Dear Steilacoom Historical School District Families,

On behalf of our Board of Directors, teachers, administrators and support staff, I am excited to welcome you to the 2024-25 school year. We are looking forward to working with your family as we work together to provide the Best Education for Every Student.

This District handbook includes the policies and procedures that pertain to the rights and responsibilities of students in the Steilacoom Historical School District. It serves as a reference for students, families and schools to ensure the safety of all students and staff and to maintain a positive learning environment.

District rules and regulations are based upon state law, county and town/city ordinances, State Board of Education rules, and our School Board policies. Effective implementation of these guidelines requires a good faith effort on the part of us all – students, families and staff.

This information will be reviewed with our students at the beginning of the school year, and we also encourage you to review these expectations as a family as the school year begins. We require all families to acknowledge receipt of this important document. 

Dr. Kathi Weight, Superintendent

The Steilacoom Historical School District Board of Directors consists of five directors, elected by residents to govern the District. They are responsible for reviewing and adopting all District policies according to the laws of the federal and state government, the State Board of Education, and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. School director duties include setting the vision and mission of education in the District and ensuring the successful implementation of this vision using data, reports and discussions.

Steilacoom Historical School District Discipline Matrix Form 3241F

District staff members are responsible for supervising students immediately before and after the school day; during the school day; during school activities (whether on or off campus); on school grounds before or after school hours when a school group or school activity is using school grounds; off school grounds, if the actions of the student materially or substantially affect or interferes with the educational process; and on the school bus. Staff have the responsibility to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for all students during school-related activities. In accordance with the Board’s student discipline policy, district staff will administer discipline in ways that respond to the needs and strengths of students, support students in meeting behavioral expectations, and keep students in the classroom to the maximum extent possible.

Staff members will seek early involvement of parents in efforts to support students in meeting behavioral expectations. The Superintendent has general authority to administer discipline, including all exclusionary discipline. The Superintendent designates disciplinary authority to impose in-school suspension, short-term suspension, long-term suspension, and emergency removal to school principals, assistant principals, and deans of students.

Authorized staff may administer lunch or after school detention for not more than 60 minutes on any given day. Before assigning detention, the staff member will inform the student of the specific behavioral violation prompting their decision to administer detention and provide the student with an opportunity to share their perspective and explanation regarding the behavioral violation. At least one school personnel will directly supervise students during the duration of any detention.

Students and parents may challenge the administration of other forms of discipline, including exclusions from transportation or extra-curricular activities and detentions using the district’s grievance procedures.

Any parent/guardian or student who is aggrieved by the administration of classroom exclusion and/or other forms of discipline, including discipline that excludes a student from transportation or extra-curricular activities and detention, has the right to an informal conference with the principal for resolving the grievance. If the grievance pertains to the action of an employee, the district will notify that employee of the grievance as soon as reasonably possible.

At such conference, the student and parent will have the opportunity to voice issues and concerns related to the grievance and ask questions of staff members involved in the grievance matter. Staff members will have opportunity to respond to the issues and questions related to the grievance matter. Additionally, the principal will have opportunity to address issues and questions raised and to ask questions of the parent, student, and staff members.

If after exhausting this remedy the grievance is not yet resolved, the parent and student will have the right, upon two (2) school business days’ prior notice, to present a written and/or oral grievance to the Superintendent or designee. The Superintendent or designee will provide the parent and student with a written copy of its response to the grievance within ten (10) school business days. Use of the grievance process will not impede or postpone the disciplinary action, unless the principal or Superintendent elects to postpone the disciplinary action.

Suspension and expulsion – general conditions and limitations
The district’s use of suspension and expulsion will have a real and substantial relationship to the lawful maintenance and operation of the school district, including but not limited to, the preservation of the health and safety of students and employees and the preservation of an educational process that is conducive to learning. The district will not administer discipline, including suspension and expulsion, in any manner related to a student’s performance of or failure to perform any act not related to the orderly operation of the school or school-sponsored activities or any other aspect of preserving the educational process. The district will not administer any discipline, including suspension and expulsion, in a manner that would result in the denial or delay of a nutritionally adequate meal to a student or prevent a student from accomplishing a specific academic grade, subject, or graduation requirements.

The district will provide the parent(s) opportunity for involvement to support the student and resolve behavioral violations before administering suspension or expulsion. Additionally, the Superintendent or designee must consider the student’s individual circumstances and the nature of the violation before administering any suspension or expulsion to determine whether the suspension or expulsion, and the length of the exclusion, is warranted.

The principal or designee at each school must report all suspensions and expulsions, including the behavioral violation that led to the suspension or expulsion, to the Superintendent or designee within twenty-four (24) hours after the administration. Suspension or expulsion under the behavioral violation category of “other” is insufficient.

An expulsion or suspension of a student may not be for an indefinite period and must have an end date.

After suspending or expelling a student, the district will make reasonable efforts to return the student to the student’s regular educational setting as soon as possible. Additionally, the district must allow the student to petition for readmission at any time. The district will not administer any discipline in a manner that prevents a student from completing subject, grade-level, or graduation requirements.

When administering a suspension or expulsion, the district may deny a student admission to, or entry upon, real and personal property that the district owns, leases, rents, or controls. The district must provide an opportunity for students to receive educational services during a suspension or expulsion in accordance with WAC 392-400-610. The district will not suspend or expel a student from school for absences or tardiness.

If during a suspension or expulsion the district enrolls a student in another program or course of study, the district may not preclude the student from returning to the student’s regular educational setting following the end of the suspension or expulsion, unless one of the following applies:

The Superintendent or designee grants a petition to extend a student’s expulsion under WAC 392-400-480; the change of setting is to protect victims under WAC 392-400-810; or other law precludes the student from returning to their regular educational setting.

In-school suspension and short-term suspension – conditions and limitation
The Superintendent designates school principals, assistant principals, and deans of students with the authority to administer in-school and short-term suspension. Before considering administering an in-school or short-term suspension, staff members must have first attempted one or more other forms of discipline to support the student in meeting behavioral expectations. Before administering in-school or short-term suspension, the district will consider the student’s individual circumstances and the nature and circumstances of the behavioral violation to determine whether the suspension and the length of the suspension, is warranted. The district will not administer in-school or short-term suspension in a manner that would result in the denial or delay of a nutritionally adequate meal to a student or prevent a student from accomplishing a specific academic grade, subject, or graduation requirements.

The district is not required to impose in-school or short-term suspensions and instead, strives to keep students in school, learning in a safe and appropriate environment. However, there are circumstances when the district may determine that in-school or short-term suspension is appropriate. As stated in this policy and procedure, the district will work to develop definitions and consensus on what constitutes behavioral violations to reduce the effect of implicit or unconscious bias.

For students in kindergarten through fourth grade, the district will not administer in-school or short-term suspension for more than ten (10) cumulative school days during any academic term. For students in grades five through twelve, the district will not administer in-school or short-term suspension for more than fifteen (15) cumulative school days during any single semester, or more than ten (10) cumulative school days during any single trimester. Additionally, the district will not administer a short-term or in-school suspension beyond the school year in which the behavioral violation occurred.

The district will not administer in-school or short-term suspensions in a manner that would result in the denial or delay of a nutritionally adequate meal to a student.

When administering an in-school suspension, school personnel will ensure they are physically in the same location as the student to provide direct supervision during the duration of the in-school suspension. Additionally, school personnel will ensure they are accessible to offer support to keep the student current with assignments and course work for all of the student’s regular subjects or classes.

Long-term suspensions and expulsions – conditions and limitations
Before administering a long-term suspension or an expulsion, district personnel must consider other forms of discipline to support the student in meeting behavioral expectations. The district must also consider the other general conditions and limitations listed above.

Unless otherwise required by law, the district is not required to impose long-term suspension or expulsion and may only administer long-term suspension or expulsion for specific severe behavioral violations. In general, the district strives to keep students in school, learning in a safe and appropriate environment. However, in accordance with the other parameters of this policy there are circumstances when the district may determine that long-term suspension or expulsion is appropriate for behavioral violations that meet the definitions provided under RCW 28A.600.015 (6)(a) through (d), which include:

A. Having a firearm on school property or school transportation in violation of RCW 28A.600.420;
B. Any of the following offenses listed in RCW 13.04.155, including:

1. any violent offense as defined in RCW 9.94A.030, including:
   a. any felony that Washington law defines as a class A felony or an attempt, criminal conspiracy, or solicitation to commit a class A felony;
   b. manslaughter;
   c. indecent liberties committed by forcible compulsion;
   d. kidnapping;
   e. arson;
   f. assault in the second degree;
   g. assault of a child in the second degree;
   h. robbery;
   i. drive-by shooting; and
   j. vehicular homicide or vehicular assault caused by driving a vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, or by        operating a vehicle in a reckless manner. Any sex offense as defined in RCW 9.94A.030, which includes any felony violation of chapter 9A.44 RCW (other than failure to registered as a sex offender in violation of 9A.44.132), including rape, rape of a child, child molestation, sexual misconduct with a minor, indecent liberties, voyeurism, and any felony conviction or adjudication with a sexual motivation finding; k. any weapons violation of chapter 9.41 RCW, including having a dangerous weapon at school in violation of RCW 9.41.280; or
   l. unlawful possession or delivery, or both, of a controlled substance in violation of chapter 69.50 RCW.
    
2. Two or more violations of the following within a three-year period
   a. criminal gang intimidation in violation of RCW 9A.46.120:
   b. gang activity on school grounds in violation of RCW 28A.600.455;
   c. willfully disobeying school administrative personnel in violation of RCW 28A.635.020; and d. defacing or injuring school property in violation of RCW 28A.635.060; and
    
3. Any student behavior that adversely affects the health or safety of other students or educational staff.

The district may only administer long-term suspension or expulsion for behavioral violations that meet the definitions provided under RCW 28A.600.015(6)(a) through (d) as outlined above, and after determining that the student would pose an imminent danger to others or, in the case of long-term suspension, an imminent threat of material and substantial disruption of the educational process should they return to school before an imposed length of exclusion. Consistent with this policy and procedure, the district will work to develop definitions and consensus on what constitutes an imminent danger or imminent threat to reduce the effect of implicit or unconscious bias.

A long-term suspension may not exceed the length of an academic term. The district may not administer a long term suspension beyond the school year in which the behavioral violation occurred.

An expulsion may not exceed the length of an academic term, unless the Superintendent grants a petition to extend the expulsion under WAC 392-400-480. The district is not prohibited from administrating an expulsion beyond the school year in which the behavioral violation occurred.

In accordance with RCW 28A.600.420, a school district must expel a student for no less than one year if the district has determined that the student has carried or possessed a firearm on school premises, school-provided transportation, or areas of facilities while being used exclusively by public schools. The Superintendent may modify the expulsion on a case-by-case basis.

A school district may also suspend or expel a student for up to one year if the student acts with malice (as defined under RCW 9A.04.110) and displays an instrument that appears to be a firearm on school premises, school provided transportation, or areas of facilities while being used exclusively by public schools. These provisions do not apply to students while engaged in a district authorized military education; a district authorized firearms convention or safety course; or district authorized rifle competition.

Except for a firearm violation under WAC 392-400-820, the district will not impose a long-term suspension or an expulsion for any student in kindergarten through fourth grade.

If a long-term suspension or expulsion may exceed ten (10) days, the district will consider whether the student is currently eligible or might be deemed eligible for special education services. If so, the principal will notify relevant special education staff of the suspension or expulsion so that the district can ensure it follows policy and procedure 2161 – Special Education and Related Services for Eligible Students as well as this student discipline policy and procedure.

After suspending or expelling a student, the district will make reasonable efforts to return the student to the student’s regular educational setting as soon as possible.

Suspensions and expulsions – initial hearing
Before administering any suspension or expulsion, the district will attempt to notify the student’s parent(s) as soon as reasonably possible regarding the behavioral violation and the principal or designee will conduct an informal initial hearing with the student to hear the student’s perspective. At the initial hearing, the principal or designee must provide the student an opportunity to contact their parent(s), or, in the case of long-term suspension or expulsion, the principal or designee must make a reasonable attempt to contact their parent(s) to provide an opportunity for the parents to participate in the initial hearing in person or by telephone. The district must hold the initial hearing in a language the student and parents understand. At the initial hearing, the principal or designee will provide the student:

• Notice of the student’s violation of this policy;
• An explanation of the evidence regarding the behavioral violation;
• An explanation of the discipline that may be administered; and
• An opportunity for the student to share their perspective and provide explanation regarding the behavioral violation.

Suspensions and expulsions – notice
Following the initial hearing, the principal or designee will inform the student of the disciplinary decision regarding the behavioral violation, including the date when any suspension or expulsion will begin and end.

No later than one (1) school business day following the initial hearing with the student, the district will provide written notice of the suspension or expulsion to the student and parents in person, by mail, or by email in a language and form the student and parents will understand. The written notice must include:

a. A description of the student’s behavior and how the behavior violated this policy;
b. The duration and conditions of the suspension or expulsion, including the dates on which the suspension or expulsion will begin and end; c. The other forms of discipline that the district considered or attempted, and an explanation of the district’s decision to administer the suspension or expulsion;
d. The opportunity to receive educational services during the suspension or expulsion;
e. The right of the student and parent(s) to an informal conference with the principal or designee; and
f. The right of the student and parent(s) to appeal the suspension or expulsion; and
g. For any long-term suspension or expulsion, the opportunity for the student and parents to participate in a reengagement meeting.

Emergency removals – conditions and limitations
The district may immediately remove a student from the student’s current school placement, subject to the following requirements:

The district must have sufficient cause to believe that the student’s presence poses:

• An immediate and continuing danger to other students or school personnel; or
• An immediate and continuing threat of material and substantial disruption of the educational process.

The district may not impose an emergency removal solely for investigating student conduct. For purposes of determining sufficient cause for an emergency removal, the phrase “immediate and continuing threat of material and substantial disruption of the educational process” means:

• The student’s behavior results in an extreme disruption of the educational process that creates a substantial barrier to learning for other students across the school day; and
• School personnel have exhausted reasonable attempts at administering other forms of discipline to support the student in meeting behavioral expectations.

An emergency removal may not exceed ten consecutive school days. An emergency removal must end or be converted to another form of discipline within ten (10) school days from its start.

If the district converts an emergency removal to a suspension or expulsion, the district must:
a. Apply any days that the student was emergency expelled before the conversion to the total length of the suspension or expulsion; and
b. Provide the student and parents with notice and due process rights under WAC 392-400-430 through 392- 400-480 appropriate to the new disciplinary action.

All emergency removals, including the reason the student’s presence poses an immediate and continuing danger to other students or school personnel, must be reported to the Superintendent or designee within twenty-four (24) hours after the start of the emergency removal.

Emergency removals – notice
After an emergency removals, the district must attempt to notify the student’s parents, as soon as reasonably possible, regarding the reason the district believes the student’s presence poses an immediate and continuing danger to other students or school personnel, or an immediate and continuing threat of material and substantial disruption of the education process.

Within twenty-four (24) hours after an emergency removals, the district will provide written notice to the student and parents in person, by mail, or by email. The written notice must include:

• The reason the student’s presence poses an immediate and continuing danger to students or school personnel, or poses an immediate and continuing threat of material and substantial disruption of the educational process;
• The duration and conditions of the emergency removals, including the date on which the emergency removals will begin and end;
• The opportunity to receive educational services during the emergency removals;
• The right of the student and parent(s) to an informal conference with the principal or designee; and
• The right of the student and parent(s) to appeal the emergency removals, including where and to whom the appeal must be requested.

Optional conference with principal
If a student or the parent(s) disagree with the district’s decision to suspend, expel, or emergency expel the student, the student or parent(s) may request an informal conference with the principal or designee to resolve the disagreement. The parent or student may request an informal conference orally or in writing.

The principal or designee must hold the conference within three (3) school business days after receiving the request, unless otherwise agreed to by the student and parent(s). During the informal conference, the student and parent(s) will have the opportunity to share the student’s perspective and explanation regarding the behavioral violation and the events that led to the exclusion. The student and parent will also have the opportunity to confer with the principal or designee and school personnel involved in the incident that led to the suspension or expulsion and discuss other forms of discipline that the district could administer.

An informal conference will not limit the right of the student or parent(s) to appeal the suspension, expulsion, or emergency removals, participate in a reengagement meeting, or petition for readmission.

Requesting appeal
The appeal provisions for in-school and short-term suspension differ from those for long-term suspension and expulsion. The appeal provisions for long-term suspension or expulsion and emergency removals have similarities but the timelines differ.

A student or the parent(s) may appeal a suspension, expulsion, or emergency removals to the Superintendent or designee orally or in writing. For suspension or expulsion, the request to appeal must be within five (5) school business days from when the district provided the student and parent with written notice. For emergency removals, the request to appeal must be within three (3) school business days from when the district provided the student and parent with written notice.

When an appeal for long-term suspension or expulsion is pending, the district may continue to administer the longterm suspension or expulsion during the appeal process, subject to the following requirements:

• The suspension or expulsion is for no more than ten (10) consecutive school days from the initial hearing or until the appeal is decided, whichever is earlier;
• The district will apply any days of suspension or expulsion occurring before the appeal is decided to the term of the student’s suspension or expulsion and may not extend the term of the student’s suspension or expulsion; and
• If the student returns to school before the appeal is decided, the district will provide the student an opportunity to make up assignments and tests missed during the suspension or expulsion upon the student’s return.

In-school and short-term suspension appeal
For short-term and in-school suspensions, the Superintendent or designee will provide the student and parents the opportunity to share the student’s perspective and explanation regarding the behavioral violation orally or in writing.

The Superintendent or designee must deliver a written appeal decision to the student and parent(s) in person, by mail, or by email within two (2) school business days after receiving the appeal. The written decision must include:  The decision to affirm, reverse, or modify the suspension;

• The duration and conditions of the suspension, including the beginning and ending dates;
• The educational services the district will offer to the student during the suspension; and
• Notice of the student and parent(s)’ right to request review and reconsideration of the appeal decision, including where and to whom to make such a request.

Long-term suspension or expulsion and emergency removals appeal
For long-term suspension or expulsion and emergency removals, the Superintendent or designee will provide the student and parent(s) written notice in person, by mail, or by email, within one (1) school business day after receiving the appeal request, unless the parties agree to a different timeline. Written notice will include:

• The time, date, and location of the appeal hearing;
• The name(s) of the official(s) presiding over the appeal;
• The right of the student and parent(s) to inspect the student’s education records;
• The right of the student and parent(s) to inspect any documentary or physical evidence and a list of any witnesses that will be introduced at the hearing;
• The rights of the student and parent(s) to be represented by legal counsel; question witnesses; share the student’s perspective and explanation; and introduce relevant documentary, physical, or testimonial evidence; and
• Whether the district will offer a reengagement meeting before the appeal hearing.

For long-term suspension or expulsion, the student, parent(s) and district may agree to hold a reengagement meeting and develop a reengagement plan before the appeal hearing. The student, parent(s), and district may mutually agree to postpone the appeal hearing while participating in the reengagement process.

Hearings
A hearing to appeal a long-term suspension or expulsion or emergency removals is a quasi-judicial process exempt from the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA). To protect the privacy of student(s) and others involved, the district will hold hearing without public notice and without public access unless the student(s) and/or the parent(s) or their counsel requests an open hearing. Regardless of whether the hearing is open or closed, the district will make reasonable efforts to comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) concerning confidentiality of student education records.

When students are charged with violating the same rule and have acted in concert and the facts are essentially the same for all students, a single hearing may be conducted for them if the hearing officer believes that the following conditions exist:

• A single hearing will not likely result in confusion; and
• No student will have his/her interest substantially prejudiced by a group hearing.

If the official presiding over the hearing finds that a student’s interests will be substantially prejudiced by a group hearing, the presiding official may order a separate hearing for that student. The parent and student have the right to petition for an individual hearing.

For long-term suspension or expulsion, the district will hold an appeal hearing within three (3) school business days after the Superintendent or designee received the appeal request, unless otherwise agreed to by the student and parent(s).

For emergency removals, the district will hold an appeal hearing within two (2) school business days after the Superintendent or designee received the appeal request, unless the student and parent(s) agree to another time.

The school board may designate a discipline appeal council to hear and decide any appeals in this policy and procedure or to review and reconsider a district’s appeal decisions. A discipline appeal council must consist of at least three persons appointed by the school board for fixed terms. All members of a discipline appeal council must be knowledgeable about the rules in Chapter 392-400 WAC and this policy and procedure. The school board may also designate the Superintendent or a hearing officer to hear and decide appeals. The presiding official(s) may not have been involved in the student’s behavioral violation or the decision to suspend or expel the student.

Upon request, the student and parent(s) or their legal representative may inspect any documentary or physical evidence and list of any witnesses that the district will introduce at the appeal hearing. The district must make the information available as soon as reasonably possible, but no later than the end of the school business day before the appeal hearing. The district may also request to inspect any documentary or physical evidence and list of any witnesses that the student and parent(s) intend to introduce at the appeal hearing. The student and parent(s) must make this information available as soon as reasonably possible, but no later than the end of the school business day before the appeal hearing.

Upon request, the student and parent(s) may review the student’s education records. The district will make the records available as soon as reasonably possible, but no later than the end of the school business day before the appeal hearing.

If a witness for the district cannot or does not appear at the appeal hearing, the presiding official(s) may excuse the witness’ nonappearance if the district establishes that:

• The district made a reasonable effort to produce the witness; and
• The witness’ failure to appear is excused by fear of reprisal or another compelling reason.

The district will record the appeal hearing by manual, electronic, or other type of recording device and upon request of the student or parent(s) provide them a copy of the recording.

For long-term suspension or expulsion, the presiding official(s) must base the decision solely on the evidence presented at the hearing. The presiding official(s) will provide a written decision to the student and parent(s) in person, by mail, or by email within three (3) school business days after the appeal hearing. The written decision must include:

• The findings of fact;
• A determination whether (i) the student’s behavior violated this policy; (ii) the behavioral violation reasonably warrants the suspension or expulsion and the length of the suspension or expulsion; and (iii) the suspension or expulsion is affirmed, reversed, or modified;
• The duration and conditions of suspension or expulsion, including the beginning and ending dates;
• Notice of the right of the student and parent(s) to request a review and reconsideration of the appeal decision. The notice will include where and to whom to make such a request; and
• Notice of the opportunity for a reengagement meeting and contact information for the person who will schedule it.

For emergency removals, the district will provide a written decision to the student and parent(s) in person, by mail, or by email within one (1) school business day after the appeal hearing. The written decision must include:

• The findings of fact;
• A determination whether the student’s presence continues to pose (i) an immediate and continuing danger to students or school personnel; or (ii) an immediate and continuing threat of material and substantial disruption of the educational process;
• Whether the district will end the emergency removals or convert the emergency removals to a suspension or expulsion. If the district converts the emergency removals to a suspension or expulsion, the district will provide the student and parent(s) notice and due process consistent with the disciplinary action to which the emergency removals was converted; and
• Notice of the right of the student and parent(s) to request a review and reconsideration of the appeal decision. The notice will include where and to whom to make such a request.

The student or parents may request the school board or discipline appeal council, if established by the school board, review and reconsider the district’s appeal decision for long-term suspensions or expulsions and emergency removals. This request may be either oral or in writing.

For long-term suspension or expulsion, the student or parent(s) may request a review within ten (10) school business days from when the district provided the student and parent(s) with the written appeal decision.

For emergency removals, the student or parent(s) may request a review within five (5) school business days from when the district provided the student and parent(s) with the written appeal decision.

• In reviewing the district’s decision, the school board or discipline appeal council, if established, must consider (i) all documentary and physical evidence from the appeal hearing related to the behavioral violation; (ii) any records from the appeal hearing; (iii) relevant state law; and (iv) this policy adopted.
• The school board (or discipline appeal council) may request to meet with the student and parent(s), the principal, witnesses, and/or school personnel to hear further arguments and gather additional information.
• The decision of the school board (or discipline appeal council) will be made only by board or discipline council members who were not involved in (i) the behavioral violation; (ii) the decision to suspend or expel the student; or (iii) the appeal decision. If the discipline appeal council presided over the appeal hearing, the school board will conduct the review and reconsideration.

For long-term suspension or expulsion, the school board (or discipline appeal council) will provide a written decision to the student and parent(s) in person, by mail, or by email within ten (10) school business days after receiving the request for review and reconsideration. The written decision must identify:

• Whether the school board (or discipline appeal council) affirms, reverses, or modifies the suspension or expulsion;
• The duration and conditions of the suspension or expulsion, including the beginning and ending dates of the suspension or expulsion; and
• For long-term suspensions or expulsions, notice of the opportunity to participate in a reengagement meeting.

For emergency removals, the school board (or discipline appeal council) will provide a written decision to the student and parent(s) in person, by mail, or by email within five (5) school business days after receiving the request for review and reconsideration. The written decision must identify:

• Whether the school board [or discipline appeal council] affirms or reverses the school district’s decision that the student’s presence posed (i) an immediate and continuing danger to students or school personnel; or (ii) an immediate and continuing threat of material and substantial disruption of the educational process.
• If the emergency removals has not yet ended or been converted, whether the district will end the emergency removals or convert the emergency removals to a suspension or expulsion. If the district converts the emergency removals to a suspension or expulsion, the district will provide the student and parent(s) notice and due process under WAC 392-400-430 through 392-400-480 consistent with the disciplinary action to which the emergency removals was converted.

When risk to public health or safety warrants extending a student’s expulsion, the principal or designee may petition the Superintendent or designee for authorization to exceed the academic term limitation on an expulsion. The petition must inform the Superintendent or designee of:

• The behavioral violation that resulted in the expulsion and the public health or safety concerns;
• The student’s academic, attendance, and discipline history;
• Any nonacademic supports and behavioral services the student was offered or received during the expulsion;
• The student’s academic progress during the expulsion and the educational services available to the student during the expulsion;
• The proposed extended length of the expulsion; and
• The student’s reengagement plan.

The principal or designee may petition to extend an expulsion only after the development of a reengagement plan under WAC 392-400-710 and before the end of the expulsion. For violations of WAC 392-400-820 involving a firearm on school premises, school-provided transportation, or areas of facilities while being used exclusively by public schools, the principal or designee may petition to extend an expulsion at any time.

Notice
The district will provide written notice of a petition to the student and parent(s) in person, by mail, or by email within one (1) school business day from the date the Superintendent or designee received the petition. The written notice must include:

• A copy of the petition;
• The right of the student and parent(s) to an informal conference with the Superintendent or designee to be held within five (5) school business days from the date the district provided written notice to the student and parent(s); and
• The right of the student and parent(s) to respond to the petition orally or in writing to the Superintendent or designee within five (5) school business days from the date the district provided the written notice.

The Superintendent or designee may grant the petition only if there is substantial evidence that, if the student were to return to the student’s previous school of placement after the length of an academic term, the student would pose a risk to public health or safety. The Superintendent or designee must deliver a written decision to the principal, the student, and the student’s parent(s) in person, by mail, or by email within ten (10) school business days after receiving the petition.

If the Superintendent or designee does not grant the petition, the written decision must identify the date when the expulsion will end. If the Superintendent or designee grants the petition, the written decision must include:

• The date on which the extended expulsion will end;
• The reason that, if the student were to return before the initial expulsion end date, the student would pose a risk to public health or safety; and
• Notice of the right of the student and parent(s) to request a review and reconsideration. The notice will include where and to whom to make such a request.

Review and Reconsideration of extension of expulsion
The student or parent(s) may request that the school board (or discipline appeal council, if established by the board) review and reconsider the decision to extend the student’s expulsion. The student or parents may request the review orally or in writing within ten (10) school business days from the date the Superintendent or designee provides the written decision.

The school board (or discipline appeal council) may request to meet with the student or parent(s) or the principal to hear further arguments and gather additional information. The decision of the school board (or discipline appeal council) may be made only board or discipline appeal council members who were not involved in the behavioral violation, the decision to expel the student, or the appeal decision.

The school board (or discipline appeal council) will provide a written decision to the student and parent(s) in person, by mail, or by email within ten (10) school business days after receiving the request for review and reconsideration. The written decision must identify:

• Whether the school board or discipline appeal council affirms, reverses, or modifies the decision to extend the student’s expulsion; and
• The date when the extended expulsion will end.

Any extension of an expulsion may not exceed the length of an academic term. The district will annually report the number of petitions approved and denied to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.

The district will offer educational services to enable a student who is suspended, expelled or emergency expelled to:

• Continue to participate in the general education curriculum;
• Meet the educational standards established within the district; and
• Complete subject, grade-level, and graduation requirements.

When providing a student the opportunity to receive educational services during exclusionary discipline, the school must consider:

• Meaningful input from the student, parents, and the student’s teachers;
• Whether the student’s regular educational services include English language development services, special education, accommodations and related services under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or supplemental services designed to support the student’s academic achievement; and
• Access to any necessary technology, transportation, or resources the student needs to participate fully in the educational services.

After considering the factors and input described above, the district will determine a student’s educational services on a case-by-case basis. The types of educational services the district will consider include online tutoring and asynchronous provision of instruction, designated personnel for students to access for additional help, behavior agreements, and Graduation Alliance for Steilacoom High School students who meet entry criteria. Any educational services in an alternative setting should be comparable, equitable, and appropriate to the regular educational services a student would have received in the absence of exclusionary discipline.

As soon as reasonably possible after administering a suspension or expulsion, the district will provide written notice to the student and parents about the educational services the district will provide. The notice will include a description of the educational services and the name and contact information of the school personnel who can offer support to keep the student current with assignments and course work.

For students subjected to suspension or emergency removal up to five (5) days, a school must provide at least the following:

• Course work, including any assigned homework, from all of the student’s regular subjects or classes;
• Access to school personnel who can offer support to keep the student current with assignments and course work for all of the student’s regular subjects or classes; and
• An opportunity for the student to make up any assignments and tests missed during the period of suspension or emergency removal.

For students subjected to suspension or emergency removal for six (6) to ten (10) consecutive school days, a school must provide at least the following:

• Course work, including any assigned homework, from all of the student’s regular subjects or classes;
• An opportunity for the student to make up any assignments and tests missed during the period of suspension or emergency removal; and
• Access to school personnel who can offer support to keep the student current with assignments and course work for all of the student’s regular subjects or classes. School personnel will make a reasonable attempt to contact the student or parents within three (3) school business days following the start of the suspension or emergency removal and periodically thereafter until the suspension or emergency removal ends to:
  - Coordinate the delivery and grading of course work between the student and the student’s teacher(s) at a frequency that would allow the student to keep current with assignments and course work for all of the student’s regular subjects or classes; and
  - Communicate with the student, parents, and the student’s teacher(s) about the student’s academic progress.

For students subject to expulsion or suspension for more than ten (10) consecutive school days, a school will make provisions for educational services in accordance with the “Course of Study” provisions of WAC 392-121-107.

The readmission process is different from and does not replace the appeal process. Students who have been suspended or expelled may make a written request for readmission to the district at any time. If a student desires to be readmitted at the school from which he/she has been suspended/expelled, the student will submit a written application to the principal, who will recommend admission or non-admission. If a student wishes admission to another school, he/she will submit the written application to the Superintendent. The application will include:

• The reasons the student wants to return and why the request should be considered;
• Any evidence that supports the request; and
• A supporting statement from the parent or others who may have assisted the student.

The Superintendent will advise the student and parent of the decision within seven (7) school days of the receipt of such application.

The reengagement process is distinct from a written request for readmission. The reengagement meeting is also distinct from the appeal process, including an appeal hearing, and does not replace an appeal hearing. The district must convene a reengagement meeting for students with a long-term suspension or expulsion.

Before convening a reengagement meeting, the district will communicate with the student and parent(s) to schedule the meeting time and location. The purpose of the reengagement meeting is to discuss with the student and parent(s) a plan to reengage the student.

The reengagement meeting must occur:

• Within twenty (20) calendar days of the start of the student’s long-term suspension or expulsion, but no later than five (5) calendar days before the student’s return to school; or
• As soon as reasonably possible, if the student or parents request a prompt reengagement meeting.

Reengagement plan
The district will collaborate with the student and parents to develop a culturally sensitive and culturally responsive reengagement plan tailored to the student’s individual circumstances to support the student in successfully returning to school. In developing a reengagement plan, the district must consider:

• The nature and circumstances of the incident that led to the student’s suspension or expulsion;
• As appropriate, students’ cultural histories and contexts, family cultural norms and values, community resources, and community and parent outreach;
• Shortening the length of time that the student is suspended or expelled;
• Providing academic and nonacademic supports that aid in the student’s academic success and keep the student engaged an on track to graduate; and
• Supporting the student parents, or school personnel in taking action to remedy the circumstances that resulted in the suspension or expulsion and preventing similar circumstances from recurring.

The district must document the reengagement plan and provide a copy of the plan to the student and parents. The district must ensure that both the reengagement meeting and the reengagement plan are in a language the student and parents understand.

The district authorizes school principals, assistant principals, and deans of students to enter into behavior agreements with students and parents in response to behavioral violations, including agreements to reduce the length of a suspension conditioned on the participation in treatment services, agreements in lieu of suspension or expulsion, or agreements holding a suspension or expulsion in abeyance. Behavior agreements will also describe district actions planned to support students in meeting behavioral expectations. Behavior agreements may be supplemental to but will not replace best practices and strategies implemented at the classroom level to support students in meeting behavioral expectations. Behavior agreements entered into with students and parents under this section may not replace or negate provisions within a student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP), 504 Plan, or Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP). The district will provide any behavior agreement in a language and form the student and parents understand, which may require language assistance for students and parents with limited English proficiency under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

A behavior agreement does not waive a student’s opportunity to participate in a reengagement meeting or to receive educational services. The duration of a behavior agreement must not exceed the length of an academic term. A behavior agreement does not preclude the district from administering discipline for behavioral violations that occur after the district enters into an agreement with the student and parents.

The district may preclude a student from returning to the student’s regular educational setting following the end date of a suspension or expulsion to protect victims of certain offenses as follows:  A student committing an offense under RCW 28A.600.460(2), when the activity is directed toward the teacher, shall not be assigned to that teacher’s classroom for the duration of the student’s attendance at that school or any other school where the teacher is assigned;  A student who commits an offense under RCW 28A.600.460(3), when directed toward another student, may be removed from the classroom of the victim for the duration of the student's attendance at that school or any other school where the victim is enrolled.

For purposes of the student disciplinary policy and procedures, the following definitions will apply:

• “Behavioral violation” means a student’s behavior that violates the district’s discipline policies.
• “Best practices and strategies” refers to other forms of discipline the district identified that school personnel should administer to support students in meeting behavioral expectations.
• “Classroom exclusion” means the exclusion of a student from a classroom or instructional or activity area for behavioral violations, subject to the requirements of WAC 392-400-330 and 392-400-335. Classroom exclusion does not include actions that result in missed instruction for a brief duration when: (a) a teacher or other school personnel attempts other forms of discipline to support the student in meeting behavioral expectations; and (b) the student remains under the supervision of the teacher or other school personnel during such brief duration.
• “Culturally responsive” has the same meaning as “cultural competency” in RCW 28A.410.270, which states "cultural competency" includes knowledge of student cultural histories and contexts, as well as family norms and values in different cultures; knowledge and skills in accessing community resources and community and parent outreach; and skills in adapting instruction to students' experiences and identifying cultural contexts for individual students.
• “Discipline” means any action taken by a school district in response to behavioral violations.
• “Disruption of the educational process” means the interruption of classwork, the creation of disorder, or the invasion of the rights of a student or group of students.
• “Emergency removal” means the removal of a student from school because the student’s presence poses an immediate and continuing danger to other students or school personnel, or an immediate and continuing threat of material and substantial disruption of the educational process, subject to the requirements in WAC 392-400-510 through 392-400-530.
• “Expulsion” means a denial of admission to the student’s current school placement in response to a behavioral violation, subject to the requirements in WAC 392-400-430 through 392-400-480.
• “Length of an academic term” means the total number of school days in a single trimester or semester, as defined by the board of directors.
• “Other forms of discipline” means actions used in response to problem behaviors and behavioral violations, other than classroom exclusion, suspension, expulsion, or emergency removal, which may involve the use of best practices and strategies included in the state menu for behavior developed under RCW 28A.165.035.
• “Parent” has the same meaning as in WAC 392-172A-01125, and means (a) a biological or adoptive parent of a child; (b) a foster parent; (c) a guardian generally authorized to act as the child’s parent, or authorized to make educational decisions for the student, but not the state, if the student is a ward of the state; (d) an individual acting in the place of a biological or adoptive parent, including a grandparent, stepparent, or other relative with whom the student lives, or an individual who is legally responsible for the student’s welfare; or a surrogate parent who has been appointed in accordance with WAC 392-172A-05130. If the biological or adoptive parent is attempting to act as the parent and more than one party meets the qualifications to act as a parent, the biological or adoptive parent must be presumed to be the parent unless he or she does not have legal authority to make educational decisions for the student. If a judicial decree or order identifies a specific person or persons to act as the “parent” of a child or to make educational decision on behalf of a child, then that person or persons shall be determined to be the parent for purposes of this policy and procedure.
• “School board” means the governing board of directors of the local school district.
• “School business day” means any calendar day except Saturdays, Sundays, and any federal and school holidays upon which the office of the Superintendent is open to the public for business. A school business day concludes or terminates upon the closure of the Superintendent’s office for the calendar day.
• “School day” means any day or partial day that students are in attendance at school for instructional purposes.
• “Suspension” means the denial of attendance in response to a behavioral violation from any subject or class, or from any full schedule of subjects or classes, but not including classroom exclusions, expulsions, or emergency removals. Suspension may also include denial of admission to or entry upon, real and personal property that is owned, leased, rented, or controlled by the district.
  - In-school suspension means a suspension in which a student is excluded from the student's regular educational setting but remains in the student's current school placement for up to ten consecutive school days, subject to the requirements in WAC 392-400-430 through 392-400-475.
  - Short-term suspension means a suspension in which a student is excluded from school for up to ten consecutive school days, subject to the requirements in WAC 392-400-430 through 392-400- 475.
  - Long-term suspension means a suspension in which a student is excluded from school for more than ten consecutive school days, subject to the requirements in WAC 392-400-430 through 392- 400-475.

Policy 3122 Excused and Unexcused Absences
Procedure 3122P Excused and Unexcused Absences

Overview of Attendance 
Regular school attendance is vital for student's academic achievement and long-term success. Each day in class builds on the next, so frequent absences—whether excused or unexcused—can significantly affect learning and progress toward graduation. Our schools expect students to attend regularly, as consistent attendance is key to mastering new skills and concepts.

Resources are available to help overcome any challenges that may impact attendance, including counseling services, academic support, and community resources. Chronic absenteeism can have serious consequences, including truancy interventions. 

In case of absences, parents are required to notify the school office and provide student name and reason for absence. The student is responsible for completing missed work. Students should notify their teacher(s) if they have a planned absence to arrange for the make up of any lessons or assigned work that day.

The school will inform the parent/guardian upon the first occasion of a student’s unexcused absence. Upon the third occasion of an unexcused absence, the school will schedule a conference with the parent(s)/ guardian(s). Data-informed steps will be taken to attempt to eliminate or reduce the student’s absences. 

If a student has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 plan, the school will schedule an IEP or Section 504 team meeting. The conference or Section 504/IEP team meeting is not required if prior notice is given to the school or a doctor’s note is provided, and an academic plan is in place so the child does not fall behind. 

In accordance with the state’s mandatory attendance laws, if a student is absent without excuse seven times within a month or 10 times within a school year, the school district will file a petition with the juvenile court.  Students who have a truancy petition filed will have an opportunity to participate in the District’s Community Engagement Board (CEB). The goal of the board is to identify collaborative efforts to prevent and remedy truancy in its early stages prior to full juvenile court involvement.

Excused Absences: The following are valid excuses for absences and tardiness; A personal illness; health condition or medical or dental appointment; an appearance in court when required by law; a disciplinary action (i.e., short- term suspension, long-term suspension that does not result in loss of grades or credits or emergency expulsion); religious observance; a family emergency approved by the principal; school-approved activities; state-recognized search and rescue activities; absences related to homeless or foster care status; absences due to student safety concerns; absences due to a student's migrant status; lack of access to internet (online course); and a planned family activity which has been pre-approved by the principal. In all cases, the school principal determines whether an absence is excused or unexcused aligned to district policy. Assignments and/or activities not completed because of an excused absence or tardiness may be made up in the manner provided by the teacher.

Pre-Planned Absences: Students must notify the school regarding pre-planned absences. Students must complete a Planned Absence Form prior to absence (available in school attendance office). Pre-planned absences beyond five days are discouraged and may result in not being excused. Students will be required to make up all work that is assigned during the absence.

Unexcused Absences: An "unexcused absence" means that a student has failed to attend the majority of hours or periods in an average school day, has failed to comply with a more restrictive school district policy on absences, or has failed to comply with alternative learning experience program attendance requirements.

Homework Requests: When a student is absent, requests for assignments may be made through the school office. A minimum of 24 hours notification is necessary to allow time to contact teachers. Any collected assignments will be available in the school office at the end of the following school day.

Tardiness: Students are expected to arrive at school and classes in a timely manner. Students who arrive after the school day begins must check in with the attendance office to receive a pass to class.

 

Policy 3207 Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying of Students
Procedure 3207P Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying of Students

Bullying Prevention Website
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 the district's process for responding to it.

What is Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB)?
Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying means any intentional electronic, 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 a student’s education;
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.

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 to Make a Report
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 but reports about HIB can be made in writing or verbally. Your report can be 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.

Reports can be made by:

• Complete the SHSD Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying (HIB) Incident Reporting Form and return it to the school front office.
• Report the incident to 1-855-745-3674.
• Use Vector Alert Tip Reporting System to report your concern via the internet. Click on the bullying/harassment link and fill out the web- based form.
• Send an email to 1341@alert1.us. The concern will be forwarded to the appropriate person and school for investigation and follow-up.
• Any unresolved issue  or questions may be reported to the compliance officer, Susanne Beauchaine at 253-983-2222 or sbeauchaine@steilacoom.k12.wa.us.

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.

False reports
It is also a violation of district policy to knowingly report false allegations of harassment, intimidation, and bullying. However, persons found to knowingly report or corroborate false allegations will be subject to appropriate discipline.

Retaliation
Retaliation is prohibited and will result in appropriate discipline. It is a violation of this policy to threaten or harm a student for reporting harassment, intimidation, or bullying, being identified as a targeted student or participating in an investigation.

What is discrimination?
Policy 3210 Nondiscrimination
Procedure 3210P Nondiscrimination
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.

What is sexual harassment?
Policy 3205 Sex Discrimination and Sex-Based Harassment of Students Prohibited
Procedure 3205P 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.

Our schools do not discriminate based on sex and prohibit sex discrimination in all of our education programs and employment, as required by Title IX and state law.

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.

Concerns about discrimination, sex discrimination, including sexual harassment and gender identity:
Civil Rights, Title IX and Gender-Inclusive Coordinator:
Susanne Beauchaine, Executive Director of Human Resources
511 Chambers Street
Steilacoom, WA 98388
sbeauchaine@steilacoom.k12.wa.us or 253-983-2222

Concerns about disability discrimination:
Section 504 Coordinator:
Dr. Kari Terjeson, Director of Special Education
511 Chambers Street
Steilacoom, WA 98388
kterjeson@steilacoom.k12.wa.us or 253-983-2239

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 Board 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)
Email: schoolsafety@k12.wa.us
Phone: 360-725-6068

OSPI Equity and Civil Rights Office (For questions about discrimination and sexual harassment)
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 K-12 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: ocr@ed.gov
• Phone: 800-421-3481

Our Schools are Gender-Inclusive
3211 Gender-Inclusive Schools
3211P Gender-Inclusive Schools Procedure
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
• Change a student’s gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records
• Allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity
• Allow students to participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips in accordance with their gender identity
• Keep health and education information confidential and private
• Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and apply dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender
• Protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity

Policy 6605 Student Safety Walking, Biking and Riding Buses
Procedure 6605P Student Safety Walking, Biking, and Riding Buses to School

Students living more than one mile from their school are provided with bus transportation. To ensure punctuality, buses cannot wait for late students. Students must adhere to the district's rules for bus conduct, as outlined below:

• Behavior on the Bus: Students must follow the driver’s instructions and maintain appropriate behavior. Misconduct, including loud noise, inappropriate language, or failure to stay seated, can lead to suspension of bus privileges. Abusive behavior towards the public, driver, fellow passengers or the vehicle may result in suspension of bus privileges or other corrective action.

• Assigned Seating and Stops: Students must ride their assigned bus and sit in their designated seats unless they have written permission to do otherwise. Leaving the bus at a non-regular stop also requires written permission.

• Safety Rules: Students should avoid actions that could endanger themselves or others, such as extending body parts out of windows, tampering with emergency equipment, or carrying hazardous items.

• Disciplinary Actions: Principals will address any reports of misconduct and take appropriate action, which may include suspension of bus privileges in accordance with district student discipline policy. Parents of students identified as causing damage to buses will be charged with the cost of the incurred damage. Students causing the damage may be suspended from transportation

Appeals Process: If a student is suspended from bus transportation, the decision can be appealed in writing to the Superintendent or designee.

Policy 3245 Students and Telecommunication Devices
Procedure 3245P Students and Telecommunication Devices

Students must follow all school rules regarding device use. Violations may lead to disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion for serious misconduct.

• Usage Timing: Devices can only be used before and after school, and during lunch breaks, unless in an emergency or with administrative permission.
• Recording Restrictions: Students need permission from an administrator before recording photos, videos, or audio during school hours or on a school bus.
• Prohibited Content: Students will not send, share, view, or possess pictures, text messages, emails, or other material depicting sexually explicit conduct. Any student who receives a sexually explicit message must immediately inform school administration of the message and only delete the message when instructed to do so by a school administrator or law enforcement officer.
• Confiscation: Devices can be confiscated by school officials if they suspect misuse, and they will only be returned to a parent or guardian.
• Consent to Search: Bringing a device to school implies consent to a search if there's reasonable suspicion, based on objective and articulable facts, that such a search will reveal a violation of the law or school rules. The scope of the search will be limited to the violation of which the student is accused. Content or images that violate state or federal laws will be referred to law enforcement;
• Responsibility for Devices: Students are responsible for their devices; the school is not liable for loss, theft, or damage.
• No Harassment or Disruption: Devices must not be used to harass, bully, or disrupt the educational environment. 
• Privacy Respect: Devices cannot be used in restrooms, locker rooms, or any location where privacy is expected. 

Any student, employee, parent or guardian or third party who has knowledge of conduct in violation of this policy or any student who feels he/she has been a victim of any violation of this policy will immediately report the concerns to their teacher, counselor, school administrator or the district's HIB coordinator, Susanne Beauchaine at sbeauchaine@steilacoom.k12.wa.us or 253-983-2222. 

Parent or Guardian Notification: Parents or guardians of all students identified in the report will be notified of the investigation and informed of their students’ involvement in the incident.

Discipline: The school may administer discipline for students whose behavior violates this policy. Law enforcement may also be notified when conduct may violate criminal laws.

 

Policy 3242 Closed Campus

All schools are closed campuses. Students must remain on school grounds from time of arrival until close of school unless officially excused or authorized under Procedure 3243, Student Driving. A student who has left school grounds without permission will be considered truant.

The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO) is an independent state agency that helps to reduce educational opportunity gaps by supporting families, students, educators, and other stakeholders in communities across WA in understanding the K-12 school system and resolving concerns collaboratively. OEO services are free and confidential. Anyone can contact OEO with a question or concern about school. OEO listens, shares information and referrals, and works informally with families, communities, and schools to address concerns so that every student can fully participate and thrive in our state’s public schools. OEO provides support in multiple languages and has telephone interpretation available. To get help or learn more about what OEO does, please visit our website: https://www.oeo.wa.gov/en; email oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov, or call: 1-866-297- 2597 (interpretation available).

Policy 2022 Electronic Resources and Internet Safety
Procedure 2022P Electronic Resources and Internet Safety

These Acceptable Use Guidelines aim to promote responsible digital citizenship among students and staff, ensuring safe and ethical online behavior. 

Use of Personal Electronic Devices
Personal devices may be used to support educational goals, but their use on school grounds is at the discretion of school staff.

Network Usage
The district's network is for educational and research purposes only. Acceptable uses include creating educational content, participating in educational online communities, and connecting personal devices to the network after ensuring they meet security requirements. Unacceptable uses include personal financial gain, unauthorized software installation, political activities, hacking, cyberbullying, and accessing inappropriate content.

Internet Safety
Students and staff should not share personal information online and must report any dangerous or inappropriate content to school authorities. Filtering software is used to block harmful content, but users are responsible for avoiding inappropriate sites. Bypassing filters is prohibited.

Instruction and Copyright
Students will receive education on safe online behavior, including cyberbullying awareness. Copyright laws must be respected; only use and share digital content that falls under Fair Use or with proper permission.

Network Security and Privacy
Users must safeguard their passwords and account information. The district reserves the right to monitor all network activity without prior notice, and users should not expect privacy when using the district's network.

Social Networking and Communication
Any use of social media or Web 2.0 tools for educational purposes must adhere to classroom behavior standards.

Technology Use and Support
All technology planning and purchases must involve the district's technology department. Unauthorized modifications to district equipment are prohibited.

Disciplinary Actions: Violations of the Acceptable Use Guidelines can result in disciplinary actions, including suspension, expulsion, and loss of network privileges. 

Free and Reduced Meal Applications

Free and Reduced Meal Applications 
Free and Reduced Meal applications are available in your Skyward Family Access Account. Income eligibility guidelines and instructions to apply for school meal benefits through your Skyward account can be found on the District website under Food Services. The District encourages all families who qualify to complete the application. A determination letter is sent to all families who apply and will be processed within 10 meal service days after receipt of the application. Students receiving free or reduced meals are not treated differently or singled out from those paying full price. All students enter account numbers when receiving meals.

Unpaid Meal Charges
If a student has five or more unpaid meals, the school will:

1. Determine if the student is eligible for free meals.
2. Attempt to contact the parent/guardian to submit an application for meal benefits.
3. Have a school official offer assistance with the application or address any issues preventing payment for meals.

No student will be publicly identified, required to perform chores, or denied a meal due to inability to pay. Communications about unpaid meal charges for students under 15 will be directed to the parent or guardian.

Negative Balance Notification
Parents or guardians will be notified within 10 days if a student's meal account reaches a negative balance. The district will attempt to certify the student for free or reduced-price meals within 30 days of the notification, during which the student will continue to receive meals unless found ineligible. If certification is not possible, the district will provide the parent/guardian with an application and encourage its submission.

Meal Charge Policy
Students who qualify for free meals will not be denied meals, even with a negative balance from previous purchases. Students with outstanding meal charge debt may purchase meals if they pay when receiving the meal. A la carte items cannot be purchased by students with negative balances.

Collection of Unpaid Charges
Families will be notified discreetly when meal account balances are low or negative. Negative balances over $20 at the end of the school year will be considered delinquent debt and may be turned over for collection through various legal methods.

Health Services
The District’s health services program contributes to the educational success of each student by promoting a safe and healthy environment for learning. Each school has a designated nurse who is responsible for first aid, emergency response, medication administration and minor illness care.

Health Conditions
Prior to attendance at school, each child with a life-threatening health condition will present a medication or treatment order 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 nurse and nursing plan are not in place.

Absences due to Illness
Follow these guidelines for when to keep your child home from school due to illness: if your child has a fever--over 100.4 degrees, is vomiting, has diarrhea, or has had these symptoms or other illness in a 24-hour period. Please notify the school of your child’s symptoms/illness.

Extended Illness (Home Hospital)
Services are available for students who are ill and anticipate being absent from school for four weeks or longer. For more information, contact your school nurse or counselor.

Medication at School
If a child requires oral medication, topical medication, eye drops, ear drops or nasal sprays, both prescription and non-prescription - during the school day, parents or guardians must return the completed District form to the child’s school with written authorization and directions from a licensed healthcare provider. Forms are available at schools and on the District website under Health Services. School employees are not allowed to give medication to students except under very specific conditions and with appropriate training. Prescription medication must be provided in its prescription bottle with directions and non-prescription medication must be provided in the original manufacturer’s container. The form and medication must be brought to school by a parent/guardian.

Under no condition should any type of medicine be sent to school with the student, in lunches or with the bus driver. Students found with medication on them without self-administration forms on file in the office will be subject to discipline procedures.

Immunizations:
In order to safeguard the school community from the spread of certain communicable diseases each student must present completed Certificate of Immunization Form (CIS), proof that a schedule of immunization has begun or a certificate of exemption before they can attend school. The most current immunization schedule can be found on the Department of Health’s website at this link. If, by the student’s first day of enrollment, a student does not have documentation for immunizations he/she will be placed in a “conditional admittance” category. The parent or guardian has no longer than 30 calendar days from the student’s first day of attendance to get any missing immunizations and/or provide documentation needed. Following proper notification, the school will exclude the student for noncompliance with the immunization laws, pursuant to the appeal process procedures outlined in Policy 3241. In the event of an outbreak of a particular disease, a child who has been exempted from a vaccine will be excluded from school. In accordance with Washington State Law, districts must make information available on Meningococcal and Human Papillomavirus diseases to parents or guardians of all students entering Grades 6-12. This information can be found on the District website under Health Services.

Immunization Exemption Law: A Certificate of Exemption (COE) form signed by a Licensed Healthcare Provider (LHP) stating that the parent/guardian received information about the benefits and risks of immunization is now required for any type of exemption request (medical, religious, or philosophical). The District will not grant an exemption for philosophical or personal reasons from the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine. The District will grant exemptions for religious reasons upon the parent/legal guardian’s submission of a COE as follows.

• If a COE states the parent/legal guardian is a member in a religious body or church with beliefs or teachings that preclude a child from receiving medical treatment from a LHP, the LHP signature on the COE is not required.
• If the COE claims a religious reason, but does not state that the parent/legal guardian is a member in a religious body or church with beliefs or teachings that preclude a child from receiving medical treatment from a LHP, the LHP signature on the COE is required.

Throughout the year, the District releases news and information to families and the local community. As students participate in school related activities, photographs or video may be taken for use in the news media or District publications. Directory information can be made public without the consent of parents. Federal law allows the District to disclose some personally identifiable information about students without written consent. District procedure 3231P defines “student directory information” as:

• Name, address, email address, phone
• Dates of attendance
• Height and weight (athletes)
• Date and place of birth
• Diplomas and awards
• Participation in activities and sports
• Photograph or video
• Grade level
• Most recent school/program attended

Any parent/guardian or adult student who does not wish the District to disclose directory information without prior written consent, must notify the District in writing by September 30, 2024. Forms are available in each school office. If disclosure is not permitted, families may not receive some mailings that are routinely sent to students and their families from outside organizations, including notifications from government agencies and information about school pictures and yearbooks.

3124 Removal/Release Student During School Hours
3124P Removal Release of Student During School Hours Procedure

Students will not be removed from school grounds, any school building or school function during school hours except by a person authorized according to District procedures. Before a student is removed or excused, the person seeking to remove the student must present evidence of his/her proper authority to remove the student. Exceptions will be made when protective custody is dictated by appropriate legal authorities and in specific legal circumstances according to Washington state law. If a student must be dismissed early:

• Provide note to attendance office stating time and reason for early dismissal.
• Check in with attendance office to sign student out. Staff will have student report to office.
• If student returns during school hours, the student must check-in with the attendance office.

Ensure your child's school has up-to-date information (phone, email, and address) for all emergency contacts by reviewing your student's account in Skyward. 

Procedure 4200P Parent Access and Safe and Orderly Learning Environment

Families and community members are welcome to visit our schools. The following guidelines are established to permit visitors with minimal disruption to the learning environment.

• All visitors must sign-in at the office upon arriving at school, sign-out upon leaving and adhere to all safety guidelines.
• A visitor who wishes to observe a classroom must arrange an appointment after the principal has conferred with the teacher. 
• The principal may withhold approval of a visit if events (such as testing) would be adversely affected by a visit.
• If a visitor’s presence becomes disruptive the principal may withdraw approval.