton-Taylor Public Schools is to prepare and educate students to positively contribute in a diverse, global society.

B. Vision and Value Statements - AAA

We, the Richardton-Taylor Public School District, present this statement of our vision and values concerning education in order to formulate district goals and objectives and to establish programs that are designed to meet these goals and objectives within the legal framework of state and federal law.

We Believe:

1. The purpose of education is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become active, informed, and productive members of a diverse global society. 2. All individuals are entitled to equal rights, freedoms, and opportunities regardless of economic, cultural, or intellectual differences. 3. Through the study of basic subject matter, technology, culture, and fin arts students will be prepared for the complexities of the world. 4. Education should aid in the development of good character, self-respect and self-worth. 5. Educational experiences should be timed in accordance with students’ readiness. 6. Appropriate discipline helps ensure that the educational process operates efficiently and develop citizenship. 7. Parents and community should be partners with the schools. It takes the combined efforts of all members of the community to develop and maintain en educational program.

We Will:

1. Develop clear and focused academic and career goals for each student. 2. Commit to creating and preserving a learning and working environment that promotes collaboration and is free from discrimination and harassment. 3. Provide all students with opportunities to participate in a varied and rigorous curriculum. 4. Have high standards and expectations for all students. 5. Frequently monitor each student’s learning and provide additional support for those that struggle. 6. Provide a safe, orderly environment and promote citizenship. 7. Develop an effective partnership by collaborating with parents and community members.

Expect SUCCESS!

5 C. SCHOOL-WIDE TITLE I

Taylor-Richardton Elementary School has set the school-wide goal in the area of reading comprehension in all content areas.

Parents and students seeking assistance in the areas of reading, writing or math are encouraged to contact the school to speak with the Title I teacher, any classroom teacher or the principal. School staff will be available to discuss strategies that are being implemented in the classroom and that can be implemented at home to assist students in these areas.

D. Title I District - School Parental Involvement Policy (Policy FDCAB)

PART I. DISTRICT EXPECTATIONS

Each school district must establish the district’s expectations for parental involvement. [Section 1118(a)(2), ESEA.]

The Richardton-Taylor School District agrees to implement the following statutory requirements:

 The school district will put into operation programs, activities, and procedures for the involvement of parents in all of its schools with Title I programs. Those programs, activities, and procedures will be planned and operated with meaningful consultation with parents of participating children.

 The school district will work with its schools to ensure that the required school-level parental involvement policies meet the Title I requirements, and include, as a component, a school- parent compact.

 The school district will incorporate this district-wide parental involvement policy into its district plan.

 In carrying out the Title I parental involvement requirements, to the extent practicable, the school district and its schools will provide full opportunities for the participation of parents with children with limited English proficiency, parents with children with disabilities, and parents of migratory children, including providing information and school reports in an understandable and uniform format and, including alternative formats upon request, and, to the extent practicable, in a language parents understand.

 If the district plan for Title I is not satisfactory to the parents of participating children, the school district will submit any parent comments with the plan when the school district submits the plan to the Department of Public Instruction.

6  The school district will be governed by the following statutory definition of parental involvement, and expects that its Title I schools will carry out programs, activities, and procedures in accordance with this definition:

Parental involvement means the participation of parents in regular, two-way, and meaningful communication involving student academic learning and other school activities, including ensuring-- (A) that parents play an integral role in assisting their child’s learning;

(B) that parents are encouraged to be actively involved in their child’s education at school;

(C) that parents are full partners in their child’s education and are included, as appropriate, in decision-making and on advisory committees to assist in the education of their child;

(D) the carrying out of other activities, such as those described in section 1118 of the ESEA.

 The school district will inform parents and parental organizations of the purpose and existence of the Parental Information and Resource Center in North Dakota (i.e., NDPASS in Minot, ND).

PART II. DISTRICT/SCHOOL PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT POLICY REQUIRED COMPONENTS

1. The Richardton-Taylor School District will take the following actions to involve parents in the joint development of its district/school parental involvement plan:

* Have a fall meeting to inform parents about Title I and how to improve their child's performance. * Help parents understand state and local assessments during fall meetings, P-T conferences, and informational flyers * Inform parents of meetings and activities through phone calls, letters and school newsletters * Involve parents in the planning and development of their child’s instructional goals * Hold parent classes in conjunction with the West Dakota Parent and Family Resource Center

2. The Richardton-Taylor School District will convene an annual meeting, at a convenient time, to which all parents shall be invited and encouraged to attend, to inform parents of their school’s participation under this part and to explain the requirements of this part, and the right of the parents to be involved,

*The annual meeting will be held in the fall, in the Taylor-Richardton Elementary School.

3. The Richardton-Taylor School District will offer a flexible number of meetings, such as meetings in the morning or evening, and may provide, with funds provided under this part, transportation, child care, or home visits, as such services relate to parental involvement;

7 *Parent-teacher conferences (Conferences are scheduled from 3:30-7:30, or a time that is convenient for the parents) *If parents are unable to attend, phone conferences are conducted *Teachers are available for conferences before or after school *Annual parent meetings (held in the fall and spring)

4. The Richardton-Taylor School District will provide the following necessary coordination, technical assistance, and other support to assist Title I schools in planning and implementing effective parental involvement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance: *PowerSchool *District Monthly Newsletter *Parent-Teacher Conference Scheduling *Destiny (Library System) *Renaissance Learning

5. The Richardton-Taylor School District will build the schools’ and parents’ capacity for strong parental involvement, in order to ensure effective involvement of parents and to support a partnership among the school involved, parents, and the community to improve student academic achievement, through the following activities specifically described below:

A. The school/district will, with the assistance of its Title I schools, provide assistance to parents of children served by the school district or school, as appropriate, in understanding topics such as the following, by undertaking the actions described in this paragraph --  the state’s academic content standards  the state’s student academic achievement standards  the state and local academic assessments including alternate assessments  the requirements of Title I  how to monitor their child’s progress and  how to work with educators

*Throughout the school year we hold meetings, provide informational flyers, schedule conferences, and send progress reports. Parents are also able to check their child’s progress, assignments and grades through PowerSchool.

The Richardton-Taylor School District will provide parents of participating children, if requested by parents, opportunities for regular meetings to formulate suggestions and to participate, as appropriate, in decisions relating to the education of their children, and respond to any such suggestions as soon as practically possible.

B. The school/district will, with the assistance of its Title I schools, provide materials and training to help parents work with their children to improve their children’s academic achievement, such as literacy training and using technology, as appropriate, to foster parental involvement, by: *Parent Meetings *E-mail correspondence *Newsletters *Offer technology classes *Brochures *PowerSchool-check student’s *Family Day (during Reading Month) progress online *Provide progress reports each quarter *Share Educational web sites

8 C. The school/district will, with the assistance of its Title I schools and parents, educate its teachers, pupil services personnel, principals and other staff, in how to reach out to, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners, in the value and utility of contributions of parents, and in how to implement and coordinate parent programs and build ties between parents and schools, by:

*Provide opportunities to attend Reading, Math, Science, Title I and other educational conferences. *Providing Teacher inservice (Beginning and providing professional development days throughout the year) *Parenting Pipeline and Building Readers (school mailings and newsletters) *Share helpful web sites that will build skills *Offering Parent Classes (through Partners in Parenting)

D. The school/district will, to the extent feasible and appropriate, coordinate and integrate parental involvement programs and activities with Head Start, Reading First, Early Reading First, Even Start, Home Instruction Programs for Preschool Youngsters, the Parents as Teachers Program, and public preschool and other programs, and conduct other activities, such as parent resource centers, that encourage and support parents in more fully participating in the education of their children, by:

(This is not applicable to our school district.)

E. The school/district will take the following actions to ensure that Title I information related to the school and parent- programs, meetings, and other activities, is sent to the parents of participating children in an understandable and uniform format, including alternative formats upon request, and, to the extent practicable, in a language the parents can understand:

*Parent newsletters and brochures are parent friendly. *Instructions and web sites are user friendly.

6. The Richardton-Taylor School District will coordinate and integrate parental involvement strategies under Title I with parental involvement strategies under the following other programs: [Insert programs, such as: Head Start, Reading First, Early Reading First, Even Start, Parents As Teachers, Home Instruction Program for Preschool Youngsters, and state-operated preschool programs], by:

(This is not applicable to our school district.)

7. The Richardton-Taylor School District will take the following actions to conduct, with the involvement of parents, an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness of this parental involvement policy in improving the quality of its Title I schools. The evaluation will include identifying barriers to greater participation by parents in parental involvement activities (with particular attention to parents who are economically disadvantaged, are disabled, have limited English proficiency, have limited literacy, or are of any racial or ethnic minority background). The school district will use the findings of the evaluation about its parental involvement policy and activities to design strategies for more effective parental involvement, and to revise, if necessary (and with the involvement of parents) its parental involvement policies.

9 *The administration will conduct a parent survey in the spring. This is a way of evaluating the effectiveness of the Title I program. *The school will hold an annual review in the spring to review the program and make revisions for the following school year. (Teachers, administrators and parents' input is greatly valued.)

8. The Richardton-Taylor School District will take the following actions to involve parents in the process of school review and improvement:

*The administration will conduct a parent survey in the spring. This is a way of evaluating the effectiveness of the Title I program. *The school will hold an annual review in the spring to review the program and make changes for the next school year. (Teachers, administrators and parents’ input is greatly valued.)

9. If the schoolwide program plan is not satisfactory to the parents of participating children, submit any parent comments on the plan when the school makes the plan available to the local educational agency.

(Not applicable)

PART III. SHARED RESPONSIBILITIES FOR HIGH STUDENT ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

As a component of the school-level parental involvement policy, each school shall jointly develop with parents for all children served under this part a school-parent compact that outlines how parents, the entire school staff, and students will share the responsibility for improved student academic achievement.

*Parents -see that my child attends school regularly and on time -provide a home environment that encourages my child to learn -insist that all homework assignments are completed -communicate regularly with my child’s teachers -support the school in developing positive behaviors -talk with my child about his/her school activities every day -be consistent

*Teachers -believe that each student can learn -use a variety of teaching techniques, computers, etc. -make learning a positive and meaningful experience -provide an environment conducive to learning -help each child grow to his/her potential -enforce school and classroom rules fairly and consistently -maintain open lines of communication with the student and his/her parents/guardians -build self-esteem by helping each child find success

10 *Students -always try to do my best in my work and behavior -read each day -be an active learner, explore, listen, think, do, question -obey school rules -have a positive attitude -come prepared with my homework and supplies -believe that I can and will learn -be a lifelong learner

PART IV. DISCRETIONARY DISTRICT/SCHOOL PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT POLICY COMPONENTS

The District/School Parental Involvement Policy may include additional paragraphs listing and describing other discretionary activities that the school district, in consultation with its parents, chooses to undertake to build parents’ capacity for involvement in the school and school system to support their children’s academic achievement, such as the following discretionary activities:

 Involve parents in the development of training for teachers, principals, and other educators to improve the effectiveness of that training.

 Provide necessary literacy training for parents from Title I, Part A funds, if the school district has exhausted all other reasonably available sources of funding for that training.

 Pay reasonable and necessary expenses associated with parental involvement activities, including transportation and child care costs, to enable parents to participate in school-related meetings and training sessions.

 Train parents to enhance the involvement of other parents.

 In order to maximize parental involvement and participation in their children’s education, arrange school meetings at a variety of times, or conduct in-home conferences between teachers or other educators, who work directly with participating children, with parents who are unable to attend those conferences at school.

 Adopt and implement model approaches to improving parental involvement.

 Establish a district parent advisory council to provide advice on all matters related to parental involvement in Title I, Part A programs.

 Develop appropriate roles for community-based organizations and businesses, including faith based organizations, in parental involvement activities.

 Provide other reasonable support for parental involvement activities under section 1118 as parents may request.

* Cover costs and mileage for parents interested in educational training or conferences * Parent Survey * Parents have access to school board minutes and the district budget.

11 * Access to Department of Public Instruction’s web site * Collaborate with West Dakota Parent and Family Resource Center to provide training and ideas on how to become more involved. * Collaboration with West River Special Services * Schedule P-T conferences in the evening, before and after school or at times that are convenient for parents. * Our student handbook provides information on how parents can become involved in school activities. (ie. Volunteering, PAWS-Parents Active With School) * PAWS is actively involved in the education of our school. * Collaboration with local organizations and businesses to enhance students’ education (Monthly Reading Sponsors, Club Advisors, assist in providing educational presenters and field trips)

PART V. ACCESSIBILITY

In carrying out the parental involvement requirements of this part, districts and schools, to the extent practicable, shall provide full opportunities for the participation of parents with children with limited English proficiency, parents with children with disabilities, and parents of migratory children, including providing information and school reports in a format and, to the extent practicable, in a language such parents can understand.

* Cover costs and mileage for parents interested in educational training or conferences * Collaboration with West River Special Services

PART VI. ADOPTION

This District/School Parental Involvement Policy has been developed jointly with, and agreed on with, parents of children participating in Title I programs, as evidenced by progress reports and Parent Teacher Conferences.

This policy was adopted by Richardton-Taylor School District on 5/23/06, revised March 2008, and will be in effect for the period of the 2015-16 school year. The school district will distribute this policy to all parents of participating Title I children on or before 8/26/2015.

E. PHILOSOPHY OF DISCIPLINE

The educators of TRE have set a school-wide goal to establish and maintain a safe, secure, nurturing and supportive environment that is highly conducive to learning.

The major emphasis of an effective discipline plan is one of prevention rather than only correction of inappropriate behavior. Staff members at TRE will consistently work together and with students to clearly communicate expectations for all members of our school community. This learning environment will be established and maintained through effective communication, interactive modeling, positive teacher language, logical consequences, working with families, and collaborative problem solving.

12 Students will contribute to developing rules and routines that will sustain a safe, secure, and nurturing environment. This contribution will deepen their understanding of purposeful rules and routines as well as increase their levels of investment in maintaining a school environment that is conducive to learning. These rules and routines will be published on a behavior matrix and made visible in each classroom.

Students will be taught that they are responsible for their behavior and the choices they make. Staff members of TRE will encourage students to make positive choices and recognize students when they do.

The monitoring of behavior is the responsibility of all staff members. Communication and consistency will play an integral role in developing and maintaining a safe, secure, and nurturing school environment. Classroom teachers are expected to provide all students with an educational environment that is structured and promotes educational experiences. Teachers will consistently model respect and responsibility.

F. BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT

Each classroom teacher should utilize his or her own behavior management plans within his or her classroom that are consistent with school expectations. When a child exhausts the options within a teacher’s plan, the child will enter the Taylor-Richardton Elementary school wide behavior plan described below. In the event that a child’s behavior is extremely disruptive, the teacher may choose to move a child into the Taylor-Richardton Elementary school wide behavior plan and bypass their usual management system.

The staff at TRE have taken a united stand against violence and we ask for your support and assistance with this project. TRE's Violence Standard: Violence is any word, look, sign or act that hurts a person’s body, feelings, or things.

* No one is entitled to use violence. * Violence is not tolerated at our school.

The two primary categories of violence are physical and nonphysical, according to the way the violence is delivered.

To qualify as violent, the act need not be deliberate, and it need not be “successful”. A threat or a failed attempt is nevertheless an act of violence. To minimize or dismiss any of these actions will undermine any plan of prevention. To tolerate some offenses but not others will make consistent intervention impossible. Perpetrators will take advantage of the confusion. The intervention effort will be sabotaged before it starts.

Physical violence is any act that does harm to person or property by means of physical action. Physical violence against another person is any act that does bodily harm or that disregards potential harm. Physical violence against property is any act that damages, or that disregards potential damage to, public or private property, whatever its monetary value.

Non-physical violence is much more frequent than the physical kind, but more difficult to pin down. It’s useful to think of social, verbal, and visual violence. These subcategories overlap. They’re meant to raise awareness of the varied kinds of big and little hurts we cannot let slide if we’re serious about ridding violence from our homes, schools, and communities.

13 G. RULES

TAYLOR-RICHARDTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-WIDE POSITIVE STUDENT BEHAVIOR PLAN

1. Students will respect others. 2. Students will respect property. 3. Students will maintain a safe learning environment that enhances academic learning.

GENERAL SCHOOL RULES AND REGULATIONS

1. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself. 2. Walk in the building, staying to the right. 3. Students are not permitted to drink pop, chew gum, eat candy or sunflower seeds in the building at any time during the school day except on special occasions. 4. Loitering or inappropriate behavior in the lavatories is not allowed. 5. It is desirable that children do not come to school before 8:00 a.m. If this is not possible, please contact the principal to make arrangements. 6. Use of the school telephone will be restricted and children will be called out of classes only on an emergency basis. A telephone is available in the hallway at the southeast end of the school for after school use for local calls. 7. Students may not leave the school building or playground during the school day, unless written permission has been given by the parents and/or principal. 8. The school must be notified of all absences. Call the school when students will not be in attendance, or send a note in advance whenever possible. If the absence is caused by a communicable disease, the school should be notified. An informational note should also be sent to school with the child on his/her return. 9. Cell phones are not to be used within the school or on the bus.

PLAYGROUND RULES AND REGULATIONS

1. Obey the playground supervisor. Students will follow directions of the supervisors the first time they are given. 2. Play in designated areas, play by the rules, and use equipment as intended. 3. Students will play games that are safe to all people. NO tackling or physical contact of any kind. 4. NO hard balls, softballs, golf balls, super balls, or snowballs will be permitted at school. 5. Bikes are to be left alone in the area provided. Bikes, skateboards, and roller blades are not allowed on the playground at any time. 6. Ask permission to leave the playground. 7. Use proper language and show good sportsmanship. 8. Quit playing when the bell rings, line up quickly and quietly. 9. No electronic devices are permitted on the playground. 10. Students will wear proper attire for weather conditions. Snow boots and snow pants must be worn when snow is present. Coats must be worn when outside temperatures are below 50ᵒ F. Shoes must be worn at all times.

14 HALLWAY RULES AND REGULATIONS

1. Students will walk at all times, staying to the right. 2. When in the hallways, students must use inside voices.

LUNCHROOM RULES AND REGULATIONS

1. Students will use inside voices when in the lunchroom. 2. Students will not exchange food with one another, or remove food or drink from the lunchroom. 3. Students must be granted permission by the lunchroom supervisor before being allowed to leave the lunchroom. When finished with lunch, students will be required to clean up his/her area. 4. Students will not throw food.

BUSING RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities of Parents a. The bus is not a public taxi service. The purpose is to provide safe transportation of the child. b. Parents should not expect buses to operate over roads not properly maintained. c. If a child is to be taken home by a parent, the bus driver and school should be notified. d. Children should be on time. e. Demand that the child dress according to weather conditions.

SCHOOL BUS RULES AND REGULATIONS

Passengers on school buses are expected to behave as they would in a classroom. Misconduct on a bus will not be tolerated as it may endanger the safety and well being of others. Bus students may be held for detention after school as a disciplinary measure for misbehavior in school. Passengers must obey the following rules when riding a school bus. A student who breaks any of the rules will face disciplinary action and may lose his/her riding privileges. a. STUDENTS BEING TRANSPORTED ARE UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE BUS DRIVER. b. The driver shall enforce local school board bus regulations. c. Students shall be on time for the bus both morning and evening. d. Students shall use the emergency door only in case of emergency. e. Students shall remain seated while the bus is in motion. f. Students may be assigned seats by the driver. g. The bus driver shall instruct the students how to cross the road. h. Students shall not extend objects or any part of the body through the bus windows, and shall not open or close windows without permission from the driver. i. Students shall converse in normal tones; loud or vulgar language and obscene materials are prohibited. j. Students shall keep the bus clean and must refrain from damaging it. k. Students shall be courteous to the driver, to fellow students and to passersby.

15 l. Students shall walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic when coming to meet the bus. m. At the discretion of the driver or administrator, students shall have written permission to leave the bus other than at home or school or when they will not be taking the bus home after school. n. Students who refuse to obey promptly the directions of the driver or refuse to obey regulations may forfeit their privilege to ride on the buses.

Riding the bus is a privilege which can be denied if bus regulations are not followed. If a student is restricted from riding the bus, it is the responsibility of the parents to see that the child gets to school.

SECTION III: SCHOOL REGULATIONS

A. ABSENCES, EXCUSED AND UNEXCUSED

When a student will be absent from school on any day, the parent/guardian should call the school office between 8:00 and 8:30 to report the absence. If no call is received, the secretary will call the home to verify the absence. If unable to contact the parents/guardian, we will record the student as unexcused for that day. Excess absences will result in a phone call from administration, a formal letter, and eventually will be reported to proper authorities.

B. AGE REQUIREMENT – PRE-SCHOOL/KINDERGARTEN A North Dakota Department of Health Certificate of Live Birth for proof of age is required of all pre-school, kindergarten or first year children entering Richardton-Taylor Public School. Children entering pre-school must be four years old by midnight, August 1. Students requiring special education services may enroll at age three. Students entering kindergarten must be five years old by midnight, August 1; and children entering first grade must be six years old by midnight, August 1, of the entering year.

C. ANIMAL REGULATIONS All requests to have animals in the classroom or on school property must be submitted to the principal in writing. Included in the request should be a description of the activity, type of animal, educational purpose/benefit, length of activity, and a plan for the care of the animal. The principal has the discretion to permit or deny the presence of animals. Forms are available in the office. This administrative regulation recognizes that there are medical and physical dangers associated with animals, both wild and domesticated, in the classroom and/or school property. The above guidelines are adopted regarding all animals (mammals, birds, reptiles/amphibians, fish or insect) in the classroom or on school property.

D. ATTENDANCE / STUDENTS A student who enrolls in school is expected to devote his/her time and energy toward school. Regularity and promptness are necessary to facilitate the exchange of ideas with the teacher, and ensure continuity in the educational process. Classroom learning experiences are a meaningful and essential part of any educational system. The absent student loses the benefits of lectures, labs, discussions and participation with other students. Irregular attendance becomes habit forming and may cause difficulties with decision making after high school.

16 Students in grades kindergarten through six whose poor attendance has caused a notable deficiency in learning may be retained at their present grade level if, in the judgment of the building principal, such action is advantageous to the student. This decision is made after consultation with the teacher(s) and the parent(s) during the last month of the school year.

E. BREAKFAST AND HOT LUNCH PROGRAMS/SNACK BREAK Breakfast and lunch are available to Taylor-Richardton Elementary students at the elementary school in Taylor. The school Breakfast and Lunch programs will serve well-balanced meals for students who wish to eat at the school. Monthly menus will be published in the school newsletter. Students who bring their lunch from home will eat with their class in the cafeteria. These meals should be cold. Please do not send lunches that need to be warmed up. We do not have the equipment or time to heat up the students’ lunches. Reduced and/or free meals are available for those who qualify, applications are available from the school. We ask that you use good manners and eating habits at all times. Food waste is a concern, and many students are failing to maintain the balanced diet the menus provide. Clean your plate and stack them neatly. Do not exchange food from one student to another, and no food is to leave the eating area. Pop cannot be used as a part of the school lunch. The pop machine is off limits to pupils until after school unless a special activity is planned. According to the Districts Wellness Policy (AAD) “Beverages NOT allowed in the school include soft drinks, iced tea, fruit based drinks that contain less than 100% real fruit juice and beverages containing caffeine, excluding low-fat or fat-free chocolate milk. Beverages allowed are water, fruit and vegetable juice containing 100% fruit/vegetable juice, low-fat or fat-free milk, sports drinks.” Snacks that are brought to school need to be healthy, nutritious items, such as pretzels, fruits, vegetables, cheese, crackers, etc. No junk food, chips or candy.

F. CERTIFICATE OF IMMUNIZATION

All students must have on record a Certificate of Immunization. The 1979 North Dakota Health Immunization Law requires that no child will be admitted to kindergarten, elementary school, junior high school, or senior high school unless he/she has a certificate of immunization on file at the school or submits one prior to admission. The law, which became effective July 1, 1979, requires that the certificate be signed by a physician or local health department representative and be presented to the school officials by the parent or guardian of the child. The Certificate of Immunization states that the child has been vaccinated against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, measles, rubella, mumps, and polio. Blank certificates are available at the schools, area health office, and the medical clinics. The law does allow exceptions for medical and religious reasons. However, when there is a danger of an epidemic from any of the communicable diseases for which immunization is required, those children who are not adequately immunized, including children exempt, will be excluded from school until the danger of the epidemic is over.

17 G. CHAIN OF COMMAND

Complaints and grievances about instructional personnel including extracurricular directors and coaches shall be handled and resolved, whenever possible, as close to their origin as possible. The board advises the public that the proper channeling of complaints involving instruction, discipline, or learning materials is as follows:

1) teacher; 2) principal; 3) superintendent; 4) school board

Any complaint about school personnel will be investigated by the administration after a formal written complaint is received. Further action may be required after the investigation is completed.

H. CONTAGIOUS DISEASES/HEAD LICE

If a child has contracted a contagious disease, the school should be notified as soon a possible. An informational note should also be sent to school with the child on their return.

Administrative Regulation for Contagious Diseases/Head Lice

TRE will focus on the exclusion of active infestations of head lice. Teachers and/or parents may request that a student be checked for lice, based on excessive head scratching, “crawling” or “tickling” feeling in the hair and/or observation of suspected lice or eggs. Treatment should be considered only if active lice or viable eggs are observed.

If head lice are found, the school will follow the policy set forth by Southwest District Health Unit. Parents will be notified and asked to pick up their child as soon as they are able to do so. If they are not able to come and get their child immediately, the child may return to the classroom until parents arrive. Information on head lice and treatment will be provided to the parent/guardian when they pick up the child. All parents will receive information about head lice diagnosis, treatment and prevention throughout the school year.

I. DRESS AND GROOMING

School personnel are responsible for the health and safety of each student while at school and for the preservation of an atmosphere which is conducive to learning.

Students at TRE are expected and required to maintain a standard of personal appearance which is clean, neat, reasonable, and not disruptive to the learning environment. Unacceptable types of clothing include: clothing advertising tobacco or liquor; clothing with language that is derogatory, obscene, suggestive, or offensive to good taste; see-through clothing, bare midriffs; very short skirts or shorts; tops with gaping arms or open backed blouses or dresses. Use the “rule of thumb” - if the skirt or shorts are shorter than where your thumbs reach on your thighs when you are standing straight, then they are too short to wear to school. Students may wear leggings underneath these skirts or shorts. Strapless tops may be worn, but must be covered by a shirt or blazer. Exposed undergarments are unacceptable. Going without shoes is also prohibited and shall be worn for foot protection and hygienic reasons while on school grounds or aboard school transportation. All head coverings are to be removed upon entering the building and not to be replaced until exiting the building. Students must wear attire appropriate for the weather conditions. Parents will be notified if students are wearing unacceptable attire and may be required to provide a change of clothing. 18

J. DRUG USE/ABUSE - STUDENTS

The school has a clear responsibility to maintain an atmosphere which will promote a quality learning atmosphere. Because the use of drugs, tobacco, alcohol and other chemicals among young people has become a major problem in our country and because the use and availability of these substances in schools interferes with the educational process, this policy is being adopted.

Education

This district will provide an educational program which will include the teaching about drugs, alcohol and self-esteem in the curriculum. The educational program will also include providing an information service for referral to counseling and/or treatment so that students may seek and get counseling on alcohol and drug matters at any time without fear of reprisal and with the assurance of confidentiality of counseling.

Prohibited Activities

It shall be against school policy for any student:

1. To sell, deliver, or give; or attempt to sell, deliver, or give, to any person any of the substances listed in the NDCC as a controlled substance or dangerous drug. 2. To possess, procure, purchase or receive; or to attempt to possess, procure, purchase or receive any of the substances listed in the NDCC as a controlled substance or dangerous drug. 3. To be under the influence of; or to use, consume, or attempt to use or consume the substances as listed in the NDCC as controlled substances or dangerous drugs.

Violation

Violation of this policy may result in suspension. Repeated violations may result in expulsion. Prohibited substances will be confiscated and may be turned over to law enforcement authorities. The student may be referred to the SWDHU, parent or legal guardian.

Any student who is observed to be under the influence of a prohibited substance will be taken immediately to the administrator's office. The student's parents will be notified and asked to pick up the student. If there appears to be immediate danger to other students, school personnel, and/or the student involved, the administrator may have the student removed from the school by school, medical or law enforcement personnel.

Intervention

We also recognize the responsibility to assist students in recognizing their own addiction. It is realized that the public school has neither the authority nor the responsibility to make medical or health determinations regarding chemical dependency. However, when observed behavior indicates that a problem exists which may affect the student's ability to learn or the education climate of the school, the school has a right and a responsibility to refer the student for a formal chemical dependency diagnosis. This district then urges the facility members to be observant of student behaviors and to participate in a program of intervention.

19 The School Board believes that if a student is involved in a chemical dependency program and is successfully addressing his/her harmful involvement with chemicals he/she may continue in the regular school setting and functions unless that participation is in conflict with other board policies and the NDHSAA.

A student can expect than any personal problem he/she discusses with an administrator; faculty member or other related personnel will be strictly confidential. There are four exceptions:

1. When a staff member learns of a condition which may adversely affect another student. 2. If a student is experiencing health problems because of use/abuse of prohibited substances and is unable or unwilling to seek help, then referral should be made. 3. If a staff member has reasonable cause to suspect child abuse, the staff member must report to the Department of Human Services. 4. If a staff member is called to testify in a judicial proceeding.

K. FIRST AID / ACCIDENTS

In the event an accident occurs within the school or a student or other individual becomes suddenly ill, the responsibility of the school is to provide emergency care, notify parent or guardian and, in serious instances, summon a doctor and /or arrange for hospitalization.

If your child becomes acutely ill or is seriously injured during school hours, the school will inform the parent/guardian, who will make the decision whether to pick up the child at the school or meet the child at the hospital. If the school is unable to reach the parents or if they choose to meet the child at the hospital, the child may be transported by school personnel or by ambulance at the discretion of the principal or his/her designee. If the school is unable to reach the parents, an attempt will be made to contact the child's emergency contact person or the child's personal physician as designated on the student's record.

L. HEALTH

Good health is an important factor in a child's educational development. A healthy child will have better attendance, avoid lost instructional time, and be more receptive and alert in the classroom. A daily schedule that provides regular and adequate rest and diet is perhaps the major contribution that can be made to maintain a child's health.

Proper clothing, especially during the winter season, is also an important factor in maintaining good health. 20 M. KINDERGARTEN

The Taylor-Richardton Public School has an established kindergarten program. Attendance is not compulsory but is highly encouraged. By law (NDCC 15-47-01), a child must have attained the age of 5 by midnight, August 1, prior to the opening of school. An early entrance test may be scheduled for exceptional cases; however, in no case may a child enter if not five by midnight, December 31, of the school year.

Kindergarten will be in session for 175 days this school year. The kindergarten day runs from 8:25 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. Conferences will be scheduled with parents and report cards will be given, but not with letter grades. Parents are encouraged to contact the school and the individual teacher. Kindergarten is meant to be a happy, growing, and maturing experience for the child prior to the formal education of grade one.

N. SCHOOL AGE

The TRE School system is equally free, open and accessible to all children at all times. Children who do not arrive at the age of six years by midnight August 1st shall not start school until the following year, except children who by reasons of special talents or abilities as determined by a series of developmental and readiness tests approved by the State Department of Public Instruction and administered by the school may start at a younger age.

Children entering pre-school must be four years of age by August 1. Students requiring special education services may enroll at age three. Students wishing to enter kindergarten must be five years of age by midnight, August 1st, or have successfully completed a series of development tests. A birth certificate or other satisfactory proof of age is required of all students who enter pre-school, kindergarten or first grade. An early entrance test may be scheduled for exceptional cases; however, in no case may a child enter if not five (5) by midnight, December 31, of the school year.

O. PHYSICAL EDUCATION

All students will participate in Phy-ed and should furnish their own footwear as well as proper clothing. Gym shoes are required, the type which will not mark the floor. Proper athletic footwear is required and for safety purposes a secure, non-slip, non-marking shoe is preferred. One pair of shoes is sufficient as long as they are clean and have non-marking soles. Also, proper clothing must be worn. If girls wear a dress or skirt, a pair of shorts should be worn underneath. If there is a good reason for a student not to participate in physical education class, a note signed by the parent or guardian should be given to the physical education instructor. Extended excuses (beyond 3 to 5 days) must be signed by a doctor.

P. TELEPHONES

Use of the school telephone will be restricted to calls deemed necessary by a teacher, the secretary, or principal. Children will be called out of classes only on an emergency basis. Permission to play at a friend's house should be arranged in advance. A telephone is available in the hallway at the southeast end of the school for after school use for local calls. 21 Q. TEXTBOOKS

All textbooks are furnished by the Taylor-Richardton Elementary School. Any student's books showing more than normal wear will be charged an abuse charge. If the book has to be replaced, it will be done with the student paying the total cost.

R. WARNING DRILLS: FIRE, SEVERE WEATHER, AND EMERGENCY

There will be occasional fire drills and severe weather drills throughout the year. The first will be announced. Necessary emergency drills will be announced.

S. WEATHER AND EMERGENCY NOTICES

In case school is to be closed due to inclement weather, the Superintendent will notify the local radio stations, KDIX - 1230 AM, KLTC - 1460 AM, KCAD 99.1 FM, KZRX 92.1 FM, and local TV stations KQCD (NBC) and KXMA (CBS). If for other reasons school should be closed, students and parents will be notified by note from the administrator. 22 SECTION IV: CURRICULUM AND GRADING

A. CONFERENCES Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled for the end of the first and middle of the third grading periods. Other conferences can be scheduled by contacting the teacher or the principal. Parents are encouraged to consult with the teacher or principal in regard to their child. Suggestions are welcomed by parents or students that may improve the functioning of the school. We may not be able to act on each and every suggestion, but we will at least listen.

B. ELIGIBILITY - EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Pupils in fourth, fifth and sixth grades participating in extracurricular activities shall be passing in all six of the following classes: Reading, Math, Language, Spelling, Social Studies, and Science. Eligibility checks will be taken at the beginning of the activity and every week during the time the activity is in progress. If a pupil is ineligible, the pupil will not participate in the activity until the next eligibility reporting period, which would be one week. The pupil will be allowed to practice. Pupils may be denied the privilege of participating in the activity due to disciplinary action for school conduct or school attendance. Students participating in extracurricular events, practices or rehearsals must be in school all day if they wish to be involved in any extracurricular activity on that day or evening. Students who cannot attend school on the day of an extracurricular activity may be exempted from this rule only if they have received prior permission from the administration. This ruling will cover all extracurricular participants involved in any capacity with an extracurricular program. All other rules for eligibility as stated by NDHSAA will be followed. Extracurricular activities at TRE include band, basketball, volleyball, and wrestling. Policy summary: Elementary basketball - Each athlete should play as equal an amount of playing time as possible. If there are enough participants, a schedule should be arranged that will include separate games for each team. Elementary volleyball - Each athlete should play as equal an amount of time as possible. The elementary volleyball shall be intramural in nature.

C. GRADING

Pupils are evaluated scholastically by comparing their progress with specific curriculum standards and in terms of their standing with other pupils of the class. Grading represents the pupil's achievement, their responsibleness, and effort applied in the various discipline areas. Letter grades will be determined by using these percentages: A+ 100 C+ 84-85 A 95-99 C 80-83 A- 93-94 C- 77-79 B+ 91-92 D+ 75-76 B 88-90 D 72-74 B- 86-87 D- 70-71 F 0-69 23 Pupils are responsible for completing the assigned work at the appointed time. Daily grades may be lowered when assigned work is repeatedly late or incomplete. Grades will reflect pupil’s abilities to be responsible in this manner. Make-up Work for Pupils Who Are Absent: Pupils who are absent will be given two days for the first day and one day for each day thereafter to make up work for each day they are absent as determined by the teacher. Papers not turned in within the specified time period will be graded as a late paper unless special arrangements are made with the teacher.

D. REPORT CARDS Report cards are issued at the end of nine week periods. Parents are asked to arrange to pick up the first nine-week report card at the parent teacher conference. In addition to grades, the report card will record the number of days absent and times tardy during the nine-week period. Midterm reports for grades 3-6 will be sent out the fifth week of each nine-week period.

E. SPECIAL SERVICES TRE offers a variety of special services to assist in the education of each individual child. Parents, teachers, administrators, and specialists meet to formulate educational plans that can best meet the needs of individual students. Services include: Title I-basic skills; Special Education services available for students with disabilities; speech and language special services; counseling.

F. SECTION 504 Section 504 is part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which is a civil rights act that protects the rights of people with disabilities. The law states that no person with a disability can be excluded from or denied benefits of any program receiving federal financial assistance; this includes all public schools. With passage of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Congress required that school districts make their programs and activities accessible as well as usable to all individuals with disabilities. Section 504 falls under the management responsibility of the general, rather than special, education program. No state or federal funding is provided to assist in complying with Section 504. All costs are the obligation of the local school. Section 504 defines a person as disabled if he or she has (or is perceived to have) a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities. This includes caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and working. When a condition does not substantially limit a major life activity, the individual does not qualify for special accommodations under Section 504.

In order to determine eligibility for services, the students must be evaluated by a team of individuals who are familiar with the student and the results must be shared at a team meeting in which parents or caregivers are involved. If it is determined that a student has a disability under Section 504, the school must develop and implement the delivery of all needed services and/or accommodations. 24 Section 504 regulations require recipients of Federal financial assistance to provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE) to each qualified person with a disability in the recipients jurisdiction designed to meet individual educational needs of persons with disabilities as adequately as the needs of nondisabled persons are met and based on adherence to the procedural requirements of the regulation (educational setting, evaluation, placement and procedural safeguards). Child Find Notification The Richardton-Taylor Public School District assures that all students with disabilities, ages 3 through 21, have the right to a free and appropriate public education in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and North Dakota law. In addition, the District complies with Section 504 requirements. For the purpose of compliance with state and federal laws concerning special education/disabled students and providing this assurance, the Richardton-Taylor Public School District is a member of West River Student Service and subscribes to its policies and procedures. These policies and procedures include those required to comply with IDEA and Section 504, such as but not limited to Child Find and procedural safeguards. RESPONSIBILITIES OF ..... *Student and Parents..... Be involved in meetings; participate in identification of accommodations, and evaluations of what's working; learn of rights to access post-secondary programs; become knowledgeable about the disability and needs to succeed.

* Schools..... Provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE); provide written assurance of nondiscrimination; provide grievance procedures to resolve complaints; annually identify and notify all qualified students with disabilities and parents of the district responsibilities under Section 504; provide accessible services or facilities; conduct a self-evaluation of policies, programs and practices to make sure discrimination is not occurring.

*504 Coordinator..... Assist the school in meeting 504 requirements and provide resources; create and support problem-solving teams in accommodating student needs.

SERVICES..... Determined by group of persons knowledgeable about student; principal, classroom teacher (s), other educators, parent and student.

Services are to be documented in student file and reviewed periodically, modifications in academic requirements and expectations may be necessary to accommodate the needs of an individual student with disabilities and thereby enable him or her to participate in the general education program.

ACCOMMODATIONS..... Accommodations are modifications made by the classroom teacher(s) and other school staff to help individual students benefit from their educational program. Examples of common accommodations include:

25 Adjust student seating; modify recess or physical education; provide study guides, organization tools; offer counseling; modify student's assignments and tests; provide a peer tutor/helper.

The U.S. Department of Education maintains regional civil rights offices to enforce Section 504 and other civil rights laws. All parents have the right to directly contact their regional Office for Civil Rights (OCR) if they believe their student is being discriminated against based upon disability. Most differences with schools, however, can be resolved before contacting the OCR.

Try to resolve the difference at the teacher or school level; set up a meeting to discuss any concerns and include the schools 504 coordinator. If unsuccessful, as the school or DPI for mediation. This is a free service for parents. A neutral individual will work with you and the school to help resolve your differences. If unsuccessful, request help from your regional civil rights office.

SECTION V: DISCIPLINE POLICIES

A. ELEMENTARY PROCEDURE

Positive behavior is conducive to an effective educational atmosphere.

In situations involving undesirable behavior, it is necessary for the school to impose discipline. Disciplinary measures should be reasonable and appropriate to the nature of the misbehavior of the offending pupil and in accordance with the law. The principal and the staff are charged with maintaining adequate discipline in each school. All employees of the school system should aid in the discipline of the schools.

Love and Logic Roots

Love and Logic Believes:

1. Kids know they are loved when their parents and teachers set limits. 2. It’s good for kids to make plenty of mistakes with small price tags when they are young…so that they don’t have to make mistakes with life-and-death price tags when they are older. 3. Children learn from their mistakes when their parents and teachers provide empathy and allow them to experience the consequences. 4. Kids are best prepared for the real world when they are allowed to be bored from time to time, are expected to do their fair share of chores, and aren’t given everything they want.

Taylor-Richardton Elementary subscribes to the Positive Discipline and Love and Logic philosophies. These philosophies are guidelines published in the student handbook. It is the intention of the School Board that the establishment of these guidelines will assist faculty in treating all students humanely and fairly and will encourage students to accept responsibility. The School Board will support these philosophies with in-service for all faculty.

A climate conducive to good citizenship should be created in the school. Conferences with teachers, parents, and principals should be effectively employed to bring about acceptable classroom behavior.

26 The use of corporal punishment, defined as physical pain inflicted on a student, is not allowed in the Richardton-Taylor School District. The School Board recognizes that reasonable physical force may occasionally be necessary to guard the safety and well-being of students or employees or to deliver a student to an administrator's office.

BEHAVIOR THAT MAY RESULT IN A CONSEQUENCE

Action may be taken for any disruptive behavior which violates the rights of others. The following are examples of acts subject to consequences:

1) Insubordination

Any student who fails to comply with staff direction will be subject to a consequence.

2) School disruptions and mis-conduct

Any student who disturbs, refuses to follow rules and regulations, interrupts the effective operation of the school or school-sponsored activities, or uses inappropriate language, will be subject to a consequence.

3) Assault

Physical assault is an act which intentionally inflicts or attempts to inflict bodily harm upon another. Verbal assaults are abusive, threatening, profane, or obscene language either oral or written by a student toward a staff member or another student including conduct which degrades people because of their race, gender, religion, ethnic background, or physical or mental handicaps.

4) Dangerous substances

Students are prohibited from using, possessing, distributing or being under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, narcotics or tobacco at school, on school grounds, or at school sponsored activities.

5) Vandalism and/or theft to school or private property

Vandalism: Vandalism is defined as damage to school property or to private property of others by students who are under the jurisdiction of the school. (Please see the Vandalism Policy later in this handbook.) Theft: Theft is the act of intentionally taking, using, transferring, concealing, or retaining possession of property of another without consent, or the finding of lost property and not making reasonable effort to find the owner.

6) School bus misconduct

Bus transportation is a privilege. Students are expected to behave properly and safely. Students unable to do so can be denied the privilege.

27 7) Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment is defined as the unwelcome sexual advancement, request for sexual favors, and other unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

8) Truancy and unauthorized absences

Truancy is being absent from school or class without the knowledge and approval of the school or parent. Any truancy is considered an unexcused absence.

PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS

9) Corrective Measures

Corrective measures depend upon the nature of the behavior, the frequency, and the degree to which the student is willing to try to correct undesirable behavior. Each incident will be considered on an individual basis by the teacher or principal. The specific disciplinary action and severity of consequence for inappropriate student behavior will be handled at the building level with the exception of expulsion, which is action taken by the school board. Due to the age differences among elementary students, consequences may vary accordingly.

Corrective measures will normally begin at a minimal level and then proceed to more serious levels. These procedures may include, but are not limited to a conference with the student, conference with the parent, loss of school privileges, detention, modified school program, referral for special services, school transfer, alternative program placement, removal from class, suspension, expulsion, police and juvenile authority referral, and home instruction. School personnel are strongly encouraged to contact parents and request their support as a means of early intervention and prevention.

Procedure for Removal of a Student from Class

A student may be removed from class by a staff member for a period of time for the following reasons: 1) misconduct which disrupts the rights of others to an education; 2) disobedience of any rule; 3) conduct which endangers others or property.

Enrollment of Suspended Students -

Any student who has been suspended from another district will not be permitted to enroll in the District until eligible to re-enroll in his or her former district or until the Board or the Superintendent has reviewed the prior suspension and determines that the suspension was illegal or improperly given.

28 SECTION VI: POLICIES A. BULLYING POLICY - ACEA

Definitions

For the purposes of this policy:

 Bullying is defined as conduct prescribed in sections NDCC 15.1-19-17 through 15.1-19-22. The 1. “Bullying” means: a. Conduct that occurs in a public school, on school district premises, in a district owned or leased school bus or school vehicle, or at any public school or school district sanctioned or sponsored activity or event and which: (1) Is so severe, pervasive, or objectively offensive that it substantially interferes with the student’s educational opportunities; (2) Places the student in actual and reasonable fear of harm; (3) Places the student in actual and reasonable fear of damage to property of the student; or (4) Substantially disrupts the orderly operation of the public school; or b. Conduct that is received by a student while the student is in a public school; or district premises, in a district owned or leased school bus or school vehicle, or at any public school or school district sanctioned or sponsored activity or event and which: (1) Is so severe, pervasive, or objectively offensive that is substantially interferes with the student’s educational opportunities; (2) Places the student in actual and reasonable fear of harm; (3) Places the student in actual and reasonable fear of damage to property of the student; or (4) Substantially disrupts the orderly operation of the public school. 2. “Conduct” includes the use of technology or other electronic media.

 Protected classes are classifications/characteristics protected from discrimination by NDCC 14- 02.4-01 and federal law. The following classes are protected: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability (physical or mental), and status with regard to marriage or public assistance.

 School property or the term on-campus refers to all property owned, leased, or contracted by the District, school buses and other vehicles, or any school district sponsored or school- sanctioned activity.

 School-sanctioned activity is defined as an activity that: a. Is not part of the district’s curricular or extracurricular program; and b. Is established by a sponsor to serve in the absence of a district program; and c. Receives district support in multiple ways (i.e., not school facility use alone); and d. Sponsors of the activity have agreed to comply with this policy; and e. The District has officially recognized through board action as a school-sanctioned activity.

29  School-sponsored activity is an activity that the District has approved through policy or other board action for inclusion in the district’s extracurricular program and is controlled and funded primarily by the District.

 School staff includes all employees of the Richardton-Taylor Public School District, school volunteers, and sponsors of school-sanctioned activities.

 True threat is a statement that, in light of the circumstances, a reasonable person would perceive as a serious expression of an intent to inflict harm.

Prohibitions

While at a public school, on school district premises, in a district-owned or leased school bus or school vehicle, or at any public school or school district sanctioned or sponsored activity or event, a student may not:

1. Engage in bullying; 2. Engage in reprisal or retaliation against: a. A victim of bullying; b. An individual who witnesses an alleged act of bullying; c. An individual who reports an alleged act of bullying; or d. An individual who provides information/participates in an investigation about an alleged act of bullying. 3. Knowingly file a false bullying report with the District.

Off-campus bullying that is received on school property is also prohibited. The District has limited disciplinary authority to respond to such forms of bullying.

Reporting Procedures for Alleged Policy Violations

1. Reporting requirements for school staff: Any school staff member with knowledge or suspicion of a violation of this policy or who has received an oral or written report of a violation of this policy from a student, community member or anonymously shall contact the building principal to inform him/her as soon as possible. If the alleged violation implicates the building principal, the school staff member shall report it to the superintendent. If the alleged violation implicates the superintendent, the school staff members shall file it with the school board president. Should school administration determine that a school staff member knew of or suspected a violation of this policy and failed to report it in accordance with the procedure above, the staff member may be subject to disciplinary consequences or, for sponsors of school-sanctioned activities, other corrective measures.

2. Reporting options for students and community members: Students and community members (including parents) may report known or suspected violations of this policy by completing a written complaint form found on the Richardton-Taylor homepage and returning it to the RTHS or TRE office in a sealed envelope. Please make sure the envelope is addressed to RTHS or TRE.

A complaint filed anonymously may limit the district’s ability to investigate and respond to the alleged violations.

30 Reporting to Law Enforcement & Others Forms of Redress Any time a school staff member has reasonable suspicion that a bullying incident constituted a crime, s/he shall report it to law enforcement. Also, nothing in this policy shall prevent a victim/his/her family from seeking redress under state and federal law.

Documentation & Retention

The District shall develop a form to report alleged violations of this policy. The form shall be completed by school staff when they:

1. Initiate a report of an alleged violation of this policy; or 2. Receive an oral report of an alleged violation of this policy.

The form should be completed by an administrator when s/he:

1. Initiates a report of an alleged violation of this policy; or 2. Receives an oral report of an alleged violation of this policy.

All written reports of all alleged violation of this policy received by the District shall be forwarded to the appropriate school administrator for investigation and retention.

Report forms and all other documentation related to an investigation of an alleged violation of this policy shall be retained by the District for six years after a student turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever is later. If a student does not graduate from the District, such reports and investigation material shall be retained for six years after the student turns 18.

Investigation Procedure

School administrators (i.e., a principal, an assistant superintendent, or the Superintendent) are required to investigate violations of this policy (as prescribed under “Prohibitions”), when in receipt of actual notice of an alleged violation. Actual notice of an alleged violation occurs when alleged bullying, reprisal, retaliation, or false reporting is reported using the applicable method(s) prescribed in the reporting section of this policy.

Upon receipt of a report of an alleged policy violation, the designated administrator shall first determine if the alleged policy violation is based on a protected class—whether actual or perceived. Reports involving a protected class shall be investigated in accordance with the district’s harassment/discrimination policy, including the timelines contained therein.

In all other cases, administration shall determine the level of investigation necessary based on the nature of the alleged violation of this policy after considering factors such as, but not limited to: the identity of the reporter and his/her relationship to the victim/alleged perpetrator; the ages of the parties involved; the detail, content, and context of the report; whether this report is the first of its type filed against the alleged perpetrator. Based on the level of investigation the administrator deems necessary, investigations may include any or all of the following steps or any other investigatory steps that the administrator deems necessary:

1. Identification and collection of necessary and obtainable physical evidence (NOTE: In some cases physical evidence may be unobtainable, e.g., a private social networking profile); 2. Interviews with the complainant, the victim, and/or the alleged perpetrator. At no time during an investigation under this policy shall be the victim/complainant be required to meet with the alleged perpetrator; 3. Interviews with any identified witnesses; 4. A review of any mitigating or extenuating circumstances; 5. Final analysis and issuance of findings in writing to the victim and bully and, if applicable, implementation of victim protection measures and disciplinary measures under this or other applicable policies.

Investigations shall be completed within 60 days unless the administrator documents good cause for extending this deadline. Such documentation should be sent to victim and alleged perpetrator during the investigation.

Disciplinary & Corrective Measures

Students that the District has found to have violated this policy shall be subject to disciplinary consequences and/or corrective measures. When determining the appropriate response to violations of this policy, administration shall take into account the totality of circumstances surrounding the violation. Measures that may be imposed include, but are not limited to:

1. Require the student to attend detention; 2. Impose in- or out-of-school suspension or recommend expulsion. Due process procedures contained in the district’s suspension and expulsion policy shall be followed; 3. Recommend alternative placement. This recommendation shall be submitted to the Superintendent for approval or denial. The Superintendent may approve such recommendations only if the student has been given notice of the charges against him/her and an opportunity to respond; 4. Create a behavioral adjustment plan; 5. Refer the student to a school counselor; 6. Hold a conference with the student’s parent/guardian and classroom teacher(s), and other applicable school staff; 7. Modify the perpetrator’s schedule and take other appropriate measures (e.g., moving locker) to minimize contact with the victim; 8. If applicable, contact the administrator of the website on which the bullying occurred to report it.

If the misconduct does not meet this policy’s definition of bullying, it may be addressed under other district disciplinary policies.

For bullying initiated off campus and received on campus (e.g. cyberbullying), the District only has authority to impose disciplinary measures if the bullying substantially disrupted the educational environment or posed a true threat. In all other cases of off campus bullying received on campus, the District may only take corrective measures as described in items five through eight above.

32 If the perpetrator is a school staff member, the District shall take appropriate disciplinary action including, but not limited to: a reprimand, modification of duties (only if allowed by applicable policy, the negotiated agreement, and/or the individual’s contract), suspension, or a recommendation for termination/discharge in accordance with any applicable law.

Victim Protection Strategies

When the District confirms that a violation of this policy has occurred, it should notify the victim’s parents and shall implement victim protection strategies. These strategies shall be developed on a case-by-case basis after administration has reviewed the totality of the circumstances surrounding the bullying incident(s) or other violations of this policy. Strategies may include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Additional training for all students and applicable staff on implementation of this policy and/or bullying prevention. 2. Notice to the victim’s teachers and other staff to monitor the victim and his/her interaction with peers and/or the assignment of a staff member to escort the student between classes. 3. Assignment of district staff to monitor, more frequently, areas in the school where bullying has occurred. 4. Referral to counseling services for the victim and perpetrator. 5. Modification of the perpetrator’s schedule and other appropriate measures imposed on the perpetrator (not the victim) to minimize the perpetrator’s contact with the victim.

Prevention Programs & Professional Development Activities

In accordance with law, the District shall develop and implement bullying prevention programs for all students and staff professional development activities.

Complementary Documents  AAC-BR, Discrimination & Harassment Grievance Procedure  AAC-E, Filing a State or Federal Discrimination & Harassment Complaint  ACEA-E1, Bullying Policy Adoption & Dissemination Checklist  ACEA-E2, Bullying Reporting Guidelines  ACEA-E3, Student Reporting Form  ACEA-E4, Staff Reporting Form  FF, Student Conduct

B. FERPA POLICY

Policy FDA

The Richardton Taylor Public School District will provide, on an annual basis to students and parents, notice of the rights of access to student records. (Family Education Rights and Protection Act 997.7)

33 Procedure: The following notice will be included in a student handbook disseminated to all students and their parents at the beginning of each school year. Students transferring into the district during the school year will be given a handbook on the day of enrollment. The local school principal will be responsible for including the notice regarding Parent's Rights of Access to School Records in the school's handbook.

Each year parents and students will be informed of the student records policy of the Richardton-Taylor Public School District.

Parents or adult students (18 years of age) who wish to review any or all of the school records pertaining to the student should contact the building principal for an appointment. The records will be reviewed with school personnel, and parents may have copies of the records for the cost of copying.

If parents or adult students believe something in the records is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise violates privacy or other rights, they may request that it be corrected or they may have comments added to the record. If the principal and the parent or adult student cannot agree, the latter may contact the superintendent for a hearing. If the hearing officer determines that the information is inaccurate, misleading or otherwise violates privacy or other rights, the record will be amended. If the office determines that the information is not inaccurate, misleading or otherwise does not violate privacy or other rights, the parent or adult student has the right to place a statement in the record commenting on the information or stating why they disagree with the decision. The amendments or comments will remain with the original record including when the student's record is transferred to another school or agency.

Record information will not be revealed to persons or agencies without the written consent of parents. Nonetheless, it is the policy of this district to forward school records without parent consent, to schools in another district to which a student transfers. This is to facilitate the prompt placement of the student in the new school. However, parents may request a copy of the record. Similarly, without parent consent, the district will forward transcript and other information requested by students, to colleges and other educational institutions to which the student is applying. The school will keep the identifiable student information, names of persons to whom such information has been disclosed, their reasons for reviewing the information, and the date of the review.

Also, federal law permits a school district to identify certain information as "directory information" which may be released publicly without permission of the parents. The district identified this information as the following: name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, diplomas and awards received, and most recent previous school attended. If you do not want this information released, please contact the high school principal at 974-2111 or the elementary principal at 974-3585 within 10 school days from the date this handbook is received.

Student records will be maintained in the administrative office and kept in the vault. Access to records may be gained by requesting such records from the administrative secretary following procedures outlined above.

34 C. HOMEWORK All students are required to complete homework assignments as assigned. Homework will be collected on the day it is due. If the student does not have their homework on the day it is due, they are responsible for attending ICU (homework completion opportunity). The intent of this program is to allow students the opportunity to complete assignments during the scheduled school day. ICU will run from 8:00-8:25 in the morning and also during the noon recess. Students with late assignments will be subject to an age-appropriate grade deduction that will not exceed a 50% deduction. It is the responsibility of the students to complete assignments at home or attend ICU. Students must show evidence of understanding to the supervisor in addition to completing the assignment prior to exiting ICU.

D. INTERNET USE AGREEMENT / ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

Due to the ever-changing nature of the technology involved with the Internet, Richardton Taylor Public School District #34 reserves the right to modify this policy to deal with unforeseen circumstances that must be dealt with for the protection of the students and the system.

Acceptable Use of the Internet A general rule that applies to every user every time he or she is on the internet is this: BE POLITE and ABIDE BY ALL THE GUIDELINES, POLICIES AND REGULATIONS to which you have agreed by signing an “acceptable use” document.

Students and teachers will have access to: 1. electronic mail communication with people all over the world; 2. information from the U.S. Government and all its various agencies, including Congressional bills, census data, and more information than could be read in a lifetime; 3. public domain and shareware of every conceivable type; 4. discussion groups on a plethora of topics ranging from animals to food, from music to politics, from Aztec culture to the environment and much, much more; 5. access to the Library of Congress and many libraries of major universities across America, as well as a wide variety of research agencies such as ERIC which store, update and share thousands of articles on endless topics.

Unacceptable Use of the Internet 1. use of the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other contracts; 2. use of the network for financial or commercial gain; 3. degrade or disrupt equipment, software of system performance; 4. vandalize the data of another user; 5. wastefully use finite resources such as paper or ink; 6. gain unauthorized access to resources or entities; 7. invade the privacy of individuals 8. use an account/password/login of another user; 9. post personal communications without the original author’s consent; 10. post anonymous messages; 11. download, store or print ANY files or messages which are profane, obscene, or that use language which offends or tends to degrade others; 12. violate any “guidelines” which will be imposed by the school. 35 Security Security is a major concern for all computer systems, especially when the system involves as many users as the Internet. That is why the list of unacceptable use includes items that would invade the privacy or confidentiality of other users anywhere on the network. Local users found to be a security risk or one who attempts to enter any other computer system seeking private information will be denied access to the Internet. For example, if the school administration wishes to share its budget information and financial records with school board members through a private system, and a student or patron would attempt to invade that system, that is a break in security that would be unacceptable. And likewise teachers’ grade reports would be confidential and searching for these records would be a breach in security. Some security guidelines to consider are: 1. Be cautious when revealing your name, address or phone number, or any such private, confidential information such as credit card numbers. 2. Likewise, NEVER share names, addresses or phone numbers or confidential information of other people. 3. NEVER share your password or anyone else’s password. 4. Change your password occasionally.

Vandalism/Harassment Vandalism of any sort will not be tolerated and could lead to permanent cancellation of all privileges in the school computer lab or any other school computer. Vandalism will not only include any act of damaging or defacing the actual computer hardware, that being the computer itself or any accessory, but also the attempt to harm or destroy any data on the Internet or on any internal system, such as the CD-ROM information stored in the lab. Creating or trying to lead a virus would be considered as a serious act of vandalism.

Harassment is the attempt to annoy another user or interfere with another user’s communications or works. Sending unwanted e-mail is another example of harassment.

Guidelines for the Computer Lab Students may access the system ONLY under their own name and password to use their personal files and approved software. (Please see the list of approved software in the RTHS Student Handbook printed in the student agenda). Under no circumstances shall a student ever enter the system under another name or through any code. Entering the system under anything but his/her own name and password will be a serious breach of this contract and will lead to immediate suspension from the lab for a period of no less than one week. Further violations will be cause for permanent loss of privileges to any computer at school. Approved software will include only that software which is presented and made available to students. A student may not access any software program if he/she has not received training in the use of that software. Under no circumstances may any user ever access any software that is not on the approved list or not approved by the teacher.

Chat Room Ban Chat rooms on the Internet can be interesting, informative and entertaining. However, too many have become havens for psychopaths, pedophiles, and perverts of every nature. They have also become an avenue of invasion of privacy of individuals as well as a means of entering and destroying entire systems and networks.

36 Our “Acceptable Use Policy” allows the school to place limitations on access to sites which violate school policy. The materials and language being broadcast through too many of the “chat rooms” is in direct violation of a number of school policies, including obscene language, sexual harassment, disrespect and others. To avoid unnecessary and unsolicited intrusion into the privacy of everyone in our system and the very system itself, henceforth it will be a violation of our “AUP” for anyone to directly access any “chat room” through any computer at school. Making a connection to such sites does not happen by accident, but should anyone unintentionally find him/herself in a “chat room” site through some other connection, that person must immediately disconnect from that site.

Any violation of this policy will result in serious consequences which could include (1) loss of all computer privileges for the remainder of the year, (2) loss of all e-mail privileges, (3) dismissal from computer classes, and/or (4) a temporary ban from the computer lab. Any questions regarding this policy can be directed to the principal or the technology coordinator.

Dealing with E-Mail / Personal Mail Students may apply for and receive an e-mail address. After training, they may receive and send e-mail messages on school computers. Office 365 is the only mail service students may use to send and receive mail at RTHS and TRE.

When students at RTHS and TRE sign our “Acceptable Use Agreement” they agree to all rules stated therein. This policy covers the situation with e-mail courtesies and etiquette or “netiquette”. But to extend it, the following criteria are hereby established:

1. Any time you receive an e-mail message which does include inappropriate, obscene or any unacceptable language, please notify the teacher supervising the computer lab or room. The “sender” will be reported immediately to the administration. 2. Any student found violating our e-mail portion of the AUP will lose e-mail privileges for up to one year. 3. Throughout the entire school year all students with e-mail addresses can expect to be constantly observed while using school machines for e-mail purposes so that staff may monitor the process to see if further changes need be made. 4. All students can expect all outgoing and incoming e-mail to be checked regularly by a faculty member. The internet provider also reserves the right to check e-mail files which students use through their services. 5. Students may check personal emails only with the permission and supervision of the teacher or supervisor. At RTHS, students may check personal email between 8:00-8:20 a.m. only.

Internet Access Students may access the Internet while in class and under the direct supervision of a classroom teacher or supervisor for a variety of class assignments. Teachers may allow a student to work on the Internet for class assignments outside the regular class period, but the teacher is responsible for monitoring these students or can make arrangements with any other faculty member to monitor the computer while students are accessing the Internet. Therefore, a student at any of the computer stations in the school who is not in a regular classroom working at that setting must have permission by the teacher and must be supervised. Students are responsible while accessing the Internet for the particular class assignment and are expected to abide by all AUP regulations. Random browsing is in violation of the AUP. Accessing inappropriate sites is an AUP violation.

37 Computer Lab Rules At RTHS students are allowed into the computer lab in the following manner. a) a pass signed by a classroom teacher to do assigned work for that class; b) a pass from the computer teacher for work assigned in a computer class; c) you have a regularly assigned class in this room. Other than these rules, no one has permission to be in this room without a pass.

At TRE students are allowed into the computer lab for regularly assigned classes or with permission from their classroom teacher. No student at TRE may work on the computers without permission and direct supervision. Students at TRE will abide by all computer lab rules as posted in the computer lab.

Personal PC’s, Downloading Files, Etc. 1. No personal computer, laptop or any device not owned by the school district may ever be connected to a school machine or to the school’s computer network without authorization from the technology coordinator.

2. Under no circumstances may a student download any file from any source onto a school machine or onto the school’s network without authorization from the technology coordinator and the teacher of the class or the person directly supervising the student at the time this situation may occur.

Supervision of the Computer Lab The computer lab at both RTHS and TRE will be under the direct supervision of a teacher or teacher designee at all times that the Internet is being accessed. Under no circumstances will students be allowed to access the Internet without permission or for purposes of a class assignment, and in these cases, the assigning teacher will be responsible for the direct supervision of such students.

Consequences For Violations Any violation of this policy, including instances of abuse, vandalism or harassment, will lead to loss of privileges for a time to be determined the principal, technology coordinator, and teacher.

Agreement Acknowledgment Students of Richardton Taylor High School and Taylor-Richardton Elementary School will abide by all requirements of the Acceptable Use Policy and by signing the AUP understand that any violation will lead to possible loss of all computer privileges in addition to the added penalties of suspension or expulsion.

E. CARRYING WEAPONS POLICY - FHCG

The Richardton Taylor School Board determines that possession and/or use of a weapon by a student is detrimental to the welfare and safety of the students and school personnel within the district.

No student will knowingly possess, handle, carry, or transmit any weapon or dangerous instrument in any school building, on school grounds, in any school vehicle, or at any school sponsored activity. Such weapons include but are not limited to any knife, razor, ice pick, explosive smoke bomb, incendiary device, gun (including pellet gun), slingshot, bludgeon, brass knuckles or artificial knuckles of any kind, or any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon or dangerous instrument.

38 Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action. All weapons will be confiscated and may be turned over to the student's parents or to law enforcement officials at the discretion of the administration.

Bringing a firearm, as defined in 18 U.S.C. 921, to school will require that proceedings for the expulsion of the student involved for a minimum of one year be initiated immediately by the principal. The Superintendent may recommend a modification of the expulsion on a case by case basis. The modification shall be based on the circumstances revealed in the investigation into the incident conducted by the Superintendent or other person designated by the Superintendent to conduct the investigation. (Alternate education may be provided for students who are expelled under this section.) The principal or superintendent will notify law enforcement. A student who is defined as having a disability under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act may be placed in an alternative educational setting for up to 45 calendar days, during which time a determination will be made as to whether bringing the firearm to school was a manifestation of the student's disability. Discipline and placement of the student will be in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Other violation of this policy will require that proceedings for the suspension and/or expulsion until the end of the current school term be initiated immediately by the principal.

Proper due process proceedings as defined in Policy FHDA (Suspension and Expulsion) will be observed in all suspensions and expulsions under this policy.

Carrying Weapons -EXCEPTION - Hunter Safety Course

In order for hunter safety instruction to be taught at Taylor-Richardton Elementary School, the policy on carrying weapons would not apply for the purposes of allowing a certificated hunter safety instructor to bring weapons and to handle them as part of the class instruction. Students may not bring weapons to hunter safety class, but may handle weapons during instruction as directed by the instructor. Weapons may only be brought to class by the instructor and may not be left or stored at the school.

The liability and responsibility of the safe handling and transporting of weapons lies with the instructor. A hold-harmless agreement shall be signed by the instructor and class members, and filed with the school.

F. COMMUNICABLE DISEASE/SIGNIFICANT INFECTIOUS DISEASE POLICY - FCAAA

Significant infectious diseases shall be defined by the Southwest District Health Unit Board of Health. This policy is initially designed to include Hepatitis B, Cytomegalovirus (CVM), and infection with Human T-Lymphotropic Virus Type III (HTLV-III) the virus which causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The National Center for Disease Control (Atlanta, Georgia) shall be the definitive authority on the identification and transmission of significant infectious diseases.

The determination of whether an infected student shall be permitted to attend classes or participate in school activities with other students shall be made on a case-by-case basis by a team consisting of the Superintendent of School or designee, the local health officer, and the child’s physician. The team shall make its determination by majority vote.

39 A final disposition of the aforementioned committee shall be appealable by any interested party to the Southwest District Health Unit Board of Health. A change observed in the student’s condition might require reassessment. Any member of the Significant Infectious Disease Committee may call for a meeting of the committee to determine whether a student should attend school. At the time of such meeting, the committee may exercise one of the following alternatives:

a. Utilize existing information to make a decision regarding whether the person should attend school.

b. Request further information with which to make a decision; such information may include a physical examination.

c. Make a decision regarding temporary suspension of the student until such time as information can be gathered and a decision reached.

If an infected student in grades K-12 is not permitted to attend school, the school district shall make a reasonable effort to provide the student with an alternative program.

The identity of an infected student shall not be publicly revealed.

G. FIELD TRIPS POLICY - GBG

Educational field trips are considered a vital part of curriculum. Educational field trips are those which are directly related to on-going classroom instruction. They can provide the most effective means of accomplishing certain objectives related to given aspects of the instructional program. Trips should be considered as a method of instruction and planned as such with definite objectives determined in advance.

In order to secure maximum educational benefit from a field experience, pupils will be oriented for the trip in advance. There will be adequate follow-up and tie-in of the field trip experiences with classroom activities and discussions after the trip.

Individual classes or organizations shall have budgetary allocations based on enrollment so that effective planning can be made. Educational field trips should be conducted within the school day.

Written parental approval must be obtained for field trips. The signed forms showing parent approval will be kept on file for one year.

School transportation will be provided within budget limitations.

On all school sponsored trips involving students, provisions will be made for proper supervision by school employees. Parents may assist in such supervision.

All field trips must be approved by the school principal. The superintendent must also approve any out-of-district trips and/or overnight trips. Additionally, the board must approve in advance all overnight trips excluding North Dakota High School Activities Association sponsored activities.

40 H. GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SERVICES - FEBA The primary responsibility of the guidance and counseling program in the Richardton-Taylor Public School District is to assist each student regardless of race, creed, or social standing to obtain the self-understanding, the training and the personal and social adjustment necessary for taking his/her place in a diverse, global society.

The counseling department in the Richardton-Taylor Public School District provides the following services: individual and group counseling, testing, career counseling, college placement, and referral for special services.

Counselors may meet students on a short term/per need basis to provide support in a variety of areas. Counselors are available to teaching staff to do-teach classroom lessons which deal with issues of character and citizenship as well as to consult on individual students. Parent collaboration is a significant component of student success, and counselors encourage parents to use them as a sounding board or problem-solving resource.

Guidance and counseling services are available to ALL Richardton-Taylor Public School District students. If a student would like to talk to the counselor, make arrangements in advance and receive a pass. All conferences between the counselor and the student are confidential.

Referrals may be made by teachers, parents, or through student self-referral. After a referral has been made, the counselor will see the student one time. A signed informed consent form will be required before counseling services will be continued. In an emergency situation, the counselor will see students and parents/guardians will be contacted following the session.

I. MEDICATION - ADMINISTERING TO STUDENTS POLICY - FEAA

The giving of tylenol at school is not approved without the prior consent of a parent or legal guardian. Other over-the-counter medication may be administered only with written consent of the parent or legal guardian. Students who must depend on receiving prescription medication during school hours for medical reasons must have a written order from a physician, dentist, or other legally designated health care professional giving specific direction for taking the medication. Such written order may be the prescription label on the original pharmacy labeled container.

Any medication which is so ordered to be administered at school may only be given using procedures developed by the administration and approved by the board.

Procedure for Administering Medication

A. Any medication that is ordered for administration as school should be given using the following procedures:

1. The medicine sent or brought to the school must be accompanied by a signed request/consent from the parent or legal guardian. This consent must grant permission for school personnel to administer the medication.

41 2. The following information must be included on the ORIGINAL PHARMACY LABELED CONTAINER: a. the student's name; b. amount of dosage; c. time of administration; d. name and strength of medication and route (i.e., eye drops, ear drops, nebulizer); e. the instructions for administration; f. special care, such as refrigeration; g. name of physician or other legally designated health care professional.

3. Major side effects of the medication should be listed on the information accompanying the medication. Generally, the pharmacist will provide this information.

4. Medication for emergency use. In emergency cases, such as acute allergic reactions, the school personnel shall promptly notify emergency medical personnel and the parent(s) or legal guardian. a. If medication is for known acute allergic reactions, such as a bee sting kit, then it may be administered by the school nurse or a person trained by a physician, dentist, nurse or other legally designated health professional upon written consent from a parent or legal guardian. b. Personnel who have been trained according to rules established by the local board of health may administer epinephrine (Epi Pen) without written consent. (NDCC 23-01-05.2) In many communities, the emergency number is 911, the emergency number for the community in which the school is located shall be included in the school's policy and procedures.

5. All labeled medications shall be kept in a secure, locked, clean container or cabinet to protect the safety of the student receiving the medication and other students. The administrator of the school shall determine who within the school will be given the responsibility to check in and administer the medication.

6. The administrator shall establish a check-in procedure for medication brought to the school. This procedure shall include: recording the date the medication was deposited, ensuring that parent request/consent is on file, and notifying the person who has been designated to administer the medication. (See Form Request/Consent for Medication Administration)

7. It is recommended that no more than one month's supply of any medication be brought to school at one time and that it is the parent or guardian's responsibility to replenish the medication supply if necessary.

8. A separate record for each student shall be kept of the administration of the medication, noting date, time, and signature of the person administering it. All such records are confidential and are separate from the student's education records. (NDCC 15.1-24-04)

Be sure the following criteria are followed each time medication is administered: a. right student; b. right medication;

42 c. right dosage; d. right route; e. right time.

9. Administration of prescribed medication during school hours will be noted on the designated form for each student that includes: student name, medication, dosage, route, time/frequency, signature of person administering the medication, and a place for other information to be recorded, such as any observed reaction to the medication or possible side effects. When this medication regime is completed or the form is filled, it is to be placed in the student's medical treatment record. (See Form Documentation of Medication Administration)

10. Medications must be picked up by the parent(s) or legal guardian at the end of each school year or when the medication is no longer needed by the student or when the student withdraws from school. If parent or guardian does not pick up medications by the end of the school year, the school will consult with the pharmacy that filled the medication or the local health department or proper disposal of the medication.

11. A new pharmacy label/container must accompany any new prescription order, change in prescription, or refill. A parent request/consent must be on file for any new prescription or change in prescription. Parent request/consent must be current for each medication.

B. Personnel Responsible for Administering Medication

1. All personnel should be familiar with the policy and procedures for administering medication in the school. 2. All personnel having responsibility for supervising students shall be given adequate information about the student, including related medical problems, if any; suspected allergies; emergency contact persons, etc.; and shall be informed of anticipated circumstances for which school personnel may need to be in touch with out-of-school personnel (e.g., medical personnel, other agencies, etc.). 3. A list of personnel within the school building who are responsible for administering the medication should be kept on file. Personnel on the list must receive instruction about the administration of medication and a specific review of instructions for a given student's medication needs.

C. Other Safeguards or Circumstance

1. Even when students are determined to be capable of independently administering their own medication, the student will be required to deposit the medication in the designated area. However, there may be exceptions that will be documented in the student's school record.

2. ALL PERSONNEL must be informed of proper procedures in emergencies and of circumstances in which they are expected to directly call the emergency medical assistance number.

43 3. When students require extensive medical and health related observations while in school or if medical-health related equipment or appliances must be monitored while the student is in school, ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES WILL NEED TO BE ESTABLISHED.

J. RETENTION AND PROMOTION POLICY

In general, children will be placed at the grade level at which they are best adjusted academically, socially, and emotionally. Children usually progress from grade to grade, spending one year at each level.

Some children may profit by staying in the same grade another year. In such cases the parents will be contacted in advance. If school authorities recommend retention and parent approval was not attained, and if in the second year retention was again recommended, then parent approval for retention would be desirable but not mandatory. School authorities would have the final decision.

If retention is deemed advisable, it is preferred that it take place in the primary grades, K-3.

K. SUMMARY OF RIGHTS AS A PARENT/GUARDIAN POLICY - FEB

These safeguards are guaranteed to handicapped children and their families by Public Law 94_142, The Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975, and Section 504 of Public Law 93_122, The Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

1. You must receive written notification before the school may conduct individual testing of your children. The school has the right to go ahead with the individual testing if you do not answer any of the school's attempts to get permission for evaluation. 2. You must receive written notification of any initiation or refusal to initiate a change in your child's educational placement. 3. You have the right to present your views regarding the identification, evaluation, placement or provision of a free appropriate education to your child. This includes the right to request an educational evaluation. 4. You have the opportunity to present information from an independent educational evaluation of your child. 5. You have access to all relevant school records of your child. 6. Either you or the school may initiate an impartial due process hearing to resolve differences that could not be resolved informally. The request is filed with the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction. In conducting such a hearing, parents must:

a. receive timely and specific notice of the hearing b. have the right to be accompanied and advised by counsel and/or by individuals with special knowledge or training with respect to the problems of handicapped children c. confront, cross-examine and compel the attendance of witnesses d. present evidence relevant to the decision e. obtain written or electronic verbatim record of the hearing, and obtain written finding of facts and decisions. 7. The hearing will be conducted by an impartial hearing officer selected from a list provided by the Department of Public Instruction. 8. The decision of the hearing is binding on all parties pending appeal. 9. Either party has the right to appeal the findings and decision of the hearing through the court system. 44 10. During the above process your child shall remain in the original program or any other program to which both parties can agree. 11. Students receiving special education and related services must receive a periodic re-evaluation every three years. 12. These rights transfer to your child when he/she reaches the age of 18 unless a guardian has been appointed by the court. These rights would then be retained by a court appointed guardian.

L. VANDALISM/USE OF SCHOOL EQUIPMENT AND MATERIAL POLICY - FHCE

Because incidents of willful or malicious abuse, destruction, defacing, and theft of the property of the School District are clearly contrary to the best interest of the School District and injurious to the rights and welfare of the entire community, it will be the policy of the Board to seek all legal redress against persons found to have committed such acts.

Books, materials, and equipment supplied by the district for the students must receive reasonable care. Students wantonly defacing school furniture or damaging school property or losing books charged to their care will be fined an amount sufficient to restore the damaged article to original condition or replace it.

Disciplinary action will be taken when students are involved. Full restitution for the damage caused will be sought from the responsible persons, or in the case of minors, from the minors and their parents, under the laws of this state.

Parents may also be held liable for the willful or malicious destruction of school property by a minor.

The Board may offer a reward as authorized by North Dakota law to any persons furnishing information leading to the apprehension and conviction of any person(s) appropriating or destroying property or equipment belonging to the School District. The Board may also accept private donations to establish a reward fund to encourage the furnishing of such information.

M. VISITORS TO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL POLICY - FCE

Any parent or visitor that comes to the elementary school building any time during the day is required to enter through the main doors at the west end of the building and proceed to the office to sign in and obtain a visitor’s badge.

If it is necessary for a student to leave the school building during the day due to illness or any appointment, parents are asked to come to the office to sign the student out. The office will then page the classroom the student is in to let him or her know they are to leave the building. To ensure the safety of all elementary students, parents are asked to wait at the office to meet the student before leaving the building.

Parents who come to pick up their students at the end of the school day (3:15 p.m.) are asked to stay in the office hallway area and not go down the hallways until the students are dismissed. However, it is suggested that parents wait for their child(ren) outside of the building to avoid over- populating the hallway. Please call the office to let them know your child(ren) will not be riding the bus. 45 The following policies have been updated and are available in the school office: AAC Nondiscrimination & Anti-Harassment Policy AAC-BR Discrimination & Harassment Grievance Procedure AAC-E Filing a State or Federal Discrimination & Harassment Complaint FEAA Medication - Administering to Students FFK Suspension and Expulsion FFK-BR Suspension and Expulsion Regulations FFK-E1 EXHIBIT - Suggested Procedure for Conducting an Expulsion Hearing FFK-E2 Suspension and Expulsion of Special Education Students FHCE Vandalism/Use of School Equipment and Material FHCG Carrying Weapons FHCFA-T Tobacco Use on School Property KACA Patron Complaints KACB Patron Complaints About Personnel KACB-E Patron Complaint Form - Personnel Complaint