Elk Ridge Elementary

School Website

School Facebook

340 N River Ave, Buckley, WA 98321

School Phone: (360) 829-3354 /School Fax: 360-829-3392

What's Best for Kids- The Basic ideas of "What's Best for Kids" and that everyone should be valued drive the decision-making process throughout the district activities. These simple but powerful beliefs are the foundation of our strategic plan and our efforts to align curriculum with the current concepts of educational reform.

District Mission- Ensure high levels of learning for all students preparing them for successes beyond high school.

Elk Ridge Mission: Students, staff and families are partners in creating a community of life-long learners.

Elk Ridge Vision: The families, students and staff of Elk Ridge Elementary are committed to creating and maintaining a safe, caring and cooperative environment. Our students will achieve high academic standards, become responsible citizens, and embrace learning throughout their lives. Our staff members collaborate to provide challenging and engaging instruction that allows each student to reach their fullest potential.

Family Access

Family Access is an internet-based tool for parents. Parents of elementary students will be able to verify parent contact information, view attendance, and see food service balance. You can access these by going to your school’s home page and clicking on the link “Family Access” or click the button below. You will need a login and password. If you do not currently have this, please contact the school office, and one will be provided for you.

Remind

White River School District uses Remind as the 2-way communication tool to keep things consistent for families. Remind is a classroom messaging tool. Remind allows WR staff members to communicate through texting, emailing, and built-in voice calling. It has some great features, such as automatic language translation when texting, the ability for teachers to set office hours, SMS texting, and masked voice calling. The masked voice calling is designed to protect the privacy of both students and teachers. Unlike standard cell phone messaging applications, no one sees each other's phone numbers.

NOTE: The school and district will still use School Messenger for Emergency Messaging.

Volunteers

Parents are welcomed and encouraged to visit and become actively involved at the Early Learning Center. Volunteer Procedures have been updated. Please read and follow the directions below:

• Fill out a Volunteer Application in the school district application system Frontline, (https://www.applitrack.com/whiteriver/onlineapp/) and create an External Account, if you have NOT already done so. DO NOT CREATE AN ADDITIONAL ACCOUNT. Click on "Volunteer" in the Position Desired section. Fill out all required documents and submit.

• NOTE: If you cannot submit the application, it will tell you what you have missed in order to submit.

• Read the WRSD Code of Conduct

• Read and understand the Volunteer Handbook - See Link Below

• Your application will be reviewed and a background check will be completed.

• Once approved, the Office Manager of the school will be notified.

• You will sign in at the Front Office and receive a Volunteer badge. When your time is complete, please return the badge to the Front Office and sign out.

VOLUNTEER HANDBOOK

RISE Lunch

Kindergarten Lunch

First Grade Lunch

Second Grade Lunch

Third Grade Lunch

Fourth Grade Lunch

Fifth Grade Lunch

Standard student and classroom supplies (pencils, crayons, notebooks, paper, glue, scissors, etc.) will be provided for all students. The only items that you may want to consider purchasing for your child are:

• Backpack (school-issued backpack available upon request)

• Water bottle (school-issued water bottle available upon request)

Please contact your child’s teacher if you have any questions or needs.

Breakfast and Lunch prices are listed below. Free and reduced lunches are provided for students whose families qualify. Here is a link to the forms for Free and Reduced Lunches.

We contract with RevTrak, to provide a secure site for making online payments. Parents are able to make payments to their student's food service meal accounts, view account balances, and see transaction history online. You may use Visa or MasterCard debit or credit card and your Skyward Family Access Login and Password. Online payments will immediately be posted to your student's food service account. To make your first payment, click on the Skyward Family Access link below. Parents will be charged a small fee for the convenience of making an online payment.

Family Access Food Service Account payment link

Balloons, flowers, etc., sent to school cannot be taken on the bus. Room parties and treats are at the discretion of the teacher. Treats must be store-bought and peanut free. Please let your child’s teacher know if you do not want your child’s birthday acknowledged. Capri suns, juice boxes, cookies, donuts, and cupcakes are acceptable treats. Please check with your child’s teacher about birthday questions or bringing any items into school.

White River School District is making a special effort to ensure that all students fully benefit from their education by attending school regularly. Our goal is to partner with you to address the barriers that have led to a lack of attendance and support your child in being successful at school. Regular attendance at school supports students consistently to be successful both academically and socially emotionally. With that said, there are certain legal obligations we have in response to truancy that must be addressed.

Excused Absences

Regular school attendance is necessary for mastery of the educational program provided to students of the district. At times, students may be appropriately absent from class or not able to participate remotely. School staff will keep a record of absence and tardiness, including a record of excuse statements submitted by a parent/guardian, or in certain cases, students, to document a student’s excused absences. The following principles will govern the development and administration of attendance procedures within the district:

Unexcused Absences

An unexcused absence is when a student is absent from school and the parent or guardian has not called to inform the school of the reason for the absence. An excused absence is when a student is absent from school and you communicate with the office. Our procedure for handling unexcused absences is as follows:

1. One unexcused absence in a month – The school will notify a student’s parent or guardian in writing or by telephone whenever the student has failed to attend school after one unexcused absence within any month during the current school year. The notification will include the potential consequences of additional unexcused absences. The school will make reasonable efforts to provide this information in a language the parent understands.
2. Three unexcused absences in a month - The school will hold a conference with the parent or guardian after three unexcused absences within any month during the current school year. The conference will analyze the causes of the student’s absences and develop a plan that identifies student, school, and family commitments to reduce the student’s absences from school. If the parent does not attend the conference, the school official may still hold the conference with the student. However, the school will notify the parent of the steps the district has decided to take to eliminate or reduce the student’s absences.
3. Seven unexcused absences in a month – Not later than the student’s seventh unexcused absence in a month the district will enter into an agreement with the student and parents that establishes school attendance requirements, refer the student to a community truancy board or file a petition and affidavit with the juvenile court alleging a violation of RCW 28A.225.010.
4. Fifteen unexcused absences in a school year – If such action is not successful, the district will file a petition and affidavit with the juvenile court alleging a violation of RCW 28A.225.010 by the parent, student or parent and student no later than the seventh unexcused absence within any month during the current school year or upon the fifteenth unexcused absence during the current school year.

Because regular attendance at school is among the highest predictors of academic success, it is important that students attend school on a daily basis.

The important message in this is that we want to help! Please contact the office if there is something we need to be aware of concerning your child’s absences.

Elementary Planned Absence Forms are available in the front office. Please use this form if your child will be gone for 3 or more days in a row.

If you have questions about attendance, please contact the office at (360) 829-5848 or email at mclay@whiteriver.wednet.edu .

Medications at School - Board Policy 3416

Under normal circumstances, all student medications, both prescribed and over-the-counter medication should be dispensed before and/or after school hours under the supervision of a parent or guardian.

When it is necessary for a student to receive prescription or over-the-counter oral medication, topical medication, eye drops, ear drops, or nasal spray at school or at school-sponsored events, the parent or guardian must submit a written parental request and a written authorization form from a Licensed Health Care practitioner prescribing within the scope of his or her authority.

• An Authorization for Medication form must be completed by both a parent and a licensed health care provider. This form may be obtained from the school or downloaded from the district website and must be completed each and every school year for each prescription and non-prescription medication. Medication must be transported to and from school by an adult.

• Medications must be in their original container, labeled with the child’s name, name of the medication, dosage, and the time the medication is to be taken.

Over-the-counter medications and remedies such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, cough drops, and medicated lip balms require a completed, signed, written medication order form.

Until the above steps have been completed, parents are welcome to come to school to administer their child’s required medication themselves.

Health Screenings

Students are screened annually in the fall for vision and hearing. If you have a concern about your child’s vision or hearing, please contact the school nurse.

Life-Threatening Conditions - Board Policy 3413

Prior to attendance at school, each child with a life-threatening health condition will present a medication or treatment order from a Licensed Healthcare Provider (LHP) addressing the condition. A life-threatening health condition means a condition that will put the child in danger of death during the school day if a medication or treatment order providing authority to a registered nurse and nursing plan are not in place. This includes conditions such as severe allergies (e.g. food, insect, etc.), asthma, insulin-dependent diabetes, seizure disorder, certain heart conditions, as well as other medical diagnoses. Following submission of the medication or treatment order, the registered nurse will develop the nursing care plan.

Sick or Injured Children

Please keep your child home if he/she is sick. This includes a temperature of 100.4° or above, vomiting, or diarrhea within the last 24 hours. If your child has a medical condition or injury that requires modification of his/her day, please bring written guidelines from your licensed healthcare provider to school.

When a child becomes ill or injured at school, he/she is cared for by district staff. If parents need to be contacted, it is important to have current phone numbers. Please notify the office when emergency contact numbers change.

Medical Emergencies

In case of an emergency, school personnel will call 911 and notify parents. If the emergency responders determine your child needs further evaluation or treatment, transport to a hospital by ambulance may be necessary.

Student use of the health room is limited to health/first aid issues that occur during school hours. When children become ill or suffer more than a minor injury at school, a member of the school staff will call the parent/guardian. If your child has an injury that prohibits any activity at school, it is critical that you send a detailed note with specific instructions. Children who have contagious conditions will be sent home from school immediately to keep our school healthy. For example, chickenpox.

Immunizations

Washington State law states all students must provide proof that they have been immunized for the required vaccine-preventable diseases before school entry. A current completed Washington State Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) or Certificate of Exemption signed by a doctor and parent must be on file before students begin school.

Students are free to dress in clothing that helps them feel comfortable and successful at school. Here are some guidelines for maintaining a safe school environment:

• Clothing that advertises or promotes alcohol, tobacco/drug products, expresses profanity or presents an offensive, rude, obscene, &/or vulgar message or image is not permitted.

• The use of insignia, dress, symbols, or colors that promote or create a reasonable belief or concern by students or staff of intimidation, harassment, or encourages disruptive behavior will not be allowed.

• Chains are not permitted.

• Shoes should allow students to participate in PE and recess without causing injury (e.g., no Heelys).

• Students who appear at school clothed in any of the above-outlined apparel will receive a call home with a request for a change in clothing.

• Parents’ help in monitoring student dress is appreciated.

• Students need to dress appropriately each day to participate in recess activities (including footwear). Shoes are to remain on the student’s feet at all times. Clothing should be appropriate for outdoor recess, depending on the weather.

The White River School District Board of Directors acknowledges its responsibility to permit students and/or adults with disabilities to be accompanied by a “service animal” as required by federal laws and Washington State’s law against discrimination. This policy governs the presence of service animals in the schools, on school property, including school buses and at school activities. A “service animal” means an animal that is trained for the purpose of assisting or accommodating a disabled person’s sensory, mental or physical disability. The parent/guardian of a student who believes the student needs to bring a service animal to school or an employee who wishes to bring a service animal to school, must submit a written request to the building principal. The building principal, in consultation with the Section 504 coordinator or director of special services, as appropriate, will determine whether or not to permit the service animal in school.

Reference Board Policy 2030.

The White River School District takes disaster and emergency preparation seriously to ensure the safety and security of our students and staff. Our comprehensive emergency response plans and safety drills are designed to empower our staff to respond effectively to emergencies, incidents, and security risks. We work closely with local emergency responders to improve our response systems. Our commitment to safety helps us create a secure learning environment for all.

The White River School District takes the safety and security of its students and staff very seriously. To ensure a secure learning environment, we have implemented several measures, including secure doors and cameras. Exterior doors are equipped with secure locks and require a keycard or key for access. This ensures that only authorized personnel can enter the building, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and potential threats. In addition to secure doors, our schools are equipped with security cameras. These cameras are strategically placed throughout the schools and monitored to ensure any potential threats are quickly identified and addressed.

Our schools conduct regular drills, including shelter-in-place, lockdown, and evacuation responses. Drills are designed to prepare students and staff to respond appropriately in case of an emergency. In addition, we conduct regular training sessions on safety and security topics to empower our schools to respond confidently and effectively.

Communication Tips in an Emergency

• Be patient – we will communicate with you as quickly as possible.
• Check the Web site or Facebook page
• All adults who are picking up children should remember to always bring photo identification.
• Keep emergency contact information up-to-date with the correct phone numbers and names of people authorized to pick up your children.

Emergency Flyer

Emergency Bulletin

Check here for alternate bus routes which may be implemented depending on the emergency.

Communication Links

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Students are held accountable for proper conduct and courtesy at all times. Any student who willfully performs any act that substantially interferes with the orderly operation of the school, a school-sponsored activity, or any other aspect of the educational process within the District shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including emergency removal by authorized school personnel.

STUDENT RIGHTS

No students shall be unlawfully denied an equal educational opportunity, or be unlawfully discriminated against because of national origin, race, religion, economic status, sex or a physical, mental or sensory handicap. All students shall have the right to be free from unlawful interference in their pursuit of an education while at school. Freedom of speech is a basic student right, but can not be used to disrupt the educational process and may not interfere with the rights of others, including their freedom of expression and their freedom from abuse and/or personal attack. The distribution of written material must receive prior approval of the principal. Students have the right to assemble peaceably, but such meetings must function as part of their formal educational process and be authorized by the principal and shall not disrupt, disturb or impede the orderly educational process.

The student’s personal property and school property assigned to him/her shall be free from unreasonable search and seizure, however, a general search of school property can be conducted at any time without notice as authorized by the building principal if she/he has reasonable cause to believe that students’ desks or other intended objects of the search are being used for some purpose inconsistent with school policy, regulation or rule. An individual search of school property assigned to a pupil may be made if there is sufficient reason to believe that the individual student desk or property is being used for some purpose inconsistent with school policy, regulation or rule. Items of personal property shall be removed from the possession of the pupil when the school authority has reason to believe possession of such an item constitutes a crime, rule violation or a danger to a pupil or others in the school community. In such instances, the appropriate law enforcement agency shall be involved as deemed proper by the building administrator. Items used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process are to be removed from the pupil’s possession temporarily. Parents have the right to review student permanent records with prior notification of request to the school office.

This section includes a summary of the rules of conduct. These rules apply to all elementary students. Any infraction not explicitly covered in this section will be subject to review by an Administrator. The Administrator will make a recommendation on the violation and its penalty.

Abusive Language

Abusive language can be considered language that is derogatory towards a specific person or group of people. This includes but is not limited to language which is derogatory towards person’s race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or mental or physical disability.

Aggressive Behavior

Aggressive or reckless behavior, including horseplay, which jeopardizes the health, safety, or welfare of other students or staff members, may result in disciplinary action.

Assault

A student shall not intentionally cause or attempt to cause physical injury or intentionally behave in such a way that could reasonably cause physical injury to any person. Any student involved in an assault may result in disciplinary action.

Disrespect

A student demonstrating disrespect to other students or school personnel in a manner that causes a willful disruption of the educational process can be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension. Profane or abusive language directed at any staff member may result in disciplinary action.

Disruption of the Educational Process

Students must comply with the reasonable instructions of district personnel. Conduct of any type that interferes with or threatens to interfere with the educational process is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

Fighting

Fighting will be defined as a physical altercation causing a disruption of the educational process. A student shall not intentionally cause or attempt to cause physical injury or intentionally behave in such a way as could reasonably cause physical injury to any person. Any student involved in fighting or promoting fights shall be subject to disciplinary action. Fights are cumulative throughout the student's secondary school years. Students will be suspended for fighting. Fighting may constitute a crime and legal authorities may be notified. Filming a fight and sharing it to social media can be considered promoting a fight. Students can be subject to disciplinary action, including exclusionary discipline, for having knowledge of an imminent fight and/or willfully attending a fight and not making an attempt to notify a school official.

Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying

Committed to a safe, secure, and civil educational environment for all students, White River School District Board Policy 3207 prohibits any intentional written, verbal, or physical act that:

1. Physically harms a student or damages the student's property,

2. Has the effect of substantially interfering with the students' education; or

3. Is so severe, persistent or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or

threatening educational environment, or

4. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school. Forms to report bullying, intimidation, and/or harassment can be obtained in our office.

Insubordination/Failure to Cooperate

Students are expected to regard all staff members with respect and comply with any reasonable request issued by a staff member. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.

Insults/Verbal Abuse

Incidents of insult or abuse between students may result in disciplinary action. Students are required to show respect for authority. Any verbal abuse of staff may result in disciplinary action.

Sexual Harassment

In an effort to maintain a learning environment that is free from sexual harassment the White River School District Board Policy 3205 prohibits any verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature.

Skateboards, Rollerblades, and Scooters

Skateboards, roller blades, and scooters are not allowed to be used during school hours and stored in the appropriate storage area on campus. If items are disruptive to the learning environment, parents/guardians will be notified to pick up the item.

Threats of Violence

White River School District takes all threats of violence seriously and they will not be tolerated. Threats of violence will result in disciplinary action.

Tobacco and Drug-Free Community

White River School District is a drug, tobacco, and alcohol free learning community. In accordance with White River School District Board Policies 5201 - Drug Free Schools, Community and Workplace, such substances are not welcome on the school campus.

Trespassing

Students who trespass (who are present in an unauthorized place, or refuse to leave when asked to do so) may result in disciplinary action.

Vandalism (RCW 28A.635.060)

All students are expected to respect and care for all property of the school, including building facilities, desks, books, bathrooms, etc. Any student or students found damaging or defacing school, student or staff property will be required to pay for the damage or loss. Willful destruction or defacement of School District property, student, or staff property at any time may result in disciplinary action.

Weapons

In accordance with White River School District Board Policy 4210 - Regulation of Dangerous Weapons on School Premises guns, knives, and other dangerous weapons - either real or replicas - are prohibited and may result in disciplinary action. This applies to students in all grades.

Discipline

“Discipline” means any action taken by the school district in response to behavioral

violations. Discipline is not necessarily punitive, but can take positive and supportive forms.

Data show that a supportive response to a behavioral violation is more effective and

increases equitable educational opportunities. Please refer to White River School District Board Policy 3241 - Student Discipline for further clarification. In all matters involving student discipline, school personnel, as indicated by District policy, employ due process. The procedures are designed to ensure that any corrective action is imposed only after a thorough examination of the facts. The nature of the corrective action must be reasonably related to the nature of the circumstances of the violations. The discipline imposed is related to the seriousness and frequency of the violation. The following list describes the escalating forms of disciplinary action.

In-School Suspension

Students may be assigned to in-school suspension (ISS). When a student is assigned ISS, he/she is expected to work in the office or other study hall type of environment. Parents/guardians will be notified by telephone if the student has been assigned ISS. Inappropriate behavior in ISS or failure to serve ISS may result in an out-of-school suspension.

Short-Term Suspension

A short-term suspension means a temporary denial of the right to attend school, is the penalty for serious rule violations, and is not exceeding 10 consecutive school days at one time, for an accumulation of no more than 15 school days during a single semester.

Students are allowed to make up work they missed while suspended. Students who are suspended are not allowed on school premises at any time and may not attend school sponsored activities. Parents/guardians will be notified by telephone if the student has been assigned a suspension. Students and their parents have the right to appeal a suspension by holding an informal conference with an assistant principal or principal for the purpose of resolving the grievance through discussion and negotiation, pursuant to WAC 392- 400.

Short-Term Suspension Appeal Procedures

Parents/students have the right to an informal conference with the building principal if l. At this informal conference, you have the right to tell your side of the story. Prior to this conference, you should know what the alleged behavior was, what rule you broke and the punishment that the school is imposing.

If the suspension is for more than one day, you have the right to notice in your predominant language specifying the reason for the suspension, and explaining the right to appeal.

If you are still dissatisfied with the result after the informal conference, upon two school business days, you can file a written grievance with the superintendent or designee. The superintendent (or designee) will hold an informal conference to try to resolve the grievance. If you continue to be unhappy with the outcome, another grievance can be filed with the school board. The grievance will not be heard until the next regular school board meeting.

You have the right to an opportunity to make up work and exams missed during a short-term suspension if the suspension will have a substantial impact on grades or prevent a student from receiving credit for a course.

References:

WAC 392-400-245

WAC 392-400-250

WAC 392-400-255

White River School District Board Policy #3241 08/2019

Emergency Removal

An emergency removal is the immediate removal of a student from a class, subject, activity, or educational process of the school. Such action can be taken when a student’s presence poses an immediate and continuing danger to the student, other students or staff, or immediate or continuing threat of substantial disruption to the class, subject, activity, or educational process. This removal may continue until the threat ceases or the administrator takes appropriate disciplinary action. The emergency removal continues until rescinded or modified by the superintendent or building administrator, pursuant to WAC 392-400.

Emergency Removal Appeal Procedures

You may request a conference with the principal or assistant principal to discuss the emergency removal. If your concerns cannot be resolved in this conference, you may, on or before ten school business days of receipt of this written notice, request a formal hearing with an impartial hearing officer to appeal the emergency removal. The request for a formal hearing must be in writing and must be delivered to the Superintendent’s Office. If you do not request a hearing within the specified time (ten school business days), you will have waived your right to a hearing and the proposed emergency removal will continue in force, as deemed necessary by the school district without any further opportunity to contest the matter.

If you request a hearing, it will be scheduled to commence within three (3) school business days after the day upon which your request is received and you will have the right to:

1. Request to inspect in advance of the hearing any documentary and other physical evidence which the school district intends to introduce at the hearing.

2. Be represented by legal counsel (inform the District legal counsel will represent you).

3. Question and confront witnesses.

4. Present your explanation of the alleged misconduct.

5. Make sure relevant showings by way of witnesses and the introduction of documentary and other physical evidence as you desire

Further, the person assigned to present the school district’s case shall have the right to inspect in advance of the hearing any documentary and other physical evidence which you intend to introduce at the hearing. The person hearing the case shall not be a witness and the guilt or innocence of the pupil shall be determined solely on the basis of the evidence presented at the hearing. A tape recorded record of the hearing will be made

Within one school business day after the date upon which the hearing concludes, a decision as to whether or not the emergency removal shall be continued shall be rendered. The student’s legal counsel, or if none, the student and parent/guardian shall be notified by certified letter. The decision shall set forth the findings of fact, the conclusions (including a conclusion as to whether or not the emergency situation giving rise to the conclusions (including a conclusion as to whether or not the emergency situation giving rise to the emergency removal continues), and whether or not a different form of corrective action is to be imposed.

Students on emergency removal are not allowed on any school district property and may not participate in any school district activity.

Students are held accountable for proper conduct and courtesy at all times on the bus. Any student who willfully performs any act that substantially interferes with the orderly operation of the bus, or safety of themselves, the driver or other students may result in disciplinary action including removal from the bus.

Technology is available to all White River students in all classrooms. Preschool and kindergarten classrooms have iPads. First through fifth grade classrooms have a computer cart of laptops. Students may use the device under teacher supervision and are responsible for using equipment in a responsible and appropriate manner. Misuse of computers resulting in damaged hardware, damage to programs/school data, and/or visiting inappropriate websites (filters are in operation to block known inappropriate sites) will result in loss of computer privileges and possible further disciplinary action. Students are assigned a number of online accounts used to support curriculum and instruction. Students are expected to use these accounts in an appropriate manner 1st - 5th Chromebook Promise connected to the learning assignment provided by the teacher. Students who do not use these appropriately, or access the accounts of other students may face disciplinary actions.

White River School Board Policy #3245 Electronic Devices

The district acknowledges that telecommunication devices are prevalent in our culture. Therefore, while on school property or attending school-sponsored or school-related activities the students may possess personal telecommunication and/or electronic devices, including headphones, provided that such devices do not pose a threat to academic integrity, disrupt the learning environment, or violate the privacy rights of others. Students in possession of telecommunication devices and other related electronic devices must observe the following conditions:

• Electronic devices shall be put away and out of sight during class time. Students shall comply with any additional rules developed by the school concerning the appropriate use of electronic devices.

• Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, which may include losing the privilege of bringing the device onto school property. In addition, an administrator may confiscate the device, which shall only be returned to the student’s parent/guardian.

• Students are responsible for the devices they bring to school. The District shall not be responsible for loss, theft, or destruction of devices brought onto school property.

• The device cannot interfere with other students' right to learn, or a student or teacher’s right to privacy and integrity.

Parents who need to contact their child during the school day need to do so by calling the school office. All devices shall remain in the student’s backpack during school hours. Any device that rings or makes noise in the classroom or that is not in a backpack will be stored in the front office, and the student may pick it up at the end of the day.

OSPI Model Student Handbook Language

House Bill 1207, now codified as RCW 28A.300.286, requires the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to develop model handbook language related to HIB, discrimination, sexual harassment, and gender-inclusive schools. The statute requires that each school district include model student handbook language, created by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, in any student, parent, employee, and volunteer handbook that it publishes, beginning with the 2024–25 school year.

Schools are meant to be safe and inclusive environments where all students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities. This section defines HIB, explains what to do when you see or experience it, and our school’s process for responding to it.

What is HIB?

HIB is any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act of a student that:

• Physically harms another student or damages their property;

• Has the effect of greatly interfering with another student’s education; or,

• Is so severe, persistent, or significant that it creates an intimidating or threatening education environment for other students.

HIB generally involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated. HIB is not allowed, by law, in our schools.

How can I make a report or complaint about HIB?

Talk to any school staff member (consider starting with whoever you are most comfortable with!). You may use our district’s reporting form to share concerns about HIB (link to form) but reports about HIB can be made in writing or verbally. Your report can made anonymously, if you are uncomfortable revealing your identity, or confidentially if you prefer it not be shared with other students involved with the report. No disciplinary action will be taken against another student based solely on an anonymous or confidential report. If a staff member is notified of, observes, overhears, or otherwise witnesses HIB, they must take prompt and appropriate action to stop the HIB behavior and to prevent it from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer that supports prevention and response to HIB.

HIB Reporting Form:

• WRSD HIB Incident Reporting Form

• WRSD HIB Reporting Form - Spanish

• WRSD HIB Reporting Form - Ukranian

• WRSD HIB Reporting Form - Russian

• WRSD HIB Reporting Form - Portuguese

Contact Information:

HIB Coordinator & Gender Inclusive Schools Coordinator

Dr. Heather McMullen

PO Box 2050

Buckley, WA 98321

(360) 829-3817

Email Dr. Heather McMullen

What happens after I make a report about HIB?

If you report HIB, school staff must attempt to resolve the concerns. If the concerns are resolved, then no further action may be necessary. However, if you feel that you or someone you know is the victim of unresolved, severe, or persistent HIB that requires further investigation and action, then you should request an official HIB investigation.

Also, the school must take actions to ensure that those who report HIB don’t experience retaliation.

What is the investigation process?

When you report a complaint, the HIB Compliance Officer or staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved with the complaint and must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 5 school days, unless you agree on a different timeline. If your complaint involves circumstances that require a longer investigation, the district will notify you with the anticipated date for their response.

When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must provide you with the outcomes of the investigation within 2 school days. This response should include:

• A summary of the results of the investigation

• A determination of whether the HIB is substantiated

• Any corrective measures or remedies needed

• Clear information about how you can appeal the decision

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

For the student designated as the “targeted student” in a complaint:

If you do not agree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal the decision and include any additional information regarding the complaint to the superintendent, or the person assigned to lead the appeal, and then to the school board.

For the student designated as the “aggressor” in a complaint: A student found to be an “aggressor” in a HIB complaint may not appeal the decision of a HIB investigation. They can, however, appeal corrective actions that result from the findings of the HIB investigation.

For more information about the HIB complaint process, including important timelines, please see the district’s HIB webpage or the district’s HIB Policy and Procedure.

Policy 3207 - Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying

Procedure 3207P - Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying

Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because they are part of a protected class, including their race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, creed, disability, use of a service animal, or veteran or military status.

What is discriminatory harassment?

Discriminatory harassment can include teasing and name-calling; graphic and written statements; or other conduct that may be physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Discriminatory harassment happens when the conduct is based on a student’s protected class and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when conduct is so severe, pervasive, or persistent that it limits a student’s ability to participate in, or benefit from, the school’s services, activities, or opportunities.

The district is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer encouraging application of qualified minorities, women, and disabled persons for employment and other opportunities. White River School District is committed to providing access to all District programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

Policy 3210 - Nondiscrimination

Procedure 3210P - Nondiscrimination

Policy 5010 - Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action

Procedure 5010P - Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct or communication that is sexual in nature and substantially interferes with a student's educational performance or creates an intimidating or hostile environment. Sexual harassment can also occur when a student is led to believe they must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or communication to gain something in return, such as a grade or a place on a sports team.

Examples of sexual harassment can include pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors; unwelcome touching of a sexual nature; graphic or written statements of a sexual nature; distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures; making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks; and physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.

Students and staff in the White River School District are protected against sexual harassment by anyone in any school program or activity, including on the school campus, on the school bus, or off-campus during a school-sponsored activity.

Policy 3205 - Sexual Harassment of Students Prohibited

Procedure 3205P - Sexual Harassment of Students Prohibited

Policy 5011 - Sexual Harassment of District Staff Prohibited

Procedure 5011P - Procedure- Sexual Harassment of District Staff Prohibited

You can report sexual harassment to any school staff member or to the district's Title IX Officer, who is listed below. You also have the right to file a complaint with the district Title IX Officer.

Training Materials:

The following training materials were used to train the District's Title IX personnel.

Title IX Coordinator Training Materials

Title IX Investigator Training Materials

What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?

When a school becomes aware of possible discriminatory or sexual harassment, it must investigate and stop the harassment. The school must address any effects the harassment had on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and make sure that the harassment does not happen again.

What can I do if I’m concerned about discrimination or harassment?

Talk to a Coordinator or submit a written complaint. You may contact the following school district staff members to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns.

Contact Information:

District Title IX & Civil Rights Coordinator:

Dr. Sunday Ferris

PO Box 2050

Buckley, WA 98321

(360) 829-3821

Email Dr. Sunday Ferris

Section 504/ADA Coordinator:

Molly Lutz

PO Box 2050

Buckley, WA 98321

(360) 829-3957

Email Molly Lutz

HIB Coordinator & Gender Inclusive Schools Coordinator:

Dr. Heather McMullen

PO Box 2050

Buckley, WA 98321

(360) 829-3817

Email Dr. Heather McMullen

To submit a written complaint, describe the conduct or incident that may be discriminatory and send it by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery to the school principal, district superintendent, or civil rights coordinator. Submit the complaint as soon as possible for a prompt investigation, and within one year of the conduct or incident.

What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?

The Civil Rights Coordinator will give you a copy of the school district’s discrimination complaint procedure. The Civil Rights Coordinator must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that require a longer investigation, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing with the anticipated date for their response.

When the investigation is complete, the school district superintendent or the staff member leading the investigation will send you a written response. This response will include:

• A summary of the results of the investigation

• A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws

• Any corrective measures or remedies needed

• Notice about how you can appeal the decision

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

If you do not agree with the outcome of your complaint, you may appeal the decision to the school district’s board of directors and then to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). More information about this process, including important timelines, is included in the district’s Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and Sexual Harassment Procedure (3205P).

I already submitted an HIB complaint – what will my school do?

Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) can also be discrimination if it's related to a protected class. If you give your school a written report of HIB that involves discrimination or sexual harassment, your school will notify the Civil Rights Coordinator. The school district will investigate the complaint using both the Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and the HIB Procedure (3207P) to fully resolve your complaint.

Who else can help with HIB or Discrimination Concerns?

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)

All reports must start locally at the school or district level. However, OSPI can assist students, families, communities, and school staff with questions about state law, the HIB complaint process, and the discrimination and sexual harassment complaint processes.

OSPI School Safety Center (For questions about harassment, intimidation, and bullying)

• Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/health-safety/school-safety-center

• Email: schoolsafety@k12.wa.us

• Phone: 360-725-6068

OSPI Equity and Civil Rights Office (For questions about discrimination and sexual harassment)

• Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/policy-funding/equity-and-civil-rights

• Email: equity@k12.wa.us

• Phone: 360-725-6162

Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO)

The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds works with families, communities, and schools to address problems together so every student can fully participate and thrive in Washington’s K12 public schools. OEO provides informal conflict resolution tools, coaching, facilitation, and training about family, community engagement, and systems advocacy.

• Website: www.oeo.wa.gov

• Email: oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov

• Phone: 1-866-297-2597

U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR)

The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces federal nondiscrimination laws in public schools, including those that prohibit discrimination based on sex, race, color, national origin, disability, and age. OCR also has a discrimination complaint process.

• Website: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html

• Email: orc@ed.gov

• Phone: 800-421-3481

In Washington, all students have the right to be treated consistent with their gender identity at school. Our school will address students by their requested name and pronouns, with or without a legal name change and will change a student’s gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records. Our school will allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity. Elementary schools do not have locker rooms or overnight trips. Students may participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips in accordance with their gender identity and will allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and apply dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender. Our school will keep health and education information confidential and private. We will protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity.

There are items in the required language that do not apply to elementary schools, including locker rooms, overnight trips, etc. Parents have the right to view all student records in accordance with FERPA and the Washington State Parent Bill of Rights per Initiative 2081.

White River School District believes in fostering an educational environment that is safe and free of discrimination for all students, regardless of sex, gender identity or gender expression. Direct inquiries regarding Gender Inclusive Schools may be made to the Gender Inclusive Schools Coordinator.

Policy 3211 - Gender Inclusive Schools

Procedure 3211P - Gender Inclusive Schools

Contact Information:

HIB Coordinator & Gender Inclusive Schools Coordinator:

Dr. Heather McMullen

PO Box 2050

Buckley, WA 98321

(360) 829-3817

Email Dr. Heather McMullen

For concerns about discrimination or discriminatory harassment based on gender identity or gender expression, please see the information above.

Thank you for taking the time to read the Elk Ridge Parent/Student Handbook. If you have any questions or comments about this handbook, please contact the school office. Please sign and return this Signature Page to Elk Ridge Elementary.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

I have read and understand the 2024-25 Student Handbook for Elk Ridge Elementary and agree to follow the school policies and procedures as stated.

Student Name: _________________________________ Date: ________________

Parent/Guardian Name: ___________________________ Date: ________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ________________________ Date: ________________

Parents and students must sign. Please return your signed form to our student’s teacher.

Thank you!