Student/Parent Handbook

•  present a copy of checkout sheet from previous school if transferring during the school year;
• complete the enrollment form;
• sign a release of confidential information form to request records from the sending school;
• present a copy of the student’s immunization record; and
• present proof of age, residency, and identity.

Students who are homeless or in foster care will be enrolled without presentation of all required documentation.

A student whose parent or guardian is being relocated to Montana under military orders may be preliminarily enrolled in classes and may apply for programs offered by the District prior to arrival and establishing residency.

In compliance with District Policy 3141, parents/guardians must do the following to enroll a non-resident student:

• comply with the above requirements for resident students;
• complete non-resident application form;
• provide transcript and behavior records

If the individual enrolling the student is not the parent, the individual may be required to provide documentation establishing the authority to enroll the student. Part-time students must declare part-time status upon entering. Students wishing to enroll part-time must have administrative approval. The District will enroll any non-resident student required to be admitted under MCA §20-5-321.

Student whose home address and/or telephone change during the year should notify the office immediately.

Homeless Students

In accordance with federal and state law and regulations, the District will provide homeless students with access to the instructional programming that supports achievement of the content standards and to other services for which they are eligible. Students shall not be segregated into a separate school or program based on their status as homeless, nor shall they be stigmatized in any way.

The District will determine, according to the best interest of the child whether the child will be enrolled in the school of origin or in the public school that non-homeless students who live in the attendance area in which the child is actually living are eligible to attend. In determining the best interest of the child the District will, to the extent feasible, keep the child in the school of origin unless doing so is contrary to the wishes of the parent.

If the child is unaccompanied by a parent or guardian, the homeless liaison will assist in placement and enrollment decisions, with the views of the child taken into consideration.

The District shall immediately enroll the homeless child into the selected school even if the parent/child is unable to produce records normally required for enrollment, such as previous academic records, immunization records, evidence of residency, or other documentation.

Homeless students shall be provided services comparable to services available to other students in the school system including, but not limited to, transportation services, educational services for which the student meets the eligibility criteria, such as educational programs for disadvantaged students, students with disabilities, gifted and talented students, and students with limited English proficiency; vocational and technical programs; preschool programs; before and after school-care programs; and school meals/nutrition programs.

Homeless students are entitled to transportation to their school of origin or the school where they are to be enrolled.

Students in Foster Care

Students in foster care are entitled to educational stability under Title I for the duration of their time in foster care. “Foster care” means “24-hour substitute care for children placed away from their parents or guardians and for whom the child welfare agency has placement and care responsibility”. This includes, but is not limited to, placements in foster family homes, foster homes of relatives, group homes, emergency shelters, residential facilities, child care institutions, and pre-adoptive home.

The District will take efforts to ensure that a child in foster care:

• Remains in his or her school of origin (school last enrolled in at the time of placement in foster care) unless it is not in the child's best interest; or 
• If the school of origin is not in the child’s best interest, the child must be immediately enrolled in a new school regardless of being able to produce records otherwise required.

The District will collaborate with the child welfare agency involved in a particular student’s case to make the “best interest” determination as quickly as possible. The District will also collaborate with the child welfare agency regarding the provision of transportation to the selected school for the student.

If a student or parent believes that the Board, its employees, or agents have violated their rights, he or she may file a written complaint with any District Principal or Supervisor under the applicable grievance procedure. If still unresolved, the matter generally may be referred to the Superintendent. Under some circumstances, the District provides for the complaint to be presented to the Board of Trustees in the event the matter cannot be resolved at the administrative level.

Some complaints require different procedures. Any building office or the Superintendent’s office can provide information regarding specific processes for filing complaints. Additional information can also be found in Policy 1700, available in any principal’s and Superintendent’s offices.

Students shall use the Title IX Grievance Procedure to address complaints / concerns about sex harassment. A copy of the Title IX Grievance Procedures can be obtained on the District’s website www.thompsonfalls.net/policies or any District or school office or by contacting the Title IX Coordinator, Mrs. Jodi Morgan.

Students shall use the Section 504 Grievance Procedure to address complaints/ concerns about disability determination. A copy of the Section 504 Grievance Procedures can be obtained on the District’s website www.thompsonfalls.net/policies or any District or school office or by contacting Mr. Len Dorscher.

Please send a note with your child if there is a change in home route including bus, car pool arrangements, etc. Remember, we do not release children from school into the charge of any adult who is not that child’s parent or guardian, unless we receive a phone call or note from the parent or guardian authorizing us to do so.

Important information is sent home on Thursdays. Encourage your child to be responsible for delivery of messages and materials to and from school. Take time to read the notes, newsletters, and student work. If a note requires a signature, please be sure that you know what you are signing and return promptly.

Parents have the right to inspect any survey or evaluation and refuse to allow their child to participate in such survey or evaluation that does not require the collection of personally identifiable information and is not necessary and essential for establishing the student’s education record or validating an achievement test for admission to a postsecondary institution.  Parents have the right to opt their student into a survey or data collection that requires the collection of personally identifiable information and is not necessary and essential for establishing the student’s education record or validating an achievement test for admission to a postsecondary institution.

• Emergency notification of school closures, delays, etc.
• General messages regarding attendance, behavior, assignments, low lunch account balances and more 
• Preferred communication allows you to set your preferences to indicate how you would like to receive general and emergency messages with voice, text, and email options.

Student cell phones and other electronic devices must be off and put away at all times during the school day, unless the classroom teacher has given permission for the student to use it. Failure to comply will result in the device being kept in the office until after school at which point the student may pick it up. A second offense of the phone/electronic device rule will result in the device being kept at the office until a parent can pick it up.

When a child is considered for retention, a child assistance team that includes the parents, counselor, principal, special education teacher or other specialist, and the classroom teacher will reach a team decision regarding retention or promotion. Board policy allows the final decision regarding retention to be made by the principal. Among those factors considered in making the decision are grade level, attendance, emotional and social stability, chronological age, language development, and academic skills. Positive parental attitude toward retention or promotion is an important ingredient for success, but parental opposition by itself will not reverse a decision for or against retention made by the child assistance team. A plan for retention or promotion to help support the student and ensure success will be developed for said students. Parents will be involved as a critical part of the plan.

Students may refer themselves to special services, or may be referred by parents, school administrators, or teachers. Parents will be informed as to the progress of the referral and will become part of the child study team if such should be deemed necessary. Decisions regarding placement of a student into a particular program are determined by the recommendations of the evaluation team, including the classroom teacher(s), and state and federal laws. Decisions regarding individual educational goals and objectives for the child are determined by the IEP team of which the parent is also a member.

SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973

Special services are in place to assist students with disabilities who may be in need of accommodations. Assistance with class work and tests, or receiving course work in a more individualized setting, are the primary ways students are served in this program. Success in school, working at one’s ability level, and acquiring lifetime learning skills to be a productive member of society are the program goals. The principal is the 504 Coordinator.

The Board recognizes that field trips, when used as a device for teaching and learning integral to the curriculum, are an educationally sound and important ingredient in the instructional program of the schools. Such trips can supplement and enrich classroom procedures by providing learning experiences in an environment beyond the classroom.

Building principals have the authority to approve all field trips. Building principals shall develop procedures for the operation of a field trip. Each field trip must be integrated with curriculum and coordinated with classroom activities which enhance its usefulness.

Written parental permission must be obtained for each approved trip. Teachers are expected to submit the signed forms showing parental approval and acknowledgement of the student conduct guidelines, to the office prior to departure for the scheduled activity.

Students will be released, with a parental request in writing, for the purpose of receiving religious instruction.

Parents should contact the office to arrange for make-up work when a student is absent more than two consecutive days. Students may have the number of days absent plus one additional day to make up work for excused absences. Make-up work for unexcused absences shall be assigned at the teacher’s discretion. Teachers will try to send makeup work with a student leaving mid-day for an illness, but they may require until the end of the day to gather all assignments. Teachers may require 24 hours from request to gather assignments for absences of more than one day.

THOMPSON FALLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE MATRIX

THOMPSON FALLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TARDY MATRIX

School success, scholarship, and job opportunity are greatly affected by a good attendance record.

Activities or Pre-planned Absences

It is the student's responsibility to notify teachers prior to being absent. Teachers may require the work to be completed and turned in prior to departure. The timeline for accepting student make-up work will be done at the building level by the school administrator.

Absences for school-sponsored activities are excused, but students are held responsible for the work missed. In order to participate in an extracurricular activity, including practice, students must be in school during the afternoon of the date of the event. Exceptions may be made by the administration.

Excused Absences

Montana law states that a student is excused when absent due to:

• Illness
• Bereavement
• Parent request due to instruction related human sexuality
• Other reasons prescribed by the policies of the Board, including medical or legal appointments. The school administrator will determine other exceptions that would be accepted as being an excused absence. Verification should be available prior to requesting an admit slip. School work missed during an excused absence can be made up at full credit; even those beyond ten (10) days (see Ten-Day Policy). Time allotted for make-up work is stated in each school’s student handbook.

Human Sexuality or Identity Instruction Absences

A student may be withdrawn or absent from a class period, assembly, school function, or other instruction at the request of a parent/guardian/other person responsible for human sexuality instruction.  Human sexuality instruction is instruction that has the goal or purpose of studying, exploring, or informing students about intimate relationships, sexual anatomy, sexual reproduction, sexually transmitted infections, sexual acts, abstinence, contraception, or reproductive rights and responsibilities.  These absences do not count toward the student’s discretionary 10-day total.  

Written consent from the parent or legal guardian is required prior to any student attending identity instruction.  Identity instruction is instruction that has the goal or purpose of studying, exploring, or informing students about gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation.  A student is excused from not attending identity instruction unless the student’s parent/guardian provided written consent for the student to be in attendance prior to the instruction.  

The District will provide parents/guardians with at least five (5) school days’ notice (but not more than 14 school days notice) before human sexuality or identity instruction is scheduled to occur.

Release of Students from School

A student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day except with permission from the principal or designee and according to the building signout procedures. Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will no regularly be released before the end of the instructional day.

A student who will need to leave school during the day may bring a note from his or her parent that morning. A student who becomes ill during he school day should, with the teacher’s permission, report to the office or school nurse. The administrator or nurse will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the student’s parent. When in doubt as to custodial rights, the District will rely on the most recent information available in the student’s records. A student will only be released with prior written permission from the custodial parent to a previously unauthorized adult unless an emergency situation justifies a waiver.

The ”9 Essential Skills” of Love and Logic and District Policy 2000, District Mission/Belief Statements, will be used as guidelines for district staff in working with students. Also, Love and Logic principles empower the teacher with input from students and parents about the process for managing student misbehavior. “Recovery Area” should be a common, non-disciplinary term that is used in grades K-12, outside the office area. Maintaining excellent communication between the teacher and the parent is a central part of the success of Love and Logic. Misbehavior that is seen by the teacher and/or other staff that requires the student to be sent to the office mean that the parent should be contacted by the person who observed the misbehavior unless cleared by the building level administrator. Parents will be notified of any disciplinary referral to the principal. Students should be seeing teacher consequences and not necessarily office consequences for most misbehavior. Student being sent to the office should result in a meeting between the referring staff person, the student, and the administrator.

The successful teacher used the “90-10 Goal” of using preventative strategies 90% of the time, and 10% of the time using intervention strategies as developed by Charles Fay of Love and Logic. Examples of preventative strategies are:

• Building positive relationships with all students
• Teaching routines and procedures
• Setting enforceable limits in respectful ways
• Sharing control limits
• Modeling enthusiasm, compassion, character, and respectful dress
• Providing high levels of friendly supervision and unstructured settings
• Using instructional strategies and content that maximizes engagement and learning
• Intervening with preventative interventions when misbehavior is still small
• Speaking to student as we would want someone to speak to us
• Communicating to students that we value them more than their academic achievement, athletic ability, or appearance
• Guiding students toward solving their own problems and making restitution when they create problems for others
• Reacting with empathy instead of anger, frustration, or sarcasm
• Short term recovery

The Board of Trustees has established a set of district expectations dealing with student safety, such as violence, drugs, marijuana, alcohol, tobacco, vaper products, alternative nicotine products, bullying, etc. All student will be treated as individuals. In the event that the actions of the staff appear to be unfair, the student/parent need only to visit with the staff member involved and present his/her case. In the event that the case has merit, the consequence will be adjusted accordingly. This is the school’s written guarantee that the right of due process will be observed and respected at school. (See District Policy 1700 for Uniform Complaint Procedures)

Engaging in any of the following activities will result in notification of law enforcement, at minimum an out-of-school suspension, and possibly, expulsion by the Board of Trustees (See District Policy 3300 on Corrective Action and Punishment):

• Using, possessing, under the influence of, distributing, purchasing, or selling alcohol, tobacco, vapor products, alternative nicotine products, illegal drugs, marijuana, or controlled substances, look-alike drugs, and drug paraphernalia products. If a student tests positive for drugs while in attendance at school or at a school activity then the student will be treated the same as if the drug was taken at school or at the school activity.
• Possessing a weapon in a school building or on the school grounds.
• Causing or attempting to cause damage to, or stealing or attempting to steal, school property or another person’s property.
• Bullying (See District Policy 3225 on Bullying)

Different procedures may apply to students with disabilities as required by law.

An administrator may immediately suspend a student if there is cause to believe the student brought a firearm to school or possessed a firearm at school, prior to any board hearing on a recommendation for expulsion. If there is a recommendation to expel a student for bringing a firearm to school or possessing a firearm at school, the trustees shall notify the adult student, or parent/guardian of a minor student, in a clear and timely 20 manner that the student may waive his or her privacy right be requesting the hearing be held in public and may invite other individuals to attend the hearing. At a due process hearing on the recommendation for expulsion due to a student bringing a firearm to school or possessing a firearm at school, there shall be a presentation of a summary of the information leading to the allegations and an opportunity for the student to respond to the allegations. The Board of Trustees is permitted to expel a student only when the trustees determine that the student knowingly (had knowledge of the facts) brought a firearm to school or possessed a firearm at school.

The Board of Trustees is not required to expel a student who has brought a firearm or possessed a firearm at school as long as the firearm is secured in a locked container approved by the District or in a locked motor vehicle the entire time the firearm is at school unless the firearm is in use for a school sanctioned instructional activity.

If a student is determined by trustees to not have knowingly brought or possessed a firearm at school, the student’s record will be expunged of the incident.

If a student violating this policy is identified as disabled, either under the IDEA or Section 504, lawful procedures for changes in placement must be followed.

Any student subject to an expulsion shall be entitled to a hearing before the Board, in accordance with §20-5-202, MCA, and Policy 3300.

Possession of a Weapon in a School Building or on School Grounds

Any person who possesses, carries, or stores a weapon in a school building or on school grounds, except as provided below, shall be referred to law enforcement for immediate prosecution, as well as face disciplinary action by the District. In addition, a parent or guardian of any minor violating this policy shall also be referred for possible prosecution, on the grounds of allowing the minor to possess, carry, or store a weapon in a school building.

For the purposes of this section only, the following terms are defined: “school building” shall be defined as all buildings owned or leased by a local school district that are used for instruction or for student activities; “weapon” shall be defined as any type of firearm, a knife, regardless of blade length, a sword, a straight razor, a throwing star, nun-chucks, firecrackers, or brass or other metal knuckles.

Students are not allowed to possess a knife of any blade length on school property.

The Board may grant persons and entities advance permission to possess, carry, or store a weapon in a school building. All persons who wish to possess, carry, or store a weapon in a school building shall present this request to the Board in a regular meeting. It is solely within the Board’s discretion whether to allow a person to possess, carry or store a weapon in a school building.

Engaging in any of the following will lead to consequences at the classroom building level:

• Involved in any activity that constitutes disorderly conduct, an interference with school purposes or an educational function, or any disruptive activity.
• Unexcused absenteeism, tardies, and leaving the school grounds without obtaining permission at the school office.
• Cell phones cannot be taken in the locker room / bathroom. Violators will have the device taken from them and kept in the office until a parent picks it up. Repeat offenders will be considered defiant and will be treated accordingly.
• Not dressing appropriately as outlined in building level handbook.
• The forging of an signature, or the making of any false entry, or the authorization of any document used or intended to be used in connection with the operation of the school.

• Logical and natural consequences
• Detention
• Clean-up duty
• Student grade (for unexcused absence, suspension)
• Loss of student privileges
• Loss of bus privileges
• Restitution for damages to school property
• Suspension
• Notification of juvenile authorities and/or police / school resource officer
• Expulsion

No person who is employed or engaged by the District may inflict or cause to be inflicted corporal punishment on a student. Corporal punishment does not include, and District personnel are permitted to place their hands on a student in a manner that is reasonable and necessary to maintain safety for other students, school personnel, and other persons, or for the purpose of self-defense. This policy does not apply to law enforcement personnel.

Procedures for Board Expulsion

Expulsion is any removal of a student for more than twenty (20) school days without the provision of educational services. Only the Board may expel a student from school. After the administration has investigated the alleged misconduct and made the decision to recommend an expulsion of the student to the Board, the administration shall send notice to the student and the parent of the following:

• The intent to recommend an expulsion;
• The specific charges against the student;
• What rule or regulation was broken;
• The nature of the evidence supporting the charges;
• The date, time and place where the hearing will be held;
• A copy of the procedure that will be followed by the Board; and
• A reminder of the rights the student and parents have, including the right to counsel, the right to cross examine witnesses, and the right to present witnesses.

A formal hearing will be held before the Board of Trustees. This hearing must meet the following minimum requirements.

• The student may choose to utilize legal counsel at his/her own expense, without prejudice.
• The student may present witnesses.
• The student or his/her counsel may ask questions of witnesses presented by the school district administration or its counsel.
• The administration also has the right to cross examine witnesses and to be advised by legal counsel.
• The burden of proof of the offense lies with the school district. District Policy 3300

Expulsion of a student for bringing or possessing a firearm at school must follow the procedures set out in the “Gun-Free Schools / Firearms” section above.

The hearing may be rescheduled by the parent/guardian by submitting a request showing good cause to the Superintendent at least 3 school days prior to the scheduled date of the hearing. The Superintendent shall determine if the request shows good cause.

Students with rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act may be expelled under certain circumstances, and the District must follow all procedural requirements of those Acts, including holding a manifestation determination meeting, prior to moving forward with an expulsion.

Definitions

• “Third parties” include, but are not limited to, coaches, school volunteers, parents, school visitors, service contractors, or others engaged in District business, such as employees of businesses or organizations participating in cooperative work programs with the District and others not directly subject to District control at inter District athletic competitions or other school events.
• “District” includes District facilities, District premises, and non-District property if the student or employee is at any District-sponsored, District approved, or District related activity or function, such as field trips or athletic events, where students are under the control of the District or where the employee is engaged in District business.
• “Hazing” includes, but is not limited to, any act that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or as a condition or precondition of attaining membership in or affiliation with any District-sponsored activity or grade-level attainment, including, but not limited to, forced consumption of any drink, alcoholic beverage, drug, or controlled substance, forced exposure to the elements, forced prolonged exclusion from social contact, sleep deprivation, or any other forced activity that could adversely affect the mental or physical health or safety of a student; requires, encourages, authorizes, or permits another to be subject to earing or carrying any obscene or physically burdensome article, assignment of pranks to be performed, or other such activities intended to degrade or humiliate.
• “Harassment” includes, but is not limited to, any act which subjects an individual or group to unwanted, abusive behavior of a nonverbal, verbal, written, or physical nature, on the basis of age, race, religion, color, creed, national origin, sex, ancestry, disability, or marital status.
• “Intimidation” includes but is not limited to, any threat or act intended to tamper with, substantially damage or interfere with another’s property, cause substantial inconvenience, subject another to offensive physical contact, or inflict serious physical injury, on the basis of age, race religion, color, creed, national origin, sex, ancestry, disability, or marital status.
• “Bullying” happens when someone with more power unfairly hurts someone with less power over and over again. Power may be physical strength, social skill, verbal ability, or another resource.

Reporting

All complaints about behavior that may violate this policy shall be promptly investigated. Any student, employee, or third party who has knowledge of conduct in violation of this policy or feels he/she has been a victim of hazing, harassment, intimidation, or bullying, in violation of this policy is encouraged to immediately report his/her concerns to the building principal or the District Superintendent. A student may also report concerns to a teacher or counselor, who will be responsible for notifying the appropriate District official. Complaints against the Superintendent or District Administrator shall be filed with the Board.

The complainant shall be notified of the findings of the investigation and, as appropriate, the remedial action that has been taken. Whenever an employee sees a violation of this policy then that employee shall visit with the parent(s) of the violated student(s) and that employee’s immediate supervisor ASAP and preferably that same day.

When appropriate, law enforcement will be notified when a person violates this policy.

Responsibilities

The District Superintendent shall be responsible for ensuring notice of this policy is provided to students, staff, and third parties and for the development of administrative regulations, including reporting and investigating procedures, as needed.

Consequences

Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion. Staff whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline up to and including dismissal. Third parties whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to appropriate sanctions as determined and imposed by the District Administrator or the Board. Individuals may also be referred to law enforcement officials.

Retaliation and Reprisal

Retaliation is prohibited against any person who reports or is thought to have reported a violation, files a complaint, or otherwise participates in an investigation or inquiry. Such retaliation shall be considered a serious violation of Board policy, whether or not a complaint is substantiated. False charges shall also be regarded as a serious offense and will result in disciplinary action or other appropriate sanctions.

• Involved in any activity that constitutes disorderly conduct, an interference with school purposes of an educational function, or any disruptive activity.
• Leaving school grounds without obtaining permission at the school office
• Using a skateboard on school grounds during the school day or during school activities
• Using an electronic device in the classroom or other areas of the school without permission
• Cell phone violations, (see page 10) 
• Not dressing appropriately as outlined in building level handbooks
• General classroom disruptions
• Insubordination
• Computer / internet violations

• Teasing and insults about possessions, clothes, looks, etc.
• False reporting of others behaviors
• Name calling, mean looks, excluding
• Hiding or taking items from others
• Making threatening or insulting gestures / pictures 
• Pushing, shoving, poking, book checking, blocking someone’s path, etc.
• Gossiping, starting / spreading rumors

The grounds for disciplinary action apply whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities including, but not limited to:

• On, or within sight of, school grounds before, during, or after school hours or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group;
• Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity, or event, or any activity or event which bears a reasonable relationship to school.
• Traveling to and from school or a school activity, function, or event; or
• Anywhere at any time during the calendar year, if the conduct may be considered to be a threat to the educational process at school by either harming staff or students (selling drugs, physically or mentally abusing staff / students, etc.).

Possible Consequences / Staff Responses

Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to:

• Expulsion
• Suspension
• Detention, including Saturdays
• Clean-up duty
• Student’s grade (for unexcused absence, suspension)
• Loss of student privileges
• Recess and/or lunch detention
• After school detention
• Loss of bus privileges
• Notification of juvenile authorities and/or police / school resource officer
• Restitution for damages to school property • Conference held with parent and student to develop a plan to correct the behavior
• Teacher and/or student and/or parent contact
• Referral to office
• Referral to the school guidance counselor to help the student develop a plan to correct the problem

THOMPSON FALLS K-8 BULLYING LEVEL BEHAVIORS

LEVEL ONE

LEVEL TWO

LEVEL THREE

THOMPSON FALLS K-8 GENERAL BEHAVIORS

LEVEL ONE

LEVEL TWO

LEVEL THREE

STAFF:

Classroom / school rules and expected behaviors will be posted, taught, and modeled by classroom teachers with reviews held throughout the year. Classroom teachers will teach social skills by incorporating the concepts of Kelso’s Choices, and Love and Logic programs. Teachers will continue to reinforce skills and address student concerns regarding behavior issues.

Specific expectations for appropriate safe play on equipment, and with their peers and rules of games will be taught at the beginning of the year by teachers and reviewed throughout the year. The playground supervisor may enforce timeout, removal from the playground, or referral to office for violence, vulgar language or disrespect of authority.

Staff will keep a record of student behavior and academics in our school database system. A copy is always available to parents / guardians upon request.

Staff will consider the following when working with students to decide consequences / responses:

• Board policy
• Elementary handbook
• The posted classroom rules
• Input from the classroom teacher(s)
• Age and behavior of the student
• Circumstances and history of the student / incident

The District will support short term suspensions and in some cases an expulsion of a student when the safety of its students and staff are at risk by a student. It is Board Policy that it will be the student’s choice as to whether the work missed during an out of school suspension will be counted for credit. This decision by the student must be made prior to serving the out-of-school suspension. When school counseling is used as part of a student consequence, this counseling will occur either before school, during lunch, or after school.

If students leave the school grounds without permission, school personnel are no longer responsible for their safety. Parents will be called and law enforcement will be called.

RECOVERY:

The term “recovery” as used in Thompson Falls Public Schools means that an individual is out of control and needs to take time to be calm and ready to comply with the role of being a student. Recovery may include time at home and the student may return when he/she is under control. Recovery is a non-disciplinary intervention designed to get the student back into the classroom as soon as possible.

STUDENTS:

Every student has a right to a safe environment where learning can take place. Each student is expected to do his/her share to make school a pleasant place to learn by respecting others and respecting property.

Additional behavior expectations of each student include by are not limited to:

• Imitation of drug use will receive the same consequences as actual drug use
• Use of or possession of a laser pen is not allowed
• Pulling the fire alarm is against school rules
• School computers are not to be used for student email or for “chatting” unless special permission is given by the classroom teacher
• Students are not allowed on school property while under suspension
• Life threatening remarks will not be tolerated in either a written or verbal manner. The district curriculum will not assign nor accept specific life threatening remarks or statements in a “real context” as part of the educational process. This means that students will not be allowed to include these types of statements in their written or verbal school assignments nor may a student bring this type of material on the school grounds.
• The playground is opened at 7:55 AM as a gathering place for students when they arrive at school. Because of the number of children, their lunch boxes and book bags, and the short period of time, this is not considered a recess time with games and recess equipment. Students walking to school are urged to arrive only in time for the assembling bell or breakfast.
• Recess time is scheduled to give students an opportunity to unwind from academic rigor, to exercise to stimulate the flow of oxygen, and to develop social skills. Behavior expectations, rules, consequences, and actions apply to recess time.

VISITORS:

Any person, including an adult, who behaves in an unsportsmanlike manner during school or at an athletic or co-curricular event may be removed from school and/or ejected from the event. This person may also be denied access to school property for up to a year, after a Board hearing. Examples of unsportsmanlike conduct include, but are not limited to:

• Using vulgar or obscene language or gestures;
• Possessing or being under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or illegal substance;
• Possessing a weapon;
• Fighting or otherwise striking or threatening another person;
• Failing to obey the instructions of a security officer or school district employee; and
• Engaging in any activity that is illegal or disruptive. The Superintendent may seek to deny future access to school property to any person. (Board Policy 4315)

Sexual harassment is conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the following: 

1. Quid pro quo: An employee of the recipient conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of the recipient on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct
2. Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the recipient’s education program or activity; or
3. “Sexual assault” as defined in 20 U.S.C. 1092(f)(6)(A)(v), “dating violence” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(10), “domestic violence” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(8), or “stalking” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(30).

A determination of responsibility resulting from a formal complaint against a student for engaging in sexual harassment will result in appropriate disciplinary action, according to the nature of the offense.

Complaints may be submitted via the District’s Title IX Grievance Procedure. Please refer to
Policies 3210 and 3225 for additional information regarding the District’s prohibition against
discrimination and harassment.

FAN BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES AT EVENTS FOR THOMPSON FALLS SCHOOL GYM / HALLWAYS

• Always display positive behavior and sportsmanship
• Pre-3 rd graders need a parent at event or they will not be allowed on campus
• Pre-K need to be with parent at all times during the event
• Designated hallway / foyer to be used for acceptable eating / visiting only
• Keep all areas neat and use available garbage cans 
• Use common sense on when to leave gym area during game / match

Individuals that do not comply with these rules will be required to leave the premises.

Students should be passing all classes to participate in extracurricular activities and demonstrate appropriate behavior. If assigned after school academic time for late assignments, academic time should be observed before attending extracurricular activities. Students who receive suspensions during duration of extracurricular activity season may be removed from the extracurricular activity.

Other students who plan on missing school time for activities such as ski trips, or who are representing this school district in extra-curricular activities such as Junior High sports, the county spelling bee, state geography contest, etc. must be passing all classes the Friday prior to the day that students will be gone from school. The nature of the activity and the supervisor / student ratio may require that students demonstrate appropriate behavior prior to the activity in order to participate in it. Any exceptions to this section can only be granted by the building level administrator. When sixth grade students are participating in Junior High sports, they will follow the Junior High guidelines.

A student attending a nonpublic school or home school that meets the requirements under MCA § 20-5-109 may participate in extracurricular activities offered by Thompson Falls Elementary School subject to the student’s eligibility as set out by school administration. The student’s academic eligibility must be verified by the head administrator of the nonpublic school or educator providing the student instruction in the home school as verified by the principal.

Children who become a serious disciplinary problem on the bus may have their riding privileges suspended by the principal. Parents of children involved will be notified before students are eliminated from riding the bus. If this occurs, it will then become the parents responsibility to provide for the safe transportation of their student to and from school. Absences during bus suspension will be unexcused and subject to unexcused absence policy.

Inappropriate bus behaviors include, but are not limited to:

Bus Referral Consequences (yearly)

1st Referral - Conference with student and parent by school and/or bus driver

2nd Referral - 1 Day Bus Suspension

3rd Referral - 3 Day Bus Suspension

4th Referral - 1 Week Bus Suspension

5th Referral - Bus Suspension For Remainder of School Year

Different procedures may apply to students with disabilities as required by law.

Textbooks are checked out to the students. Charges will be assessed for unduly damaged or lost books. Report cards and school records will be held until all assessed charges are paid.

The administration and staff have the responsibility and right to judge individual cases as being in violation of these regulations. A student who violates the dress code will be asked to correct the situation with no penalty. Parents may be called to bring a change of clothing. The student may be asked to wear clothing provided by the school until parents arrive. If the student appears to be defiant in following this rule after several occurrences, then the student will be treated as one who constitutes open defiance of authority. This will result in discipline, which may include a suspension from school.

Students should have all coats, gloves, and other items of clothing clearly marked so that they can be identified. A Lost and Found is provided to assist students and parents in finding lost articles.

If at all possible, please send a pair of tennis shoes to school for Physical Education class. Student can perform much better with this type of shoe as well as have protection in the event of a fire drill. For health and safety reasons student must wear shoes at all times.

Accident Prevention

Student safety on campus and at school-related events is a high priority of the District. Although the District has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensure school safety. A student should:

• Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.
• Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook, as well as any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.
• Remain alert to and promptly report safety hazards, such as intruders on campus.
• Know emergency evacuation routes and signals
• Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other District employees who are overseeing the welfare of students.

DRILLS

From time to time students, teachers, and other district personnel will participate in drills of emergency procedures.

Parents may bring treats for the class on student’s birthdays to be shared at the end of the school day. If you wish to be a room parent and help with the three scheduled parties, please let your student’s teacher know.

Students with allergies involving food must have proper documentation in place with the office, nurse, and cafeteria in order for alternative foods to be served. Necessary documents can be obtained from the elementary office.

• FEVER – exclude from school with re-entry 24 hours after fever has subsided.
• VOMITING during the night – stay home the following day
• STREP THROAT – Symptoms are fever and sore throat. Treatment consists of antibiotics as prescribed by a physician. Child must remain out of school until 24 hours after medication is started.
• PINKEYE – (Conjunctivitis) is an inflammation of the thin, transparent outer tissue layer of the eyeball and the inner surface of the eyelids. The inflammation causes redness, tearing, and occasionally the formation of a pus discharge. The student may complain of “itching or burning” eyes. The most common causes are bacteria, viruses, and allergies. If your child wakes in the morning with eyes “crusted and matted”, you should have him/her checked by a physician before sending him/her to school. Treatment consists of antibiotic eye drops or ointment obtained from a physician. The child should remain out of school for 24 hours after treatment has begun.
• MONO – exclusion is not indicated for cases or exposed students.
• HEAD LICE – Obtain “Nix” or “RID” from the store and follow specific instructions for treatment. Be sure to fine comb hair after treatment. The best way to get all nits out is by hand. It is necessary that your child be “Nit-free” before returning to school. You will need a note from the school nurse, clinic nurse, county health nurse, or any qualified professional stating your child is “Nit-free”.
• HAND, FOOT, AND MOUTH DISEASE – This illness can cause painful sores in or on your mouth, and/or on the hands, feet and sometimes buttocks and legs. The illness usually lasts 7 -10 days. Symptoms include fatigue, sore throat, or a high fever. In some cases, a rash appears before blisters do. The blisters may break open and crust over and usually last about a week. The disease is most likely to spread within the first week. Wash hands frequently and keep children home who have a fever or open blisters.
• RINGWORM – Ringworm appears on the arms, chest, abdomen, and more rarely, the face. It starts as a tiny red spot that slowly grows in a circular fashion, clearing in the center as it enlarges. The edges remain reddish and scaly. No scabs, pus, or crusts are formed. Treat with medications such as Tinactin or Lotrimin as prescribed by a physician. Student is non-contagious after 1st treatment and may be in school after 1st treatment while sores are healing.
• SCABIES – Scabies is caused by a mite too small to be seen by the naked eye. Since the mites live underneath the skin, contagion takes rather prolonged contact. All that is required for safety is washing the hands after touching a child with scabies. Typically, the scabies mite makes a white bump that causes intense itching, particularly at night. As a result of scratching, a scab appears on the skin. The scab tends to be linear rather than round. Scabies is commonly found on the backs of the hands, the webs between the fingers, the inner side of the wrist and forearms, and the chest and abdomen. It can also be found on the upper arms and legs, and the neck. It is practically never on the face, on the small of the back, between the shoulder blades, on the palms of the hands, or soles of the feet. It will often be found on more than one family member. Diagnosis is usually done by a physician. Treatment consists of a prescription medication with repeated application 7-10 days later. A child with scabies presents no immediate emergency and need not be kept home.
• CHICKENPOX – Chickenpox is a highly contagious childhood illness. The child is contagious from 24 hours before the onset of fever until the drying of all crusts. Chickenpox first appears on scalp, face, chest, and abdomen, and spreads to the arms and legs. You will see a tiny, clear blister with redness around it. The blisters rapidly form crusts and scab over. Aveeno or oatmeal baths may help with itching. Tylenol is recommended for fevers. The child must stay out of school until all crusts are dry – usually 5 to 7 days.
• FIFTH’S DISEASE – This is a very mild skin disorder caused by a virus. A fine, red rash first appears on the face like a “slapped cheek”. It then spreads to the chest, abdomen, arms and legs. It is contagious 2 to 3 days prior to the onset of the rash. It is not contagious when the rash appears, therefore the child does not need to stay out of school unless he/she has a fever. If the child does have a fever, he/she should remain out of school until 24 hours after the fever is gone. There is no specific treatment for the rash. Usually, a pain and fever reducing medication like Tylenol is all that is needed. The rash may last a week or more and will appear worse when the child is exposed to heat, cold, or sunshine.
• CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) – Symptoms include: cough, fever or chills, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, muscle or body aches, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell, diarrhea, headache, new fatigue, nausea or vomiting, congestion or runny nose.

The county health department may provide additional guidance and rules for conditions not listed. The school will notify parents in the event such conditions and rules arise.

If a student’s religious beliefs conflict with the requirement that the student be immunized, the student must present a form signed by the student (or by the parent, if the student is a minor) stating that immunization conflicts with the religious tenets and practices of the parents and student. This form will be maintained as part of the student’s immunization records.

If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a certificate signed by a health care provider who is licensed, certified, or otherwise authorized by the laws of any state or Canada to provide health care under Montana law, is authorized within the provider’s scope of practice to administer immunizations to which the exemption applies, and has previously provided health care to the student seeking the exemption or has administered an immunization to which the student has had an adverse reaction. This certificate must indicate the specific nature and probable duration of the medical condition or circumstances which contraindicate immunization. This certificate will be maintained as part of the student’s immunization records. For further information, see Policy 3110.

Persons who have any of the above exemptions may be excluded from school by health authorities during a disease outbreak. This exclusion will be in force until the excluded person no longer risks contracting or transmitting the disease. Forms are available at the local health department or school district.

1. The parent obtains the request form from the school office, local physician’s office, or the elementary website, completes and signs the form which includes a waiver of school liability.
2. The parents will have the form completed by their physician.
3. The parents will send the completed form and the medicine in the original container. Parents will send only the required number of doses to the school and will keep the remainder of the medication at home.

This procedure is to be used for all medications including Tylenol, aspirin, cough drops, and inhalers. Please contact the school for appropriate forms. Please do not send medication to school without going through the above procedures.

All medication is kept in a locked cabinet in the school office. As medication is administered it is recorded on a medication form.

Students in grades 5 and 6 will be screened for scoliosis. Notes will be sent to parents prior to the screening.

Vision screenings are done in the fall for grades K-6 on all new students entering, and as requested by the classroom teacher throughout the current school year. Parent notification or referrals will be sent home by the school nurse.

The school will notify the parent or guardian of the right to opt a student out of a mental health screening and will be notified of any issues or concerns resulting from a mental health screening.

To carry out the goals of the District’s health curriculum regarding the use of alcohol and drugs, including tobacco / vapor products / alternative nicotine products and marijuana and to promote the health and safety of all students and staff, the use and/or possession of tobacco or tobacco products, vapor products, or alternative nicotine products by students is not permitted on school property, in school vehicles, or at school sponsored activities.

The use of tobacco / vapor products in a public school building or on public school property is prohibited, including for non-student adults.

Law enforcement or social service workers must contact students through the administrative office. Students will not usually be questioned or interviewed by law enforcement or other lawful authorities while at school. When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities, however, wish to question or interview a student at school or the principal requests that the student be interviewed at school:

• The principal shall verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority
• If the interview is not at the request of the principal, the principal shall ascertain the authority of law enforcement to question or interview the student at school. If the interview is by court order or other exigencies exist (concern about loss / damage of evidence, flight from jurisdiction, or health, safety, or welfare of the student or other students or staff), the principal has the discretion to allow the interview to take place. Otherwise, if law enforcement can reasonably interview the student at a time when the student is not in school, the principal may, absent a court order or warrant, deny the request for an immediate interview of a student.
• The principal will make reasonable efforts to notify parents unless the officer produces a court order prohibiting the notification of the parents.
• In the event that a parent cannot be present or cannot be reached, the principal will observe the interview.
• Law enforcement must comply with all legal requirements regarding notification of parents and consent prior to interviewing students.
• Social service workers may be permitted to interview students at a school consistent with Montana law. The principal will observe the meeting if the social service worker declines to notify the parents.

Students Taken Into Custody

State law requires the District to permit a student to be taken into legal custody by a law enforcement officer or probation officer to comply with a lawful court order, a warrant for arrest, or a law enforcement determination that probable cause exists for the arrest. To the extent practicable, the arrest should be conducted out of the view of other students in the administration offices. A social service worker may take custody of a student with a lawful court order or under the powers of MCA § 41-3-301.

The principal will immediately notify the Superintendent and will make reasonable attempts to notify a parent unless the officer or official produces a court order prohibiting the notification of the parents. Because the principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a custody action, notification will most likely be after the fact.

Service of Process

At times, law enforcement may seek to serve a student with a subpoena or other legal documents (i.e., complaint, summons). Absent a court order, the principal has the discretion to determine service at school is disruptive to the educational environment. If service is directed by a court or is not disruptive to the educational environment, the principal will make reasonable attempts to contact the parents regarding the service. Where the principal has determined that service would be disruptive to the educational environment, the principal will make a reasonable attempt to coordinate with law enforcement to serve the student when school is not in session. Service on a student will be accomplished out of view of other students in the administration offices.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or older (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days after the day Thompson Falls Elementary School receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the Thompson Falls Elementary School to amend a record should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel) or a person serving on the school board. A school official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of the school who performs an institutional service of function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist; a parent or student volunteering to serve on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or a parent, student or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the school discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the Thompson Falls Elementary School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’ education records, without consent of the parent or eligible student, if the disclosure meets certain conditions found in § 99.31 of the FERPA regulations. Except for disclosures to school officials, disclosures related to some judicial orders or lawfully issued subpoenas, disclosures of directory information, and disclosures to the parent or eligible student, § 99.32 of the FERPA regulations requires the school to record the disclosure. Parents and eligible students have a right to inspect and review the record of disclosures. A school may disclose PII from the education records of a student without obtaining prior written consent of the parents or the eligible student:

• To other school officials, including teachers, within the educational agency or institution whom the school has determined to have legitimate educational interests. This includes contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to whom the school has outsourced institutional services or functions, provided that the conditions listed in § 99.31(a)(1)(i)(B)(1) – (a)(1)(i)(B)(3) are met. (§ 99.31(a)(1))
• To officials of another school, school system, or institution of postsecondary education where the student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer, subject to the requirements of § 99.34 (§ 99.31(a)(2))
• The authorized representatives of the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary or Education, or State and local educational authorities, such as the State educational agency (SEA) in the parent or eligible student’s State. Disclosures under this provision may be made, subject to the requirements of § 99.35, in connection with an audit or evaluation of Federal or State supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs. These entities may make further disclosures of PII to outside entities that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any audit, evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf, if applicable requirements are met. § 99.31(a)(3) and 99.35)
• In connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the information is necessary for such purposes as to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of the aid, determine the conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. (§ 99.31(a)(4))
• To State and local officials or authorities to whom information is specifically allowed to be reported or disclosed by a State statute that concerns the juvenile justice system and the system’s ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records were released, subject to § 99.38. (§ 99.31(a)(5))
• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to:
  • a) Develop, validate, or administer predictive tests;
  • b) administer student aid programs; or
  • c) improve instruction, if applicable requirements are met. (§ 99.31(a)(6))
• To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions. (§ 99.31(a)(7))
• To parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes. (§ 99.31(a)(8))
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena if applicable requirements are met. § 99.31 (a)(9))
• To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency, subject to § 99.36. (§ 99.31(a)(10))
• Information the school has designated as “directory information” if applicable requirements under § 99.37 are met. (§ 99.31 (a)(11))
• To an agency caseworker or other representative of a State or local child welfare agency or tribal organization who is authorized to access a student’s case plan when such agency or organization is legally responsible, in accordance with State or tribal law, for the care and protection of the student in foster care placement. (20 U.S.C. § 1232c(g)(1)(L))
• To the Secretary of Agriculture or authorized representatives of the Food and Nutrition Service for purposes of conducting program monitoring, evaluations, and performance measurements of programs authorized under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, under certain conditions. (20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1)(K))

NOTICE FOR DIRECTORY INFORMATION

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Thompson Falls School District, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. However, Thompson Falls School District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Thompson Falls School District to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include:

• A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production;
• The annual yearbook;
• Honor roll or other recognition lists;
• Student directories;
• Graduation programs; and
• Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members.

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following information – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.

If you do not want Thompson Falls School District to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by September 10th or within 5 days of enrollment. Thompson Falls School District has designated the following information as directory information:

These laws are: Section 9528 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (20 U.S.C. § 7908) and 10 U.S.C. § 503(c).