For Students

It is recognized that divergent circumstances and levels of student maturity may dictate the need for different rules and regulations in different schools. Such rules and regulations are not to be in conflict with District-wide guidelines or with established local, state and federal laws and regulations.

A student shall comply with all District policies and school rules and with the reasonable directions of all authorized school personnel during any period of time when he/she is under the authority of school personnel, on or in reasonable proximity to any school district property to include before, during, and after school; or on any form of approved school district transportation; or at any school or school district-sponsored activity on or off school district property.

While riding school buses to and from school and/or school-sponsored activities, or while at established school bus stops, students shall comply with the rules of conduct set forth in this policy in addition to those rules adopted by the District’s Board of Directors pursuant to WAC 392-145-035. School bus drivers shall possess the authority to discipline students in accordance with rules and regulations of the District.

Any student who willfully performs any act which is reasonably certain to materially interfere with or be detrimental to the orderly operation of a school, a school-sponsored activity or any other aspect of the educational process within the District, shall be subject to discipline, suspension or expulsion. Such acts shall include but not be limited to those enumerated herein. All acts determined to be ”exceptional misconduct” are distinguished within this policy with an asterisk (*). Definitions and Methods of Student Control / Exceptional Misconduct are Defined as:

Disruption of School/Disruption of the Educational Process (*)

A student shall not use, threaten to use or urge others to use violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or any other conduct which is reasonably certain to result in the substantial and material disruption or obstruction of any lawful mission, process or function of the school.

Damage or Destruction of School Property/Vandalism (*)

A student shall not intentionally, or with gross carelessness, cause, or attempt to cause, damage to school property at any time.

Damage or Destruction of Private Property/Vandalism (*)

A student shall not intentionally, or with gross carelessness, cause, or attempt to cause damage to private or personal property while under the supervision and authority of school personnel to include before, during, and after school; or on any form of approved school district transportation; or at any school or school district-sponsored activity on or off school district property.

Occupation of School Property (*)

A student shall not occupy any school building, school grounds or part thereof, with intent to deprive others of its use; or block the entrance or exit of any school building or corridor or room therein with intent to deprive others of lawful access to or from, or use of, the building, corridor, or room. A student shall not prevent, or attempt to prevent, by physical act the convening or continued functioning of any school, class or activity or of any lawful meeting or assembly on the school campus; or prevent students from attending a class or school activity; or block normal pedestrian or vehicular traffic on a school campus.

Fighting, Assault or Causing Physical Injury (*)

A student shall not cause, or attempt to cause, physical injury or intentionally behave in such a way as could reasonably cause physical injury to any person:

(*)Denotes ”Exceptional Misconduct”

  1. On the school grounds during and immediately before or immediately after school hours;
  2. On the school grounds at any other time when the school is being used by a school group;
  3. Off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event;
  4. Off the school grounds when the prohibited behavior is a consequence of, or directly related to, causes or events which occurred or originated on school grounds; or
  5. Off school grounds when the student is en route between home and school.

Weapons and Dangerous Objects (*)

It is a violation of District policy, and state law, for any person to carry a firearm or dangerous weapon on school premises, school district property; or on school district provided, or approved, transportation; or areas of other facilities being used exclusively for school-sponsored activities.

Additionally, a student shall not possess, handle or transmit any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon:

  1. On the school grounds during, immediately before, or immediately after school hours.
  2. On the school grounds at any other time when the school is being used by a school group.
  3. Off the school grounds at any school activity, function or event, or while en route between home and school.
  4. On any form of school or school District provided or approved transportation.

Students who possess a weapon or who carry, exhibit, display or draw any weapon or any item apparently capable of producing bodily harm in a manner which, under the circumstances, manifests an intent to intimidate another or warrants alarm for the safety of others, shall be subject to immediate suspension or expulsion subject to the judgment of school officials as provided in: Definitions and Methods of Student Control - Suspension - Authority of Disciplinarians and Hearing Officers.

”Possession” includes, but is not limited to, having a weapon or dangerous object on District property or at a District-sponsored event located: (a) in a space assigned to a student such as a locker or desk, (b) on the student’s person or property (such as on the student’s body, in his/her clothing, purse, backpack, gym bag or vehicle), or (c) under the student’s control or accessible or available, such as hidden by the student.

A weapon or dangerous object includes, but is not limited to: (a) a firearm, which is a weapon or device from which a projectile may be fired by an explosive; or (b) an airgun, which includes any air pistol or air rifle, designed to propel a BB, pellet, or other projectile by discharge of compressed air, carbon dioxide or other gas, or any items which appear to be realistic firearms or airguns; or (c) a slung shot, sling shot, sand club, chains or metal knuckles; or (d) devices commonly called ”throwing stars”, or any knife which is a cutting or stabbing instrument with a blade set in a handle; or (e) a dirk, which is a type of dagger; or (f) any device commonly known as ”nun-chukka” stocks.

This rule does not apply to normal school supplies like pencils or compasses (when being used in the proper manner) but does apply to any firearm, any explosive including firecrackers, any knife other than a small penknife, and other dangerous objects of no reasonable use to the student at school. In addition, students may not bring laser pointers to school, nor be in possession of laser pointers at school. They may use laser pointers only under the direct supervision of staff. Violations of this policy shall result in notification of parents/legal guardians and law enforcement.

Students who are in possession of firearms on school district property, at school-sponsored activities, in a school/district vehicle, or other district-approved transportation, shall be expelled for not less than one calendar year.

The Superintendent may modify the expulsion of a student on a case-by-case basis.

If any student has information of a gun on school property and wishes to remain anonymous, please call the Gun Hotline #1-800-862-4867 or Crimestoppers #596-7867.

Explosive Devices (*)

Students who possess, traffic in, or detonate any explosive device or incendiary components (such as explosive materials, blasting caps, fireworks, gasoline, other flammable liquids, ammunition or any combination of these items - generally referred to as a bomb or look-a-like explosive device), which by themselves, or in conjunction with other items, can result in an explosion or fire on school property or at school-sponsored activities, will be subject to suspension or expulsion. Students who are involved with, or threaten to use, a look-a-like explosive device will be subject to suspension or expulsion. Law enforcement agencies may be notified.

Alcohol and Other Drugs (*)

A student shall not possess, use, transmit, be under the influence of, or show evidence of having used any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, beverage containing alcohol, over-the-counter medication not approved for use at the school per District policy, drug paraphernalia (or that which purports to be), anabolic steroid, or intoxicant of any kind, or any other controlled substance.

  1. On the school grounds during, immediately before or immediately after school hours; or
  2. On the school grounds at any other time when the school is being used by any school group; or
  3. Off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event; or
  4. On any school district property or school district approved transportation.

Appropriate use of a drug authorized by a medical prescription, by the individual to whom the medication is prescribed, shall not be considered a violation of this rule.

Truancy and Unauthorized Absence from Class

Students enrolled in the District shall comply with rules of conduct regarding truancy set forth in this policy and as set forth in individual school building attendance procedures. No student, subject to compulsory attendance, shall be suspended by reason of one or more unexcused absences unless the District has first imposed an alternative corrective action or punishment reasonably calculated to modify his or her conduct. Corrective actions and punishments for truancies shall be progressive with warnings to students, notifications to parents, conferences, penalty of campus service (or Saturday work) and/or adjustment of program if judged by school officials as appropriate. Should such measures fail to eliminate the truant behavior, the student may be subject to short-term or long-term suspension.

Harassment, All Forms (*)

Students involved in District activities are expected to exhibit respectful behavior and conduct toward each other.

Any and all forms of harassment are prohibited and will not be tolerated. Harassment is defined as any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, including, but not limited to, one shown to be motivated by any characteristic in RCW 9A.36.080(3), (race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or mental or physical disability), or other distinguishing characteristics, when the intentional written, verbal, or physical act:

Any student who believes that he or she has been harassed is encouraged to take the complaint to an administrator or counselor pursuant to the procedures that accompany District Policy No. 3207. Concerns and/or complaints will be investigated as quickly as possible. Every effort will be made to preserve confidentiality and protect the student’s privacy to the extent the investigation process allows.

Sexual Harassment (*)

Any form of sexual harassment is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome conduct, either verbal or physical, that is directed toward a student because of a student’s sex. Prohibited sexual harassment occurs when:

Specific examples of behaviors that may constitute sexual harassment are listed below:

Any student who believes that he or she has been sexually harassed is encouraged to take the complaint to an administrator or counselor. Complaints will be investigated as quickly as possible. Every effort will be made to preserve confidentiality and protect the student’s privacy to the extent the investigation process allows. District Policy No. 6590 provides additional information on sexual harassment.

Profanity/Inappropriate Language

Swearing, profanity, vulgarity or obscenities are subject to disciplinary action. Profanity or inappropriate language when directed toward another student or adult may be regarded as a form of harassment and can be treated as a form of exceptional misconduct.

Threats (*)

A person shall not communicate to any person any actions he/she shall take to punish or harm another person. Behavior of this nature is a form of harassment and will be treated as such.

Criminal Acts (*)

Students who commit criminal acts while under the authority of school personnel, or that are school-related, will be subject to discipline, suspension, or expulsion. Criminal acts will be reported to the appropriate legal authority.

False Alarms (*)

Any student involved with committing a false alarm is subject to disciplinary action by both school and legal authorities. Under the law, false alarms are misdemeanors subject to a maximum fine of $225. A bomb threat is considered a felony. The student’s return to school may be contingent on a satisfactory conference with the fire marshal.

Fire/Arson (*)

Any student who sets a fire on school or school district property is subject to a charge of arson that is imposed by legal authorities. Arson is a felony.

Trespass (*) (RCW 28A.636.020)

A charge of trespass, with notice to police authorities, may be given to any person who creates a disturbance on school property and whose continued or recurring presence may result in a real and substantial disruption to the school environment or pose a threat to the safety and well being of property or person. Students on campus while on suspension and/or expulsion are subject to additional disciplinary action and arrest for criminal trespass.

Gangs (*) (RCW 28A.600.455)

A gang is defined as a group of which (a) consists of three (3) or more persons; (b) has identifiable leadership and (c) on an ongoing basis, regularly conspires and acts in concert mainly for criminal purposes. Student behavior, dress, signing or symbolism intended to represent gang affiliation will not be tolerated on school grounds or at school-sponsored activities or events. These symbols change from time to time and include such items as hats, bandanas of any color, chain ornaments, clothing colors and styles, gang colors, use of hand signals, and symbols of affiliation. Other attributes that denote membership in a gang may include the presence of types of apparel, jewelry, accessories, graffiti, grooming, and tattoos. Behavior on, or about, school premises or at school-sponsored events that creates conflict, or an atmosphere of intimidation, or creates a clear and present danger, or disrupts the orderly operation of school is prohibited. When an issue of concern is present, student(s) involved will be notified and asked not to display such symbolism again. Subsequent violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action. Such decisions will be based upon knowledge of current trends and practices.

Insubordination (*)

Students are required to obey the reasonable requests of all staff members. Willful disobedience will result in suspension or expulsion. Students are required to identify themselves to all staff members of the school district. Failure to do so upon the reasonable request of a District staff member will be construed as insubordinate and a threat to the orderly functioning of the school.

Lewd Conduct (*)

Any conduct which is an indecent or obscene act or expression by a student may include, but is not limited to, indecent exposure, extreme displays of affection, and use of obscenities/profanity in oral, written or gestured form.

Reckless and Dangerous Driving (*)

Students who hold a valid drivers license, and who have been given approval to drive a motorized vehicle to and from school, shall not drive in any way that violates any municipal traffic ordinances, school district or school rules, and shall not drive in such a way as to create an environment in which he/she may potentially bring harm to him/herself or others.

Tobacco Products

Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death and under Washington State law is illegal for anyone under the age of eighteen (18) to possess or use. Therefore, the District implements the following policy in support of legal regulations and to protect the health and welfare of all students.

Smoking and/or the possession or use of tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, within school buildings, on school property (including vehicles) and at school-sponsored events is prohibited and will result in disciplinary action including notification of law enforcement.

Leaving School Grounds

Unless otherwise communicated in school level regulations, the following procedures will be followed: Permission in writing from the office must be obtained in order to leave the campus at any time after arriving on school grounds. No student may leave during the day or at the lunch periods without parent permission and office approval. A student who goes home ill during the day must notify the nurse’s office before doing so. Students who fail to check out will be subject to disciplinary action and will be considered unexcused. Schools with exceptions to these regulations will notify students and parents/legal guardians of such exceptions on an annual basis.

Cheating/Plagiarism

Plagiarism is the taking of language, ideas or thoughts from another person or source and representing them as original work. Students who use plagiarized papers or projects, or are involved in any other form of cheating, will be subject to reduction in grades and/or disciplinary action for a first offense. For a second offense, a student may be subject to removal from class and/or a failing grade.

Dress and Appearance

Dress and appearance must not present health or safety problems or cause disruption. Students are expected to come to school or school activities well groomed and neatly and appropriately dressed. Students who do not meet these standards will be asked to return home to correct the problem if the problem cannot be corrected at the school.

Clothing that carries a sexual, vulgar or offensive message or references the use of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, or gang affiliation will not be permitted. It is understood that individual teachers, in consultation with the school administrator, may restrict appearance and attire with special consideration for safety, health or other issues that may create a disruption to the learning environment.

The administration has the authority to make changes at any time to the dress code based on safety, health, or other issues that may create a disruption to the learning environment.

Forgery

The forging of parent’s/legal guardian’s, staff member’s, or another student’s signature on any letter to the school, or on any school document, will result in disciplinary action. Falsely representing a parent’s/legal guardian’s, staff member’s, or another student’s signature in any way will result in disciplinary action. Self-signed student notes will not be accepted in lieu of parent/legal guardian signature.

Personal Protection Spray Devices (RCW 9.91.160)

It is unlawful for a person under eighteen years old, unless the person is at least fourteen years old and has the permission of a parent or legal guardian to do so, to purchase or possess a personal protection spray device (PPSD). A violation of this is a misdemeanor. Students who unlawfully carry, discharge or distribute a PPSD will be subject to disciplinary action.

Skates/In-line Skates, Skateboards and Scooters

Students are prohibited from riding skates/in-line skates, skateboards and scooters at school or school activities. These items are disruptive and present a safety hazard and may be confiscated.