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below to see all Series 4000 policies.4000 - Public information Program
Policy: 4000
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Public Information Program
The district will strive to maintain effective two-way communication channels with the public. Such channels will enable the board and staff to interpret the school’s performance and needs to the community and provide a means for citizens to express their needs and expectations to the board and staff.
The superintendent will establish and maintain a communication process within the school system and between it and the community. Such a public information program will provide for a district annual report, news releases at appropriate times, news media coverage of district programs and events, and regular direct communication between individual schools and the community members they serve. The public information program will also assist staff in improving their skill and understanding in communicating with the public.
Community opinion may be solicited through parent organizations, parent-teacher conferences, open houses and other such events or activities which may bring staff and citizens together. At times, board meetings may be scheduled at neighborhood schools. Survey instruments and/or questionnaires may be developed in order to gain a broad perspective of community opinion.
The board is a nonpartisan public body and as such will not endorse political candidates. Neither staff nor students will be asked to disseminate campaign materials from the schools nor will any of the district's facilities or communications services be used to disseminate such material.
The superintendent will identify staff who have significant public information responsibilities and establish guidelines for their work. The guidelines will address such matters as authority for making releases and the nature and content of bulletins to parents.
Staff Communications with the Public
Staff share the responsibility for communicating and interpreting the district mission, its policies, programs, goals and objectives to members of the community. Staff will perform their services and functions to the best of their ability and communicate with members of the community, parents, students and other staff in a sincere, courteous and considerate manner. Staff will strive to develop and maintain cooperative school-community relations and to achieve the understanding and mutual respect that are essential to the success of the district.
Confidential information about students or other staff will be released only as permitted by statute and district policies and procedures.
Collection Of Disciplinary Data
The district will collect data on student disciplinary actions taken in each school, and the information will be available to the public on request. This information may not be personally identifiable, and will not include a student’s name, address or social security number.
District Annual Report
An annual report addressing the activities of the school district and the administration's recommendations for improvement of student learning and district operations will be prepared by the superintendent and presented to the board as soon as possible after the close of each school year. Upon board approval, the report will be made available to the public and used as one means for informing parents and citizens, the state education agency, and other districts in the area, of the programs and conditions of the district's schools. The district is required to ensure awareness of and compliance with certain statutory requirements as specified in Policy 2106 (Program Compliance). When the district is not in compliance, such deviations will be incorporated into the annual report.
| Cross References: |
4020 – Confidential Communications |
|---|---|
| Legal References: |
RCW 28A.150.230 District school directors’ responsibilities |
Adoption Date: 09.27.04
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Priority
Revised Dates: 10.15.15
4020 - Confidential Communications
Policy: 4020
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Confidential Communications
The board recognizes that school staff must exercise a delicate balance regarding the treatment of information that was revealed in confidence. A staff member may, in his/her professional judgment, treat information received from a student as confidential while at other times decide to disclose what was learned to the school administration, law enforcement officers (including child protective services), the county health department, other staff members or the student’s parents. The staff member should advise the student regarding the limitations and restrictions regarding confidentiality. The student should be encouraged to reveal confidences to his/her parents. If the staff member intends to disclose the confidence, the student should be informed prior to such action.
The following guidelines are established to assist staff members in making appropriate decisions regarding confidential information and/or communications:
- Information contained in the student's cumulative record folder is confidential and is only accessible through the custodian of student records. Information secured through the authorization of the record’s custodian will remain confidential and will be used only for the purpose for which access was granted.
- While certain professionals may have a unique confidential relationship (e.g. attorney-client privileged communications and licensed psychologists), school staff members including counselors do not possess a confidentiality privilege.
- A staff member is expected to reveal information given by a student when there is a reasonable likelihood that a crime has or will be committed, (e.g., child abuse, sale of drugs, suicidal ideation).
- A staff member will exercise professional judgment regarding the sharing of student disclosed information when there is reasonable likelihood that the student's welfare may be endangered.
- If district officials determine there is a specific threat to the health or safety of a student or any other individual, it may disclose otherwise confidential student information to appropriate parties, as allowed by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
- A staff member is encouraged to assist the student by offering suggestions regarding the availability of community services to assist a student in dealing with personal matters, (e.g. substance abuse, mental illness, sexually-transmitted diseases, pregnancy). The staff member should encourage the student to discuss such matters with his/her parents. Staff members are encouraged to discuss problems of this nature with the school principal prior to making contact with others.
| Cross References: |
5260 - Personnel Records |
|---|---|
| Legal References: | RCW 26.44.030(12) Reports — Duty and authority to make — Duty of receiving agency — Duty to notify — Case planning and consultation — Penalty for unauthorized exchange of information — Filing dependency petitions — Investigations — Interviews of children — Records — Risk assessment process (Updates take effect December 1, 2013) |
Adoption Date: 11.9.15
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Priority
Revised Dates:
4040 - Public Access to District Records
Policy: 4040
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Public Access to District Records
Consistent with Washington State law, the Board is committed to providing the public full access to records concerning the administration and operations of the District. Such access promotes important public policy, maintains public confidence in the fairness of governmental processes, and protects the community’s interest in the control and operation of its common school district. At the same time, the Board desires to preserve the efficient administration of government and acknowledges the privacy rights of individuals whose records may be maintained by the District. This policy and the accompanying procedure are intended to facilitate access to school district records without compromising operational efficiency or privacy rights.
As used in this policy and the accompanying procedure, “school district records” is a broad term that includes any writing containing information relating to the conduct of the District or the performance of any District governmental or proprietary function prepared, owned, used or retained by the District regardless of physical form or characteristics. A “writing” as used in this policy and procedure is likewise a broad term that means any handwriting, typewriting, printing, photocopying, photographing, or any other means of recording any form of communication or representation. “School district records” do not include the personal notes and memoranda of staff. These remain in the sole possession of the maker and are not generally accessible or revealed to other persons.
The Superintendent or his/her designee shall serve as the “public records coordinator” with responsibility and authority for ensuring compliance with the display, indexing, availability, inspection, and copying requirements of state law and this policy. As coordinator he/she shall authorize the inspection and copying of the district’s records only in accordance with the criteria set forth in this policy.
Because of the tremendous volume and diversity of records continuously generated by a public school district, the Board has declared by formal resolution that trying to maintain a current index of all of the District’s records would be impracticable, unduly burdensome, and ultimately interfere with the operational work of the District.
The Superintendent will develop—and the Board will periodically review—procedures consistent with state law that will facilitate this policy. The Superintendent will also appoint a Public Records Officer who will serve as a point of contact for members of the public who request the disclosure of public records. The Public Records Officer will be trained in the laws and regulations governing the retention and disclosure of records, and shall oversee the District’s compliance with this policy and state law.
| Cross References: | 3231 - Student Records |
|---|---|
| Legal References: |
Chapter 5.60 RCW WITNESSES – COMPETENCY |
| Management Resources: |
2015 – April Policy Issue |
Adoption Date: 05.05.03
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Priority
Revised Dates: 04.27.12; 10.15.15
4040P - Procedures: Public Access to District Records
Policy: 4040P
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Procedure Public Access to School District Records
Purpose of these Procedures and General Principles
These procedures have been established by the Superintendent and published pursuant to Board Policy 4040 and RCW 42.56.040 to explain the process for public access to school district records and to provide guidance in how the District will respond to such requests.
School district records relating to the conduct of operations and functions of the District that have been prepared, owned, used, or retained by the District in any format are, in fact, public records to which members of the public may request access consistent with this procedure.
When processing such requests, the District will provide the fullest assistance to the requestor and provide a response in the most timely manner possible.
District Public Records Officer
Public Records Officer
For the most timely and efficient response, requests for school district records should be directed in writing to the Public Records Officer listed below, whose responsibilities include serving as a point of contact for members of the public in this process and overseeing the District’s compliance with the Washington Public Records Act, Chapter 42.56 RCW, and Policy 4040.
The current Public Records Officer of the District may be reached at the District’s Central Administrative Building as follows:
Superintendent
1105 Dale Ave.
Benton City, WA 99320
Phone: 509-588-2000
Fax: 509-588-5580
Information regarding contacting the Public Records Officer is also available at the District website at www.kibesd.org.
Public Records Officer Training
Consistent with state law, the Public Records Officer shall complete trainings related to the Washington Public Records Act and public records retention no later than ninety (90) days after assuming the responsibilities of the Public Records Officer. After the initial training(s), the Public Records Officer must complete refresher training at intervals of no more than four years as long as he or she remains the District’s Public Records Officer.
Availability of Public Records
Hours for Inspection
Public records are available for inspection and copying during normal business hours of the District, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., during the school year, and 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., on days school is not in session, excluding legal holidays. Records must be inspected at the offices of the District.
Organization of Records
The District will maintain its records in a reasonable, organized manner and take reasonable actions to protect records from damage and disorganization. A requestor shall not take District records from District offices without the permission of the Public Records Officer or designee. During the inspection of records, a District employee will typically be present to protect records from damage or disorganization.
Information Online
A variety of records and information are available on the District website. Requestors are encouraged to view the documents available on the website prior to submitting a records request.
Making a Request for Public Records
Request to Public Records Officer
Any person wishing to inspect or copy public records of the District shall make the request in writing by letter, fax, or email addressed to the Public Records Officer and including the following information:
- Name, address, telephone number, and email address of requestor;
- Identification of the public records adequate for the Public Records Officer or designee to locate the records; and
- The date the request is submitted to the District.
The District’s Public Records Request Form is available for use by requestors at the District’s central office and online.
Identifiable Records
A request under the Washington Public Records Act, Chapter 42.56 RCW and District Policy 4040 must seek an identifiable record. General requests for information from the District that do not seek identifiable records are not covered by Policy 4040. Similarly, the District is not obligated by law to create a new record to satisfy a records request for information. The District may choose to create a record depending on the nature of the request and the convenience of providing the information in a new document, such as when data from multiple locations is requested and can be more easily combined into a single new record.
Copies of Records
If the requestor wishes to have copies of the records made instead of inspecting them, he or she shall make this clear in the request and make arrangements to pay for copies of the records or a deposit.
Requests Not in Writing
The Public Records Officer or designee may accept informal requests for public records by telephone or in person. To avoid any confusion or misunderstanding, however, requestors should be mindful that a request reduced to writing is always the preferred method. If the Public Records Officer or designee receives a request by telephone or in person, the Public Records Officer will confirm his or her understanding of the request with the requestor in writing.
Processing of Public Records Requests
Order of Processing Requests
The District will typically process requests in the order received. However, requests may also be processed out of order if doing so allows the most requests to be processed in the most efficient manner.
Central Review
Records requests not made to the Public Records Officer of the District will be forwarded by building level administrators, program administrators, or other staff receiving the request to the Public Records Officer for processing.
Five-Day Response
Within five (5) business days of receipt of a request, the Public Records Officer will do one or more of the following:
- Provide copies of the record(s) requested or make the record available for inspection—or, in the alternative, provide an internet address and link to the District’s website where the specific record can be accessed (provided that the requestor has not notified the District that he or she cannot access the records through the internet) ; or
- Acknowledge that the District has received the request and provide a reasonable estimate of the time it will require to fully respond; or
- Seek clarification of the request; or
- Deny the request (although no request will be denied solely on the basis that the request is overbroad).
In unusual circumstances, the District may also seek a court order enjoining disclosure pursuant to law.
If the District does not respond in writing within five business days of receipt of the request for disclosure, the requestor should contact the Public Records Officer to determine the reason for the failure to respond.
Purpose of Request
The District may inquire into the purpose for which a record is requested and may use the answer to aid in gathering responsive records and determining whether the public has a legitimate interest in obtaining the information. However, a requester is not required to provide a purpose and the District may not decline to furnish the records solely because the requester refuses to furnish a purpose for the request.
Protecting Rights of Others
In the event that the requested records contain information that may affect rights of others and may be arguably exempt from disclosure, the Public Records Officer may, prior to providing the records, give notice to such others. The notice may make it possible for the others to contact the requestor and ask him or her to revise the request, or, if necessary, seek a court order to prevent or limit the disclosure. The notice to the affected persons may also include a copy of the request.
Records Exempt from Disclosure
Some records are exempt from disclosure, in whole or in part, under a specific exemption contained in chapter 42.56 RCW or another statute which exempts or prohibits disclosure of specific information or records.
If the District believes that a record is exempt from disclosure and should be withheld, the Public Records Officer will state in writing the specific exemption (and statutory section) which applies and provide a brief explanation of how the exemption applies to the record being withheld or redacted. This exemption and explanation will be provided to the requestor in a withholding index or log.
If only a portion of a record is exempt from disclosure, but the remainder is not exempt, the Public Records Officer will redact the exempt portions, provide the nonexempt portions, and indicate to the requestor why portions of the record are being redacted in the withholding index or log.
List of Laws Exempting or Prohibiting Disclosure
Pursuant to RCW 42.56.070 (2), these rules contain a list of laws—other than those specifically listed in the Washington Public Records Act, Chapter 42.56 RCW—which may exempt disclosure of certain public records or portions of records. The District has identified the following laws:
- The Family Educational and Privacy Rights Act (FERPA), 20 USC § 1232g (regarding student educational records);
- Washington State Student Education Records Law, RCW 28A.605.030;
- The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 20 U.S.C. § 1400 et. seq. and 34 C.F.R. Part 300 (protecting the confidentiality of personally identifying information contained in student records of students with disabilities).
- Privileged communications and attorney work product, such as set forth in Chapter 5.60 RCW;
- Information on students receiving free or reduced lunch, 42 USC § 1758(b)(6);
- Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA), 45 CFR parts 160-164 (regarding health care information privacy and security);
- Abuse of Children – Protection and Procedure, RCW 26.44.010; RCW 26.44.030(9);
- Notification of Juvenile Offenders, RCW 13.04.155(3);
- Examination Questions, RCW 28A.635.040;
- Public Law 98-24, Section 527 of the Public Health Services Act, 41 USC § 290dd-2 (confidentiality of alcohol and drug abuse patient records);
- United States and Washington Constitutional provisions including, but not limited to, the right of privacy and freedom of association.
In addition to these exemptions, RCW 42.56.070 (9) prohibits providing access to lists of individuals requested for commercial purposes, and the District may not do so unless specifically authorized or directed by law.
The above list is for informational purposes only and is not intended to cover all possible exemptions from the public records law. The above list includes only exemptions which may be in addition to those set forth in Chapter 42.56 RCW. Under appropriate circumstances, the District may rely upon other legal exemptions which are not set forth above or contained within the public disclosure law.
Inspection of Records
Consistent with other demands, and without unreasonably disrupting District operations, the District shall promptly provide for the inspection of nonexempt public records. No member of the public may remove a document from the viewing area without the permission of the Public Records Officer, nor may he or she disassemble or alter any document. The requestor shall indicate which documents he or she wishes the District to copy. There is no cost to inspect District records.
Providing Copies of Records
After inspection is complete, the Public Records Officer or designee shall make the requested copies or arrange for copying. The cost for copies is __ cents per page for copies that exceed twenty-five (25) pages. Payment may be made by cash, check, or money order payable to the District.
The District may also charge actual costs of mailing, including the cost of the shipping container.
Before beginning to make the copies, the Public Records Officer or designee may require a deposit of up to ten percent of the estimated costs of copying all the records selected by the requestor. The Public Records Officer or designee may also require the payment of the remainder of the copying costs before providing all the records, or the payment of the costs of copying an installment before providing that installment.
Providing Records in Installments
When the request is for a large number of records, the Public Records Officer or designee has the right to provide access for inspection and copying in installments. If, within thirty (30) days, the requestor fails to inspect the entire set of records or one or more of the installments, the Public Records Officer or designee may stop searching for the remaining records and close the request and discussed further below.
Completion of Inspection
When the inspection of the requested records is complete and all requested copies are provided, the Public Records Officer or designee will indicate that the District has completed a diligent search for the requested records and made any located nonexempt records available for inspection.
Closing Withdrawn or Abandoned Request
The requestor must claim or review the assembled records within thirty (30) days of the District's notification to him or her that the records are available for inspection or copying. The District should notify the requestor in writing of this requirement and inform the requestor that he or she should contact the District to make arrangements to claim or review the records. If the requestor or a representative of the requestor fails to claim or review the records within the thirty-day period or make other arrangements, the District may close the request and refile the assembled records.
When the requestor either withdraws the request or fails to fulfill his or her obligations to inspect the records or pay the deposit or final payment for the requested copies, the Public Records Officer will close the request and indicate to the requestor that the District has closed the request.
Later Discovered Documents
If, after the District has informed the requestor that it has provided all available records, the District becomes aware of additional responsive documents existing at the time of the request, it will promptly inform the requestor of the additional documents and provide them on an expedited basis.
Processing of Public Records Requests for Electronic Records
Requesting Electronic Records
The process for requesting electronic public records is the same as for requesting paper public records. However, to assist the District in responding to a request for electronic records, a requestor should provide specific search terms that will allow the Public Records Officer or designee to locate and assemble identifiable records responsive to the request.
Providing Electronic Records
When a requestor requests records in an electronic format, the Public Records Officer or designee will provide the nonexempt records or portions of such records that are reasonably locatable in an electronic format that is used by the District and is generally commercially available, or in a format that is reasonably translatable from the format in which the District keeps the record.
Cost for Electronic Records
The cost of electronic copies of records shall be $2.50 for information provided by CD or DVD. There will be no charge for smaller requests which can be fulfilled by e-mailing electronic records to a requestor. The Public Records Officer or designee may also require the payment of the costs of the CD or DVD before providing that installment.
The District may also charge actual costs of mailing, including the cost of the shipping container.
Internal Review of Denials of Public Records
Petition for Internal Administrative Review of Denial of Access
Any person who objects to the initial denial or partial denial of a records request may petition in writing (including email) to the Public Records Officer for a review of that decision. The petition shall include a copy of or reasonably identify the written statement by the Public Records Officer or designee denying the request.
Consideration of Petition for Review
The Public Records Officer shall immediately consider the petition and shall either affirm or reverse the denial within two business days following the receipt of the petition, or within such other time as the District and the requestor mutually agree to.
Adoption Date: 08.27.12
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Priority
Revised Dates: 10.15.15
4040A - Form: Request for Disclosure of Public Records
4060 - Distribution of Materials
Policy: 4060
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Distribution of Materials
The board recognizes that nonprofit organizations may want to distribute materials in the school district that are non-curricular but that have social, recreational or educational value for students.
Any nonprofit group wishing to distribute informational material must first submit, to the superintendent or a designee, a copy of the material and a statement of the educational value the program provides to students.
Informational materials to be distributed must also be approved by the building principal and meet certain standards prior to distribution. The primary purpose of the standards is to prevent the exploitation of students by individuals or groups.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the building principals, to draft procedures regarding this policy.
| Cross References: |
3220 - Freedom of Expression2340 - Religious-Related Activities and Practices |
|---|---|
| Management Resources: | Policy News, April 2005 Distribution of Materials |
Adoption Date: 11.9.15
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Discretionary
Revised Dates:
4060P - Distribution of Materials
Policy: 4060P
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Procedure Distribution of Materials
Individuals seeking to distribute information in schools will submit to the superintendent a statement of the recreational or educational value to students.
Dissemination of the information does not reflect the district’s endorsement or sponsorship of the activity. All materials distributed must contain the statement “The district does not sponsor or endorse this event/information and the district assumes no responsibility for it."
The district or the school will not distribute materials that:
- Are obscene, lewd, or vulgar;
- Are libelous;
- Contain language that is intimidating, demeaning, harassing or threatening on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital or veteran status, including, but not limited to, racial, sexual, or ethnic slurs;
- Promote commercial enterprises;
- Promote the violation of existing laws, regulation or ordinances, or official school policy, rules or regulations; or
- Proselytize or disparage religious beliefs.
The Building Principal will review and determine whether the materials are approved for distribution to students. Any further review will be made by the superintendent/designee whose decision is final.
Adoption Date: 11.9.15
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Discretionary
Revised Dates:
4110 - Citizen Advisory Committees and Task Forces
Policy: 4110
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Citizen Advisory Committees and Task Forces
The superintendent and/or board may appoint a citizen advisory committee or task force as necessary to gather public input and/or establish interaction with the community about selected issues. The committee will study district/school topics and submit their findings and recommendations to the superintendent and/or board. This committee will be formed by authorization of the board. Such authorization will include a description of the responsibilities and reporting relationships and will specify the duration of the committee's existence.
Adoption Date: 09.22
Classification: Discretionary
Revised Dates:
4120 - School Support Organizations
Policy: 4120
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
School Support Organizations
The board encourages the formation of a parent-teacher-student association or similar organization at each school building for the purpose of providing an opportunity through which parents, teachers and students may unite their efforts and interests to enhance the school program. In schools where no such organization exists, another parent group can be recognized by the school principal as the official body through which parents, staff and students may unite their efforts for similar purposes.
Booster clubs and/or special interest organizations may be formed to support and strengthen specific activities conducted within the school or district. All such groups must receive the approval of the school principal or superintendent in order to be recognized as a booster organization. Staff participation, cooperation and support are encouraged in such recognized organizations.
| Legal References: | RCW 9.46.0321 Bingo, raffles, amusement games - No license required, when |
|---|---|
| Management Resources: | 2017 - July Issue |
Adoption Date: 09.22
Classification: Discretionary
Revised Dates:
4130 - Title 1 Parental Involvement
Policy: 4130
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Title I Parental Involvement
The board recognizes that parent and family engagement helps students participating in Title I programs achieve academic standards. To promote parent and family engagement, the board adopts the following policy, which describes how the district will involve parents and family members of Title I students in developing and implementing the district’s Title I programs.
District-Wide Parent and Family Engagement
The district will do the following to promote parent and family engagement:
The district will involve parents and family members in jointly developing the district’s Title I plan through means that may include; an annual meeting, giving parents the opportunity to review the plan and inviting comments.
- The district will provide the coordination, technical assistance, and other support necessary to assist and build the capacity of all participating schools within the district in the planning and implementing of effective parent and family involvement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance.
- The district will conduct, with the meaningful involvement of parents and family members, an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness of this policy in improving the academic quality of all Title I schools. At that meeting, the following will be identified:
- Barriers to greater participation by parents in Title I activities;
- The needs of parents and family members to assist with the learning of their children, including engaging with school personnel and teachers; and
- Strategies to support successful school and family interactions.
The district will use the findings from the annual evaluation to design evidence-based strategies for more effective parental involvement and to revise this policy if necessary.
The district will facilitate removing barriers to parental involvement by doing the following: conducting joint parent meetings with other programs and holding meetings at various times of the day.
- The district will involve parents of Title I student in decisions about how the Title I funds reserved for parent and family engagement are spent. The district must use Title I funds reserved for parent and family engagement for at least one of the reasons specified in 20 U.S.C. § 6318(a)(3)(D).
- The district and each of the schools within the district providing Title I services will do the following to support a partnership among schools, parents, and the community to improve student academic achievement:
- Provide assistance to parents of Title I students, as appropriate, in understanding the following topics:
- Washington’s challenging academic standards;
- State and local academic assessments, including alternate assessments;
- The requirements of Title I;
- How to monitor their child’s progress; and
- How to work with educators to improve the achievement of their children
- Provide materials and training to help parents work with their children to improve their children’s academic achievement, such as literacy training and using technology, as appropriate, to foster parental involvement. Examples of possible options include; giving guidance as to how parents can provide assistance at home to support the education of their child, holding parent-student meetings at various times of the day and allowing parents to provide input to help shape program services.
- Educate teachers, specialized instructional support personnel, principals, and other school leaders, and other staff with the assistance of parents, in the value and utility of contributions of parents and how to do the following:
- Reach out, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners;
- Implement and coordinate parent programs; and
- Build ties between parents and the school.
- Coordinate and integrate parent and family engagement strategies, to the extent feasible and appropriate, with similar strategies used under other programs, such as:
- Head Start;
- Even Start;
- Learning Assistance Program;
- Special Education; and
- State-operated preschool programs.
- Ensure that information related to the school and parent programs, meetings, and other activities, is sent to the parents of participating children. The information will be provided in an understandable and uniform format, including alternative formats upon request, and, to the extent practicable, in a language the parents can understand. Kiona-Benton School District provides information through the Title I brochure, district newsletter and on the district website.
School-Based Parent and Family Engagement Policies
Each school offering Title I services will have a separate parent and family engagement policy, which will be developed with parents and family members of Title I students. Parents and family members will receive notice of their school’s parent and family engagement policy in an understandable and uniform format and, to the extent practicable, in a language the parents can understand.
Each school-based policy will describe how each school will do the following:
- Convene an annual meeting at a convenient time, to which all parents of Title I students will be invited and encouraged to attend, to inform parents of their schools’ participation under Title I, to explain the requirements of Title I, and to explain the rights that parents have under Title I;
- Offer a flexible number of meetings, such as meetings in the morning or evening;
- Involve parents, in an organized, ongoing, and timely way in the planning, reviewing, and improving of Title I programs; and
- Provide parents of Title I students the following:
- Timely information about Title I programs
- A description and explanation of the curriculum in use at the school, the forms of academic assessment used to measure student progress, and the achievement levels of the challenging state academic standards; and
- If requested by parents, opportunities for regular meetings to formulate suggestions and to participate, as appropriate, in decisions relating to the education of their children, and respond to any suggestions as soon as practicably possible.
Each school-based policy will include a school-parent compact that outlines how parents, the entire school staff, and students will share the responsibility for improved student academic achievement and the means by which the school and parents will build and develop a partnership to help children achieve state standards. The compact must do the following:
- Describe the school’s responsibility to provide high-quality curriculum and instruction in a supportive and effective learning environment that enables Title I students to meet Washington’s challenging academic standards and describe the ways in which each parent will be responsible for supporting their children’s learning, volunteering in their child’s classroom, and participating, as appropriate, in decisions relating to the education of their children, including the positive use of extracurricular time; and
- Address the importance of communication between teachers and parents on an ongoing basis through the following:
- Annual parent-teacher conferences in elementary schools during which the compact will be discussed as the compact relates to the individual child's achievements;
- Frequent reports to parents on their children's progress;
- Reasonable access to staff, opportunities to volunteer and participate in their child's class, and observation of classroom activities; and
- Ensuring regular two-way, meaningful communication between family members and school staff, and, to the extent practicable, in a language that family members can understand.
| Legal References: | 20 USC 6311 (“Every Student Succeeds Act”) |
|---|---|
| Management Resources: |
Policy News, October 2008 Family Involvement Policy |
Adoption Date: 12.15.03
Classification: Essential
Revised Dates: 11.15; 02.18
4210 - Regulation of Dangerous Weapons on School Premises
Policy: 4210
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Regulation of Dangerous Weapons on School Premises
It is a violation of district policy and state law for any person to carry a firearm or dangerous weapon on school premises, school-provided transportation or areas of other facilities being used exclusively for school activities.
The superintendent is directed to see that all school facilities post “Gun-Free Zone” signs, and that all violations of this policy and RCW 9.41.280 are reported annually to the Superintendent of Public Instruction.
The following persons may carry firearms into school buildings, as necessary, although students engaged in these activities are restricted to the possession of rifles on school premises:
- Persons engaged in military, law enforcement, or school district security activities;
- Persons involved in a school authorized convention, showing, demonstration, lecture or firearm safety course;
- Persons competing in school authorized firearm or air gun competitions; and
- Any federal, state or local law enforcement officer.
The following persons over eighteen years of age and not enrolled as students may have firearms in their possession on school property outside of school buildings:
- Persons with concealed weapons permits issued pursuant to RCW 9.41.070 who are picking up or dropping off students; and
- Persons conducting legitimate business at the school and in lawful possession of a firearm or dangerous weapon if the weapon is secured within an attended vehicle, is unloaded and secured in a vehicle, or is concealed from view in a locked, unattended vehicle.
Persons may bring dangerous weapons, other than firearms, onto school premises if the weapons are lawfully within the person's possession and are to be used in a school-authorized martial arts class.
Persons over eighteen years of age, and persons between fourteen and eighteen years of age with written parental or guardian permission, may possess personal protection spray devices on school property. No one under eighteen years of age may deliver such devices. No one eighteen years or older may deliver a spray device to anyone under fourteen, or to anyone between fourteen and eighteen who does not have parental permission.
Personal protection spray devices may not be used other than in self-defense as defined by state law. Possession, transmission or use of personal protection spray devices under any other circumstances is a violation of district policy.
School officials will promptly notify the student’s parents or guardians and the appropriate law enforcement agency of known or suspected violations of this policy. Students who violate this policy will be subject to discipline, including a one-year expulsion for a violation involving a firearm. However, the superintendent may modify the one-year expulsion on a case-by-case basis.
| Cross References: |
4260 – Use of School Facilities |
|---|---|
| Legal References: |
RCW 9.41.280 Dangerous weapons on facilities – Penalty - Exceptions |
| Management Resources: |
Policy News, August 2006 Weapons on School Premises |
Adoption Date: 01.26.24
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Essential
Revised Dates: 10.15.15
4215 - Tobacco Use on School Property
Policy: 4215
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Use of Tobacco, Nicotine Products and Delivery Devices
The board of directors recognizes that to protect students from exposure to the addictive substance of nicotine, employees and officers of the school district, and all members of the community, have an obligation as role models to refrain from use of tobacco products and delivery devices on school property at all times. Tobacco products and delivery devices include, but are not limited to cigarettes, cigars, snuff, smoking tobacco, smokeless tobacco, nicotine, electronic smoking/vapor devices, "vapor pens," non-prescribed inhalers, nicotine delivery devices or chemicals that are not FDA-approved to help people quit using tobacco, devices that produce the same flavor or physical effect of nicotine substances and any other smoking equipment, device, material or innovation.
Any use of such products and delivery devices by staff, students, visitors and community members will be prohibited on school district property. Possession by or distribution of tobacco products to minors is prohibited. This will include all district buildings, grounds and district-owned vehicles.
The use of Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved nicotine replacement therapy in the form of a nicotine patch, gum or lozenge is permitted. However, students and employees must follow applicable policies regarding use of medication at school.
Notices advising students, district employees and patrons of this policy will be posted in appropriate locations in all district buildings and at other district facilities as determined by the superintendent. and will be included in the employee and student handbooks. Employees and students are subject to discipline for violations of this policy, and school district employees are responsible for the enforcement of the policy.
| Cross References: |
5201 – Drug-Free Schools, Community and Workplace |
|---|---|
| Legal References: |
RCW 28A.210.270 Public and private schools – Administration of medication – Immunity from liability – Discontinuance, procedure. |
| Management Resources: |
2014 – February Issue |
Adoption Date: 05.05.03
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Essential
Revised Dates: 10.15.15
4218 - Language Access Plan
Policy: 4218
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Language Access Plan
The Board of Directors is committed to improving meaningful, two-way communication and promoting access to District programs, services and activities for students and parents with limited English proficiency (LEP) free of charge. To that end, the Board of Directors requires the District to implement and maintain a language access plan tailored to the District’s current LEP parent population.
At a minimum, the District’s language access plan will incorporate the procedures that accompany this policy and address:
Parent Identification
The District will accurately and in a timely manner identify LEP parents and provide them information in a language they can understand regarding the language service resources available within the District.
Oral Interpretation
The District will take reasonable steps to provide LEP parents competent oral interpretation of materials or information about any program, service, and activity provided to non-LEP parents and to facilitate any interaction with district staff significant to the student’s education. The District will provide such services upon request of the LEP parent(s) and/or when it may be reasonably anticipated by District staff that such services will be necessary.
Written Translation
The District will provide a written translation of vital documents for each limited English proficient group that constitutes at least 5 percent of the District’s total parent population or 1000 persons, whichever is less. For purposes of this policy, “vital documents” include, but are not limited to, those related to:
- registration, application, and selection;
- academic standards and student performance;
- safety, discipline, and conduct expectations;
- special education and related services, Section 504 information, and McKinney-Vento services;
- policies and procedures related to school attendance;
- requests for parent permission in activities or programs;
- opportunities for students or families to access school activities, programs, and
- services; student/parent handbook;
- the District’s Language Access Plan and related services or resources available;
- school closure information; and
- any other documents notifying parents of their rights under applicable state laws and/or containing information or forms related to consent or filing complaints under federal law, state law, or District registration, application, and selection; academic standards and student performance; safety, discipline, and conduct expectations;
- special education and related services, Section 504 information, and McKinney-Vento services; policies and procedures related to school attendance;
- requests for parent permission in activities or programs;
- opportunities for students or families to access school activities, programs, and services; student/parent handbook;
- the District’s Language Access Plan and related services or resources available; school closure information; and
- any other documents notifying parents of their rights under applicable state laws and/or containing information or forms related to consent or filing complaints under federal law, state law, or District policy.
If the District is unable to translate a vital document due to resource limitations or if a small number of families require the information in a language other than English such that document translation is unreasonable, the District will still provide the information to parents in a language they can understand through competent oral interpretation.
Staff Guidance
All school administrators, particularly those who have the most interaction with the public such as registrars and enrollment staff, certificated staff and other appropriate staff as determined by the superintendent, will receive guidance on meaningful communication with LEP parents, best practices for working with an interpreter, how to access an interpreter or translation services in a timely manner, language services available within the District and other information deemed necessary by the superintendent to effectuate the language access plan.
Appropriate district staff, as determined by the superintendent, will also receive guidance on the interaction between this policy and the District’s policy on effective communication with students, families, and community members with disabilities.
The superintendent is authorized to establish procedures and practices for implementing this policy.
| Cross References: |
3210 - Nondiscrimination 4129 - Family Involvement |
|---|---|
| Legal References: |
Chapter 28A.642 RCW Discrimination prohibition |
| Management Resources: |
2016 - July Issue |
Adoption Date:
Classification: Priority
Revised Dates:
4218P - Procedure - Language Access Plan
Policy: 4218P
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Procedure - Language Access Plan
The following procedures are intended to implement Policy 4218, establish meaningful, two-way communication between the District and parents with limited English proficiency (LEP), and promote access for such parents to the programs, services, and activities of the District.
- Definitions
- Persons with “limited English proficiency” (“LEP”) are individuals who are unable to communicate effectively in English either verbally or in writing, or both, because their primary language is not English and they have not developed fluency in the English language. A person with LEP may have difficulty in one or more of four domains of language: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Staff are urged to remember that LEP may be context-specific—e.g., a parent may have sufficient English language skills to understand, communicate and/or exchange basic information with a teacher, but they may not have sufficient skills to communicate detailed, specific information needed in a particular context, like an IEP meeting, a 504 meeting, or a student discipline hearing.
- “LEP parent(s)” refers to the parent(s) or guardian(s) of a student or students enrolled in the District who have limited English proficiency, even if the student is proficient in English. This term does not include family members of the student other than their parent(s) or guardian(s).
- “Primary language” means the primary language spoken by a student’s parent or guardian, or the predominant language spoken in the student’s home. Parents may have more than one primary language and/or dialect.
- “Language services” refers to a broad spectrum of services used or required to facilitate communication and understanding between speakers of different languages, and typically includes interpretation and translation services.
- “Interpretation” means the act of contemporaneous communication between a speaker of English and a speaker of another language wherein the words of one person are communicated to others orally in a different language. The District will take reasonable steps to utilize interpreters who have demonstrated language proficiency through certification or who are employed by a particular vendor or service contracted to provide interpretation services.
- “Translation” means the written communication between a speaker of English and a speaker of another language where in the written words of one person are communicated to others in writing in a different language.
- Parent Identification
- Upon student enrollment and periodically through a student’s education, schools will utilize a survey to identify parents who need language access services and the languages in which they may need assistance. The survey will be translated into the most commonly known languages spoken in the district and will be included in the standard enrollment packet provided to all District parents.
- Schools must determine within thirty (30) days of a student’s enrollment the primary language spoken by the parent of each student enrolled in the school, and if such language is not English, whether the parent requires language services in order to communicate effectively with the school or District.
- Schools will maintain an appropriate and current record of the primary language spoken by a student’s parents, and such record will be available to the District.
- Interpretation and Translation Services
- Each school and District office will, consistent with this policy and procedure, provide free oral interpretation services to all parents who require language services in order to communicate effectively during any interaction with the District significant to the student’s education. Additionally, each school and District office will provide free translation of vital documents as required below in Section 8.
- All interpretation and translation will be provided by competent and fluent speakers of that language as demonstrated by certification or similar means. The District will take reasonable steps to ensure that interpreters and translators have the knowledge in both languages of any specialized terms or concepts to be used in the communication at issue, and that they have been trained in the role of an interpreter or translator, the ethics of interpreting and translating, and the need to maintain confidentiality. In the event that the District cannot provide an interpreter that is either certified or employed by a vendor to provide interpretation services after taking all reasonable steps to do so, the District must still take reasonable steps to ensure that the interpreter utilized is trained regarding the role of an interpreter, the ethics of interpreting and translating, and the need to maintain confidentiality.
- Parents may voluntarily choose to decline the District’s offer of an interpreter and choose instead to rely on an adult friend/companion or relative for language and interpretation services, but school staff may not suggest this as an alternative to providing appropriate language and interpretation services. Students and other minor children under the age of 18 may not serve as interpreters for school staff and parents during any formal or informal meeting or process.
- The District will facilitate staff access to appropriate interpretation and translation services in order to communicate with LEP parents consistent with federal and/or state law and this policy and procedure. If no interpreter can be present, District staff should utilize a language bank, resource line or online service to communicate with parents.
- The following interpretation and translation services are currently available in the District. District staff will be informed of when and how to access interpretation and translation services available within the District and the administrator responsible for ensuring the availability of such services.
- District administrators, including those involved with registration and enrollment, certificated staff and other appropriate staff as determined by the superintendent, will receive guidance and information regarding:
- the rights of LEP parents under state and federal law to language access services provided by the District;
- the importance of meaningfully and effectively communicating with LEP parents;
- the most effective ways to communicate with LEP parents regarding the District’s available language services;
- the importance of utilizing competent translation and interpretation services when communicating with LEP parents;
- the availability of translation and interpretation services within the District, whether through in-person interpretation, telephonic services, online services, or video-conferencing;
- the mechanisms and processes for accessing translation and interpretation services when working with LEP parents, including ensuring the correct language service is being accessed, checking LEP parent understanding once interpretation has commenced, and proper vetting of translations for audience-appropriate content; and
- the process for reporting concerns or complaints.
- Interpretation Services: Whenever requested by a parent or whenever school staff or District officials can reasonably anticipate that interpretation services are necessary to meaningfully communicate with parents regarding important information about their child’s education or school activities, the District will provide interpretation services in accordance with this procedure. Such interpretation services may be provided either at the location where the parent is seeking to communicate or by electronic means, such as telephone or video conferencing. Upon three days’ notice that such services are required, the District will provide interpretation services at public meetings organized or sponsored by the District (e.g., board meetings).
- Translation of Vital District Documents: The District will identify vital documents which are distributed or electronically communicated to all or substantially all parents containing important information regarding a student’s education, including but not limited to:
- registration, application, and selection;
- academic standards and student performance;
- safety, discipline, and conduct expectations;
- special education and related services, Section 504 information, and McKinney-Vento services;
- policies and procedures related to school attendance;
- requests for parent permission in activities or programs;
- opportunities for parents to access school activities, programs, and services;
- student/parent handbook;
- the District’s Language Access Plan and related services or resources available;
- school closure information; and
- any other documents notifying parents of their rights under applicable state laws and/or containing information or forms related to consent or filing complaints under federal law, state law, or District policy. The District will provide a written translation of vital documents for each LEP group that constitutes at least 5 percent of the District’s total parent population or 1000 persons, whichever is less. If the District is unable to translate a document due to resource limitations or if a small number of parents require the information in a language other than English such that document translation is unreasonable, the District will still provide the information to parents in a language they can understand, such as through oral interpretation of the document. Written translations of vital documents by machine/computer translation programs will not be used or issued to LEP parents without prior review by a District-approved translator. All documents and information posted or issued by the District for parents should contain a notice in appropriate language(s) that free translation and/or interpretation services are available and how to request a free translation or interpretation of the document.
- Translation of Student-Specific Documents: The District will take all reasonable steps to provide parents, in a language they can understand, a translation of any document that contains individual, student-specific information regarding, but not limited to, a student’s:
- health;
- safety;
- legal or disciplinary matters; and
- entitlement to public education, eligibility for special education services, placement in the English Language Learner Program (ELL), the Highly Capable Program, accelerated courses such as Advanced Placement, or any other non-standard academic program.
- Alternatives to Translation: When translation for a document otherwise required to be translated is unavailable or cannot be done, such as in an emergency situation, a school or District office will provide an attached notice to parents in appropriate language(s) that free translation and/or interpretation services are available and how to request a free translation or interpretation of the document.
- Providing Information to Parents
- District staff and parents will be annually notified of this policy. Staff will be regularly provided written guidance regarding how and when interpretation and translation services should be accessed and such guidance will be updated as needed to reflect available services.
- Parents will also be annually notified regarding the process for filing complaints through the District’s nondiscrimination policy and procedure if they believe that such services have not been appropriately provided.
- The District will take steps to ensure that, at the time of enrollment, information regarding available interpretation and translation services and the District’s complaint process is provided to any parent (s) when there is reason to believe that the student’s parent(s) may have LEP (e.g., results of home language survey, a parent’s request for an interpreter). The District will take reasonable steps to provide information required by this section in the primary language spoken predominantly in the home.
- Schools and District offices will post in a conspicuous location at or near the primary entrance to the school or office a sign in primary languages spoken in the District concerning the rights of parents to translation and interpretation services and how to access such services.
- To the extent practicable, the District website will provide information in designated languages concerning the rights of parents to translation and interpretation services under federal and state law and how to access such services.
- The Collection and Analysis of LEP Data
- The District will periodically collect and analyze data related to LEP so as to assemble a list of primary languages spoken predominantly in the homes of students and their parents. Such information will help to ensure the provision of appropriate language access services and assist the District in effectively planning and budgeting for services necessary to communicate with students and their parents.
- Such data may be collected by parent surveys.
Adoption Date:
Classification: Encouraged
Revised Dates: 9.16
4220 - Complaints Concerning Staff or Programs
Policy: 4220
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Complaints Concerning Staff or Programs
Constructive criticism can be helpful to the district. At the same time, the board has confidence in its staff and programs and will act to protect them from unwarranted criticism or disruptive interference. Complaints received by the board or a board member will be referred to the superintendent for investigation.
The superintendent will develop procedures to handle complaints concerning staff or programs. Complaints regarding instructional materials should be pursued in the manner provided for in Policy 2020, Curriculum Development and Adoption of Instructional Materials.
| Cross References: | 2020 - Curriculum Development and Adoption of Instructional Materials |
|---|---|
| Legal References: | RCW 28A.405.300 Adverse change - in contract status of certificated employee — Determination of probable cause — Notice — Opportunity for hearing Chapter 42.30 RCW Open Public Meetings Act |
Adoption Date: 11.9.15
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Discretionary
Revised Dates:
4220P - Complaints Concerning Staff or Programs
Policy: 4220P
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Procedure Complaints Concerning Staff or Programs
Most complaints can be resolved by informal discussions between community members and the staff member. Should the matter not be resolved, the principal will attempt to resolve the issue through a conference with the community member and the staff member. The following procedures apply to the processing of a complaint which cannot be resolved in the manner described above:
- If the problem is not satisfactorily resolved at the building level, the community member should file a written complaint with the superintendent which describes the problem, and a suggested solution. The superintendent should send copies to the principal and staff member;
- The principal and staff member will respond to the superintendent in writing or in person; and
- The superintendent will then attempt to resolve the matter through a conference with the citizen, staff member, and principal.
If the matter is still not resolved, the superintendent will present the issue to the board. If the complaint is against a staff member, the board may discuss the complaint. The staff member may request that the board discuss the issue in an open meeting.
The board will attempt to make a final resolution of the matter. Any formal actions by the board must take place in an open meeting. If such action may adversely affect the contract status of the staff member, the board will give written notice to the staff member of his/her rights to a hearing.
Adoption Date: 11.9.15
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Discretionary
Revised Dates:
4237 - Contests, Advertising and Promotions
Policy: 4237
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Contests, Advertising and Promotions
Any club, association or other organization must have prior approval for students' participation in any contest, advertising campaign or promotion. Approval may be given by the superintendent following recommendation by the teacher and principal. Criteria to be used are:
- The objectives of the contest, campaign, or promotion will be consistent with the district's goals and policies;
- The proposed activity will have educational value to the participants and be free of objectionable promotion of the name, product or special interest of the sponsoring group; and
- Participation by a student will not interfere with his/her program of curricular or co-curricular activities.
| Cross References: | 3220 - Freedom of Expression |
|---|---|
| Legal References: | AGO 9503.00 1995 No. 3 Schools - Districts - Students - Religion - Use of School Districts' Facilities by Student Groups for Religious Purposes |
Adoption Date: 04.25.05
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Essential
Revised Dates: 10.15.15
4260 - Use of school facilities
Policy: 4260
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Use of School Facilities
The board subscribes to the belief that public schools are owned and operated by and for its patrons. The public is encouraged to use school facilities, but will be expected to reimburse the district for such use to ensure that funds intended for education are not used for other purposes. On recommendation of the superintendent, the board will set the rental rates schedule.
The superintendent is authorized to establish procedures for use of school facilities, including rental rates, supervisory requirements, restrictions, and security. Those using school facilities will maintain insurance for accident and liability covering persons using the district’s facilities under the sponsorship of the organization.
The district does not discriminate based on race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably-discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability and provides equal access to Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups.
Community athletics programs that use district facilities will not discriminate against any person on the basis of sex in the operation, conduct or administration of their programs. The district will provide copies of the district’s nondiscrimination policy to all third parties using district facilities.
For rental rate purposes, organizations seeking the use of school facilities have been divided into three categories:
School or Child-Related Groups or Other Government Agencies include those organizations whose main purpose is to promote the welfare of boys and girls, or to provide members of the community access to government programs or opportunities for civic participation. Examples are: Scouts, Campfire, PTA, 4-H, city or county sponsored recreation groups, polling places, political caucuses and governmental groups. The district will provide official recruiting representatives of the state and United States military forces, Job Corps, Peace Corps and AmeriCorps with access to school facilities (including number of days and type of presentation space) equal to and no less than the access provided to other post-secondary occupational or educational representatives.
When facilities are used outside of regular school hours, or when the district incurs extra utility, cleaning or supervision costs, a fee, established by the superintendent, will be charged to recoup those costs whenever possible. Additionally, youth organizations engaged in sports activities and using school facilities must provide a statement of compliance with the policies for the management of concussion and head injury in youth sports as required by RCW 28A.600.
Nonprofit Groups includes those organizations which may use school facilities for lectures, promotional activities, rallies, entertainment, college courses, or other activities for which public halls or commercial facilities generally are rented or owned. The district may charge a rental rate in excess of costs incurred. Excess charges may be waived when a service club or other nonprofit group is raising funds for charitable purposes.
To be granted this exception, the charitable organization must be recognized by the Philanthropic Division of the Better Business Bureau. Professional fund raisers representing charities must provide evidence that they are registered and bonded by the state of Washington. Such fund-raisers must provide evidence that the charity will receive at least sixty (60) percent of the gross revenues received from the public prior to approval to use the facilities.
Similar treatment may be granted public universities and colleges when offering college courses within the community or when any university/college is offering a course for staff at the request of the district. Nonprofit groups of the kind that in most communities have their own facilities (churches, lodges, veterans groups, granges, etc.) who wish to use district facilities on a regular, but temporary, basis may do so under this rental rate but for no more than two years and may not average more than twelve hours of use per week.
Commercial Enterprises include profit-making organizations and business-related enterprises. While the district would prefer these organizations use commercial or private facilities, facilities may be rented for non-regular use at the prevailing rate charged by commercial facilities in the area.
District-sponsored activities, including curricular and co-curricular functions, retain first priority in use of facilities. Authorization for use of school facilities will not be considered as endorsement or approval of the activity, group or organization nor the purposes it represents.
| Cross References: | 3422 – Student Sports – Concussion and Head Injuries |
|---|---|
| Legal References: |
RCW 28A.230.180 Access to campus and student information by official recruiting representatives – Informing students of educational and career opportunities. |
| Management Resources: |
2014 – February Issue |
Adoption Date: 04.25.05
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Essential
Revised Dates: 10.15; 10.22
4260P - Use of School Facilities
Policy: 4260P
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Procedure Use of School Facilities
Application for use of school facilities will be made to the facilities coordinator.
Professional fund raisers representing charities must provide evidence that the fund raiser:
- Is recognized by the Philanthropic Division of the Better Business Bureau;
- Is registered and bonded by the state of Washington; and
- Will give the charity at least sixty (60) percent of the gross revenues.
- The superintendent will develop and recommend to the board a fee schedule applicable for use of school facilities. The fee schedule will be evaluated on a biennial basis.
Sponsoring organizations will provide sufficient, competent adult and/or special supervision, and the amount of adequate supervision will be agreed upon at the time the authorization is issued.
Alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs will not be permitted in school facilities or on school property at any time. Tobacco use is prohibited in school facilities and on school property. All applicants for use of school facilities will hold the district free and without harm from any loss or damage, liability or expense that may arise during or be caused in any way by such use or occupancy of school facilities. Also, in the event that property loss or damage is incurred during such use or occupancy, the amount of damage will be decided by the superintendent and approved by the board and a bill for damages will be presented to the group using or occupying the facilities during the time the loss or damage was sustained.
All applicants for use of school facilities will maintain accident and liability insurance for persons using district facilities under the applicant’s sponsorship in an amount not less than $50,000 due to bodily injury or death of one person or at least $100,000 due to bodily injury or death of two or more persons in any incident. If use of the district’s facilities is to be ongoing, the applicant will provide evidence to the district once every thirty days that the insurance remains in effect.
Additionally, youth organizations engaged in sports activities and using school facilities must submit a signed statement of compliance with the policies, described in RCW 28A.600 for the management of concussion and head injury in youth sports.
The superintendent possesses the authority to make the decision on use of school facilities by a group. The group may appeal such decision to the board.
Because of the value of district's playing fields to the community's total recreational opportunity, the fields may be used by all residents. The use must be appropriate and compatible with each play field and its surrounding area. Such use will not result in destruction, damages, or undue wear or pose a hazard to children or others. Activities which endanger others or cause damage to fields and lawns are restricted. Should damage to fields and lawns occur, the superintendent will make reasonable effort to obtain restitution for the damage.
A custodian or other authorized staff member must be on the premises when any nonschool group is using school facilities.
Adoption Date: 11.9.15
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Essential
Revised Dates:
4314 - Notification of Threats of Violence or Harm
Policy: 4314
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Notification of Threats of Violence or Harm
Students and school employees who are subjects of threats of violence or harm will be notified of the threats in a timely manner. Parents will be included in notifications to students who are subjects of threats of violence or harm. If there is a specific and significant threat to the health or safety of a student or other individuals, the district may disclose information from education records to appropriate parties whose knowledge of the information is necessary. Timing and details of the notice will be as extensive as permitted by the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), other legal limitations, and the circumstances.
Individual-directed threats of violence or harm are communications that create fear of physical harm to a specific individual or individuals, communicated directly or indirectly by any means.
Building-directed threats of violence or harm are direct or indirect communications by any means of the intent to cause damage to a school building or school property (e.g., bomb threats), or to harm students, employees, volunteers, community members or visitors.
The district will address threats of violence or harm in a manner consistent with the district’s safety policies and comprehensive safe school plans.
Persons found to have made threats of violence or harm against district property, students, employees or others will be subject to relevant district discipline policies and will be referred to appropriate community agencies including law enforcement and mental health services. District staff will work with in-district and community-based professionals and services in all relevant disciplines to address threats of violence or harm, those threatened and those making the threats. Necessary information about the person making the threat will be communicated by the principal to teachers and staff, including security personnel.
State law provides the district, school district directors and district staff with immunity from liability for providing notice of threats in good faith. Persons who make a knowingly false notification of a threat are subject to appropriate district discipline policies and may be referred for prosecution.
The superintendent is directed to develop and implement procedures consistent with this policy.
| Cross References: |
6513 - Workplace Violence Prevention |
|---|---|
| Legal References: |
RCW 28A.320.128 Notice and disclosure policies — Threats of violence — Student conduct — Immunity for good faith notice — Penalty |
| Management Resources: |
2010 - February Issue |
Adoption Date: 11.9.15
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Essential
Revised Dates:
4314P - Notification of Threats of Violence or Harm
Policy: 4314P
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Procedure Notification of Threats of Violence or Harm
Staff, students, volunteers, and others involved in school activities have the responsibility to report any threats of violence or harm to designated school officials. Based on the significance and credibility of the threat, it will be reported to law enforcement. Staff will involve in-district multi-disciplinary professionals in evaluating the threat and the needs of the person making the threat. Consultation with or referrals to community-based professionals and services are encouraged where appropriate.
Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, the district may only release student records, including those involving threats of violence or harm, with parent or adult student permission or in a health or safety emergency. For that reason, the district will identify students who have made threats of violence or harm when notifying the subjects of the threats, under the following conditions:
- The parent or adult student has given permission to disclose the student’s identity or other information to the subject of the student’s threat;
- The identity of the student and the details of the threat are being disclosed to relevant district staff who have been determined to have legitimate educational interest in the information;
- The identity of the student or the details of the threat are being released because the release of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals. In making this determination, school officials will use their best judgment, and may take into account the “totality of the circumstances” pertaining to the safety or health of a student or other individuals; or
- The district is responding to a court order or subpoena. The district must make a reasonable effort to notify the parents of the student or adult student of the subpoena in advance of complying, so that the family can seek protective action, unless the court order or subpoena expressly forbids such notification.
Relevant information about the threat that does not improperly identify a student will be provided to the subject of the threat, and the subject will be advised that if law enforcement has been involved in the matter, the law enforcement agency may have more information that can be shared with the subject.
To promote the safety of all concerned, the principal will determine if classroom teachers, school staff, school security, and others working with the student(s) involved in the threat circumstance, should be notified. Subject to the confidentiality provisions cited above, principals will consider all available information when determining the extent of information to be shared, including prior disciplinary records, official juvenile court records, and documented history of violence of the person who made the threat.
When considering the appropriate discipline for a student who has made a threat of violence or harm, the student’s prior disciplinary records will be taken into account. Emergency expulsion will be considered, based on the credibility and significance of the threat. Discipline will only be imposed on students with disabilities consistent with policy and the legal requirements for special education.
If the threat by a student was significant and credible enough to warrant expulsion, the student may only be readmitted to the district through the readmission application process provided for in district policy. The readmission application process will include meeting district readmission criteria established at the time of expulsion and should include completion of an assessment by an appropriate professional, with a report to the district, when the district determines such an assessment is necessary.
Discipline against district staff for making threats of violence or harm will be consistent with district policy and procedure regarding staff discipline, and any relevant collective bargaining requirements.
Adoption Date: 11.12.13
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Essential
Revised Dates: 11.9.15
4315 - Release of Information Concerning Sexual and Kidnapping Offenders
Policy: 4315
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Release of Information Concerning Sexual and Kidnapping Offenders
Law enforcement agencies receive relevant information about the release of sexual and kidnapping offenders into communities. Law enforcement agencies decide when such information needs to be released to the public. The school district has a public safety role to play in the dissemination of such information to staff, parents, students and the community and will disseminate such information under the following conditions:
- Receipt of a specific request from a law enforcement agency that information be disseminated to staff and/or students and parents. In every case where students are notified, parents will be notified as soon as possible; or
- Receipt of the actual sex offender documents to be distributed. The district may duplicate the sex offender documents, but they will be distributed in the form received from the law enforcement agency.
| Cross References: | 3143 - District Notification of Juvenile Offenders |
|---|---|
| Legal References: | RCW 4.24.550 Sex offenders and kidnapping offenders — Release of information to public — Web site |
| Management Resources: |
1998 - August Issue |
Adoption Date: 11.9.15
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Priority
Revised Dates:
4400 - Election Activities
Policy: 4400
Section: 4000 - Community Relations
Election Activities
The district, as part of its mission to educate and instill civic virtue, will assure that public facilities are not to be used to assist in any candidate’s campaign or to support or oppose any ballot measure, and will assure that the community is appropriately informed about district and education related ballot measures through objective and fair presentations of the facts related to those measures.
The board will consider adopting resolutions expressing the board’s collective opinion on ballot measures (state and local, including district levy and bond measures) that impact the effective operation of the schools. Such a resolution will be considered at a board meeting, the short title and proposition number of the ballot measure will be included in the meeting notice, and an equal opportunity will be provided for views on both sides of the issue to be expressed.
Prior to an election on a district ballot measure, the district will publish to the entire community an objective and fair presentation of the facts relevant to the ballot measure. Normal and regular publications of the district will also continue to be published during election cycles and may contain fair, objective and relevant discussions of the facts of pending election issues.
The superintendent is directed to develop procedures to implement this policy and communicate the policy and procedures to staff. The procedures will be consistent with the guidelines provided by the Public Disclosure Commission.
| Cross References: |
5252 - Staff Participation in Political Activities |
|---|---|
| Legal References: |
RCW 28A.320.090 Preparing and distributing information on the district’s instructional program, operation and maintenance — Limitation |
| Management Resources: | Policy News, August 2001 PDC Issues Election Guidelines for Schools |
Adoption Date: 04.25.05
Kiona-Benton City School District
Classification: Essential
Revised Dates: 10.15.15