Handbook Details
Policy #6605 and Procedure #6605
The superintendent or designee will establish written rules of conduct for students riding school buses. Such rules will include as a minimum, the requirements of WAC 392-145-021 and will be reviewed annually by the superintendent or designee and revised if necessary. If the rules are substantially revised, they shall be submitted to the board for approval.
At the beginning of each school year, a copy of the rules of conduct for students riding buses will be provided to each student who is scheduled to ride a school bus. The bus driver will review the rules with the students at or near the beginning of each school year. A copy of the rules is available on the Ephrata School District website and upon request in the Transportation Office.
Any misconduct by a student, which in the opinion of the bus driver or transportation director, is detrimental to the safe operation of the bus will be enough cause for the principal to suspend the transportation privilege.
Rules of conduct for students riding buses:
- Students will obey the driver and any aide assigned to the bus by the district. The driver is in full charge of the bus and passengers and will be obeyed. If an aide is assigned to the bus by the district, they shall be responsible for the safe operation of the bus. When transporting classes or teams, the teacher or coach shall be primarily responsible for the behavior of the students. Students shall obey both the driver and the teacher, coach, or other staff member.
- Students shall be at their designated bus stop five minutes before their scheduled pick up time.
- Students will ride only on their assigned bus unless written permission to do otherwise has been received by school officials.
- Students will not be permitted to leave the bus except at their regular stop unless written permission to do otherwise is received by school officials.
- Students assigned to seats will use only that seat unless permission to change is authorized by the driver.
- Students will observe rules of classroom conduct while riding on buses. Noise will be kept down to avoid distracting the driver. Students will refrain from the use of obscene language or gestures.
- Students will not smoke or ignite lighters or matches on buses.
- Students will not eat on buses, except when specifically authorized and supervised by an accompanying teacher, coach, or other staff member. Buses shall be kept clean.
- Students will not open bus windows without the driver's permission.
- Students will not extend any part of their body out of bus windows at any time.
- Students will not carry or have in their possession items that can cause injury to passengers on the bus. Such items include, but are not limited to, sticks, breakable containers, weapons or firearms, straps or pins protruding from clothing, large, bulky items which cannot be held or placed between legs, etc. Books and personal belongings shall be kept out of aisles.
- Students will not have animals on buses, except one that is aiding a disabled student.
- Students will not sit in the driver's seat or to the immediate right or left of the driver.
- Students will refrain from talking to the driver unless necessary.
- Students will always go directly to a seat once inside the bus and remain seated unless the driver instructs otherwise.
- Students will get on / off the bus in an orderly manner and will obey the instructions of the driver or school safety persons on duty. There will be no pushing and shoving when boarding or leaving the bus. Once off the bus, students will adhere to rules for pedestrians.
- Students will never cross the roadway behind a bus unless they use pedestrian crosswalks or traffic lights.
- Students will stand away from the roadway curb when any bus is approaching or leaving a stop.
- Students going to and from their bus stops where there are no sidewalks will walk on the left-hand side of the roadway facing oncoming traffic. Students will go directly to their home after leaving the bus.
- Students will use lap belts on buses when available.
- Students will follow emergency exit drill procedures as prescribed by the driver.
- Students will not tamper with emergency doors or equipment.
- Students will remain quietly seated, not exhibit disruptive behavior and turn off all noise- making devices at highway rail grade crossings.
- Parents of students identified as causing damage to buses will be charged with the cost of the incurred damage. Students causing the damage may be suspended from transportation.
- Student misconduct will constitute sufficient reason for suspending transportation privileges.
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES FOR BUS INCIDENTS
Principals are responsible for correcting students whose abusive behavior results in a bus- incident report or violates the rules above. The principal shall provide supervision during bus arrival and departure times and receive reports (written and oral) from the drivers. The principal will ensure that students comply with the specified regulations. Principals must maintain open lines of communication among school officials, bus drivers and the transportation department.
When waiting for a bus, or going to and from a bus stop, students must not abuse or cause damage to private or public property; they must not use obscene language or gestures; they must not engage in criminal activity. Failure to adhere to these standards may result in formal complaints by citizens which may be forwarded to principals for possible corrective action.
Students provided with transportation are responsible for complying with the district's rules of conduct for students riding buses. Failure to adhere to these rules, or abusive behavior towards the public, driver, fellow passengers or the vehicle constitutes justification for initiating corrective action against a student.
Abusive behavior on the part of a student riding a bus may result in a written report when, in the opinion of the driver or transportation director, there has been an infraction of the rules applicable to student conduct. The written report is the primary means by which a driver or transportation director communicates a student's conduct to the school and transportation department. This report, in most cases, reflects an infraction of rules which is repeated by the student after having received previous oral warnings from the driver or transportation director. In order for drivers and transportation directors to effectively maintain control on their buses, it is expected that action be exercised by principals when receiving such a report.
When a student's conduct constitutes an infraction of the rules, the driver will complete a report on the student describing the incident or damage that occurred. The driver will then submit the report to the transportation office for review. After review, the report will be sent to the school principal.
The principal, upon receiving the report, will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and act according to the procedures set forth in the district’s policies pertaining to corrective action and punishment. When investigating the incident, the primary concern must be with respect to the safe transport of students. Corrective action, if necessary, should be consistent throughout the district as follows:
- Warning: When a student’s misconduct is of a minor nature which does not jeopardize the safety or welfare of other students or the operation of the bus.
- Suspension: When a student’s misconduct is deemed to jeopardize the safety of bus passengers and operation, or when repeated warning notices fail to correct abusive behavior, or when a student incurs damage to the bus.
- Expulsion: When a student's misconduct is of such nature that the safety of the bus operation and / or of the occupants was willfully and seriously threatened (i.e., student assaulting the driver).
The action taken by the principal will be annotated on the report and forwarded to the student's parent for signature. The transportation department will be notified.
Drivers will be advised to file assault and battery charges against students who physically assault them. Under no circumstances will the driver retaliate in kind and physically assault the student as this conduct may subject them to legal action.
The student or parent of a student who has been suspended from receiving transportation entitlements may appeal the principal's decision by submitting a written statement to the superintendent. The superintendent will render a decision after evaluating the issues and facts involved. If the decision is based on issues unrelated to those described in the district's rules of conduct for students riding buses, the decision will require board concurrence before implementation.
- Bus Conduct
- Disciplinary Procedures for Bus Incidents
- Student Conduct
| VIOLATION | DEFINITION |
|---|---|
| Alterations of Records / Forgery |
Falsifying, altering or destroying a school record or any communication between home and school. |
| Arson | Lighting a fire, causing any fire to be started or setting fire to school property. |
|
Assault (RCW 9A.36)
|
Inflicting physical harm, being physically violent, unwanted force, or demonstrating immediate intent to inflict physical harm, including sexual assault. Major injury is when one or more students, school personnel or other persons on school grounds require professional medical attention. |
|
Assault (RCW 9A.36)
|
Inflicting physical harm, being physically violent, unwanted force, or demonstrating immediate intent to inflict physical harm, including sexual assault. Serious Bodily Injury is an incident, specific to students eligible for special education services, that results in a serious bodily injury of another as defined in Section (1365(h)(3) of Title 18, U.S. Code. |
| Bullying, Intimidation |
Intentional, unwanted, aggressive behavior that:
Bullying means any intentional, electronic, written, verbal or physical act, including, but not limited to, one shown to be motivated because of a perception of the victim’s race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, or mental, physical or sensory handicap or other distinguishing characteristics, when the intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical harms a student or damages a student’s property; or has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education; or is so severe, persistent or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school. |
| Burglary | Entry into a building illegally with the intent to commit a crime, especially theft. |
| Dangerous Weapons and Other Unsafe Items; Possession of a Weapon |
Possessing, threatening to use, or using dangerous weapons (or replica weapons). A dangerous weapon means a weapon, device, instrument, material, or substance that can cause serious bodily injury. This includes knives, BB guns, paintball guns, air guns, stun guns or the like that injure a person by electric shock, charge or impulse, martial arts weapons, explosives, incapacitating agents, laser devices, metal knuckles, or any other item which can inflict or threaten substantial harm. Students who possess a weapon or carry, exhibit, display or draw any weapon or any item apparently capable of producing bodily harm in a manner which, under the circumstances, results in the intimidation of another or warrants alarm for the safety of others shall be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion. Principals may pre-authorize use of replica weapons or props, incapable of firing any projectile, in district-approved plays or school activities. |
| Defiance | Behaviors that are unsettling and / or disruptive to a learning environment, including; non-compliance, arguing and being rude and disrespectful. |
| Disrespect | Failure to follow directions or talking back to an adult. Disrespectful behaviors may include walking away, talking back, refusing to identify self properly, rude behavior, spitting and challenging authority. |
| Destruction of Property | Willfully or maliciously defacing, damaging or destroying property belonging to another student, including school property at any time and private property while the student is under the school’s jurisdiction. Examples include writing on walls, mirrors or desks, damaging another’s clothing or property, and graffiti. |
| Disobedience, Failure to Cooperate | Failure to comply with or follow reasonable, lawful directions or requests of teachers or staff. This includes, but is not limited to non-compliance, defiance and disrespect. |
| Disruptive Conduct / Behavior | Behaving in a way that materially or substantially interferes with or is detrimental to the orderly operation of school, school-sponsored events or any other aspect of the educational process. Includes behavior or activities occurring off-campus that cause or threaten to cause a substantial disruption to the educational process on campus or impinge on the rights of the students or staff at school. This may include, but is not limited to:
|
|
Disruptive Conduct II |
Behavioral violation involving actions that materially and substantially interfere with the educational process in violation of district policy. |
| Disruptive Dress |
Student dress and appearance may be regulated when, in the judgment of school administrators, there is a reasonable expectation that:
Material and substantial disruption of the educational process may be found to exist when a student’s conduct is inconsistent with any part of the educational mission of the school district. Prohibited conduct includes the use of lewd, sexual, drug, tobacco or alcohol-related messages, gang or hate group related apparel. Note: Dress Codes exist for each school in the Ephrata School District. |
| Distribution of Drugs / Alcohol and Other Prohibited Chemical Substances |
The distribution of drugs, alcohol and other similar chemical substances on school grounds, at school activities, or on district-provided transportation is prohibited. For purposes of student conduct expectations this applies to:
In all cases, any student found in possession of or distributing substances not allowed by law on school grounds, at school activities or on district-provided transportation, will also be reported to law enforcement by school officials. |
| Drugs / Alcohol and Other Prohibited Chemical Substances Possession or Use |
The possession, consumption, use, storage or distribution of drugs, alcohol and other similar chemical substances on school grounds, at school activities, or on district-provided transportation is prohibited. For purposes of student conduct expectations this applies to:
In all cases, any student found in possession of or distributing substances not allowed by law on school grounds, at school activities or on district-provided transportation, will also be reported to law enforcement by school officials. |
| Endangerment of Others / Self |
Acting in a manner that endangers students, staff or community members. This also includes tampering with a fire extinguisher, falsely setting off a fire alarm or calling 911 for reasons other than the intended purpose of the alarm. Verbal or written indication of a bomb or other incendiary device on school property. Engaging in behavior such that the student’s presence poses an immediate and continuing danger to themselves (including harm to self /suicidal ideation). |
| Extortion, Blackmail, Coercion |
|
| False Allegations |
Reporting a false incident or falsely corroborating misbehavior of others that did not occur, while in school, on district property, transportation or premises provided by contractors or agents of the school district or during school-sponsored activities. |
| False Reporting |
Reporting a false incident or falsely corroborating misbehavior of self / others that did not occur or withholding information of a dangerous nature while in school, on district property, district provided transportation or during school-sponsored activities. |
| Fighting |
Engaging in or provoking a physical altercation. This includes instigating a fight, arranging, or contributing to the likelihood of a fight developing, including recording and / or distributing images of the fight. |
| Gang / Hate Group Activity |
For school discipline purposes, gang / hate group conduct includes:
Gang imagery and symbols include, but are not limited to:
|
| Harassment, Intimidation and / or Bullying | Conduct or communication is harassing, intimidating or bullying when it is:
|
| Hazing |
Participating in or failing to report known activity that demeans or abuses any student or members or potential members of a team or club. |
| Inappropriate Displays of Affection |
Inappropriate physical contact, such as holding hands, kissing, inappropriate touching and indecent exposure. |
| Inappropriate Language |
Cursing, cussing, swearing, bad language, foul language, obscenities, expletives or vulgarism. Socially offensive use of language deemed impolite, rude, indecent or culturally offensive. |
| Illegal Acts |
An illegal or criminal act that either results or could foreseeably result in injury or damage to self, others or property. |
| Illicit Drug Distribution |
The distribution of drugs, alcohol and other similar chemical substances on school grounds, at school activities, or on district-provided transportation is prohibited. For purposes of student conduct expectations this applies to:
In all cases, any student found in possession of or distributing substances not allowed by law on school grounds, at school activities or on district-provided transportation, will also be reported to law enforcement by school officials. |
| Inhaling Toxic Fumes RCW 9.47A.010 |
Intentionally smelling / inhaling or possessing for the purpose of smelling / inhaling, selling, offering to sell, delivering or giving with knowledge that it will be used for smelling or inhaling, the fumes of any type of substance defined in RCW 9.47A.010 or to induce any other person to do so, for the purpose of causing a condition of, or inducing systems of intoxication, elation, euphoria, dizziness, excitement, irrational behavior, exhilaration, paralysis, stupefaction or dulling of the senses of the nervous system, or for the purpose of, in any manner, changing, distorting, or disturbing the audio, visual or mental processes. |
| Interfering with School Authorities or a School Investigation |
Misrepresenting, lying, concealing evidence / information, verbally or physically impeding or interrupting an investigatory process involving self or others or otherwise hindering an investigation of an infraction or crime on campus, at a school sponsored event or in school provided transportation. |
| Lewd and / or Obscene Behavior |
Behavior of a sexual nature including, but not limited to, acts of a sexual nature and possession of or accessing pornographic material while on school grounds, at school activities or on school transportation are prohibited. Prohibited Materials includes digital or electronic text, images or sounds that are possessed, displayed or transmitted while under the supervision of school authorities. Note: For non-consensual sexual misconduct please see the “Assault” category. For use of profanity or obscene gestures, please see “Disruptive Behavior.” |
| Lying |
Intentionally telling or writing untruths. |
| Misrepresentation |
Falsely reporting ID or failing to provide ID when requested. |
| Other I |
Behavioral violation not amounting to a Type Two behavioral violation. |
| Other II |
Behavioral violation not amounting to a Type Three behavioral violation. |
| Other III |
Behavioral violation not amounting to a Type Four behavioral violation. |
| Physical Aggression |
The intention of harming others using physical and verbal threats or harming others physically using physical force. Examples include hitting, kicking, biting, using weapons and breaking possessions. |
| Physical Contact |
Any unwanted or unwelcome touch that makes the recipient feel uncomfortable. |
| Plagiarism / Academic Dishonesty |
All forms of cheating, fabrication and using others work as their own, including the unauthorized use of electronic devices, the use of unauthorized material or unauthorized communication of any kind during testing and the aiding and abetting of academic dishonesty of others. |
| Prohibited or Misuses of District Network and Digital Resources |
Using the district network for commercial, political, illegal, indecent, disruptive or personal entertainment use. Any attempt to defeat or bypass the district's internet filter or conceal internet activities is strictly prohibited. Action constituting harassment, intimidation or bullying, including, cyberbullying, hate mail, defamation, discriminatory jokes and remarks is also strictly prohibited. |
| Safety I |
Behavioral violations that meet the definition of “Behavior that adversely impacts the health or safety of other students or educational staff” but cannot be categorized under any Type Four behavioral violations. |
| Safety II |
Behavioral violations that meet the definition of “Behavior that adversely impacts the health or safety of other students or educational staff” under RCW 28A.600.015(6.d) and meets the criteria for administering expulsion under WAC 392-400-445(2) but does not constitute a Type Five behavioral violation. |
| Sexual Harassment Title IX |
Conduct or communication intended to be sexual in nature that is unwelcome by the targeted person(s) and has the potential to deny or limit another student(s) ability to participate in, or benefit, from a school’s education program. Harassing conduct includes repeated offensive sexual flirtations, advances or propositions, continued or repeated verbal abuse of a sexual nature, graphic or degrading verbal comments about an individual or about their appearance, or any offensive or abusive physical contact including, offensive jokes, innuendoes, compliments, cartoons, pranks and / or other verbal, visual, electronic communications (e.g. sexting) or physical conduct, including stalking. Conduct is gender-based when it would not occur but for the sex of the person to whom it is directed (i.e.) unwanted touching or grabbing of sexual parts, indecent exposure or other inappropriate sexual conduct. |
| Theft / Robbery / Possession of Stolen Property |
Possession of another person’s or the district’s property, regardless of value, without permission and with the intent to deprive the owner of such property. As part of the sanction, restitution will usually be required. Note: Under RCW 28A.635.060 (1), the school district may withhold the grades, diploma and transcripts of a pupil responsible for intentional damage or loss to the property of the district, a contractor of the district, an employee or another student until the pupil or the pupil’s parent or guardian has paid for the damages. If a student has been suspended or expelled, the student may not be readmitted until the student or parents or legal guardian has made payment in full, or until the superintendent directs otherwise. If the property damaged is a school bus owned and operated by the district, a student suspended for the damage may not be permitted to enter or ride any school bus until the student or parent or legal guardian has made payment in full or until directed otherwise by the superintendent. When the pupil and parent or guardian are unable to pay for the damages, the school district will provide a program of voluntary work for the pupil in lieu of the payment of monetary damages. Upon completion of the voluntary work the grades, diploma and transcripts of the pupil shall be released. The parent or guardian of the pupil is liable for damages as otherwise provided by Washington state law. |
| Threats | Expressing by words or actions intent to inflict mental or physical harm. This includes intimidating verbally, by use of hand signs, in writing or on a computer or other electronic device. A threat may:
|
| Tobacco / Nicotine / Vaping Products - Use or Possession |
Possessing, using or distributing any tobacco product, chemicals or any product that has a similar flavor or physical effect of nicotine substance is prohibited. Using vaping devices or smoking illegal substances is not allowed. |
| Trespass |
Entering or remaining unlawfully in school buildings or any part of school or district property without authorization. |
| Unauthorized Use of Cell Phones / Other Electronic Devices and Equipment |
Using cell phones, personal electronic devices and other equipment (cameras, audio recorders, etc.) during the day without authorization. Photographs, video and audiotapes may not be shared or published without permission. Inappropriate materials or websites may not be accessed or displayed. |
| Unsafe Behavior |
Minor behaviors that create unsafe conditions (for example: running in the hall, climbing on prohibited structures, engaging in mutual rough play, light pushing / shoving). |
| Weapons |
Possession or use of actual weapons in violation of Policy 4210, including firearms, dangerous weapons and other items listed with the policy. This includes when a student acts with malice as defined under RCW 9A.04.110 and displays a device that appears to be a firearm. Any Ephrata School District student who is determined to have carried a firearm or to have possessed a firearm on school premises, school-provided transportation or school sponsored activities at any facility shall be expelled from school for not less than one year (12 months) under RCW 28A.600.420, with notification to parents and law enforcement. The district superintendent or the superintendent’s designee is authorized to modify the expulsion of a student on a case- by-case basis. The school district may also suspend or expel a student for up to one year if the student acts with malice as defined under RCW 9A.04.110 and displays a device that appears to be a firearm. Expulsion may result based upon the administrator's judgment of the seriousness of the act or circumstances surrounding the act, and / or the previous record of the student. |
| Willful Disobedience / Failure to Cooperate | Failure to comply with or follow reasonable, lawful directions or requests of teachers or staff. This includes, but is not limited to, non-compliance, defiance, disrespect and occupying unauthorized areas of the school or other district property. |
NOTE
| Reasonable Self-Defense | It is expected that a student must remove themselves from any threat of harm and / or contact an adult staff member for assistance before engaging in any type of physical response to an assault. However, an administrator may decide not to subject a student to discipline if, following a reasonable investigation, the administrator determines that all of the following are true:
|
- Behavioral Violations & Definitions
- Student Conduct
Personal privacy is a fundamental aspect of individual liberty. All students possess the constitutional right to be secure in their persons, papers and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Staff shall take particular care to respect students' privacy. School officials have authority to maintain order and discipline in the schools and to protect students from exposure to illegal drugs, weapons, and contraband. The superintendent, the principal and other staff designated by the superintendent will have the authority to conduct reasonable searches on school property in accordance with the law. Policy #3230
- Student Conduct
- Student Searches
Policy #3241 and Procedure #3241
The purpose of this student discipline procedure is to implement the district’s student discipline policy as adopted by the Board. These procedures are consistent with the Board’s student discipline policy, as well as applicable federal and state laws.
DISCIPLINE & CONFIDENTIALITY
Federal law prohibits schools from disclosing personally identifiable information from a student’s education record that would be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. This includes revealing any information about student discipline. While we understand at times a parent may want to know if and how another student was reprimanded for an incident, please be aware information from student records shall be disclosed only in accordance with the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, 20 USC 1232g and adopted School Policy 4020.
DEFINITIONS
Behavioral violation means a student’s behavior that violates the district's discipline policies.
Best practices and strategies refers to other forms of discipline that the district identified that school personnel should administer to support students in meeting behavioral expectations.
Classroom exclusion means the exclusion of a student from a classroom or instructional or activity area for behavioral violations, subject to the requirements in WAC 392-400-330 and 392-400-335. Classroom exclusion does not include actions that result in missed instruction for a brief duration when:
- A teacher or other school personnel attempts other forms of discipline to support the student in meeting behavioral expectations; and
- The student remains under the supervision of the teacher or other school personnel during such brief duration.
Discipline means any action taken by a school district in response to behavioral violations.
Disruption of the Educational Process means the interruption of classwork, the creation of disorder, or the invasion of the rights of a student or group of students.
Emergency Expulsion means the removal of a student from school because the student’s statements or behavior pose an immediate and continuing danger to other students or school personnel, or an immediate and continuing threat of material and substantial disruption of the educational process, subject ot the requirements of WAC 392-400-510 through 392-400-530. An emergency expulsion must end or be converted to another form of corrective action within a 10-day period.
Expulsion means a denial of admission to the student’s current school placement in response to a behavioral violation, subject to the requirements in WAC 392-400-430 through 392-400-480.
Other Forms of Discipline means actions used in response to problem behaviors and behavioral violations, other than classroom exclusion, suspension, expulsion, or emergency expulsion, which may involve the use of best practices and strategies included in the state menu for behavior developed under RCW 28A.165.035.
Suspension means the denial of attendance in response to a behavioral violation from any subject or class, or from any full schedule of subjects or classes, but not including classroom exclusions, expulsions or emergency expulsion. Suspension may also include denial of admission to or entry upon, real and personal property that is owned, leased, rented or controlled by the district.
- In-school suspension: A suspension in which a student is excluded from the student’s regular educational setting but remains in the student’s current school placement for up to 10 consecutive school days, subject to the requirements in WAC 392-400-430 through 392-400-475.
- Short-term suspension: A suspension in which a student is excluded from school for up to 10 consecutive school days, subject to the requirements in WAC 392-400-430 through 392-400-475.
- Long-term suspension: A suspension in which a student is excluded from school for more than 10 consecutive school days, subject to the requirements in WAC 392-400-430 through 392-400-475.
BEHAVIOR VIOLATIONS
Having sought the participation of school personnel, students, parents, families and the community, the Ephrata School District has developed definitions for the following behavior violations, which clearly state the types of behaviors for which discipline - including other forms of discipline, classroom exclusion, suspension and expulsion - may be administered.
The district will continue to further develop and / or revise the definitions for what constitutes behavioral violations to reduce the effect of implicit or unconscious bias. In addition to these district definitions, school principals will confer with certified building employees at least annually to develop and / or review building discipline standards as stated in the Board Policy. This development of building standards will also address the differences in perceptions of subjective behaviors and reduce the effect of implicit or unconscious bias.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
Any parent / guardian or student who is aggrieved by the administration of classroom exclusion and / or other forms of discipline, including discipline that excludes a student from transportation or extracurricular activities and detention, has the right to an informal conference with the principal for resolving the grievance. If the grievance pertains to the action of an employee, the district will notify that employee of the grievance as soon as reasonably possible.
At such conference, the student and parent will have the opportunity to voice issues and concerns related to the grievance and ask questions of staff members involved in the grievance matter. Staff members will have the opportunity to respond to the issues and questions related to the grievance matter. Additionally, the principal will have the opportunity to address issues and questions raised and to ask questions of the parent, student and staff members.
If, after exhausting this remedy the grievance is not yet resolved, the parent and student will have the right, upon two (2) school business days prior notice, to present a written and / or oral grievance to the Superintendent or designee. The Superintendent or designee will provide the parent and student with a written copy of its response to the grievance within ten (10) school business days. Use of the grievance process will not impede or postpone the disciplinary action, unless the principal or Superintendent elects to postpone the disciplinary action.
- Discipline & Confidentiality
- Due Process
- Re-Admission Application Process
- Re-Engagement Meeting
- Student Conduct
- Student Discipline & Definitions
Students are entitled to the rights of all people as set forth in the Constitution and laws of the United States; the Constitution and laws of the State of Washington; the law regarding equal education opportunity; First Amendment rights to freedom of press, speech, peaceable assembly and petition; and the right to be secure in their pursuit of an education while in the custody of the District. These rights are subject to the District’s authority to make reasonable rules and regulations to maintain the educational process.
- Student Rights & Responsibilities
Policy 3207 and Procedure 3207
Our Schools Protect Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)
Schools are meant to be safe and inclusive environments where all students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities. This section defines HIB, explains what to do when you see or experience it, and our school’s process for responding to it.
What is HIB?
HIB is any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act of a student that:
• Physically harms another student or damages their property;
• Has the effect of greatly interfering with another student’s education; or,
• Is so severe, persistent, or significant that it creates an intimidating or threatening education environment for other students.
HIB generally involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated. HIB is not allowed, by law, in our schools.
How can I make a report or complaint about HIB?
Talk to any school staff member (consider starting with whoever you are most comfortable with!). You may use our district’s reporting form to share concerns about HIB but reports about HIB can be made in writing or verbally. Your report can be made anonymously, if you are uncomfortable revealing your identity, or confidentially if you prefer it not be shared with other students involved with the report. No disciplinary action will be taken against another student based solely on an anonymous or confidential report..
If a staff member is notified of, observes, overhears, or otherwise witnesses HIB, they must take prompt and appropriate action to stop the HIB behavior and to prevent it from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer (Aaron Cummings, Assistant Superintendent (509) 754-2474) that supports prevention and response to HIB.
What happens after I make a report about HIB?
If you report HIB, school staff must attempt to resolve the concerns. If the concerns are resolved, then no further action may be necessary. However, if you feel that you or someone you know is the victim of unresolved, severe, or persistent HIB that requires further investigation and action, then you should request an official HIB investigation.
Also, the school must take actions to ensure that those who report HIB don’t experience retaliation.
What is the investigation process?
When you report a complaint, the HIB Compliance Officer or staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved with the complaint and must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 5 school days, unless you agree on a different timeline. If your complaint involves circumstances that require a longer investigation, the district will notify you with the anticipated date for their response.
When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must provide you with the outcomes of the investigation within 2 school days. This response should include:
• A summary of the results of the investigation
• A determination of whether the HIB is substantiated
• Any corrective measures or remedies needed
• Clear information about how you can appeal the decision
What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?
For the student designated as the “targeted student” in a complaint:
If you do not agree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal the decision and include any additional information regarding the complaint to the superintendent, or the person assigned to lead the appeal, and then to the school board.
For the student designated as the “aggressor” in a complaint:
A student found to be an “aggressor” in a HIB complaint may not appeal the decision of a HIB investigation. They can, however, appeal corrective actions that result from the findings of the HIB investigation.
For more information about the HIB complaint process, including important timelines, please see the district’s HIB Policy [3207] and Procedure [3207P].
Our School Stands Against Discrimination
Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because they are part of a protected class, including their race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, creed, disability, use of a service animal, or veteran or military status.
What is discriminatory harassment?
Discriminatory harassment can include teasing and name-calling; graphic and written statements; or other conduct that may be physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Discriminatory harassment happens when the conduct is based on a student’s protected class and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when conduct is so severe, pervasive, or persistent that it limits a student’s ability to participate in, or benefit from, the school’s services, activities, or opportunities.
To review the district’s Nondiscrimination Policy [3210] and Procedure [3210P].
What is sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct or communication that is sexual in nature and substantially interferes with a student's educational performance or creates an intimidating or hostile environment. Sexual harassment can also occur when a student is led to believe they must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or communication to gain something in return, such as a grade or a place on a sports team.
Examples of sexual harassment can include pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors; unwelcome touching of a sexual nature; graphic or written statements of a sexual nature; distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures; making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks; and physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.
Our schools do not discriminate based on sex and prohibit sex discrimination in all of our education programs and employment, as required by Title IX and state law.
To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy [3205] and Procedure [3205P].
What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?
When a school becomes aware of possible discriminatory or sexual harassment, it must investigate and stop the harassment. The school must address any effects the harassment had on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and make sure that the harassment does not happen again.
What can I do if I’m concerned about discrimination or harassment?
Talk to a Coordinator or submit a written complaint. You may contact the following school district staff members to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns.
Concerns about discrimination:
Civil Rights Coordinator: Sharon Scellick | 111 4th Ave. NW Ephrata WA 98823 | (509) 754-5881
Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment:
Title IX Coordinator: Aaron Cummings | 111 4th Ave. NW Ephrata WA 98823 | (509) 754-2474
Concerns about disability discrimination:
Section 504 Coordinator: Jamie Bessette | 111 4th Ave. NW Ephrata WA 98823 | (509) 754-3538
Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity:
Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Aaron Cummings | 111 4th Ave. NW Ephrata WA 98823 | (509) 754-2474
To submit a written complaint, describe the conduct or incident that may be discriminatory and send it by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery to the school principal, district superintendent or civil rights coordinator. Submit the complaint as soon as possible for a prompt investigation, and within one year of the conduct or incident.
What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?
The Civil Rights Coordinator will give you a copy of the school district’s discrimination complaint procedure. The Civil Rights Coordinator must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that require a longer investigation, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing with the anticipated date for their response.
When the investigation is complete, the school district superintendent or the staff member leading the investigation will send you a written response. This response will include:
• A summary of the results of the investigation
• A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws
• Any corrective measures or remedies needed
• Notice about how you can appeal the decision
What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?
If you do not agree with the outcome of your complaint, you may appeal the decision to the School Board and then to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). More information about this process, including important timelines, is included in the district’s Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and Sexual Harassment Procedure (3205P).
I already submitted an HIB complaint – what will my school do?
Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) can also be discrimination if it's related to a protected class. If you give your school a written report of HIB that involves discrimination or sexual harassment, your school will notify the Civil Rights Coordinator. The school district will investigate the complaint using both the Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and the HIB Procedure (3207P) to fully resolve your complaint.
Who else can help with HIB or Discrimination Concerns?
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)
All reports must start locally at the school or district level. However, OSPI can assist students, families, communities, and school staff with questions about state law, the HIB complaint process, and the discrimination and sexual harassment complaint processes.
OSPI School Safety Center (For questions about harassment, intimidation, and bullying)
• Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/health-safety/school-safety-center
• Email: schoolsafety@k12.wa.us
• Phone: (360) 725-6068
OSPI Equity and Civil Rights Office (For questions about discrimination and sexual harassment)
• Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/policy-funding/equity-and-civil-rights
• Email: equity@k12.wa.us
• Phone: (360) 725-6162
Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO)
The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds works with families, communities, and schools to address problems together so every student can fully participate and thrive in Washington’s K-12 public schools. OEO provides informal conflict resolution tools, coaching, facilitation, and training about family, community engagement, and systems advocacy.
• Website: www.oeo.wa.gov
• Email: oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov
• Phone: (866) 297-2597
U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces federal nondiscrimination laws in public schools, including those that prohibit discrimination based on sex, race, color, national origin, disability, and age. OCR also has a discrimination complaint process.
• Website: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html
• Email: orc@ed.gov
• Phone: (800) 421-3481
Our School is Gender-Inclusive
In Washington, all students have the right to be treated consistent with their gender identity at school. Our school will:
- Address students by their requested name and pronouns, with or without a legal name change
- Change a student’s gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records
- Allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity
- Allow students to participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips in accordance with their gender identity
- Keep health and education information confidential and private
- Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and apply dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender
- Protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity
To review the district’s Gender-Inclusive Schools Policy [3211] and Procedure [3211P]. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator:
Aaron Cummings | 111 4th Ave. NW Ephrata WA 98823 | (509) 754-2474
For concerns about discrimination or discriminatory harassment based on gender identity or gender expression, please see the information above.
- Harassment, Intimidation & Bullying
- Student Conduct