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1 RENBERG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PARENT HANDBOOK 2021-2022 RENBERG BOBCATS

Renberg Elementary School

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RENBERG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PARENT HANDBOOK 2021-2022

RENBERG BOBCATS

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Relay Services for Hearing Impaired: Dial 711, then the desired number.

Renberg Elementary School 47260 258th St

Renner, SD 57055 Phone: 543-5273

Relay Services for Hearing Impaired: Dial 711, then the desired number

Welcome Dear Students and Parents: Welcome to Renberg Elementary School and the 2018-19 school year. This handbook has been prepared to assist students and parents by answering questions you may have regarding the education process, activities and student expectations we have at Renberg. Please take a few moments to review the contents of this handbook with your child. The education process is a team effort between parents/guardians, students, the community and the school. As educators, we need your support and involvement to provide the best educational opportunities for the children who attend our school. Please know that we encourage your active participation. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to working with you to enhance the school experience of your child.

Mrs. Patti Pannell

Principal

This handbook/directory is published by Renberg Elementary for distribution to families and staff.

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Sioux Falls School District Mission Statement The Sioux Falls School District’s mission is to educate and prepare each student to

succeed in a changing world.

Renberg Elementary’s Vision Our school family works together to motivate all students to believe and achieve.

Goals

1. Ongoing emphasis by staff, students, and

their families on ensuring academic success. 2. Effectively integrate the 1:1 Technology Initiative into the instructional process. 3. Encourage activities that promote a family centered school. 4. Build community and business partnerships in support of public education.

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At Renberg, we want our students to show determination, persistence, and grit in all that they do each day. Our goal

is for students to believe in themselves and all that they can accomplish both as children and adults. We strive to have

classrooms in which students aren’t afraid to take risks and see mistakes as opportunities to learn.

If you really want something, and really work hard, and take advantage of opportunities, and never give up, you will find a way…Follow your Dreams. ~ Jane Goodall “Edison failed 10,000 times before he made the electric light. Do not be discouraged if you fail a few times.” -- Napoleon Hill

"Follow your dream...take one step at a time and don't settle for less, just continue to climb. Follow your dream...if you stumble, don't stop and lose sight of your goal, press on to the top...For only on top can we see the whole view, can we see what we've done and what we can do, can we then have the vision to seek something new...Press on, and follow your dream." -- Amanda Bradley

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CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS Each classroom teacher will implement a discipline plan that best meets his/her management needs and teaching style. The plan will be grounded in the Boys Town Well Managed School Program, which includes the teaching of social skills and procedures for daily routines. These things will be displayed, taught, and practiced in order to create a positive learning climate for all students. Please do not send party invitations to school to be passed out unless each student in your child’s class will receive one. When only certain students receive invitations, it often results in hurt feelings which can disrupt the learning of the entire class.

PLAYGROUND EXPECTATIONS

Students should not arrive at school before 7:40 am, at which time playground supervision is provided. (A daily breakfast program is available for students at 7:30 am in the gym.) Food and drink are not permitted on the playground. Students may not bring food from breakfast or lunch to the playground. Touch and flag football are acceptable games. Unnecessary rough play like tackle football and “kill the carrier” are not acceptable games. No pushing, punching, poking and/or kicking. The game of tag will not be permitted on the playground equipment. “Tap” tag may be played in designated areas.

Students are not permitted to throw rocks, snow, or other objects that will harm others. Line up quickly and quietly when the bell rings. Students are expected to stop talking when the adult supervisor raises their hand. We do not enter the building until your line is quiet and ready. Students are expected to get permission from the playground supervisor before retrieving playground balls that go outside the fenced playground area.

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HALLWAY EXPECTATIONS Students are expected to demonstrate the following behavior in the hallway:

• Students are expected to quietly enter and leave school at their assigned door.

• Students are expected to walk on the right side of the hallway.

• Hands should be kept off the walls.

• When walking in the hallways, students are expected to pass quietly.

• Students are to make sure if they open a door in the hallway that the door is closed behind them.

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LUNCH/BREAKFAST EXPECTATIONS

Students are expected to demonstrate the following behavior while in the lunchroom:

• Speak to students at their table in a natural tone of voice.

• Demonstrate good table manners.

• Treat lunchroom supervisors with respect.

• Pick up lunch wrappers, papers, etc. before leaving the lunchroom.

• Raise their hand if they need assistance.

Students who have difficulty following lunchroom rules may be asked to sit at a quiet table where privileges will be limited. Renberg offense slips may also be issued.

ASSEMBLY EXPECTATIONS

Assembly programs are an extension of the classroom.

• Enter the gym (or location of the assembly) without talking.

• Show respect to the presenter and maintain appropriate behavior.

• Exhibit excellent character and be a great audience.

Students demonstrating inappropriate behavior will be asked to sit by a teacher or supervisor. Certain behavior may also merit removal from the program.

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RENBERG BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

At Renberg, we utilize the Boys Town Well Managed School program in conjunction with Character Counts. These programs help us teach students appropriate social skills and helps us create the positive learning climate that our students deserve. The students at our school will be treated with dignity and respect at all times. Teachers and staff will model respectful behavior for the students by utilizing the Boys Town approach when addressing behavior concerns. Classroom expectations, rules and consequences will be displayed in an obvious place in all classrooms. All procedures are consistent with the Boys Town Well Managed Schools program. All students are expected to display appropriate school behaviors at all times. Staff will focus on providing success, a sense of belonging, generosity (helping others), power/control (choices), and fun. Positive reinforcement within classrooms and within the building will be utilized. Students exhibiting good character can receive a Character Counts slip from any staff member. These students will be recognized on a weekly basis. Students will bring a copy of their slip home to share with parents. Renberg Offense Slips: These slips will be used for misbehaviors that occur in/on the playground, lunchroom, hallway, bathroom, library, gym, music, and art. These slips are for low level behaviors such as minor disruptive behavior, minor physical aggression (push, poke), disrespectful behavior, interfering with others learning and play. A staff member will issue a consequence for the misbehavior which will be stated right on the slip. If a student is issued an offense slip, they must take it home that night to have it signed by a parent/guardian and return it to their teacher the following day. If the slip is not returned the next day, the student will miss a recess. There will be three copies, one for the parent to keep (white), one for the parent to sign and return (yellow), and one for the teacher’s records (pink). An office referral occurs when a 3rd or more offense slip is issued for repetitive misconduct in any one quarter. Students will receive office referrals for EACH additional offense slip they receive after the first 3. Students start at 0 at the beginning of each quarter. Misbehaviors in the classroom will fall under the discipline plan each teacher has established for their classroom. A part of that plan also includes office referrals. If a behavior is severe enough, or if the student continues to make poor choices moving through their classroom plan, they will be sent to the office where they may work on a Boys Town Social Skill worksheet and receive an office referral. An office referral is part of the Sioux Falls School District discipline plan. Parents will be notified, and a copy of the office referral is sent home. Rules of Student Conduct and Discipline –SFSD Progressive Discipline Plan If a student earns an Office Referral the Sioux Falls School District’s progressive discipline plan is in effect. A copy of the plan will be sent home with each student at the beginning of the school year, or when the student enrolls.

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Olweus Bully Prevention Program The Olweus Bully Prevention Program is targeted at reducing bullying behaviors among students and promoting healthy ways of interacting with one another. This program includes weekly class meetings which teach students what bullying is and what to do if they or another student is being bullied. Class Meetings reinforce Renberg’s Bully Prevention Rules as well as respect and kindness for other people. At Renberg, our staff pledges to immediately address any bullying situation that comes to our attention

Renberg Elementary Bully Prevention Rules 1. We will not bully others. 2. We will help students who are being bullied. 3. We will include students who are being left out. 4. If we know that somebody is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school

and at home.

BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROGRAM

Breakfast: Breakfast is served every morning from 7:30-7:55 am in the gymnasium. For the 2021-2022 school year, the breakfast meal is free for students and is $2.50 for adults. Milk can be purchased separately for $.40. Lunch: For the 2021-2022 school year, the lunch meal (which includes milk) is free for all students and $4.35 for adults. Additional milk may be purchased separately for $.40. Our building wide lunch period is from 11:30-12:25, and the meal is served in two sessions. The first session begins at 11:30 (K-2) and the second session begins at 12:00 (Gr. 3-5). Students eat first and then go outside for recess. Parents are always welcome to eat lunch with their child. Please call the office by 8:15 am if you wish to have a hot lunch ordered for you. The cost for an adult lunch is $4.35 for the 2021-2022 school year, please bring the correct amount as we do not have money on campus to make change. We ask that parents do not bring in food from fast food restaurants for lunch. Information about the 20212-2022 SFSD Healthy Foods Guide for Schools is below.

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REPORT CARDS & CONFERENCES Reporting student progress will be done based on mastery of South Dakota State Standards in each academic area. Students will receive a rubric score for each standard that is addressed each quarter. Teachers send work home throughout the quarter on a daily or weekly basis. Parent/Student/Teacher conferences will be held after the 1st quarter and during the 3rd quarter. Parents will receive a preference slip from each child’s individual teacher for scheduling. Every reasonable attempt is made to schedule the conference times on the day you requested if slips are returned on time. Parents will receive the assigned times for each child the week before conferences. The Parent/Student/Teacher conference is an opportunity for parents and teachers to meet. Parents can share information about their child. Teachers will share information about the student’s progress and will review the student’s report card. During the 2021-2022 school year, conferences can be held in person, over the phone or through a virtual meeting.

LOST AND FOUND

Parents are encouraged to put their child’s name on all personal belongings. If an item has been misplaced or lost, please check the lost and found box in the main hallway by the Office. Jewelry and small items are in the office. Lost and found items are displayed on a table in the hallway by the front entrance during parent/teacher conferences. Please stop by to see if there is anything belonging to your child. Unclaimed items are donated to the Salvation Army or Goodwill at the beginning of each new quarter of the school year.

There is NO playground supervision until 7:40 A.M.

OUR SCHOOL DAY

The first bell rings at 7:55

School begins at 8:00 am School ends at 2:45 pm

Lunch/Recess: 11:30-12:15: K-2 12:00-12:45: 3-5

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*Check with your child’s teacher for specific recess times.

ATTENDANCE / TARDINESS It is of utmost importance for each child to be in school every day to learn. However, there are excused absences, such as illness, medical or dental appointments, or death in the family, which make it necessary for students to miss school. If your child will be absent from school, we ask that you call the school office by 8:00 am so that we are aware that your child is not in school that day. If we have not heard from you, it is necessary for our office to call your home or business to determine why your child is not at school. If your child is gone for several days and you would like the teacher to prepare some make-up work, please call the school office or teacher so they have time to get it ready before you arrive.

BUILDING / STUDENTS SAFETY & SECURITY Renberg has a secure access entry system. All doors except for Entrance A will be kept locked during the school day. Any school visitors will be required to scan a government issued photo ID in order to receive a visitor badge. Your photo ID for the office to keep until you exit the school. If a person other than a parent is picking a child up, they must be listed in the student’s emergency contacts on Infinite Campus. If they are not listed in Infinite Campus, parents should inform office staff. If office staff have not heard from the parent, they will call you to confirm we have your consent for your child to leave school with the person. Notify the person that we will require a photo id before we release a child to them.

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Emergency Procedures for Sioux Falls Schools The Sioux Falls School District takes proactive measures to protect the safety and security of all students and staff members. All schools in the Sioux Falls School District are required to have a school safety and security plan. Each plan must be designed locally with the help of law enforcement, emergency management, public health officials and all other key stakeholders. All plans must be reviewed and updated on an annual basis. During an emergency, or threat of emergency, school officials and law enforcement take specific, planned steps to keep students and staff safe. Emergency plans are confidential to ensure that they are not compromised. But what can parents and others in the community expect? 1. School officials will work closely with emergency first responders. 2. Schools will go into either shelter in place or lockdown mode.

• Shelter in place mode - occurs when there is a threat outside the building or there is a non-threatening circumstance when people need to be kept away from areas (e.g., medical emergency or disturbance). For schools that lock doors during the school day, shelter in place mode only adds the provision that no one can enter or exit the school.

• Lockdown mode - will occurs when there is a threat or intruder inside the building. 3. School officials will make calls on the Mass Communication Alert System to notify parents. We understand that parents and guardians may wish to take their children out of school during these times. Unfortunately, parents' desire to take their children may create situations that further complicate an emergency. If you choose to come to school during an emergency, you will not have the kind of access to the school and your child to which you are accustomed. The following information is important:

• We suggest that parents refrain from coming to a school during an emergency. We may close the school and parking lot to everyone except for police, emergency workers, and school officials.

• The presence of additional people on or near school grounds makes it more difficult for police, emergency workers, and school staff to do their jobs. Parents who do come to school will have to wait in cars or outside the school until we are certain the situation is safe.

• Until all students and the school building are safe and secure, we do not release students from our supervision.

• If there is an evacuation from a school, all students will be moved to a secure, safe location away from school under the supervision of teachers and administrative staff. Parents will be notified of this location via our mass communication system.

• Because of the need to maintain order, school staff may not release your child even if you have told your child to leave. Your child is safer under the supervision of school staff than on his or her own.

• Please refrain from using cell phones and land lines to call the school or your child, as these calls tie up the phone lines for emergency personnel handling the situation.

During a crisis, our district puts a priority on providing accurate, timely information as it becomes available. We will coordinate any release of information with law enforcement. However, it will not contain all the details of the incident and updates may not be frequent as district officials' priority will be ensuring the safety of the staff and children. To get information, you should monitor school and district web sites. You may also call the district office; however, telephone line capacity is limited, and access may not be possible.

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It is impossible to foresee all potential emergencies, but we have researched the most effective way to use our resources to respond immediately to those emergencies that cannot be avoided. Any emergency will disrupt the “normal” way of doing things. If school personnel and parents work together, disruption and confusion can be minimized.

RENBERG NEWSLETTER The Renberg school newsletter will be sent to you via your email address unless you have made other arrangements with the office. We make every attempt to have it delivered before the first Friday of each month.

ELEMENTARY STUDENTS “DRESS FOR SUCCESS” Because there is a definite relationship between appropriate dress, good work habits, and proper school behavior, the Sioux Falls Elementary Schools have developed student dress guidelines consistent in all our schools. Our goals are to help our students focus on their schoolwork and their success, to decrease the number of harassment issues, and to have our schools be places where students feel good about themselves.

➢ Clothing promoting alcohol, violence, drugs, sexual innuendo, tobacco, gangs, or racism including those which display obscene or questionable printing, and slogans that are in direct opposition to school goals will not be permitted

➢ Tops need to have two straps wide enough to cover underwear. No backless, one-shoulder, or spaghetti straps are allowed.

➢ Midriffs must be covered, and underwear or buttocks must not be visible.

➢ Shorts must not distract from the learning environment. ➢ Headgear such as caps, hats, hoods, scarves, kerchiefs, or

bandanas cannot be worn inside the building. (No gang related apparel may be worn on the bus or on school property.

➢ Hair color and style must not cause a disruption.

We appreciate your cooperation with these guidelines!

LIBRARY SERVICES The school library serves as a point of voluntary access to information and ideas and as a learning laboratory for students as they acquire critical thinking and problem-solving skills. School librarians select materials in consultation with teachers using standard professional school library review sources to identify resources that are appropriate for the varied interests, abilities, learning styles, and maturity levels of the students served. Materials are intended to stimulate growth in factual knowledge, literary appreciation, aesthetic values and to promote reading for enjoyment as well as to develop the practice of critical analysis to make informed decisions in their daily lives. Materials representing more than one point of view are available. Considering the diverse backgrounds and points of view represented in the pluralistic society served by the public school, individuals may occasionally object to materials available through the school library. In the event a parent believes a specific title should be removed from circulation for all students the parent should contact the librarian and/or school principal according to district policy.

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SPECIAL SERVICES AND PROGRAMS

School Counselor: The school counselor plays an important role in helping students improve their self-esteem and peer relationships and develop their conflict resolution skills. Counseling services include classroom guidance, small group special interest groups, and individual counseling. Students, teachers, or parents may refer a child to visit with the counselor. Parents are contacted to gain permission for ongoing individual counseling. Special Education: Our special education program serves students who are identified and qualify according to state guidelines through a multi-faceted team evaluation. Services can be provided through the Resource Program in which students with specific learning disabilities receive more individual/small group assistance in math, reading and written language. Speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy are available support services.

Gifted Program: The Gifted Education Program (EGP) is a pullout program for gifted and talented students. Students may be referred by teachers or parents because they may be in need of additional challenges beyond the regular curriculum. A multi-disciplinary evaluation, including achievement tests, ability tests, parent referral, teacher referral, and individual I.Q. tests are conducted. The program is designed to serve students who score in the upper 2% on nationally normed standardized tests. The program offers units of study to develop higher level thinking skills, advanced research skills and more in-depth academic challenges. All second graders are administered a screening tool to assist in the identification of students who may benefit from the program.

Band

Band is offered to all 5th graders beginning in the fall. Students meet twice a week during school hours. One time is for a small group lesson for 20-30 minutes and the second time is for full group band. Full group band is everyone playing together for 45 minutes.

Orchestra

Students may begin playing a stringed instrument in 4th grade. Students participate in group orchestra once per week. Students perform concerts at Renberg, as well as joining students from several elementary schools in a combined orchestra. Students in 5th grade stay on a similar schedule, continuing to develop their skills.

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HEALTH ISSUES

For detailed information regarding the SFSD Covid 19 Continue to Learn Plan for the 2021-2022 school year, please visit our Covid 19 Resource Page with the link below. http://www.sf.k12.sd.us/covid

School Health Guidelines: If a child becomes ill at school, the parents are contacted and asked to make arrangements for their child to go home.

Colds: The common cold presents the most frequent problem since it is so easily transmitted from child to child. A child with a “heavy” cold and a hacking cough belongs at home, even though there may not be a fever.

Stomachaches: Eating a good breakfast is always important and may help children who have frequent stomachaches. If stomachaches continue to occur, your child should be checked by your doctor.

Vomiting and Diarrhea: Children who are vomiting or have diarrhea should be kept at home. A child should be free from vomiting and diarrhea for 24 hours before returning to school. If your child has vomiting or diarrhea at school, the child will be sent home.

Sore Throats: A child with a sore throat and fever should not be sent to school and will be sent home from school if it occurs during school hours.

Fever: A fever is a warning that all is not right with the body. A child with a fever over 100 degrees orally If your child has a fever at school, your child will be sent home. A child should be fever free for 24 hours without Tylenol etc.) before returning to school.

Rashes: A rash may be the first sign of childhood illnesses, such as chicken pox. A rash or “spots” may cover the entire body or may appear in only one area. Do not send your child to school until your doctor says it is safe to do so. Children with undiagnosed rashes may be sent home. They will need a doctor’s note explaining the rash before being allowed back in school.

Open Sores: Open sores need special attention. Impetigo is one form of a contagious skin infection that requires medical treatment before a child can attend school. Children with uncovered, weeping, open sores will be sent home.

Allergies to Peanuts or Milk: Allergies to peanuts or milk or have other special diet considerations will require a physician’s signed Special Diet Request for Meals form, in order for the school lunch program to substitute these items in the student’s meal. Miscellaneous: A variety of other conditions (head lice, scabies, flu, etc.) may require special health care. When you suspect or know your child has a contagious problem, we would appreciate your sharing that information with us so we can react appropriately.

Medications: No medications, including over the counter medication, can be given at school unless a medical authorization form from the doctor is completed. You may obtain a medical authorization form at your doctor’s office or the school office. Medication must be brought in the labeled container from the pharmacy by a parent/guardian. Medication Administration: The District’s Medication Administration Policy/Regulation JLCD/JLCD-R can be found on the district’s website www.sf.k12.sd.us/board/policies Misuse of All Medication

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Students are prohibited from transferring, delivering or receiving any medication to or from another student. All violations will result in confiscation of the medication and subject student(s) to discipline in accordance with the district’s progressive discipline policy. Students who use medication for purposes other than for its intended use will be disciplined and will no longer be allowed to carry and self-administer medications.

Requests to Stay in at Recess: We feel that it is in each child’s best interest to get fresh air and exercise at recess time. If you feel your child needs to stay in at recess as they recover from an illness, please send a doctor’s note to your child’s teacher. If the weather outside is below 0 either air temperature or wind chill, students are kept inside or go outside for a short period of time. ***At Renberg, we do not have a nurse who is at our school daily. Please be aware of this when office staff calls you with a medical/health concern.

BUS PROCEDURES Please review the following School Bus procedures for eligibility and pick-up/drop-off:

• Students who are not eligible for transportation are not allowed to ride the bus for any reason. Students are only allowed to ride their designated bus.

• Students are limited to two addresses; one pick-up and one drop off. The two addresses need not be the same, however, they must be the same pick-up address every a.m. (1st address option) and the same drop-off address every p.m. (2nd address option). A parent is responsible for assisting the student from the house to the bus in the a.m. and from the bus to the home in the p.m.

• As a safety factor, a student will not be allowed to take any article on the bus which may cause an injury to him or to others. Students are not allowed to eat or drink on the bus. The parent/guardian is responsible to transport all medications to the school.

Bus safety requires the cooperation of all involved. In cases where misconduct does occur, the following procedures will be followed:

• For minor infractions of the rules, the driver will give a verbal warning to the student involved. For major infractions of the rules, or for repeated minor infractions, a 3-part Incident Report will be completed by the driver. A copy of the Incident Report will be sent to the parent/guardian. The principal will discuss the violation with the student. Consequences for the violation will be applied. If a student reaches their third bus incident report for the year, they will have their bus riding privileges suspended for a period of time as determined by the principal. Parents then become responsible for getting their child to school and picked up afterwards for the entire period of the suspension.

Renberg Elementary has a Bus Accountability System in place to ensure that all students who

ride the bus board the bus or are accounted for at the end of each day. If your child normally rides the bus, you MUST let the school know either in writing or verbally if you have different plans on any given day. With the School District personnel and parents working together, efficient bus transportation and safety of the children will be achieved.

CHECK BUS STOPS AND TIMES FROM THE SFSD WEBSITE!!

www.sf.k12.sd.us

➢ Parents

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➢ Student Transportation (left side) ➢ Boundary and Bus Information (left side) ➢ Boundaries and Bus Information (right side) ➢ Address and Grade ➢ Go! ➢ Check school and the school # and the times and stops will appear!

Check out the SFSD Website for other important information!

SCHOOL SAFETY HOTLINE Parents/Community Accessing School Safety Hotline Mailboxes

1. Dial the school’s main number and follow the voice prompts when voicemail picks up. Voicemail will only pick up when the line is busy or is not answered.

2. Dial 367-4500, enter 5933. 3. Dial 367-4500, press 1, and spell the school’s name using the keys on a touch-tone phone.

_______________________________________________________________________

Discrimination and Harassment:

The Sioux Falls School District is committed to providing a learning environment free of

discrimination and harassment. The district prohibits discrimination/harassment on the basis of race,

color, creed, religion, age, gender (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, disability, national origin

or ancestry, military/veteran status, genetic information or any other category protected by law.

Additionally, the District provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

The district will investigate all reports of harassment/discrimination, and will discipline, or take

appropriate action, against any student or employee who is found to have violated the Harassment

and/or Discrimination Policies and Regulations:

1. Students should report complaints of harassment to a building administrator.

2. If a student prefers, the student may first report a concern to a counselor, or other trusted

adult. That staff member will report the concern to the administrator.

3. Parents/ guardians are encouraged to call an administrator if they are concerned about

harassment or intimidation issues.

4. An administrator will investigate all complaints and determine an appropriate course of

action.

5. Submission of a complaint or report of harassment will not affect the student’s status with the

district. Retaliation for making a compliant or participating in an investigation will not be

tolerated.

More information can be found on the district’s website: http://www.sf.k12.sd.us/students/report-of-

concern-students

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Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Notice

ANNUAL NOTIFICATION - Policy Regulation JRA/JRA-R The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:

(1) The right to insect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notification 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. This does not include the right to request a change to any specific grade. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the 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, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them 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 privacy of personally identifiable information (PII) in 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 or 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, a parent, student, or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks; or a service provider or vendor providing the District with online educational services or applications. 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 district discloses educational records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks to enroll if the disclosure is for the 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 school to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Dept. of Education, 400 Maryland Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20202

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NOTICE: DIRECTORY INFORMATION FERPA requires that the district, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information (PII) from your child’s education records. However, the District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” (information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, 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 district to include this type of information in certain school publications. Directory information may also be provided to outside organizations. The district classifies and identifies directory information as follows: A. Directory Information for Use in School Publications: The district designates the following as directory information for use by the district in school publications without prior parental written consent: 1. Student’s name. 2. Grade level. 3. Student’s participation in officially recognized activities or sports. 4. Weight and height of athletes. 5. Honors, awards, and degrees. 6. Information which denotes accomplishments and achievements. 7. Individual and group photographs. 8. Dates of attendance. 9. School attending; and 10. Parent/Guardian name. Examples of the use of the above information in school publications by the district include but are not limited to class rosters posted inside school buildings; a program showing a student’s role in a music or drama production; the annual yearbook; school newspaper; honor roll or other recognition lists; graduation programs; and sports activity programs, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members. B. Directory Information for Student Contact Lists and Public Requests (Outside Organizations): The district designates the following as directory information that may be disclosed by the district without prior written parental consent to outside organizations: 1. Student’s name. 2. Address. 3. Telephone number. 4. School attending; and 5. Grade level. Examples of the use of this additional directory information include but are not limited to use in a parent/student contact list (e.g., buzz book, school telephone directory, school contact list); providing information, upon request, to individuals, groups or organizations outside of school (e.g., parent groups [booster groups, PTA], outside organizations serving youth, companies that manufacture class rings or supply graduation items, photographers). Upon directory information from either category A or B being made public by the district (e.g., a program distributed at school event or information provided to manufacturer of class rings), that specific information, unless excluded by law, may fall within the definition of a public record and be accessible to the citizens of South Dakota in accordance with South Dakota’s open record laws. RIGHT OF PARENT/GUARDIAN OR ELIGIBLE STUDENT TO OPT-OUT OF DISCLOSURE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION The district will disclose the above identified directory information without written consent unless a parent or an eligible student “opts-out.” Parents or an eligible student may elect to “opt-out” of one or both categories of directory information (Directory Information for Use in School Publications and/or Directory

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Information for Student Contact Lists and Public Requests (Outside Organizations)). Any such “opt-out” must be made, in writing, to the building principal within fifteen 15 days after the notice is given.

Policy/Regulation JRA/JRA-R can be found on the district’s website at www.sf.k12.sd.us or can be obtained from any school office or the Instructional Planning Center.

NOTICE: INFORMATION NOT SUBJECT TO SURVEY, ANALYSIS, OR EVALUATION WITHOUT CONSENT/ PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT AND CONSENT/OPT-OUT FOR SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES ANNUAL NOTIFICATION – Policy ILD The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. South Dakota Codified Law 13-3-51.2 provides greater rights to parents. These include the right to: • Consent before students are required to submit to a survey, analysis, or evaluation that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”): 1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent.

2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family.

3. Sex behavior or attitudes.

4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.

5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships.

6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers.

7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents

8. Personal or family gun ownership; or,

9. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility. • Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –

1. Certain non-emergency medical examinations required for school attendance; and 2. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for

marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others. • Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –

1. Protected information surveys of students. 2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing,

sales, or other distribution purposes; and 3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law. The district has adopted a procedure regarding the above rights and to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution purposes. The district will notify parents at the beginning of the school year if the district has identified the specific or approximate dates of surveys for which consent is required. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to consent (protected information surveys) or opt their child out (marketing activities and certain non-emergency medical examinations) as required by the PPRA and state law. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Dept. of Education, 400 Maryland Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20202. Policy ILD can be found on the district’s website at www.sf.k12.sd.us or can be obtained from any school office or the Instructional Planning Center.

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NOTICE: SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973- Policy/Regulation KED/KED-R DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION IN PROGRAMS/SERVICES Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) is designed to eliminate discrimination on the basis of disability and requires that qualified individuals be provided equal access to educational programs and services. Policy AC/AC-R, Equal Opportunity/Nondiscrimination, prohibits discrimination based upon disability. A complaint relating to discrimination based on disability may be filed by a student, parent/guardian, employee or other citizen when it is felt that a violation has occurred. Complaints of disability discrimination are filed with: Section 504 Coordinator; Supervisor of Health Services, 201 East 38th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57105-5898, Ph. (605)367-7933. Policy and Regulation AC/AC-R set forth below outlines the complaint procedures for complaints related to discrimination based upon disability and can be found on the district’s website at www.sf.k12.sd.us or can be obtained from any school office.

ACCESS

Persons with disabilities may contact the building principal or site administrator at least 72 hours before the event to obtain reasonable accommodations needed to participate in District programs. STUDENTS Policy/Regulation KED/KED-R, Concerns and Complaints about Educational Programs for Students with Disabilities or Students with Substantially Limiting Health Conditions, outlines the district’s procedure relating to the identification, evaluation or educational placement of a student under Section 504. Concerns/Complaints relating to the identification, evaluation or educational placement of a student under Section 504 should be referred to the District’s Section 504 Coordinator - Supervisor of Health Services. 201 East 38th St.; Sioux Falls, SD 57105-5898; Ph. (605)367-7933.

PARENTAL RIGHTS You have the right to: (1) Have your child take part in and receive benefits from public education programs without discrimination because of his/her disability; (2) Have your child educated in facilities and receive services comparable to those provided nondisabled students; (3) Have your child have an equal opportunity to participate in nonacademic and extracurricular activities provided by the District; (4) Receive notice with respect to the identification, evaluation or placement (including a substantial change in placement) of your child; (5) Have the identification, evaluation and placement decisions based upon a variety of information sources and by persons who know the student, the evaluation data, and placement options; (6) Have your child receive appropriate educational and related services when eligible and necessary under Section 504; (7) Examine all relevant records relating to decisions regarding your child’s educational records, including records related to the identification, evaluation, educational program and placement; (8) Request a review of a Section 504 Team decision relating to the evaluation, educational program and placement (including any substantial change in placement) of your child; (9) Request an impartial due process hearing relating to the evaluation, educational and placement decisions (including any substantial change in placement); (10) Appeal the decision of the impartial hearing officer to a court of competent jurisdiction; (11) Have the District advise you of these rights under the federal law. The Sioux Falls School District must identify and evaluate students who may be eligible for services under Section 504 due to the following conditions: 1. A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (which includes major bodily functions); or 2. A record of having an impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, or 3. An impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. The district will provide prior written notice to parents before initiating or changing or refusing to initiate or change the identification, evaluation or educational placement of a student under Section 504. Parent consent is required for all initial evaluations. REVIEW AND IMPARTIAL HEARING PROCEDURE The parent of a child with a disability who disagrees with any decision regarding the identification, evaluation or educational placement of a student by the 504 Team may request a review by the District’s

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Section 504 Coordinator – Supervisor of Health Services or file a Due Process Complaint. If the issues are not resolved after the review by the Section 504 Coordinator, a parent may file a Due Process Complaint. Prior to the initiation of a Due Process Hearing, the Section 504 Coordinator will offer to convene a meeting with the parents and the relevant member or members of the 504 Team and a representative of the district who has decision-making authority on behalf of the district. The purpose of the meeting is for the parents to discuss their Due Process Complaint and the facts that form the basis of the Complaint so that the district has the opportunity to resolve the dispute. If the issues raised in the Due Process Complaint are not resolved to the satisfaction of the parent within 30 days of the receipt of the Due Process Complaint, a Due Process Hearing will be scheduled. An impartial Hearing Officer will be retained to conduct a hearing. Any party to a hearing has the right to:

1. Be accompanied and advised by counsel - neither party has the right to be represented by an attorney at a hearing.

2. Present evidence and confront, cross-examine, and compel the attendance of witnesses. 3. Introduce evidence that has been disclosed to the other party at least 5 business days before the

hearing. 4. Obtain a written, or, at the option of the parent, electronic, verbatim record of the hearing; and 5. Obtain written, or, at the option of the parents, electronic findings of fact and decisions.

A complete copy of Policy/Regulation KED/KED-R can be accessed at www.sf.k12.sd.us/schoolboard/policies or obtained from any school office. Concerns and inquiries regarding Section 504 may be directed to the Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Dept. of Education, Kansas City Office, 8930 Ward Parkway, Suite 2037, Kansas City, MO 64114-3302. Ph. (816)268-0550; FAX# (816)823-1404, TTY# 1(877)521-2172; email [email protected] INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT: CHILD IDENTIFICATION The district provides free, appropriate education for all children with disabilities from birth through age 21. Any eligible child within the jurisdiction of the district, including those enrolled in any public or private agency or school located in the district, should be referred to the Office of Special Services. Ph. (605)367-7689. Documents for Public Inspection: The District is operating a project in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Any funding applications, evaluation, or reports required by the state for operation of the project are available for public inspection. Documents are maintained in the Special Services Office of the Instructional Planning Center, 201 East 38th St., and are available during business hours. NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION – POLICY/REGULATION AC/AC-R In an effort to provide a safe, respectful educational environment, the district prohibits discrimination in its policies, employment practices and programs on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, gender (including pregnancy and sexual violence), sexual orientation, disability, national origin or ancestry, military/veteran status, genetic information or any other category protected by law. In addition, the district shall not discriminate in the opportunities for students on the basis of parental status, marital status, or pregnancy, nor shall such students be excluded from any program or activity, including any class or any extracurricular activity. Prohibited acts of discrimination include racial, sexual, ethnic or other types of slurs, insults, intimidation, harassment and other conduct directed toward another person in accordance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (discrimination based on disability); Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (discrimination based on national origin or race); Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (discrimination based on gender); and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (discrimination based on age.) Individuals with concerns or inquires about discrimination are encouraged to attempt to resolve the concern informally by working with the administrator most directly involved in the situation. If resolution is not achieved, the following complaint procedure is available.

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COMPLAINT PROCEDURE – RESOLUTION OF DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINTS A complaint may be filed by a student, parent/guardian, employee or other citizen when it is felt that a violation of Policy AC Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity has occurred. Formal complaints are filed with: Discrimination based on disability: Section 504 Coordinator: Health Services Supervisor, 201 East 38th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57105-5898, Ph. (605)367-7933. All other forms of discrimination: Civil Rights Officer/Title IX Coordinator (CRO/IX), In-House Counsel, 201 East 38th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57105-5898 Ph. (605)367-4670.

1. The Complaint Investigation Form should be completed by the person filing the complaint or the designated administrator. The form includes the following: • Complainant’s name and address • Date(s) of the incident(s) • Description of the incident(s) • Name(s) of the person(s) involved in the incident(s) • Name(s) of any witness(es) to the incident(s) • What action, if any, has been taken • Requested resolution of the complaint • Signature of the complainant will be requested, but not required 2. An investigation will be initiated. This investigation may be conducted by District officials or by a third party designated by the district. The investigating party shall provide a written report of the status of the investigation within ten (10) working days to the Superintendent and the CRO/IX. 3. If the complainant is not satisfied with the decision rendered by the designated administrator, he/she may appeal the decision to the Superintendent within ten (10) working days following receipt of the decision. The appeal must include the original Complaint Investigation Form, a copy of the decision from the designated administrator and a written statement as to a reason for the appeal. 4. The Superintendent or designee will review the materials submitted, investigate the circumstances and respond in writing within fourteen (14) working days from the appeal. At the Superintendent’s level, the appeal process may or may not include a conference with the parties involved. 5. If the complainant is not satisfied with the decision rendered by the Superintendent, he/she may request a hearing in executive session with the School Board. The request for hearing must be submitted in writing within ten (10) working days through the Superintendent’s Office. The hearing will be scheduled within thirty (30) working days from the request for hearing. The involved parties will be notified in writing of the date and time of the scheduled hearing. 6. The School Board will render a decision in writing within ten (10) working days of the hearing. 7. During the investigation all parties directly involved in the compliant may have legal or other representation. If any party elects to be represented at any step of the compliant procedure, the name of the representative must be declared in writing to the Civil Rights Officer within two (2) days of the filing of the complaint, notification of any investigation, or the filing of any appeal. The district prohibits retaliation against any individual who reports a claim under this policy or participates in an investigation of any such claim. Policy/Regulation AC/AC-R can be found on the district’s website at www.sf.k12.sd.us or can be obtained from any school office or the Instructional Planning Center. Concerns and inquiries regarding discrimination rights may be directed to the Kansas City Office, Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, 8930 Ward Parkway, Suite 2037, Kansas City, MO 64114-3302. Ph. (816)268-0550; FAX# (816)823-1404, email OCR.KansasCityEd.gov.