La Center High School
Student Handbook
2007/2008

 

Principal's Welcome

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to La Center High School 2006/2007 school year. Here you can learn, prepare for your future, and enjoy the time that you spend while in high school. Our school is a place of pride and achievement. You are the pride of La Center High School!

Be proud of your school. Take care of it and feel free to make suggestions for improvement. Your ASB and class officers meet monthly and will consider your input and suggestions. We see our students as young men and women, young adults capable of accepting responsibility. You are responsible for your education. The faculty in our school is willing and able to lead you through your courses and requirements, but you must accept responsibility for your personal learning and success.

With your cooperation, La Center High School can be an outstanding place for you to grow and achieve. Your actions and attitudes as a student will have tremendous impact, not only on our school, but also on your level of success. It is my hope that you will make it your goal to have a positive impact. Have your goal be, how much can I accomplish, not how much can I get away with.

Please make yourself familiar with the rights, responsibilities, and expectations outlined in this handbook. If you have any questions or suggestion, feel free to contact e or any other staff member.

HAVE A GREAT YEAR!
Dave Holmes
Principal

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Freedom of Speech and Assembly

Students are entitled to express verbally, their personal opinion in such a manner and at such times as does not disrupt or interfere with the educational process or with the freedom of others to express themselves. The use of obscenities or personal attacks is prohibited. All student meetings on school district property may function only as scheduled and regulated by school authorities as to time, place, and manner.

1. Students are entitled to express in writing their personal opinions. The distribution of such material may not interfere with or disrupt the educational process. Such written expressions must be signed by the authors.

2. Students who edit, publish, or distribute handwritten, printed, or duplicated matter among their fellow students within the school must assume responsibility for the content of such publications.

3. Libel, obscenity, and personal attacks are prohibited in all publications.

4. Commercial solicitation will not be allowed on school property at any time unless authorized by the building principal.

5. All publications intended to be distributed on school district property must first be submitted to the building principal for the regulation as to time, place and manner.

6. All students possess the constitutional right to be secure in their persons, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures. The school board also wishes to emphasize that as a part of the principal's or superintendent's regular duties, he is authorized to conduct periodic locker inspections and may, if he deems it necessary, make spot locker checks at any time. Recent court decisions have clearly affirmed the right of the administration to search student's lockers.

7. All students shall have the right to be free from unlawful interference in their pursuit of an education while in the custody of a common school district.

8. No student shall be deprived of the right to an equal education opportunity in whole or in part by a school district without due process of law.

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Responsibility of Students

Student responsibilities for achieving a positive learning environment at school or school-related activities shall include (not in order of priority):

  • Attending all classes, daily and on time;
  • Being prepared for each class with appropriate materials and assignments;
  • Being properly attired; please refer to the dress and appearance section in general information.
  • Exhibiting respect toward others;
  • Conducting themselves in a responsible manner;
  • Paying required fees and fines, unless they are waived;
  • Refraining from violations of the code of student conduct;
  • Obeying all school rules, including safety rules;
  • Seeking changes in school policies and regulations in an orderly and responsible manner through appropriate channels;
  • Cooperating with staff in investigation of disciplinary cases and volunteering information when the student has knowledge relating to a serious offense; and
  • Conveying information to their parents about academic and extracurricular requirements, school policies, and the student;s progress(including progress reports).
  • Treat guests at LCHS with Courtesy and respect.

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General Information

ASB Cards
Students may purchase an ASB card at the beginning of each school year. these cards will permit free admission to all regularly scheduled home athletic contests. You will not be allowed free admission without showing your ASB card at the gate. Replacement ASB cards can be purchased in the high school office.

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Cell phones/Pagers
Use of cell phones and pagers are prohibited in the classroom or during class time. Students whose cell phones or pagers are seen or heard in the classroom or during class time will have them confiscated and returned at the end of the day. A second offense will require that the student's parent pick up the confiscated phone. The third offense will require that the student's phone be confiscated for the remainder of the school year. Using a camera phone on campus for anything other than making phones calls will result in that phone being confiscated and returned at the end of the school year and possible disciplinary action.

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Class Changes
Student initiated class changes will be confined to a short period of time after the beginning of each semester (usually 5 days). A detailed process involving the parent, the teacher to be dropped, the teacher to be added, and the principal's and counselor's approval must be followed.

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Closed Campus
La Center High School is a closed campus which means that students are not permitted to leave campus during the school day (including lunch) without permission. Students are required to check out at the office prior to leaving the campus during the school day. Closed campus also means that individuals who are not students or school personnel are not permitted on campus without permission. It is very helpful when students report to the principal if they see people on campus who do not belong. The safety of our students is our highest priority.

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Dance Guidelines
All school rules and regulations apply at dances. The faculty advisor of the group sponsoring the dance is responsible for the supervision of the dance. Students must obtain a guest pass for all non LCHS guests prior to the dance date for the principal's approval. any person leaving a dance will not be able to reenter the activity and must leave the school grounds immediately.

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Dress and Appearance
Dress or appearance that has the potential for causing disruption is not permitted. The principal or his designee will have the final decision as to the potential for disruption at school and the requirement that the attire be changed. Any attire which exposes a student's midriff is not permitted. Tube tops, halter tops and tank tops with straps narrower than 1" are not allowed. Any clothing with excessive holes or holes in reveling locations are not permitted. shorts are permitted, but may be no shorter than the extended reach of the student. Any attire that advertises or promotes alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs or has profanity, vulgarity, sexual innuendo or depiction is not considered appropriate for school. Any pants that are worn low enough to be revealing are not appropriate. Students who are wearing inappropriate attire and do not have appropriate attire available at school may be sent home to change. Repeated incidents of wearing inappropriate attire will result in disciplinary action. In the interest of good hygiene and safety, proper footwear, shoes shall be worn at all times.

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Early Dismissal/ Late Arrival
Students who must leave school early for an excused absence are required to sign out in the office prior to leaving campus. If a student is checking in after school has begun they are required to sign in upon arriving to school.

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Emancipated Students
Conditions have been established relative to 18 year old students having authority to write excuses for attendance. To have authority to write his/her excuses for attendance, an 18 year old student must be an emancipated adult.
An emancipated adult is one:
1. Whose parent has verified that they will not claim the student on their current income tax forms, and that the student is living on their own.
2. Who has been legally emancipated form parent/guardian through the court. Proof of emancipation rests with the parent/guardian and student.

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Fire Drills
Fire drills are held each month in accordance with state requirements. They are for everyone's safety and students are expected to treat them accordingly.

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High School Students on the Middle School/ Elementary Campus
High School students are not permitted on the Middle School/ Elementary campus without permission of the principals of those buildings. If you ride the bus, you are required to go directly from the shuttle to your route bus. If it is necessary for you to meet a younger brother or sister on that campus, your parents must write a note and it needs to be given to that campus principal for approval.

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Illness at School
If a student becomes ill while at school, he or she must report to the office. Arrangements will be made by the school secretary for the student to either go home or to the health room. As this room serves only a limited number of students, students may only remain there for one hour and then must return to class or go home. Parents should provide the school with phone numbers where they , or another adult having their approval, can be notified if a student should need to go home.

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Items Not Allowed
Skateboards, water toys (squirt guns, water balloons), LASER pointers, lighters, knives, weapon, flammable materials. Items will be confiscated and disciplinary action imposed if warranted. Staff members are required to confiscate items not allowed and deliver them to the office. Students are required to give items to staff members when directed. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action for insubordination.

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Lockers and Locks
Lockers will be assigned during registration to those that desire. Lockers should be secured at tall times. The school carries no insurance for lost or stolen items and is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Students will remain in their assigned lockers. Changes in locker assignments must have approval of an administrator. Students will be responsible for damage to their assigned locker. P. E. lockers will be assigned during class time. Students should secure their P. E. lockers with a lock at all times.

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Lunch
Students will line up in an orderly fashion, with no pushing, shoving, and no cutting in line. Throwing food, utensils or garbage in the lunchroom is considered serious misconduct which may warrant suspension of lunch privileges and possibly suspension from school. Students may not leave campus during lunch. No students are allowed in the hallways during lunch times.

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Medication at School
Students who need to take medication during school hours must have parents take the medication to the office in the original container with written authorization from a licensed physician or dentist. Pills must be counted in front of office staff member and both parent and staff member sign medication admission form. Students who use inhalers must carry with them written permission and doctor's instructions for use of the medication; a copy also must be on file in the office.

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Participation in Extracurricular Activities
Students must be in attendance for all classes to be eligible to participate in extracurricular activities (practice or competition). Students who are absent due to medical/dental appointments, or family emergencies must excuse the absence upon returning to school.

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Petitions/ Soliciting
Any petitions to be circulated on campus must have administrative approval. No soliciting will be permitted (collection of money) without administrator approval.

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Public Display of Affection
Students are expected to refrain from kissing, hugging, fondling, sitting on laps, or other displays of affection while at school or school events. Students should maintain an appropriate maturity and respect for each other by avoiding inappropriate display of this nature.

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School Visitors
All visitors to the school are to report to the office to complete their business. visitors are not to go directly to any instructional area without first checking in to the office. student visitors are not allowed on campus. Only registered students will have access to the campus.

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Snow
If snow is on the ground, that is where is should stay. Throwing snowballs is considered dangerous and unsafe behavior.

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Telephones
The pay phone is for student use. The teacher and office phones are for business use only. A student may use the phone in the office in an emergency only. Phones are not to be used during class time.

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Tobacco
Use of tobacco products in any form is prohibited. Companion items like matches and lighters are also prohibited. Violators will be suspended, and repeat offenders will be eligible for long-term suspension.

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Weather/ Emergency Closure
Turn to your local television or radio station for information, or call the school information at: 263-1172.

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Withdrawal From School
If it is necessary for the student to withdraw from school, the student must have parental permission. the student should obtain a Student Withdrawal form from the office. The withdrawal form and textbooks must be presented to each of his/her teachers. Secure all signatures required on the form and turn the form in at the office. Withdrawal students must not interrupt classes. students who withdraw from school are no to loiter in halls or on school grounds at any time, and my be cited for trespassing. When a student withdraws from school, then wishes to return to school at a later time, the student and parent must meet with an administrator and sign a re-enrollment contract to be accepted back in school.

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Student Conduct

It is the goal of La Center High School to have all of our students described by these three words:
Courteous, Respectful, and Responsible.
High standards for conduct and achievement serve to promote success and a positive image of our students and our school. The manner in which were present ourselves and represent our school and community will always be a priority. With this in mind, the following guidelines will apply in the following situations:

  • On or near school grounds during school, immediately before, and after school hours.
  • On or near school grounds at any time when the school is being used by a school group.
  • Off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event.

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Cheating/ Plagiarism
The first incident of cheating in any form or manner will cause the offending student to lose credit for the assignment. A second incident of cheating in the same class will cause the student to be withdrawn from the course in which the cheating occurred. The offending student will receive no credit for the applicable semester.

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Drug-Alcohol Violation Procedures
La Center High School has a "zero tolerance" policy toward students attending school or school activities while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Students are strictly prohibited from being in possession of, or under the influence of, drugs or alcohol while at school or school activities. It is the practice of the school to contact law enforcement to intervene in suspected drug/alcohol violations.

Procedures for Suspected Drug/ Alcohol Violations:
If an adult staff member or event chaperone suspects that a student is under the influence of drugs or alcohol while in attendance at school or a school event, the following steps will be taken.

1. The staff member or chaperone will consult with another supervisory adult and ask them to make some direct observations of the student for the purpose of confirming whether or not there is a reason to believe the student may be under the influence.
2. In the event that both adults agree that the student may be under the influence, law enforcement will be contacted to make a determination of the course of action to be taken. Upon their arrival, law enforcement officers will be directed to a private location in the building away from the main activity. The student(s) suspected of the violation will be escorted by staff to that location. Prior to the arrival of law enforcement, if the student attempts to leave, staff are to direct them to stay until law enforcement arrives. Failure to follow the directive will be founds for disciplinary action. Confirmation that a student has violated school drug/alcohol policy will result in long-term suspension or expulsion.

As a safety procedure, students suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol at school or school events will not be asked to leave, nor will they be turned away at the door. School staff will attempt to contact parents by telephone, if available, to inform them of the situation and the referral to law enforcement. Referral to law enforcement will be made.

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Fighting/ Altercation at School - Fuel to the Fire Policy
Fighting is prohibited at school. Students engaging in fighting will be suspended. Students who cause substantial disruption through verbal confrontation, and fail to cease when directed to do so, will be suspended. Students who are in the area watching are required to disperse and immediately leave the area when directed to do so by any adult. Students who are present at a fight/ altercation and do not disperse immediately when directed to do so will be subject to suspension for insubordination.

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Violence
Providing a safe environment for students and staff is of the highest priority at La Center High School. Elimination of violence in any form is the goal. Violence is any action of one person directed at another with intent of causing or which results in physical or emotional harm. Violence is not limited to acts of physical contact, but can also occur through intimidating or threatening looks or words. Threats or verbal abuse are acts of violence and may be grounds for immediate suspension or expulsion as an act of exceptional misconduct.

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Respect Policy

We believe that every student has the right to an education in an environment free from the threat of physical or mental harm. we will not tolerate any physical, verbal or written abuse, harassment, intimidation, extortion, or any restriction or prevention of the free movement of any individual towards or specifically related to any individual or group of individuals regarding race, color creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, or political or religious ideology will not be tolerated. Those in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.

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Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct, either sexual or non-sexual, that is directed toward a person because of that person's gender and creates an intimidating, offensive, or hostile learning environment. Sexual harassment is considered to be a form of sex discrimination, and it is illegal in schools and in the workplace under existing state and federal laws.

Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment, either as a victim of or witness to, should bring this to the immediate attention of a teacher, counselor or administrator. all such complaints will be investigated promptly and fairly and, where appropriate, immediate corrective action will be taken. Students involved in a sexual harassment complaint should not be retaliated against because of participation in the complaint procedure.

Harassment Procedures
If it is reported that one student has harassed another, the following penalties would occur:

  • 1st Offense - Report is taken and harassing student receives a penalty ranging from warning to suspension. Parents may be contacted.
  • 2nd Offense - Parents and legal authorities will be contacted; student is suspended from school for up to 10 days.
  • 3rd Offense - Parents and legal authorities will be contacted and student will be long-term suspended for the remainder of the semester with loss of credit.
  • Additional Offense - Student is expelled from school.

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Threats

Students making verbal and/or written threats of physical harm toward others may be subject to emergency expulsion. Expulsion may be reduced upon receipt of a satisfactory report from a mental health professional.

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Lunch Policy

Violations of the following guidelines will result in disciplinary action.

  • No students in the halls during lunch
  • The throwing of food or garbage is prohibited.
  • All garbage must be picked up from the tables and put in a garbage can.


Violation of Lunch Policy

  • 1st Offense - 1 week of lunch detention (in office).
  • 2nd Offense - 1 hour of after school cleaning.
  • 3rd Offense - 2 hours of after school cleaning.
  • 4th Offense - Suspension

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Student Driving / Parking Lot Policy

It is a privilege for students to be able to drive to school. Students, who fail to drive safely and responsibly at school and adhere to motor vehicle rules will lose that privilege. Students are not permitted to be in the parking lot during the school day without permission. Student's cars must be parked in designated areas.
All student vehicles parked on campus must display a parking pass. Only those students who are considered juniors or seniors based on year in high school are allowed parking passes. Passes will be issued to those students when they register their vehicles and pay the parking fee. Students who either fail to register their vehicles, or do not display their parking pass may lose driving privileges and/or may be fined.

  • 1st Offense - $10 fine
  • 2nd Offense - $20 fine
  • 3rd Offense - $45 charge for removal of locking boot

If there is reasonable suspicion that a student vehicle contains illegal drugs, alcohol or a weapon. It may be searched by school authorities.

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Student Discipline

Misconduct
Misconduct includes but is not limited to: disruption in the classroom; harassment/bullying; use of tobacco; profanity or obscenity directed at others; vandalism; mischief; cheating; fighting; insults towards school personnel; failure in a passive manner to follow directions, corrective actions, or punishment imposed by a school employee; and/ or truancy.

Corrective Misconduct Actions

  • 1st Offense - Counseling with student and/or parent; loss of privileges; detention; community service; short term suspension
  • 2nd Offense - Additional counseling with student and/ or parent; community service; weekday school; Saturday School; In School Suspension (ISS) short/long term suspension.
  • Continued Offenses - Weekday school; Saturday School; ISS; short/ long term suspension.

Exceptional Misconduct (WAC 180-40-260)
School Board Policy and procedures 3241P identifies behavior which is considered "exceptional misconduct." This type of violation of school rules is considered to be so severe that immediate imposition of suspension or expulsion is warranted. Following is a list of "exceptional misconduct" violations and the consequence range for each.

Possessing and/ or using alcohol, illegal chemical substances or look-alike of the above:
1st Offense: Automatic 30 day suspension
2nd Offense: Expulsion

Sale or delivery of alcohol or illegal substances
Minimum: Short term suspension
Maximum: Long term suspension

Setting fire or damaging school property devices:
Minimum: Short term suspension
Maximum:
Long term suspension, notification to law enforcement.

Possession and/ or using weapons or explosive devices:
Minimum: Expulsion for 1 calendar year, notification to law enforcement
Maximum:
Indefinite expulsion, notification to law enforcement

Possession/ using tobacco products:
Minimum: Short term suspension
Maximum:
Long term suspension

Disrupting the educational process:
Minimum: Short term suspension
Maximum:
Long term suspension

Refusing to follow reasonable directives of staff:
Minimum: Short term suspension
Maximum:
Long term suspension

Harassment/ Bullying:
Minimum: Short term suspension
Maximum:
Expulsion

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Student Grievance Procedures

What should a student do if they feel like a directive or disciplinary action by school personnel is unfair or unwarranted?

1. Comply with the directive-do not actively or passively contest, challenge, or argue with the staff member. to defy or not comply will result in disciplinary action of a more serious nature, unless the directive or action is illegal, immoral, or potentially dangerous. If this be the case, it is necessary to report it. It is not in the best interest of the student to openly defy reasonable directives from staff members or argue with the staff person, especially in the presence of other students.

2. Request an appointment with that staff member to discuss the issue. This request should be made respectfully and demonstrate a willingness to work together to resolve the issue. Both student and staff must be willing to acknowledge their responsibility in the issue and also their obligation to see it resolved. this meeting should not take place during class time. the staff member will arrange a time when the two of you can meet to resolve the issue.

3. If the issue is not resolved by meeting with the staff member, the student may then request a meeting with the principal, realizing that the initial action taken by the principal will most likely be a joint conference with both parties involved. It must be understood that the principal will not be supportive of any grievance made by a student who has acted inappropriately with respect to numbers 1 and 2 above.

If necessary, other individuals may be called in to participate in the resolution process, e.g., parents, neutral staff members, student representatives. This will only happen if it is deemed essential for reaching agreement.

Resolving conflict is directly connected to three of our four Guidelines For Success:
Be responsible; cooperate with others; treat everyone with respect.
Again, both parties have a responsibility to work in good faith toward resolution of the conflict.

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Attendance

Regular school attendance is necessary for mastery of the educational program provided to students. continuity of instruction and student participation are principles which underlie, and give purpose to compulsory school attendance. In addition, good attendance and punctuality are recognized as very desirable work skills, and the school experience can contribute to the training and reinforcement of those skills.

Students and their parents have the responsibility to comply with district policy (3120, 3122) and the State of Washington's compulsory school attendance laws
(RCW 28A.225). To that end, students are required to be in attendance for their assigned classes when school is in session.

Attendance Policy Summary
The following principles shall govern the development and administration of attendance procedures within the district. they are extracted from La Center School Board Policy No. 3122.

A. Absences due to illness or a health condition; a religious observance, when requested by a student's parent(s); school-approved activities; family emergencies; and as required by law, disciplinary actions or short term suspensions shall be excused. the principal may, upon request by a parent, grant permission in advance for a student's absence providing such absence does not adversely affect the student's educational progress. A student, upon the request of a parent, may be excused for a portion of a school day to participate in religious instruction provided such is not conducted on school property, or involves the school to any degree.

B. If an absence is excused, the student shall be permitted to make up all missed assignments outside of class under reasonable conditions and time limits established by the appropriate teacher, except that in participation-type classes a student's grade may be affected because of the student's inability to make up the activities conducted during a class period.

C. An excused absence shall be verified by the parent or school authority responsible for the absence.

D. As a means of instilling values of responsibility and personal accountability, a student whose absence is not excused shall experience the consequences of his/her absence. a student's grade shall be affected if a graded activity or assignment occurs during the period of time when the student is absent.

E. A student may be suspended or expelled for habitual truancy. Prior to suspension or expulsion, the parent shall be notified in writing that the student has unexcused absences. A conference shall be scheduled to determine what corrective measures should be taken to ameliorate the cause for the student's absences from school. If the parent does not attend the conference, the parent shall be notified of the steps the district has decided to take to reduce the student's absences.

TO EXCUSE AN ABSENCE:
A phone call to the school or message left on voicemail before or after school hours from the parent or guardian on the day of the absence or before school begins(8:15 a.m.) on the day the student returns.
OR:
A written note form the parent on the day the student returns, prior to attending class, which includes the parent's signature, name of student, reason for absence and date.

Extended illness and special circumstances;
If a student is confined to home or hospital for an extended period, the school shall arrange for the accomplishment of assignments at the place of confinement whenever practical. Regular attendance and participation may be altered due to circumstances relating to illness.

If any absence is excused, a student shall be permitted to make up all assignments (one day for each day missed).

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Truancy

A student who is absent without the consent of his or her parent or guardian is considered truant and has the possibility of disciplinary action, suspension, or expulsion. truancy is defined in tow ways:

Major Truancy

  • A student leaves school at any time during the day without first signing out in the office.
  • A student is absent form school or class without permission.
  • An unauthorized phone call or note is used to excuse a student.
  • A student obtains a pass to go to a particular area and does not report there.
  • A student fails to attend a required assembly.

Minor Truancy

All other times a student does not have an excused absence will be classified as a minor unexcused absence.

A Major Truancy will involve immediate discipline. A student will not receive discipline for a Minor Truancy until after the third minor truancy which will then turn into a major truancy. The discipline procedures will be as follows:

  • 1st Major Truancy - Half hour of community service
  • 2nd Major Truancy - One hour of community service
  • 3rd & 4th Major Truancy - Suspension

The La Center School District considers regular attendance to be a necessary part of student learning. It is the district's desire to instill a sense of responsibility in each student that will carry over into the world of work. Students, in concert, with their parents/guardians, have the responsibility for establishing and maintaining prompt and regular attendance as prescribed in the compulsory Attendance Law of the State of Washington (RCW 28A.225.020) which requires the school to file a petition with the Clark county Juvenile Court no later than the 7th day of truancy/unexcused absences in a school month or 10 days of truancy/unexcused absences in a school year. a day is defined as three (3) or more class periods. Reference: RCW 28A.225.035

TARDINESS
Students are expected to be in class on time. Students are allowed tow tardies per class per semester. Every tardy after the second tardy will result in disciplinary action.

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Bus Conduct

Because of the importance of safety, the KWRL School Transportation Cooperative takes precautions each year to see that students become familiar with the school district's rules for riding school buses.
The Cooperative feels that parents should also be aware of these rules so they can remind their children to follow them.

Conduct and Safety:

1. Pupils shall obey the directions of the bus driver.
2. Pupils shall ride their regularly assigned bus at all times, unless permission has been granted by school authorities.
3. No pupil shall be permitted to leave the bus except at the regular stop, unless permission has been granted by school authorities.
4. Each student may be assigned a seat in which he will be seated at all times, unless permission to change is given by the bus driver.
5. Students shall:

a) Sit properly in their seat.
b) Not throw anything on the bus.
c) Keep their hands to themselves.
d) Be courteous to other passengers.
e) Not talk loud or make other loud noises.

6. Students are to assist in keeping the bus clean by keeping their waste paper and other trash off the floor. Students must not throw anything out the windows. Eating on the school bus is not permissible.
7. No student shall smoke, light matches or lighters, or use any type of flame or sparking device on the school bus.
8. Students shall not have in their possessions any alcoholic beverage, marijuana, narcotics or stimulant drugs.
9. Student shall refrain from using vulgar or obscene language or gestures.
10. No student shall at any time extend head, hands or arms out of the windows whether the school bus is in motion or standing still.
11. Students must see that they have nothing in their possession that may cause injury to another, such as sticks, breakable containers, any type of firearms, straps, or pins extending from their clothing. Also no animal, reptile, fish or fowl is permitted on the bus, except seeing eye dogs.
12. Each student must see that his books and personal belongings are kept out of the aisle, Special permission must be granted by school authorities to transport large items.
13. No student will talk to the driver more than is necessary.
14. No student shall sit in the driver's seat, nor shall any student be to the immediate left or right of the driver.
15. Students shall remain seated while the bus is in motion and shall not get on or off until the bus has come to a full stop.
16. Students shall leave the bus in an orderly manner. They must not cross the highway without verifying that it is safe to proceed and until given consent by the driver. When boarding or leaving the bus, students must be in view of the driver at all times.
17. Students shall cross the highway only in front of the school bus and never behind it.
18. Students must arrive at the bus stop on time, and must not stand or play on the roadway while waiting for the bus to arrive.
19. Self discipline should be exercised by the students at the bus loading area. Students will refrain from pushing and shoving other passengers, or engaging in other unsafe activities.
20.Students who have to walk some distance along the highway to the bus loading zone must walk, where practicable, on the left hand side facing the oncoming traffic. This will also apply to students leaving the bus loading zone in the evening.
21. Students are not to run errands between the bus stops and home.
22. In the event of an actual emergency, students must follow emergency exit procedures as established by emergency exit drills.
23. the school district will be reimbursed by parents or the student for damage to school buses resulting from student misconduct.
24. Misconduct on a bus may be sufficient reason to discontinue providing bus transportation to students involved.

Bus ticket and suspension standard operating procedures:

  • Pre ticket misbehavior: Bus driver handles the situation and the parent is contacted.
  • First ticket: Meeting between administration and student; discipline at the discretion of the administration.
  • Second ticket within a 60 day period: Bus driver, student and administrator meet. student will normally receive a one to three day suspension determined by the administrator.
  • Third ticket within a 90 day period: Three to five day suspension as determined by the administrator.
  • Fourth ticket within a school year: One to four week suspension as determined by the administrator.
  • Fifth ticket within a school year: Long term suspension or expulsion from the bus as determined by the administrator.

Bus riders are required to ride the shuttle bus to the middle school for transportation home.

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Pesticide Notification

Posting and Record Keeping

The Superintendent is directed to develop procedures to assure that the District complies with the requirements of law regarding pesticide notification to staff and parents of the District's pest control policies and methods, pre-notification to staff and parents of pesticides applications; posting of sites of pesticide application, and record keeping, including an annual summary report of pesticide usage.

Legal References. RCW 17 21 pesticide Application Act

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

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

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

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

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

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

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