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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title I Questions/Information 19
Parent Participation and Support 19
SCHOOL COMMUNITY 20
Breakfast & Lunch Programs 20
Pets 21
Change of Phone Numbers or
Address 21
Student School Insurance 21
Telephone Use 21
Cell Phones 21
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)
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School Newsletters & Website 22
Volunteers 22
Lost And Found 23
Personal Items 23
Counselor 23
Party Treats and Invitations 23
Gum 24
Daycare Services 24
Sacajawea Elementary School
Discipline Approach 24
Discipline Program-PBIS (Positive
Behavior Interventions & Supports)
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The Focus of PBIS: Prevention, Not
Punishment 24
Classroom Behavior ManagementClip Chart 25
Recess 25
Playground Expectations 25
Playground Equipment 26
IMPORTANT RICHLAND SCHOOL
DISTRICT INFORMATION 27
Non-Discrimination Statement 27
Sexual Harassment 27
Richland School District Student
Behavior 28
Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA)-Opt Out Form
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WELCOME 3
SACAJAWEA STAFF 4
DAILY SCHEDULE 5
Arrival & Dismissal Procedures 6
SAFETY AND HEALTH 6
District Dress Code 6
Bullying, Harassment, or
Intimidation 7
Student Health Services 8
Bikes, Scooters, or Skateboards 9
Pledge of Allegiance 9
Visitors in Classrooms 9
Emergency Drills 10
Safety Patrol and Crossing Guards
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Safe Walk Route 12
ATTENDANCE 12
School Policies and State Laws 13
Reporting Absences 13
Tardy 13
Checking Student Out of School
Prior to Dismissal 14
Student Withdrawal 14
Excluded from School 14
ACADEMICS 14
Report Cards 15
Parent-Teacher Conferences 15
Student Assessments 15
Student Textbooks 15
Library 15
Music 16
Physical Education 17
Art 17
Specials (Library, P.E. Music & Art
Schedules 17
Guest Teachers 17
Special Programs 17
Internet Use 17
Homework 18
Field Trips 18
SACAJAWEA ELEMENTARY TITLE
I INFORMATION 19
Information Review 19
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WELCOME
Welcome to Sacajawea Elementary School. Our dedicated and professional staff is looking
forward to working with you and your student throughout the 2016-17 school year.
Mission Statement
The mission of Sacajawea Elementary is to inspire students to achieve their full potential in
a safe and nurturing learning environment.
Vision
Sacajawea Elementary School is a collaborative school community inspiring students to
become lifelong learners.
The Sacajawea Elementary School Family Handbook is a companion to the Richland School
District 2016-17 Calendar & Parent Guide that all families will receive after the first day of
school.
Further information regarding RSD policies may be found on the district website at
www.rsd.edu
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SACAJAWEA STAFF
Principal: Jim L. Bruce
Assistant Principal: Kindra Clayton
Office Secretaries: Heidi Bird & Haley Knutson (Attendance)
Counselor: Nicole White
Communities In Schools (CIS) Site Coordinator: Darlene Johnson
TEACHERS
ECEAP Preschool: Linda Johnson
Kindergarten: Angela Potter, Kristen Clark, Barbi Wolf & Camille Hoff
1st Grade: Marie Holst, Kylee Tinsley, Lynne Macias, Jana Stevens & Amy Salinas
2nd Grade: Crystal Clement, Kay Gorchels, Sarah Gieszler, Debby Anderson & Lexi
Rutherford
3rd Grade: Rae Fournier, Tatia Joyner & Wendy Redfield
4th Grade: Tasha Scott, Melissa MacDonald & Andria Palomarez
5th Grade: Karen Bryan, Rachel Shank & Darren Morgan
Primary BESST (Behavior Education Social Skills Training): Phyllis Paup
Intermediate BESST (Behavior Education Social Skills Training): Christina Hufstader &
Ronda Bass
Librarian: Benita Brown
Art: Karen Brashear
Physical Education: Kirk Johnson
Music: Debi Teague
Resource Room K-5th Grade: Sharon Bowen
Instructional Specialist-Title I/ESL/LAP (Learning Assistance Program): Christy Utecht
Speech Language Pathologist: Mark Underwood
Psychologist: Rachel Carr
BESST (Behavior Education Social Skills Training) Program Coordinator: Sara Adams
School Nurse: Nedda Dayley
Occupational Therapist: Vicky Kelly
Physical Therapist: Jennifer Potts
SUPPORT STAFF
Building Foreman: Debra McDonald
Evening Custodian: Andrea Wright & Azelma Beribak
Health Room: Linda Marquez
Kitchen Staff: Yuri Dotson (manager), Jessica Wade & Jaquie Mucha (cashier/server)
ECEAP Family Advocate: Heather Pearson
Paraeducators: Chris Angelo, Cindy Bampton, Jason Brader, Davina Burgess, Samantha
Carterby, Debbie Eagles, Tawnya Hickey, Richard Holdren, Melody Johnson, Cris Leonard,
Jennifer McCulloch, April Mitchell, Theresa Monroe, Breanna Palmer, Jill Pilling, Tamara
Pomponio, Becky Rausch, Andrea Riste, Chelsea Sanders, Caitlin Schultz, Davina Smith,
Stephenie Stalcup, Tina Sullivan, Elizabeth Thomas, Micala Tornow & Michael Traeger
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DAILY SCHEDULE
8:15 A.M.-8:40 A.M.
Breakfast (Students eating breakfast should not arrive any
earlier than 8:15 A.M.)
Students are not to arrive on the school campus before 8:30
A.M.; unless they are eating breakfast. There is no
supervision of students prior to this time. Students arriving
prior to 8:30 A.M. are to go to the Café entrance located on
the backside (SE) of the school, enter the Café and sit quietly
until 8:30 A.M.
8:30 A.M.-8:40 A.M.
Students enter the school through the double doors located
on the backside (SE side) of the school or through the double
doors located on the West side of the school (located near
the preschool playground). Students will walk to their
assigned line-up location outside of their individual
classroom. Students will take a seat on the hallway floor and
wait quietly for their teacher to welcome them into the
classroom.
8:40 A.M.
8:45 A.M.
First Bell
Classes Begin
9:40 A.M.-9:55 A.M.
10:00 A.M-10:15 A.M.
10:30 A.M.-11:00 A.M.
Recess (Kindergarten)
Recess (Grades 1st & 3rd)
Recess (ECEAP Preschool)
11:10 A.M.-11:55 P.M.
11:20 A.M.-12:05 P.M.
11:35 A.M.-12:20 P.M.
11:45 A.M.-12:30 P.M.
12:00 P.M.-12:45 P.M.
12:10 P.M.-12:55 P.M.
5th Grade Lunch/Recess
4th Grade Lunch/Recess
1st Grade Lunch/Recess
3rd Grade Lunch/Recess
2nd Grade Lunch/Recess
Kindergarten Lunch/Recess
2:15 P.M.-2:30 P.M.
Recess (Grades 2nd, 4th and 5th)
3:15 P.M.
Classes Dismissed (*See below for Friday dismissal
information)
3:25 P.M.
All Clear Bell-All students are to be off of the school
grounds by 3:25 P.M.
*The Friday schedule is like the Monday-Thursdays schedule with the exception of…
 SCHOOL IS DISMISSED EVERY FRIDAY AT 2:15 P.M. Teachers use this one hour
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early dismissal time to meet in grade level or department teams to discuss
assessment, curriculum, and student learning.
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Arrival & Dismissal Procedures
Parents bringing students to or picking students up from school are asked to
respect the areas marked No Parking or designated as Bus Parking.
Please use the drive through by the front entrance of the school for student dropoff in the morning; this area is not a parking area.
Please do not use the back parking lot to drop-off or pick-up students as this area is
reserved for staff parking AND for the school buses.
Students are not to arrive on the Sacajawea campus earlier than 8:30 A.M. Students
arriving prior to 8:30 A.M. are to go to the Café.
Students participating in the breakfast program are not to arrive earlier than 8:15.
School dismissal is at 3:15 P.M. All students and siblings are expected to leave the
school grounds immediately after being dismissed from school. All students &
visitors are to be off of the school grounds by 3:25 P.M.
The school grounds are unavailable for public use between the hours of 7:30 A.M4:00 P.M.
Students are to meet their parents, siblings or friends after school at a designated
area on the playground.
Please escort your child to your car. For safety do not allow your child to walk
through the parking lot unescorted by an adult.
SAFETY AND HEALTH
District Dress Code
It is the goal of the Richland School District to establish and maintain a quality-learning
environment for all students and staff. To that end, we expect all students to dress in a
manner that provides for adequate safety while on any school campus. Further, we hope to
instill the understanding of, and adherence to, appropriate dress for a work environment
as we prepare students for their future careers.
Students wearing clothing that is disruptive to the learning environment or hampers the
safety of themselves or others as determined by the school will be asked to change
clothing and may be subject to school discipline should they refuse to do so. These
guidelines are not intended to be all-inclusive. The principal has the authority to determine
if clothing is disruptive to learning or impacts student safety.
In order to maintain adherence to this dress code policy, students may not wear the
following:
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Clothing that disrupts the educational process.
Shorts and skirts shorter than mid-thigh in length.
Clothing that reveals the back or midriff, or through which skin and/or
undergarment is visible, or when arms are raised becomes visible.
These include but are not limited to:
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o Boxers
o Sheer tops
o Mesh tops
o Overly large openings at the neck or arms
o Off the shoulder tops
o Spaghetti straps
o Halter tops
o Tube tops
o Swim tops
o Clothing that exposes the midriff
Clothing or accessories with offensive pictures, symbols or sayings.
These include but are not limited to:
o Demeaning statements
o Violent statements
o Sexual statements
o Racial Statements
Clothing that advertises or promotes tobacco, alcohol or other drugs.
Jewelry or accessories that could be used to cause harm or injury.
Any gang affiliated clothing.
Parent will be called and asked to bring a change of clothing if the student wears clothing in
violation of our district policy. If the parent cannot be reached, an article of clothing may
be supplied.
Safety Concern: We have noticed an increase in students wearing flip-flops to school;
especially during the warm weather. With this we have experienced some serious toe and
ankle injuries. Though not against the dress code policy, wearing flip-flops does increase
the chance of a serious toe or foot injury. Students are encourage to not to wear flip-flops
to school.
A good general policy regarding the dress code is: If there is ANY QUESTION about an item
being inappropriate, DO NOT WEAR IT.
Students ARE NOT permitted to wear Heelys to school. If a student should wear Heelys to
school, we will contact the parent and request that a different pair of shoes are
immediately brought to school for the student.
Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation
Students learn best when they feel respected, cared for and safe. In our continuing effort
to proactively create a safe and positive learning environment, the staff at our school is
dedicated to the delivery of a school-wide bullying prevention and social-emotional skills
curriculum called Second Step. This program is designated to prevent bullying and promote
responsible, respectful student behavior.
Verbal, sexual, racial, or physical harassment and/or abuse of another person will not be
tolerated in the Richland School District. Any student who is a target of any form of
harassment, intimidation or bullying should immediately report the action to a Sacajawea
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staff member. Such complaints will be appropriately investigated and handled consistent
with RSD Policy 3207.
Student Health Services
Nedda Dayley is our District Nurse Supervisor and she supervises our Health Room
paraeducator, Linda Marquez. Parents/guardians should inform the school of any medical
problem their child might have. Let us know if your child has allergies or if there are other
precautions that we need to take with your child related to a medical condition.
State law requires school personnel to assist a student to manage his/her medication at
school only by written order of a physician. The giving of any medication without a signed
Medication Authorization Form written order is prohibited. Both the physician or dentist
and the parent must sign this form. This regulation includes various kinds over-the-counter
and prescription cough syrups and medication for headaches, colds, stomachaches and
other miscellaneous ailments.
All medication must come to school in its original container with prescription label
attached. The label must include the student’s name, physician’s name, drug name, and
dosage.
In accordance with Washington State Law, oral medication (any medication taken by
mouth) is defined as EITHER prescription OR over-the-counter medication (such as Tylenol,
Advil, Benadryl, Cough Syrup, etc.). Parents/guardians may come to school to administer an
over-the-counter medication to their child to help relieve symptoms.
A signed medication authorization form must also accompany asthma inhalers from the
doctor and parent.
Medication brought to school by students without such permission will be removed from
the student and the parent/guardian will be contacted. Please contact our Health Room
staff if your child has, or develops, any serious health related condition.
In case of illness or injury the nurse or staff member trained in first aid procedures will care
for a student. Parents will be contacted. In the case of an emergency, parent/guardian
contact will be attempted immediately and emergency medical treatment procedures will
be initiated.
A school staff member will send a student to the health room for the following reasons:
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Uncontrolled bleeding
Head Bumps
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Signs of fever (chills, pale, extreme fatigue)
Emergent injuries that have happened at school
As needed medication usage or daily medications
Health issues related to healthcare plan
Blood sugar checks if necessary
Clothing exchange for soiled or inappropriate clothing.
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Bikes, Scooters, or Skateboards
For the safety of all, bikes, scooters, or skateboards must always be walked when on school
grounds. The school assumes no responsibility for stolen or damaged bikes, scooters or
skateboard. However, provisions have been made to safeguard bikes and scooters by
requiring them to be properly parked and locked in the school bike/scooter rack. We ask
that kindergarten students not ride a bike, scooter or skateboard to school.
The Richland School District prohibits scooters and skateboards from being ridden on
school district property.
Heelys, rollerblades and/or roller skates are not to be worn on school grounds.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance is recited at the beginning of each day in every classroom and at
the opening of all school assemblies. Students not reciting the Pledge of Allegiance shall
maintain a respectful silence.
Visitors in Classrooms
The Richland School District encourages parents to visit their child at school and has
developed the following guidelines to permit visitors to observe the educational program
during school hours with minimal disruption:
1. All visitors must register at the office upon their arrival at a school. Upon proof and
verification of identification, visitors will be issued a visitor's badge/sticker to wear
while visiting our school.
2. Loitering in school buildings, on school grounds, or on the public premises thereto is
prohibited.
3. If the visitor wishes to observe a classroom, an appointment time will be arranged
after the principal or designee has conferred with the teacher.
4. Visitors are requested to follow appropriate observation procedures that have been
established to minimize disruption of the learning environment. Observers should:
 Enter the classroom at the pre-determined time.
 Never video tape, audio tape, or photograph without permission of the
principal or classroom teacher.
 Enter into class discussion only at the request of the teacher.
 Never intentionally observe other students’ work.
 Never interrupt the teacher during class instruction.
 Resist interacting with the students unless invited to by the teacher.
 Never bring food or beverages into the classroom without teacher permission.
When visiting the classroom the teacher will not be available to conference, as the teacher
will be busy with the students. You may schedule a conference for another time if you
wish.
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Students from other schools or from out of town are not allowed to visit during the school
day.
Emergency Drills
The Richland School District staff strives for an atmosphere that is physically, socially and
emotionally safe for everyone: students, parents, staff, and community visitors. It is
important to us that any concerns are addressed in a prompt, professional, and positive
manner. If you observe any practice or procedure that causes you concerns about the
safety of the students please contact the school.
The safety of the students is of prime concern. Our school has a written safety/crisisemergency procedures plan. Emergency planning is monitored and revised regularly. We
practice these procedures during the school year. The cooperation of the
parents/guardians is essential at the time of an emergency.
Emergency drills for the evacuation or the lockdown of the school are held once a month
throughout the school year. These drills are conducted according to emergency exit
procedures in our emergency plan. All classrooms have emergency escape routes posted in
their room. Students are expected to act according to the established rules for emergency
exit.
Please discuss with your child how important it is to listen carefully to a teacher and other
emergency staff during drills. When students are asked to exit the building they must do so
at once without question.
Emergencies can take many forms; therefore a plan has been created that provides a
general guideline for responding. The school district has protocols for emergency
responses with both the police and the fire department to expedite appropriate and
efficient responses to emergency situations.
In the case of an actual emergency, the principal and the school’s safety management team
will meet to determine the seriousness of the situation and what elements of the
emergency response procedures need to be activated.
The Richland School District, in conjunction with the police and fire departments of
Richland and West Richland, has developed the following plan to reunite students with
their families in the event of an emergency or disaster occurring in our area.
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Safety Patrol and Crossing Guards
Fourth and fifth grade students (age 10) serve as student Safety Patrol. The privilege of
serving on the Safety Patrol is reserved for those students who demonstrate responsible
attitudes and behavior. The purpose of the Safety Patrol is to help students arrive and to
leave school grounds safely.
An adult crossing guard is stationed on the corner of George Washington Way and Saint
Street to safely cross students arriving and departing school.
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The law gives school crossing guards the authority to report to the local law enforcement
agency when the operator of an approaching vehicle commits an infraction by failing to
stop for a pedestrian or bicyclist within a crosswalk that is marked with school or
playground speed zone signs. A person who commits a speed infraction in a school or
playground speed zone will receive twice the scheduled penalty for the infraction, and the
penalty cannot be waived, reduced, or suspended.
Safe Walk Route
Following is the established safe walk route that your child needs to use when walking to
and from school each day. Please ensure that your child knows and follows their safe walk
route.
ATTENDANCE
Washington state law places responsibility for school attendance on the parent or
guardian. Regular attendance is essential to a student's success in school and is necessary
in order to achieve maximum benefit from the school program.
Persistent absenteeism creates a genuine hardship for a student. A student cannot do well
in school if they are not in school. Please help us with this very important goal.
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School Policies and State Laws
It is important that you understand our school policies and procedures, as well as
Washington State Law, to ensure your student is successful in school. State law for
mandatory attendance, called the Becca Bill, requires students from age 8 to 17 to attend a
public school, private school, or a district-approved home school program. Students that
are 6- or 7-years-old are not required to be enrolled in school. However, if parents enroll
their 6- or 7-year-old, the student must attend full-time. Youth who are 16 or older may be
excused from attending public school if they meet certain requirements.
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=28A.225
We are required to take daily attendance and notify you when your child has an
unexcused absence.
If your child has two unexcused absences in one month, state law (RCW 28A.225.020)
requires we schedule a conference with you and your child to identify the barriers and
supports available to ensure regular attendance. The district is obligated to develop a plan
that may require an assessment to determine how to best meet the needs of your child
and reduce absenteeism.
In elementary school after five excused absences in any month, or ten or more excused
absences in the school year, the school district is required to contact you to schedule a
conference at a mutually agreeable, reasonable time with at least one district employee, to
identify the barriers and supports available to you and your child. A conference is not
required if your child has a doctor’s note, or pre-arranged the absence in writing, and the
parent, student and school have made plans so your child does not fall behind
academically. If your child has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan the team
that created the plan needs to reconvene.
If your child has seven unexcused absences in any month or ten unexcused absences within
the school year, we are required to file a petition with the Juvenile court, alleging a
violation of RCW 28A.225.010, the mandatory attendance laws. The petition may be
automatically stayed and your child and family may be referred to a Community Truancy
Board, or you and your child may need to appear in Juvenile Court. If your child continues
to be truant you may need to go to court.
Reporting Absences
If your child is going to be absent, please contact
Haley Knutson, attendance secretary, at (509) 967-6326 or [email protected]
Tardy
It is important for students to arrive at school on time. Student who arrive late not only
lose valuable learning time, but also cause a disruption for those student who arrived on
time. Students arriving after 8:45 A.M. will be marked tardy.
A student missing 1.5 hours or more in either the morning or afternoon will be marked as
being absent for half a day.
Excessive absences and/or tardiness will result in a formal meeting with the
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parent/guardian and the school principal or designee to resolve attendance problems.
Checking Student Out of School Prior to Dismissal
For the protection of our students, any person wishing to check a student out of school
must report to the office. We will release the student after the sign-out process has been
completed and picture identification has been provided. Only custodial parents/guardians
will be allowed to check-out a student during the day unless we have been notified in
advance by the custodial parent/guardian that another individual has permission to pick up
their student. Picture identification will required of the individual who has been given
permission, by the parent/guardian, to check out the student.
Student Withdrawal
When a student withdraws from school to transfer to another school or district, please do
the following:
1. Notify the teacher and office staff of your intent to withdraw, if at all possible,
three (3) days in advance.
2. Check in all texts, library books, and other materials belonging to the school.
3. Pay any outstanding bills or fines.
4. Gather all personal belongings from the school.
Forgetting to do any of these may delay the student’s records being sent to the new
school.
Excluded from School
We do not want to exclude any student from school, but there are some situations in
which, by law, we must ask to take a student out of the school. A student may be excluded
from school under the following circumstances:
1. If she/he has a communicable disease transmissible through normal school
contacts that poses a substantial threat to the health or safety of the school
community.
2. If his/her immediate removal is necessary to restore order or to protect persons
on school district property.
3. Disciplinary sanctions.
ACADEMICS
If you have a question or concern about your child’s educational progress, we would like to
hear from you. It’s important that we work together on your child’s behalf. Please call us at
967-6325 to schedule an appointment to discuss any concerns or questions. Whatever your
concerns or questions, discuss it with the staff member most closely involved with your
child. This is usually the most effective way to answer any questions or concerns that you
may have about your child’s education. It is best to discuss your concern with the staff
member before bringing it to the attention of the principal.
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Report Cards
Report cards are issued three times each year. Teachers evaluate each student’s academic
achievement as well as effort and conduct. Report cards are shared with parents at the
end of the first and second grading period in conferences and sent home after the third
and final grading period of the year. Please carefully review your child’s progress and
contact the teacher if you have any questions.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-Teacher Conferences are important and our school strives for 100% participation
from all families. Parent-Teacher conferences are held at the end of the first and second
grading period. Additional conferences may be held at the request of the parent and/or
teacher.
Student Assessments
The Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) is the Washington state assessment that is given
to all 3rd-8th and 11th grade students. The purpose of the SBA is to measure student
progress toward meeting the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). State testing should
never be the sole judge of a student’s academic skills and knowledge. A student’s entire
performance should always be considered.
The testing window for the 3rd-8th SBA will during the window of March 6-June 9, 2017.
More specific dates will be provided as the assessment window gets closer.
Some special education student have alternatives to taking the SBA. If your child is on an
IEP please see your child’s teacher for more information.
The Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy (DIBELS) (K-2nd Grade), AIMSWeb Math (1st
grade), Measurement of Academic Progress (MAP) (2nd-5th Grade) are administered to all
students 3 times each year. The results of these assessments are used to make individual
instructional decisions, specifically in the content areas of reading and math.
Please feel free to contact your child’s teacher at any time to discuss their assessment
results.
Student Textbooks
Students are issued textbooks and are responsible for maintaining and returning those
books in the same condition in which they were received. The replacement fee of
lost/damaged textbooks can be as much as $50.00. Students will be issued a replacement
after they have paid the fee to the office.
Library
The mission of the library media program is to ensure that students are effective users of
ideas and information. In the library student receive instruction in skills related to that
purpose, and access to books, magazines, and electronic materials to use at home and
school.
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Library checkouts: The checkout period for library materials is 7 days for K-2nd grade
students and 14 days for 3rd-5th grade students. Students may renew most library
materials one time, so materials may be kept a maximum of four weeks. Overdue notices
will be issued after a book is at least one week overdue. If a book is more than three weeks
overdue, a bill for the cost of a replacement book and a 20% processing fee is issued. If the
student returns the overdue book to the library in good condition, the bill is voided. If a
book is paid for and then found and returned to the library before the third week of the
following school year, any fine paid will be refunded, upon submission of the district
receipt issued.
Checkout limits:
Kindergarten: 1 item
1st grade: 1 item for the first few months of the school year. After that, 2 items
2nd grade: 2 items
3rd-5th grade: 3 items
Limits and renewals may be exceeded at the request of a parent or teacher or to
accommodate special assignments. Students who have overdue items or unresolved fines
will be limited or prevented from checking out materials.
Students who return books with damage (as opposed to ordinary wear) will be billed for
the replacement value and processing fee for the book. Richland School District policy
requires that grade reports not be given to student who have any outstanding fines.
Please help your child avoid fines by helping them choose a convenient place to keep
library books at home. As you choose a place for them to store their library books at home,
please keep the books out of reach of pets, toddlers, food, or other hazards. If a book is
damaged while checked out, do not attempt to repair it at home, but return it to the school
with a note attached to the front cover stating the location of the damage (e.g., page 50). If
it can be repaired by the library staff, no fine will be charged.
Materials in Sacajawea’s library are selected according to the Richland School District’s
Instructional Materials Policy, and only materials for an elementary school audience are
purchased for the library. However, each family’s values are unique. If your child comes
home with library material not compatible with your values or belief system, the librarian
will be happy to work with you and your child to choose more appropriate materials for
reading at home.
Ms. Benita Brown is our school librarian.
Music
Students will participate when music is scheduled for their classroom. All students will
receive music instruction from Mrs. Debi Teague.
Students in 3rd- 5th grades have the opportunity to participate in various extracurricular
performing groups:
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Choir: 3rd-5th grade students (Tuesday & Thursday mornings 8:00 A.M.-8:40 A.M.)
Blazing Mallets: 4th & 5th grade students (Monday, Wednesday & Friday mornings
8:00 A.M.-8:40 A.M.
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Physical Education
Our school’s physical education teacher, Mr. Kirk Johnson, provides 50 minutes of P.E. per
week for students. Each program includes a wide-range of physical activities with games
and team activities. Students wear their school clothes and regular tennis shoes for class.
Students will not be allowed to participate in P.E. class without shoes.
Art
All Sacajawea students come to Ms. Karen Brashear’s classroom once a week for 50
minutes of art instruction. The primary focus of art is to give students opportunities to
develop their artistic knowledge, skills and creative abilities. Students use many materials
to produce a wide variety of incredible artwork, such as drawings, paintings, ceramics and
collages. Students wear smocks whenever they paint, but accidents do happen. Please
have your child wear appropriate clothing on art day. This will help avoid damage to their
clothing.
Specials (Library, P.E. Music & Art Schedules
Visit our school website http://www.rsd.edu/schools/sacajawea/to see your child’s
classroom specials schedule.
Guest Teachers
Every student will occasionally be taught by a guest (substitute) teacher. The most
common reason for using a guest teacher occurs when the regular teacher is ill. However,
guest teachers are also used when regular teachers are on leave for personal business,
professional training, or family emergency.
Students are expected to be EXTRA courteous to guest teachers. Any misconduct in the
classroom will be dealt with immediately.
Special Programs
Richland School District has a full range of programs to meet student’s needs: Speech &
Language Therapy (SLP), Occupational and Physical Therapy (OT/PT), Special Education,
LAP/Title I remedial assistance, and English Language Learners (ELL).
Parents may request that their child be considered for a special program by contacting the
school office or their child’s teacher. If the staff feels a student needs some extra assistance
that requires a special program, such as the fore mentioned, parents will be contacted.
Parents are always contacted prior to any individual testing used to determine if a student
can receive assistance through a special program.
Each special program has specific sets of criteria that a student must meet in order to be
served in that program. Parents are invited to meetings and are provided information
about testing, the results of testing, and recommendations concerning their child’s
educational program.
Internet Use
Internet access is available to all students. Parents/guardians have the right to decline
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district Internet access for their child and can communicate their wishes by completing a
district Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) Opt-Out form. If you choose to decline district Internet
access for your child please contact the school office and an AUP Opt-Out form will be
given to you. Please complete the AUP Opt-Out form and return it to the school office.
Homework
We know that students who are assigned homework perform better at school. There are
positive effects on achievement and character development with the consistent
completion of homework assignments.
Sacajawea teachers assign homework for five reasons:
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Teach and reinforce student self-discipline.
Allow greater coverage of curriculum.
Teach and reinforce independence and responsibility.
Supplement and reinforce school learning.
Strengthen the home/school connection.
Your student’s teacher will let you know the homework expectation and assignments for
this year. Homework may include:



Assignment related to current classroom topics
Assignments not completed in class
Research projects
Your student will be asked to spend a reasonable amount of time on homework. If the
amount of homework seems excessive or nonexistent, please check with your child’s
teacher.
You may help your child with homework in the following ways:

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

Provide a study area
Make sure your child has enough time, understands directions, and works carefully
Look at the assignments
Examine completed work brought home
Encourage your child’s efforts
Offer help with troublesome skills or concepts
Field Trips
Field trips within our city and to nearby points of interest are scheduled by various
classroom teachers throughout the year. These trips are designed to supplement different
aspects of the classroom curriculum and to introduce the students to the resources of our
community. The teacher will inform parents about field trips in advance. Volunteers are
also needed to chaperone the trips. If you are willing to volunteer, please contact the
classroom teacher.
Any individual volunteering in the Richland School District must complete a Volunteer
Disclosure Statement and a Washington State Patrol Background check before being
allowed to volunteer in the school.
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To complete the Volunteer Disclosure Statement visit the Richland School District link
http://www.rsd.edu/jobs/volunteer-information.html
Any student going on a school sponsored field trip must return to the school unless a
specific written request is made by the parent/guardian.
SACAJAWEA ELEMENTARY TITLE I INFORMATION
Sacajawea Elementary School is committed to ensuring each student makes academic
progress. For those students who are having difficulties learning in reading and math we
have additional interventions and support through the Title I Program. Student progress is
monitored frequently and instruction is based on scientifically validated strategies, with a
goal of getting the student to their grade level performance levels as quickly as possible.
Information Review
Title I Part A Parent Involvement Policy requirements and Parent/Student/Teacher
Compact are explained to parents and reviewed during a Sacajawea PTO meeting where
suggestions will be incorporated into the document. To view the Sacajawea Elementary
School Parent Policy and/or the Parent/Student/Teacher Compact please visit our school
website http://www.rsd.edu/schools/sacajawea/
Title I Questions/Information
Contact Ms. Christy Utecht (Instructional Specialist) by calling 967-6325 or by e-mail
[email protected] for additional information about available Title I services.
Parent Participation and Support
Parents are essential to student’s success in school. When parents wish to provide extra
support to develop skills, we have a variety of resource materials.
Sacajawea’s Title I program has a Parent Resource Library available for our parents. It
includes a leveled reader library where parents may check out books at their child’s
instructional level to practice at home. The resource library also includes a variety of
pamphlets that give information and/or tips for reading with children at home, help for
math homework, social skill development information and suggestions for activities to do
at home to support their student learning.
We also have a library resource: Parent’s Homework Dictionary in English, Russian and
Chinese that parents may check out. These books have resources and help for parents
when they work with their student in language arts, math, science and social studies at
home.
Title I Parent involvement funds are used to support the Parent Resource Library and
parent involvement activity nights.
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SCHOOL COMMUNITY
Breakfast & Lunch Programs
Students eating breakfast:
1. Will enter the Café on the SE side of the school.
2. Are to enter the Café in an orderly and quiet manner
3. Are dismissed to walk to their designated classroom line-up location that is
outside their classroom door at 8:30 A.M.
Students are not to arrive earlier than 8:15 A.M. for breakfast.
Money for the breakfast and lunch programs may be brought in on a daily basis or for a
longer period of time. Lunch money is collected each morning in the classroom and
credited to the student’s lunch account by the food services personnel.
Free and reduced lunches are available through the assistance of the federal government.
A form will be sent home with each student at the beginning of the school year. If you
qualify for this program, the District Food Services Office will notify you by telephone. If
your income changes during the school year and you think you may qualify or become
ineligible, please stop by the school office for a new application form.
If you would like to eat lunch with your child, please have your child tell the teacher when
lunch count is taken in the classroom or you may call the school office prior to 9:00 a.m. so
we may notify the kitchen of your expected visit. By pre-arranging your visit this ensures
that the kitchen staff will prepare enough food for everyone.
Full Price Lunch
Student Prices
Elementary
$ 2.60
Secondary
$ 3.00
Adult
$3.50
Reduced Price Lunch (K – 3rd grade) Reduced
Price Lunch (PK, 4th – 12th grade)
$ .00
$ .40
N/A
$ .40
N/A
Full Price Breakfast
$ 1.40
$ 1.75
$ 2.25
Reduced Price Breakfast
$ .00
$ .00
N/A
Milk
$ .50
$ .50
$ .50
The Richland School District uses a computerized system to identify students for the
breakfast and lunch program. This updated computerized system for purchasing meals
uses the finger scan from one of their fingers to identify them to gain access to deposited
funds available for meal services.
This system offers complete privacy and does not store a copy of the student’s fingerprint.
Upon registration the finger is scanned. A mathematical algorithm then translates the
defining points of the fingerprint in an indefinable string of characters. This indefinable
string is what is stored in the program and is what will be called upon to identify a student.
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The benefit of this system will be that students cannot lose their identity nor have it used
by another person to gain access to their account. It also eliminates the need for students
to remember a PIN, and will speed up the meal line.
If you do not want your child to participate, please notify the school in writing to decline
participation as soon as possible.
For more information about the Richland School District Nutrition Services program visit
the following link: http://www.rsd.edu/info/food-menus-information.html
If your child has any food allergies please notify the office ASAP.
If your child is going home for lunch, we must have a note from you giving us permission to
allow your student to be dismissed from our campus for that specific date and time.
Pets
Pets are allowed at school only for classroom sharing and with permission from the
classroom teacher. Before bringing a pet to school please contact your child’s teacher to
make the necessary arrangements.
As per Richland School District policy dogs ARE NOT allowed to be on the school property.
Please do not bring a dog with you when you come to the school.
Change of Phone Numbers or Address
Notify the school immediately if you have a change of address or telephone number during
the school year. Not having an up-to-date address and telephone number on record at the
school office could delay or prevent the school contacting you in the event of an
emergency.
Student School Insurance
School insurance is available for a minimal cost. The plan you may purchase is described in
the folder sent home at the beginning of each school year. The Richland School District
does not carry any insurance on your child.
Telephone Use
School telephones are business phones and should only be used for emergencies or issues
of great importance. Students are not to use the school phone to make personal
arrangements (such as requesting permission to go to another student's home after
school). Students will only be allowed to use the phone with staff permission.
Cell Phones
While on school property students may possess and use personal telecommunication
devices including but not limited to pagers, beepers and cell phones provided that such
devices do not pose a threat to academic integrity, disrupt the learning environment, or
violate the privacy rights of others.
Students possessing telecommunication devices (cell phones) and other related electronic
devices shall observe the following conditions:
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
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Devices shall not be used in a manner that disrupts the educational process,
including, but not limited to, posing a threat to academic integrity or violating
confidentiality or privacy rights of another individual.
Telecommunication devices must be TURNED OFF and operated ONLY before and
after the regular school day.
Cell phones shall not be used, displayed, or observed in classrooms, testing areas,
areas where personal/testing materials are located, locker rooms, or anywhere a
student has a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, including
losing the privilege of bringing the device onto school property. A staff member
may confiscate the device, which shall only be returned to the student’s
parent/guardian.
Students are responsible for devices they bring to school. The school shall not be
responsible for loss, theft or destruction of devices brought onto school property.
Students shall comply with any additional rules developed by the school concerning
the appropriate use of telecommunication or other electronic devices.
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)
Sacajawea Elementary Schools enjoys an active Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) and we
encourage all parents/guardians to become involved. The group provides an arena in
which parents and staff actively work together to create a positive learning environment
for all students. Our PTO raises funds for worthwhile projects, organizes volunteer efforts
that benefit our students, and creates new opportunities for our students.
2016-17 PTO Officers
President: Kelsey Clements [email protected]
Vice President: Emily Hokanson [email protected]
Secretary: Rebecca Rhine [email protected]
Treasurer: Haley Knutson [email protected]
School Newsletters & Website
The Sacajawea Smoke Signals newsletter goes home each month. It serves to keep you upto-date on what is happening in the classrooms and allows you to plan for future school
events. The Smoke Signals is published by our PTO. Reminder announcements are sent
home with students prior to events/activities that parents/guardians should know about. In
addition, you may visit our school website http://www.rsd.edu/schools/sacajawea/ for
more information about school events.
Volunteers
Volunteers are recruited on a regular basis. They are involved in a variety of activities
including: chaperoning on field trips, assisting in the classroom, listening to students read,
correcting papers, working in the computer lab, making classroom materials, and assisting
with special programs. Please inform your child's teacher or call the school office if you
wish to volunteer.
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Any individual volunteering in the Richland School District must complete a Volunteer
Disclosure Statement and a Washington State Patrol Background check before being
allowed to volunteer in the school.
To complete the Volunteer Disclosure Statement visit the Richland School District link
http://www.rsd.edu/jobs/volunteer-information.html
Lost And Found
Lost items, including clothing, backpacks, and books will be placed on the “Lost and Found”
tubs in the school Café. Students should check this area when they have lost something at
school. Proper marking of student's clothing and other articles is very helpful. All items
unclaimed at the end of the year will be donated to charitable organizations.
Personal Items
Common sense and consideration is the best guide in determining whether or not to bring
personal possessions to school. We expect students not to bring extra money or other
valuables to school.
Personal toys or any other items that may be disruptive to the students, teachers, and/or
the educational process at Sacajawea Elementary School are not allowed. Neither the
school nor any of its staff will be held responsible for damage to or loss of personal items
brought to school.
Counselor
Our school counselor is Miss Nicole White. If your child is having difficulty dealing with
problems, trouble in getting along with others, or perhaps a great sadness or disruption in
the family, the counselor can provide support through individual and small group
counseling sessions. The counselor supports the regular teaching staff in the personal
development of students. School counselors provide interventions and/or support for
behavioral and emotional difficulties.
Every adult in the school is a vital part of the counseling program, for they all provide
positive role models and resources for communication – often the first resource for the
student or parent. Staff often can help direct students and parents in the direction that will
provide additional assistance.
Miss White may be contacted by calling her at 967-6328 or by e-mail [email protected]
Party Treats and Invitations
IMPORTANT: If you are going to bring treats to school they shall be limited to store
purchased (bulk or individually packaged) foods only.
If you plan to bring treats for your child’s class on a birthday, please contact the teacher
prior to the day. The teacher will have a suggestion about appropriate times.
Teachers will advise parents/guardians of other classroom parties.
To avoid disrupting the school day, flowers, balloons, or special items delivered at school
will be kept in the school office until the end of the school day.
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Distribution of party invitations at school is to be done only after school hours and outside
of the classroom. An exception to this is if every student in the classroom is going to be
invited to the party then handing out the invitations during the school day is permitted.
Arrangements must be made with the classroom teacher to schedule the handing out of
invitations to all of the students in the classroom.
Gum
It is everyone’s responsibility to keep the school and the school grounds clean. Some foods
become quite a problem with much time needed from the custodian to clean up. Because
of a maintenance and litter problem, gum is not allowed at school.
Daycare Services
Champions! offers quality child care services on the Sacajawea Elementary School campus.
For more information, either contact their office by calling 946-1273 or come to the school
office.
Sacajawea Elementary School Discipline Approach
Discipline Program-PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports)
Sacajawea Elementary School encourages and teaches appropriate student behavior
through a proactive approach called “Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports”
(PBIS).
PBIS is a schoolwide approach to make our school safe and to promote positive student
behavior. It’s also a way for us to decide how to respond to a student who misbehaves.
There are a few important PBIS principles:
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Every student is capable of learning and demonstrating appropriate behavior.
Stepping in early can prevent more serious behavior problems.
Each student is different and schools need to provide many kinds of behavior
support.
How schools teach behavior should be based on research and science.
Following a student’s behavioral progress is important.
Schools must gather and use data to make decisions about behavior problems.
Keep in mind that PBIS is not a treatment or therapy. It’s more like a framework for
teachers, administrators and parents. PBIS is used with all students in our school, whether
or not they receive special education services.
The Focus of PBIS: Prevention, Not Punishment
In a school with a traditional approach to discipline, teachers/staff may try to correct
behavior through punishment.
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By contrast, in a school using PBIS, the focus is on preventing problems. From the start,
students learn about what behavior is appropriate, just like they learn math or science.
Students are taught social skills, including how to act in different settings, such as the
classroom, on the bus or with friends. This is done through instruction in the classroom or
in our “common” areas on what appropriate behaviors should look like throughout our
school community.
Your child’s teacher will be teaching their classroom behavior and common area
expectations during the first week of school and re-teaching/reviewing them during the
year. Please contact your child’s teacher to learn more about the expected classroom
behaviors.
PBIS has an emphasis on interaction and modeling by all staff members and focuses on
both a student’s behavior and the student as a human being. PBIS is a pro-active
approach rather than a re-active approach to discipline.
For a more comprehensive explanation of our “common area” behavior expectations you
may visit our school website at http://www.rsd.edu/schools/sacajawea/
Classroom Behavior Management-Clip Chart
In your child’s classroom a behavior management program called “clip chart” is used. Each
student has a clip on the classroom clip chart. Every student begins the school day with
their clip on “ready to learn.” Each day a student has the opportunity to have their clip
moved up or down the chart throughout the school day depending on the choices that they
make during the school day. Please contact your child’s teacher to learn more specific
information about the clip chart program or if you have any questions about this program.
Recess
Recess is an important time for students to gain physical skills, interact with friends, and
learn the give and take of playground games. Our playground expectations are designed to
ensure the safety and well-being of our students on the playground. Harassment,
intimidation or bullying will not be tolerated on our playground and should be reported to
school staff immediately.
Playground Expectations
1. Keep hands, feet and other objects to self.
2. Treat others with kindness.
3. Place personal clothing (i.e. coat-sweatshirt-gloves-hats-etc.) in or near the assigned
4.
5.
6.
7.
outside classroom tub if not wanting to wear during recess.
Play only in allowed areas.
Always get permission and a pass from a playground supervisor before entering the
building. Enter at the double doors that lead to the school office.
Restroom Usage: Use the first floor student restroom located in the main hall.
Show Good Sportsmanship by:
 including others into the game,
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8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
 using positive encouragement,
 playing fair (by the rules of the game),
 using appropriate language,
 taking turns,
 and not arguing about “calls.”
Settle all game (rule) disagreements with one game of “Rock, Paper, Scissors.” Ties
continue until there is a winner.
Respond to a playground supervisor’s whistle or bell immediately.
Share equipment and space.
Return equipment to the equipment rack or container when finished playing with
it.
Play/pretend fighting and/or wrestling is not allowed.
KICKING ANY BALL WHILE ON THE PAVEMENT IS NOT ALLOWED.
Personal items are to be kept in the classroom; including all sports equipment.
Recognize/refuse/report all bullying to a playground supervisor.
Report health/personal concerns before the bell rings.
When the bell rings:
 Immediately stop playing.
 Walk to classroom line-up area.
 Return playground equipment to equipment rack or container.
 Line-up at assigned area and wait patiently for teacher.
Playground Equipment
SLIDE: One at a time on the slide, sliding down only. Sit facing forward; slide down
immediately.
HAND-TO-HAND BARS: Walk around, not under. No touching other students on bars. Only
two students going across at one time are permitted. No sitting or standing on top of the
bars. It is expected that girls wear shorts under skirts if they are using the hand-to-hand
bars.
TWIRLING BAR: Only one student per bar. It is expected that girls wear shorts under skirts
if they are using the twirling bar.
JUMP ROPES: Ropes are to be used for jumping only.
BALLS: Playground balls may be bounced or thrown only at designated wall. Always ask a
playground supervisor to get a ball that may have landed in the parking lot.
TETHERBALL & 4-Square: Play by Sacajawea Elementary School rules.
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IMPORTANT RICHLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT INFORMATION
Non-Discrimination Statement
The Richland School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis
of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual
orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or
service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth
groups. This applies to all educational programs, extra-curricular activities, and
employment. The following employee(s) has been designated to handle questions and
complaints of alleged discrimination:
Richland School District
615 Snow Avenue
Richland, WA 99352
(509) 967-6000
Title IX Coordinators:
Personnel: Tony Howard ([email protected]) Executive Director, Human Resources
Students: Todd Baddley ([email protected]) Assistant Superintendent
Section 504 Coordinators:
Personnel: Tony Howard ([email protected]) Executive Director, Human Resources
Facilities: Mark Panther ([email protected]) Executive Director, Support Services
Student Services: Mike Hansen ([email protected]) Assistant Superintendent
Compliance Coordinator for State Law (RCW 28A.640/28A.642)
Galt Pettett ([email protected]) General Counsel
The Richland School District will also take steps to assure that national origin persons who
lack English language skills can participate in all education programs, services and activities.
For information regarding translation services or transitional bilingual education programs,
contact the RSD Special Programs Office at 509-967-6050.
Sexual Harassment
Students and staff are protected against sexual harassment by anyone in any school
program or activity, including on the school campus, on the school bus, or off-campus, such
as a school-sponsored field trip.
Sexual harassment is unwelcome behavior or communication that is sexual in nature
when:
 A student or employee is led to believe that he or she must submit to unwelcome
sexual conduct or communications in order to gain something in return, such as a
grade, a promotion, a place on a sports team, or any educational or employment
decision, or
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
The conduct substantially interferes with a student's educational performance, or
creates an intimidating or hostile educational or employment environment.
Examples of Sexual Harassment:
 Pressuring a person for sexual favors
 Unwelcome touching of a sexual nature
 Writing graffiti of a sexual nature
 Distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures
 Making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks
 Physical violence, including rape and sexual assault
How do I report sexual harassment?
You can report sexual harassment to any school staff member or to the district's Title IX
Officer.
 Title IX Coordinator for Personnel: Tony Howard, Executive Director, Human
Resources [email protected]
 Title IX Coordinator for Students: Todd Baddley, Assistant Superintendent
[email protected]
For a copy of our district’s Sexual Harassment policy and procedure, contact your school or
district office. This policy and procedure is available on the Richland School District’s
website at http://www.rsd.edu/board/policies-regulations.html.
Richland School District Student Behavior
Student Conduct Expectations
As authorized by chapter 28A.600 RCW, the following procedure sets forth rights and
conduct expectations for students, along with the sanctions that may be imposed for
violations of such expectations. At all times, this procedure will be read consistent with
federal statutes and regulations, state statutes, common law, and rules promulgated by the
Washington Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Respect for the Law and the Rights of Others
The student is responsible as a citizen to observe the laws of the United States, the State of
Washington, local ordinances and laws, and School District Policies and Regulations. The
student will respect the rights of others while in school, during school hours, on school
property, at all school activities, on district provided transportation or otherwise under
school authority.
Compliance with Rules
All students will obey the written rules and regulations established for the orderly
operations of the district and the reasonable requests, instructions, and directives of
district personnel. For purposes of Policy 3200 and this procedure, the term "district
personnel" includes all adults, including contractors and volunteers, authorized to
supervise student activities. Failure to do so will be cause for disciplinary action. All
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students will submit to reasonable discipline by the school district and its representatives
for violations of policies, regulations and rules.
Scope of District Authority
Students who involve themselves in acts that have a detrimental effect on the
maintenance and operation of the school or the school district; criminal acts; and/or
violations of school rules and regulations, may be subject to disciplinary action by the
school. The rules will be enforced by school officials:
 On school grounds during and immediately before or immediately after school hours;
 On school grounds at any other time when school is being used by a school group(s) or
for a school activity;
 Off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event;
 Off the school grounds if the actions of the student materially or substantially affects or
interferes with the educational process; or
 In school-provided transportation, or any other place while under the authority of
school personnel.
Guidelines for Sanctions
Chapter 392-400 WAC contains the following restrictions for suspensions:

Kindergarten through grade four - No student in grades kindergarten through four shall
be subject to short-term suspensions for more than a total of ten school days during any
single semester or trimester as the case may be, and no loss of academic grades or credit
shall be imposed by reason of the suspension of such a student.

Grades five and above program - No student in grade five and above program shall be
subjected to short-term suspension for more than a total of fifteen school days during
any single semester or ten school days during any single trimester, as the case may be.
In all cases where sanctions are imposed, a reasonable effort to contact parents or
guardians will occur prior to, or contemporaneous with, the imposition of the sanction, in
addition to any written notice required by law. When a school administrator has good and
sufficient reason to believe that a student’s presence poses an immediate and continuing
danger to the student, other students or school staff, or an immediate and continuing
threat of substantial disruption of the educational process, immediate emergency removal
or emergency expulsion may be appropriate.
In conjunction with the following sanction guidelines, administrators may also consider any
alternative form of corrective action—including programs intended to lessen the time of
exclusion from class attendance—which has been approved by the Board of Directors
and/or Superintendent. The district encourages the use of alternative forms of correction
action when possible and practicable in light of the duty to maintain safe and orderly
school environments conducive to student learning. In addition to school sanctions,
administrators should determine whether restitution for damage or injury should be
considered.
Offenses/Infractions
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The sanctions below do not prohibit administrators from considering approved
alternatives to out-of-school suspension or expulsion, including school
consequences. The standard range for each offense does not prohibit a school
administrator from lesser form or exceeding the range, up to and including expulsion, if
sufficient mitigating/aggravating factors warrant such corrective action or if the threat of
danger or substantial disruption supports an emergency expulsion under WAC 392-400295:
Academic Dishonesty / Cheating / Plagiarism / Falsification / Misrepresentation:
For purposes of school discipline, means knowingly submitting the work of others
represented as the student’s own or assisting another student in doing so, or using
unauthorized sources. A student may be guilty of falsifying or forging documents if the
student knowingly makes any false entry, alters times, names, dates, grades, addresses or
alters any school document used or intended to be used in connection with the operation of
the school. Also a false representation of a matter of fact—whether by words or by
conduct, by false or misleading allegations, or by concealment of what should have been
disclosed—that deceives and is intended to deceive another so that the individual will act
upon it to her or his legal injury. Cheating/academic dishonesty includes but is not limited
to the following:
a. Copying from or allowing another student to copy from a test, homework, paper,
project, lab report or other work that is not intended to be collaborative in nature
b. Sharing papers with another student
c. Plagiarizing the work of others
d. Intentionally obtains test questions and/or answers through fraudulent means
e. Looking at another student’s test, answer sheet, or other materials
f. Using unauthorized material including textbooks, notes, calculators, computer
program, or outside help during an examination or other assignment
g. Using writings, passages, ideas of others and passing them off as your own (including,
but not limited to faxing, duplicating, file sharing, or transmittal using any
technology)
h. Sabotaging or destroying the work of others
i. Illegal or unauthorized entry into school computer or program
j. Submitting material (written or designed by someone else without citing the source
(e.g., plagiarizing or submitting work created by family, friends, tutors, or anyone else
not the student)
Standard Range: 0-10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary &
Secondary: School Consequences)
Arson / Destruction of Property / Vandalism:
For purposes of school discipline, “arson” means any intentional or reckless setting of a fire
or other burning of personal or public property. “Reckless” means that the student
understood, but acted with disregard for, the consequences of his or her
conduct. “Damaging School Property” means intentional damage to district property.
“Vandalism” means the act of deliberately destroying or damaging property of another.
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Standard Range: 0-20 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary:
STS – 1 Day; Secondary: STS – 5 Days). See RR 3200 for mitigating and aggravating
factors
Assault / Fighting / Violence:
For purposes of school discipline, “assault” means actual or attempted hitting, striking or
other wrongful physical contact inflicted on another either directly or indirectly through an
object. For verbal threats, see Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying. Fighting and
instigating, promoting, or escalating a fight, as well as failure to disperse are included in
this prohibition. Engaging in any form of fighting where physical blows are exchanged is
prohibited, regardless of who initiated the fight. This prohibition includes hitting, slapping,
pulling hair, biting, kicking, choking, and scratching or any other acts in which a student
intentionally inflicts or attempts to inflict injury on another.
Standard Range: 0-10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary:
School Consequence; Secondary: STS – 5 Days). See RR 3200 for mitigating and
aggravating factors
Reasonable Self-Defense:
It is expected that a student must always first retreat from any threat of harm and/or
contact an adult staff member for assistance before engaging in any type of physical
response to an assault. However, an administrator may decide not to subject a student
to discipline if, following a reasonable investigation, the administrator determines that
all of the following are true:

A student who is being assaulted or witnesses another student being assaulted acts
only in a manner that is defensive and protective of himself/herself or others;

The student is acting in a manner that a building administrator determines is
reasonable and necessary in light of the circumstances; and

The student did not instigate, provoke, or promote the violence by his or her words
or conduct immediately prior to the assault.
A reasonable physical response to an assault may include holding the assailant’s hands
or arms to prevent the assault, or pulling two fighting students apart and holding them
until adult staff can arrive and intervene.
Computer Misuse/Unauthorized Use of Technology: (See Policy and Procedure 2314)
It may be a violation of this section for a student to tamper with the electronic hardware, data
files, or software or gain unauthorized access to, or use of, such technology. Students are
NOT permitted to:
a. Damage any part of the computer system by attempting to harm, modify, or
destroy computer hardware, software, or the data stored therein.
b. Send, receive, or display offensive, inappropriate, or sexually explicit material
c. Use obscene language
d. Use other people’s passwords
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a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Harass, bully, insult, or attack others
Seek to receive or provide unauthorized access to resources
Trespass in files and/or folders of others
Violate copyright laws and/or plagiarize the material of others
Steal equipment or software
Intentionally waste resources
Use a network computer for commercial purposes, personal gain, and fraud
Standard Range: 0-10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary &
Secondary: School Consequences). See RR 3200 for mitigating and aggravating factors
Defacing or Destruction of Property:
For school discipline purposes, means the unauthorized, intentional damage to district
property or the property of others (other than arson, above).
Standard Range: 0-10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary:
School Consequence; Secondary: STS – 3 Days). Restitution will usually be required.
See RR 3200 for mitigating and aggravating factors
Defiance of School Authority / Failure to Cooperate / Insubordination / Cumulative
Violations:
Refusal to obey reasonable requests, instructions, and directives of any school personnel,
including volunteers or contractors working for the school. Defiance includes dress or
appearance in violation of Policy 3224 that the student either refuses to correct at the
directive of a school administrator, or that is a persistent and repeated violation of school
district policy. Defiance of school authority can also include intentional disruptive
behavior.
Standard Range: 0-10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary &
Secondary: School Consequence). See RR 3200 for mitigating and aggravating factors
Disruptive Conduct:
For disciplinary purposes, this section addresses the student creating a substantial or
material disruption to the educational process or any school operation and conduct that
markedly interrupts or severely impedes the day-to-day operations of a school. Includes
disruption of the school program by bomb scares, false fire alarms, firecrackers, etc.
Standard Range: 0-10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary &
Secondary: School Consequences). See RR 3200 for mitigating and aggravating factors
Drugs / Alcohol and Other Prohibited Chemical Substances: (see Policy and Procedure
3418)
The possession, consumption, use, storage, or distribution of drugs (including
marijuana/cannabis), alcohol, and other similar illegal chemical substances on school
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grounds, at school activities, or on district-provided transportation is prohibited. For
purposes of student conduct expectations:

This section applies to any controlled substance, medication, stimulant, depressant, or
mood altering compound, including simulated compounds intended to produce
intoxication or euphoria, whether or not such compounds have been designated a
controlled substance by state or federal law;

This section applies to marijuana or substances containing marijuana;

This section applies to legally-prescribed drugs which a student is nevertheless not
lawfully authorized to possess on school grounds, at school activities, or on districtprovided transportation;

This section applies to students who enter school grounds, school activities, or districtprovided transportation following the unlawful use or consumption of drugs, alcohol,
and other similar chemical substances, including students who appear to be under the
influence of such substances; and

This section applies equally to the possession or use of paraphernalia or other items
used to possess, consume, store, or distribute drugs, alcohol, and/or other illegal
chemical substances, including marijuana or substances containing marijuana, look
alike drugs/items purported to be a drug.
Standard Range Elementary: 0-10 Day Suspension
Presumptive Standard Sanction for Possession or Use: STS – 1 Day
Presumptive Standard Sanction for Distribution: STS – 5 Days
Standard Range Secondary: 3 – 20 Day Suspension
Presumptive Standard Sanction for Possession or Use: STS – 10 Days
Presumptive Standard Sanction for Distribution: LTS – 20 Days
See RR 3200 for mitigating and aggravating factors
Fighting or Fighting Involvement:
Includes instigating, promoting (including promotion by presence as a spectator), filming,
videotaping, and escalating a fight, as well as the failure to disperse at the scene of a fight.
Standard Range: 0-10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary:
STS – 0 Day; Secondary: STS – 5 Days). See RR 3200 for mitigating and aggravating
factors
Gang Conduct:
The Board of Directors is aware of the public existence of gangs which are involved in illegal,
intimidating and harassing conduct and the Board hereby determines that such gangs and the
expression of such gang membership cause or are likely to cause disruption in the school
environment and present a threat to the health and safety of students and school personnel.
“Gang” means a group which: (a) consists of three or more persons; (b) has identified
leadership; and (c) on an ongoing basis, regularly conspires and acts in concert mainly for
criminal purposes. Any such activity or expression by students is prohibited while they are
subject to the disciplinary control of the school district. Therefore, it may be a violation of this
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section for a student or students on or about school property or in any place involving a
school-related activity to:
a. wear, possess, distribute or display any clothing, jewelry, display any sign, which by
virtue of its color, arrangement, symbol, or any other attribute, is evidence of
membership of affiliation in any such gang; or imply gang membership or affiliation by
written communication in conjunction with design, emblem upon any school or
personal property or one’s person that is disruptive or interferes with the school
environment, and/or activity, and/or educational objectives and/or process; or
b. Use any speech, gesture, conduct, or commit any act or omission in furtherance of the
interest of any such gang or such gang activity.
Standard Range: 0-10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary &
Secondary: School Consequence). See RR 3200 for mitigating and aggravating factors
Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying: (see Policy and Procedure 3207)
For school discipline purposes, “harassment, intimidation and bullying” includes:

Any violation of district policy 3207;

Intentional hurtful, threatening, or intimidating verbal and/or physical conduct in
violation of district policy 3207;

Unsolicited or unwelcome verbal or physical conduct that is harassing or intimidating
that can be of a sexual, religious, racial or ethnic nature, or based on disability;

A threat to cause bodily injury, property damage, or to cause the physical confinement
or restraint of the person threatened, or any other act causing substantial harm to the
physical or mental health of the person threatened.
Standard Range Elementary: 0-10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction –
Elementary: School Consequence)
Standard Range Secondary: 3-20 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction –
Secondary: STS – 3 Days)
See RR 3200 for mitigating and aggravating factors
For more information about the Richland School District Bully/Harassment policy please
visit the following link: http://www.rsd.edu/resources/policy-bullying-harassment.html
Lewd, Obscene, or Profane Language, Gestures or Materials:
For purposes of school discipline, this includes, but is not limited to, lewd, obscene or
profane language, gestures or materials that are unrelated to authorized school
curriculum. Prohibited “materials” includes digital or electronic text, images, or sounds
that are possessed, displayed, or transmitted while under the supervision of school
authorities.
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Standard Range: 0 – 10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary
& Secondary: School Consequence). See RR 3200 for mitigating and aggravating
factors
Sexual Harassment: (see Policy and Procedure 8700)
“Sexual harassment” means conduct or communication intended to be sexual in nature, is
unwelcome by the targeted person(s) and has the potential to deny or limit another
student(s) ability to participate in or benefit from a school’s education program.
Theft / Stealing:
Taking or knowingly being in possession of district property or property or others without
permission. As part of the sanction, restitution will usually be required.
Standard Range: 0 – 10 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction – Elementary:
School Consequence; Secondary: STS – 2 Days). See RR 3200 for mitigating and
aggravating factors. Restitution will usually be required if property is not recovered
and returned.
Tobacco/Nicotine Products - Use or Possession:
Students may not participate in smoking, use of tobacco products or products containing
nicotine, or possess tobacco products, or smoking device including e-cigarette or other
vapor products on the school premises, district transportation, or at school-sponsored
functions.
Standard Sanction - Elementary: School Consequence
Standard Sanction – Secondary:
First Offense: Complete Tobacco Intervention Packet. [Refusal or failure to
complete Tobacco Intervention Packet shall be considered to be a tobacco related
offense for which students may receive school discipline sanctions as set forth in
Defiance of School Authorities]
Second Offense: Complete Tobacco Intervention Packet and attend extended after
school detention. [Refusal to complete Tobacco intervention Packet shall be
considered to be a tobacco related offense for which students may receive school
discipline that includes short-term suspension with days that may be held in held
in abeyance for community service].
Third Offense: Complete Tobacco Intervention Packet and attend extended after
school detention. [Refusal to complete Tobacco Intervention Packet shall be
considered to be a tobacco related offense for which students may receive school
discipline that includes short-term suspension with days that may be held in held
in abeyance for community service].
Truancy: (See Policy and Procedure 3120)
Unexcused Absences and Tardiness: (see Policy and Procedure 3120)
35
Students with one or more unexcused absences and/or tardiness and subject to
compulsory attendance pursuant to Chapter 28A.225 RCW may be subject to corrective
action that is reasonably calculated to modify the student’s conduct. However, if a district
imposes corrective action on a student for one or more unexcused absences, it must:

Provide notice to the student’s parent/guardian in writing in English or the primary
language of the parent/guardian, that the student has failed to attend school without
valid justification, and by any other means necessary to provide notice of these facts;

Schedule a conference or conferences with the parents/guardians and the student to
analyze the causes of the student’s absences and determine whether the student
would be appropriately placed in a special program designed for his/her educational
success; and

Take steps to reduce the student’s absences, which include, where appropriate in the
judgment of district staff, adjustments to the student’s school program or school or
courses or assisting the parent/guardian in obtaining supplementary services.
Additionally, a student’s academic grade or credit may only be adversely affected by
reason of tardiness or absences if:

The student’s attendance or participation is related to the instructional objectives or
goals of the particular subject or course;

The student’s attendance or participation has been identified by the teacher pursuant
to district policy as a basis for grading the subject or course; and

The circumstances pertaining to the student’s inability to attend school have been
taken into consideration, including whether the absences are directly related to the
student’s disability under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1964, Title II of the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(IDEA).
Weapons: (see Policy and Procedure 10200)
This section addresses the possession or use of actual weapons in violation of district policy
10020, including firearms, dangerous weapons, and other items listed within that
policy. This includes when a student acts with malice as defined under RCW 9A.04.110 and
displays a device that appears to be a firearm. Objects and conduct that fall outside of
Policy 10020 should be addressed under other sections, as appropriate.
Any student who is determined to have carried a firearm or to have possessed a firearm on
school premises, school-provided transportation, or school sponsored activities at any
facility shall be expelled from school for not less than one year (12 months) under RCW
28A.600.420, with notification to parents and law enforcement. The district superintendent
or the superintendent’s designee is authorized to modify the expulsion of a student on a
case-by-case basis.
The school district may also suspend or expel a student for up to one year if the student
acts with malice as defined under RCW 9A.04.110 and displays a device that appears to be
a firearm.
36
Expulsion may result based upon the administrator's judgment of the seriousness of the act
or circumstances surrounding the act, and/or the previous record of the student.
Possessed or brought to school a weapon as defined by school district policy, but at least
the following:
 Handgun
 Shotgun/Rifle
 Multiple firearms
 Other firearm as defined below
 Other weapon as defined below
Other firearm is defined by the Gun Free Schools Act as:
 Any weapon (including zip guns, starter guns, and flare guns) which will or is designed to
or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of any
 explosive;
 The frame or receiver of any handgun, shotgun, or rifle;
 Any firearm muffler or firearm silencers;
 Any destructive device, which includes:
a) any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas (such as: bomb, grenade, rocket having a
propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or
incendiary charge of more than one quarter ounce, mine, or similar device.
b) any weapon which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile
by the action of an explosive or other propellant, and which has any barrel with a
bore of more than one half inch in diameter.
c) any combination or parts either designed or intended for use in converting any
device into any destructive device described in the two immediately preceding
examples, and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled.
 Knife/dagger
Other weapon is defined as:
Anything used as a weapon that is not classified as a handgun, rifle/shotgun, knife/dagger,
or other firearm. Examples include chains, pipes, razor blades or similar instruments with
sharp cutting edges; ice picks, pointed instruments (pencils, pens); nun-cha-ka sticks; brass
knuckles; stars; billy clubs; tear gas guns; electrical weapons (stun guns); BB or pellet guns;
and explosives or propellants.
STANDARD RANGE: 0-20 Day Suspension (Presumptive Standard Sanction –
Elementary: STS – 3 Days; Secondary: LTS – 11 Days)
SANCTION FOR FIREARM AT SCHOOL: Emergency Expulsion
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Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)-Opt Out Form
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that
Richland School District, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the
disclosure of personally identifiable information from your student’s education records.
However, Richland School District may disclose appropriately designated “directory
information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an
invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a
parent’s prior written consent. Two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs)
receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to
provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories –
names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised that they do not
want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.
If you do not want Richland School District to disclose directory information from your
student’s education records without your prior written consent. Richland School District
has designated the following information as directory information:
Student’s Name
Participation in officially recognized
activities and sports
Weight & height of members of athletic
teams
Grade level
Degrees, honors & awards received
Dates of attendance
Most recent educational agency or
institution attended
Address/ telephone listing
Yearbook
Photographs/video/news media
Date & place of birth
Major field of study
Please complete the section below ONLY IF YOU DO NOT want your student’s directory
information released. Turn this form into the building principal.
I, the undersigned parent/guardian(s) of_________________________________________
First Name
Middle Name
Last Name
do not consent to the disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in my
student’s educational record.
My student attends__________________________________________________________
School Name
Grade School
Year
________________________________________________
Print Parent/Guardian Name
________________________________________________
Signature Parent/Guardian
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____________________
Date