T he welfare, growth and development of our children is a high priority. Families and teachers guide children to respect themselves and others and to develop self-discipline. The Parent & Student Handbook is a guide to a safe learning environment where consideration for the needs of others enhances the opportunity for all students to learn. We firmly believe that your child's success will depend on your involvement with his or her education. We also believe that a team approach - student, family, school, and community - is the most effective way to face the challenges of rearing and educating children in today's society.
Responsible Behavior at School
SCHOOL RULES - Be Safe, Respectful and Responsible
1. Students use good manners and are considerate to others.
2. Students follow directions given by all adults in the school building.
CLASSROOM RULES
Each classroom has its own classroom rules. Ask your child about his or her classroom rules and consequences.
LUNCHROOM RULES
1. Sit with your class.
2. Use good table manners.
3. Use quiet voices and speak to others sitting closest to you.
4. Stay in your seat until dismissed.
5. Raise your hand to speak with the lunchroom supervisor.
6. Eat only your own food.
7. Pick up after yourself.
8. Bring sack lunch to the cafeteria with you.
RECESS RULES
1. Use good sportsmanship.
2. Use language appropriate for school at all times.
3. Show kindness by including everyone that wants to participate.
4. Stay in the playground boundaries.
5. Use equipment safely. Swings are for one person only. Stay seated on the swings. Twisting swings and leg/hand locks are not allowed. Climbing equipment is for climbing only not for shaking, pushing or bumping. Take turns on the equipment. Do not use equipment that has water underneath it.
6. Balls are to use in games. Throwing snow, ice, rocks, gravel or dirt is not allowed.
7. Stay on the playground unless you have permission from the playground supervisor.
8. Contact activities are not allowed. Examples include: horse, king of the mountain, wrestling, tackling or martial arts
9. Fighting is never acceptable, including "play" fighting. Fighting may result in a suspension from school.
10. All students are to go to recess. Students may stay indoors only under the following conditions:
·
When the wind chill is below 20 degrees we will have recess indoors.
·
When a teacher requests completion of finished work.
·
For disciplinary reasons.
·
A doctor's note requests staying inside due to illness.
RESTROOM RULES
1. Use the restroom for going to the bathroom, washing hands or brushing teeth. It is not used to meet with friends or play around.
2. Wash hands with soap and water.
3. Flush the toilet after use.
4. Report misuse of the bathroom to your teacher.
5. Quiet voices.
6. Climbing and/or hanging from stalls is not allowed.
HALLWAY RULES
1. Quiet in the halls.
2. Walk in a straight, single-file line.
3. Keep hands and feet to self.
Parent Involvement & Communication
COMMUNICATION
In addition to this Parent & Student Handbook, each family will receive school newsletters and regular classroom notes. Please read all communications from school thoroughly and discuss key points with your child. To communicate with the school, please send a note to the classroom teacher, office secretary or principal. Be sure to let us know the best time and place to call you. Please be patient, busy classroom teachers may be unable to contact you until later in the day or evening. Also, visit the District website www.sid5.com to see what is going on in our building and/or District-wide.
VISITING
You are welcome to visit or volunteer in the classroom, library, office, during lunch or special programs throughout the school year. SIGN-IN at the office BEFORE going to the activity. Parents/guardians are not to go to the classroom to hold a conference with a teacher without having a scheduled appointment. When visiting, be sure to pre-arrange a time with the classroom teacher, sign in at the office and pick up a visitor's tag. Students who do not attend our school are not allowed to visit.
PTO
All families are encouraged and invited to join the PTO. Become an active member by attending PTO meetings and helping with various projects during the school year.
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent-teacher conference dates are Nov 1-2: Thurs. Nov. 1 from 4-8 p.m. and Fri. Nov. 2 from 8 a.m.-Noon. Parent-teacher conferences provide an opportunity for both the parent and the teacher to talk together about the child's academic and social progress, work habits, relationships with others, listening skills and behavior. Be sure to arrive on time and bring a list of questions you would like to ask the teacher. When discussing the conference with your child, focus on his or her strengths in addition to how he or she can improve. We are pleased to send non-custodial parents copies of the school handbook, calendar, newsletters and report cards and/or meet with them.
Prepare Your Child For Learning
1. Establish regular bed and breakfast times. Children need 9-12 hours of sleep each night and a nutritious breakfast so they can do their best at school. Breakfast is available at the school each day. 5th & 6th graders riding the shuttle to Industry from SIMS will eat breakfast at SIMS.
2. Have a quiet place at home where your child can read and do homework.
3. Assist your child in completing all homework by asking about assignments, predicting distractions (lack of materials, illness, ball games, etc.) and scheduling enough time to meet due dates.
4. Read daily!
5. Teach your child responsibility by having him or her arrive at school on time, attend school regularly, be prepared for school and to respect others at home, school, and in the community.
Daily Schedules and Routines
ATTENDANCE & ABSENCES
Regular school attendance is vital to a student's success in school and is one of the most important habits a student can develop. A student who is frequently absent misses class instruction and discussion and social interaction. When students are unable to attend due to illness or emergency reasons, parents are to notify the school before 9 a.m.
Without this notification, the student's absence will be unexcused.
Students may only be absent from school for a maximum of 10 days during the school year for which parent notification, by phone or note, will be accepted. Permissible reasons for absence are illness, funeral, family emergency, or other reasons approved by the Principal. Vacations taken throughout the school year should be avoided and will count toward the 10 days of absence.
Beyond the 10 days, each absence will be treated as unexcused unless a note from a doctor is provided. Students are encouraged to turn in doctor excuses each time he or she visits the doctor or dentist. Excessive absences may drastically affect student success because of lost learning time.
Unexcused absences result in zero's on missed work.
Things to remember when your child is absent:
- Call the school before 9 a.m to report your child's absence.
- Contact the school to request missed work and allow time for the teacher to gather the materials.
- Be sure your child obtains and completes all missed work.
- When your child is absent one day, make-up work is due in one day. If your child is absent 2 days, he or she has 2 days to complete make-up work.
- We understand that parents cannot always plan their vacations around the school calendar, however, while many vacations can provide worthwhile educational experiences, children do miss out on valuable school time. Any days missed due to vacation are included in the 10 day attendance policy. Many of the classroom experiences cannot be made up through homework. In addition, teachers find it difficult to plan homework in advance of vacation time. Most teachers prefer to give homework assignments when the child returns. Check with your child's teacher. Your child does have 1 day to make up work for each day missed. We ask for you cooperation in keeping your child in school as much as possible and for your understanding when assignments cannot be given in advance.
TARDIES & TRUANCY
Any student who arrives after the beginning of the school day is tardy and must go to the office before going to class. A student who is absent for a school day or part of a school day without valid cause is considered to be truant (Illinois School Code, 105 ILCS 5/26-2A p. 294). Excessive tardiness or absences can result in loss of privileges or disciplinary action and will be reported to the truancy authorities. Please assist your child to be on time for school. Remind your child to sign-in at the office if he/she is late for school.
LEAVING THE SCHOOL DURING THE SCHOOL DAY
If it is necessary for a child to leave school during the school hours, a parent/guardian must sign the student out in the school office. The school must have the parent's/guardian's authorization to allow a student to leave school with someone other than the parent/guardian.
BREAKFAST & LUNCH
Breakfast is available every morning. School lunch is available or students may bring a sack lunch from home. A menu is sent home monthly. Money for meals should be sent to the school on the first day of each week in a sealed envelope with the student's name, grade, teacher and purpose written on the outside. You may also pay by the month, semester or year. Meals cannot be charged.
- Prices will be available at Registration.
- Parents are invited to eat with their child at school occasionally. Bring a sack lunch or contact the school before 8:30 to order a hot lunch.
- Contact the school for an application or pick up a form at registration if your child is eligible for free or reduced priced meals. Parents of students receiving free or reduced meals must notify the school of any change in financial status.
- Parents may call to request a printout of their child's lunch account.
RECESS
Students in PreK-4th may have a 15 minute morning and/or afternoon recess and a 20 minute recess before or after lunch. Children will go outdoors unless the windchill is below 20 degrees. Please assist your child in dressing for outside recess during the winter (hat, gloves, boots, and coat). 5th & 6th grade students enjoy PE before or after lunch-time.
DISMISSAL
If your child's after school routine changes, you must either send a note to the classroom teacher or notify the school office before 2:15 p.m. If we do not receive notification of a change, the child will follow his/her normal routine.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
The After School Program is available to all children in Kindergarten-6th grade. The program, run by the McDonough County YMCA, is open after school until 5:30 each day that school is in session. The program is closed on vacation days and snow days. Contact the McDonough County YMCA or the school office for more information or a registration packet.
Transportation and Traffic Safety
BICYCLES
All bicycle riders must follow the rules outlined in the State of Illinois Rules of the Road. Bicycles must be walked on the school grounds and adjacent sidewalks. Bicycles must be parked in the bicycle rack provided by the school upon arrival on the school grounds and not used during the school day. Students attending Washington Elementary cannot ride bikes to school.
- Review bicycle safety rules with your child regularly.
- Ride the route with your child beforehand to ensure safety.
BUS TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is provided to students who live 1.5 miles or more from school. Students will be transported to the same address daily unless the school is notified of a move or a change in child care arrangements. A parent note must be provided to the office if an alternative drop off point is requested. A custodian of a qualifying pupil shall be entitled to reimbursement in accordance with procedures established by ISBE for qualified transportation expenses paid by the custodian during the school year.
Rules are written and enforced to provide students with a safe trip to and from their destination. Students who do not follow the rules will be written up by the driver and reported to the office. Riding privileges may be suspended or revoked.
BUS RULES
1. The bus is an extension of school. The driver is in charge on the bus. He or she will report any misconduct to the principal.
2. Students will enter the bus in an orderly manner. Running or pushing to get to a seat will not be permitted.
3. Students should go directly to their seat and remain seated until they reach their bus stop or arrive at school. Only when the bus stops should students stand to exit the bus at their own stop.
4. Be on time at the bus stop. The bus needs to stay on schedule and cannot wait.
5. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before boarding.
6. Do not stick your hands out of the windows.
7. Be courteous to everyone. Older students are role models to our young students.
8. No eating or drinking on the bus.
9. Remain seated and facing forward with both feet on the floor and not in the aisle at all times.
10. Do not throw trash on the floor or out the window or leave trash in the seats.
11. No loud talking or shouting on the bus.
12. No foul language is permitted.
13. Students use emergency door only when authorized to do so.
BUS DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
Minor incidents will result in warnings and denial of privileges at school. Repeated violations will result in suspension of bus riding privileges.
Major offences result in suspension of bus riding privileges.
Health & Safety
ACCIDENTS
Accidents and injuries will be reported immediately to school staff. Serious accidents or injuries will be reported to the school nurse and parents will be contacted. Please explain to your child that it is important to tell a teacher or staff member if he or she gets hurt.
DISASTER DRILLS
Evacuation, Lockdown & Shelter-in-Place drills are held throughout the school year. Instructions are discussed thoroughly and all students participate in practice drills.
EARLY DISMISSAL
The school calendar and newsletters list all early dismissal days. Plan child care arrangements in advance and question your child to be sure he or she knows what to do on early dismissal days. Advance registration is required for the After School Program.
ILLNESS
Your child must stay home if s/he has an elevated temperature. Please be aware that your child is still sick and probably contagious even if you have given them a fever reducer. Children should remain at home 24 hours after their temperature breaks. Your child must stay at home if they are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. If your child has drainage from their eyes or excessive mattering upon waking up, please keep them at home and seek medical attention because eye drainage may be contagious.
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS
The school must know how to contact a parent/guardian at all times. A current emergency phone number must be on record at the school. Notify the school if you change home or work numbers. Give the school the phone number of a responsible person to call if we are unable to locate you.
FOOD
Many children have food allergies so students are to eat their own food and not share their food with others at lunchtime. Please instruct your child not to share or trade food with other children. Let the school know if your child has any food allergies.
HYGIENE
Two of the most important ways students can prevent the spread of germs are to wash their hands regularly and use tissues to blow their noses.
HEAD LICE
The Schuyler-Industry School District #5 has a NO NIT Policy. If a student is identified to have lice or nits, the child's siblings will be checked and all those with lice or nits will be sent home immediately. The parent/guardian will need to treat the child. All nits must be removed from the hair before the child may return to school. The child must be checked at the local Health Department or their family physician to insure the student is free of lice. The Health Department or family physician will provide the child with a note stating the child is free of lice/nits. This note must be presented to the school office before the child will be allowed to re-enter school.
Anyone can become infested with head lice. Signs of infestation include persistent scratching of the head or back of the neck, the presence of small white specks (nits) that can be mistaken for dandruff, but cannot be removed easily because they are attached to the hair shaft. A special medicated shampoo is available at drug stores and discount stores for treatment. All bedding and clothing should be washed in hot water and dried in a hot drier. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for help. Check your child's scalp often. If you find head lice, contact the school office so the child's classmates can also be checked.
HEALTH EXAMINATIONS AND IMMUNIZATIONS
Physical exams and shots must be up to date prior to the first day of school according to State Law or complete the waiver form. Your child will not be allowed to attend school until the school has received proof that these requirements have been met. Kindergarten students must have updated immunizations, a physical exam, and a dental exam. 2nd graders must have a dental exam. 5th grade students must have updated immunizations and a physical exam. 6th grade students must have an updated dental exam. Regular vision screenings are recommended for all students.
LEAD SCREENING
All parents of children under the age of 6 should check with the Health Department or a doctor to see if your child needs a lead screening.
PESTICIDE SPRAYING
In compliance with state law, we will notify families two business days before pesticides are to be applied on school grounds. Usually this is noted in the monthly newsletter.
ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION
It has been determined by the Illinois Dept. of Public Health and the Federal Environmental Protection Agency that asbestos is a potential health hazard, and precautions should be taken to avoid disturbing any asbestos materials. As required, our buildings have been inspected for asbestos. The AHERA law requires that a visual surveillance of asbestos containing areas be completed every six months, and a re-inspection conducted every three years. Any evidence of disturbance or change in conditions will be documented in the Management Plan as required.
MEDICATION
Parents have the primary responsibility for the administration of medication to their children. Whenever possible, medicines should be given at home. For example, an antibiotic that is to be given 3 times a day can be given before school, after school and at bedtime.
When a student requires prescription or non-prescription medication, including inhalers, during the school day, a medication approval form and a doctor's order must be on file in the office. Parents/guardians must deliver the medication to the school office and pick it up. Medications are never to be transported on school buses or by students.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
If an illness, injury or physical condition prohibits participation in physical education, a note from the parent requesting that the student be excused is required. If the student must be excused for more than two days, a note from a doctor is required.
Gym shoes are required for PE and can stay at school. Backless tennis shoes and platform tennis shoes are not safe for PE and therefore are not acceptable.
WEATHER
The school office has a radio that warns us of severe weather. In the event of severe weather such as tornado warnings, children may remain at school past dismissal time. Students participate in regular drills and will know what in the event of an actual warning.
Occasionally, school may be dismissed early or canceled due to ice or snow. Listen to the local radio stations for early dismissal/cancellation information. Please do not call the school or the radio station. Make sure your child knows what he/she is to do if school is dismissed early for weather. Changes in the daily routine can be upsetting or frightening for children. Have a well thought out plan for childcare and transportation.
Some children need supervision for dressing appropriately for the weather. Help your child by listening to the weather report, reading an outdoor thermometer and planning for weather changes during the day. Children will need hats, heavy coats, boots and gloves for outdoor recess during cold weather.
Other Rules, Guidelines & Information
ASSEMBLIES
Student behavior should be responsible, respectful and courteous at all times. Each student is personally responsible for the impression visitors will have of our school as a whole. Students will sit together with their class and supervising teacher. Teachers who have the class at the time of the assembly will be responsible for the supervision of that class.
COUNSELING SERVICES
Counseling services are available to all students. In case of an emergency, students may be seen one time without parent consent. Parents will be notified when students have received services and to request for permission for services to continue.
DRESS
Students who are neat and clean bring pride to themselves and the school. Wearing articles which are disruptive to the educational process or create a safety hazard are prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, see-through clothing, bare-midriff tops, halter tops or spaghetti straps, underwear worn as outerwear, spandex or other skin-tight clothing, beach apparel, pants that are falling down, shorts that are too short, watch or wallet chains and gang-related apparel or insignia. Clothing may not expose undergarments or midriff. No hats are to be worn in the building. Purses and bookbags should be kept in lockers or cubbies. Students should not wear flip-flop sandals to school for safety reasons.
DRUG PREVENTION
In addition to regular classroom instruction, 5th grade students will participate in DARE.
FEES/TEXTBOOKS/SUPPLIES
All textbooks are furnished by the Board of Education. There are certain consumable items, such as workbooks and weekly newspapers, that are purchased by the school. Pencils, paper, and other miscellaneous school supplies are to be purchased outside the school.
Fees are collected by staff to support the purchase of books, supplies, materials, and programs. Waivers are available. The parent slip received upon payment of textbook rental must be signed by the parent/guardian and presented by the student to the teacher. This slip will entitle the student to receive books on the first student attendance day.
Students are expected to take good care of their books and return them in good condition. All students are liable for the cost of lost books and will be assessed for unreasonable damage to books.
FLOWERS & BALLOONS
Do not have flowers or balloons delivered to school for your child.
INVITATIONS
Invitations to parties and activities may be distributed at school only when there is an invitation for every child in the class.
LOST AND FOUND
The school office has a lost and found area. Please check lost and found regularly. It surprises us to gather and then eventually give to charity very nice coats, sweatshirts and shoes!
MONEY AND VALUABLES
All money sent to school should be in a sealed envelope with the student's name, grade, teacher and purpose written on the outside. Students should leave personal belongings and valuables at home unless they have special permission from parents or their teachers. We do not want to risk the items being lost, stolen or damaged at school. The school is not responsible for loss or damage to personal belongings and valuables. Lockers will not have locks.
RETENTION POLICY
The district holds the right to review each case and place students accordingly.
STAYING AFTER SCHOOL
At times, students may be asked by teachers to stay after school for disciplinary reasons or to complete work. The school will notify parents in advance if students are to stay after school. Transportation will be the student's and parent's responsibility.
SUPPORT SERVICES
Classes and supportive services are available for eligible students. These services include speech therapy, Title I reading instruction, special education, counseling, testing by school psychologists, social work, vision and hearing screenings, dental sealants, and a care provided by a school nurse.
TELEPHONES, ELECTRONIC DEVICES & TOYS
The office phones are available for children to use only in the case of an emergency. It is not to be used to arrange after school or evening activities.
Cell phones, pagers, palms, CD players and other electronic devices should be turned off & left in bookbags or lockers.
Toys and games should be left at home. Students do not need the distraction of having toys in their desks or bookbags. Items brought to school may be confiscated and would then need to be picked up by a parent in the school office.
BANNED ITEMS
Body sprays (such as Axe), heelies" (shoes with heels in the sole), bookbags with wheels and gum chewing are banned from school. Items brought to school will be confiscated and disciplinary action taken.
TRANSFERRING TO A NEW SCHOOL
A parent's/guardian's written permission is required in order to send a student's school records to a new school. The school office will issue a transfer form, as required by Illinois State Law, that is to be delivered to the new school. No Illinois school can enroll the student until they receive the transfer form. Make sure you get the name and address of the new school so the transfer form can be delivered.
Discipline Plan
STUDENT DISCIPLINE
Teachers and other employees shall maintain discipline in the schools. In all matters relating to discipline and conduct, all faculty and staff stand in for the parent/guardian to the pupils. This relationship shall extend to all activities connected with the school program and may be exercised at any time for the safety and supervision of the students in the absence of the parent/guardian. In all disciplinary action, the staff should be mindful of the fact that they are dealing with individual personalities, and that it is sometimes more important to discover the causes of misbehavior than merely suppress it. Thoughtful discipline can be a means of fostering growth toward maturity and responsibility. Bullying is not acceptable at any time and will be handled on a case by case basis.
General Discipline Procedures
Disciplinary measures include:
1. personal counseling,
2. withholding of privileges,
3. confiscation of items that do not belong at school,
4. staying after school,
5. notification of parent/guardian,
6. removal from classroom,
7. in-school suspension for a period not to exceed 5 school days (the Building Principal or a designee shall ensure that the student is properly supervised),
8. suspension from school and all school-sponsored events up to 10 days, provided that appropriate procedures are followed,
9. suspension of bus riding privileges, provided that appropriate procedures are followed,
10. expulsion from school-and all school sponsored activities and events for a definite time period not to exceed 2 calendar years, provided that appropriate procedures are followed,
11. notification of juvenile authorities whenever the conduct involves illegal (controlled substances) look-alikes, alcohol, or weapons.
Corporal punishment will not be used. Corporal punishment is defined as slapping, paddling or prolonged maintenance of students in physically painful positions or intentional infliction of bodily harm. Corporal punishment does not include reasonable force. Certified personnel are permitted to use reasonable force, as needed, to maintain safety for other students or school personnel, for the purpose of self-defense or the defense of school property.
Before receiving disciplinary action, the student shall be given the opportunity to deny or explain his/her conduct.
GENERAL MISCONDUCT
Students may lose privileges, serve a lunch detention, serve an after-school detention or be suspended for a time determined by the classroom teacher and/or the Principal for general misconduct violations which include but are not limited to:
1.
Insubordination - failure to comply with reasonable direction of any school personnel.
2.
Disrespect - defiance, rudeness, inappropriate gestures, talking back, being uncooperative or other behaviors that show lack of respect for school personnel or other students.
3.
Cheating and Lying
4.
Inappropriate Printed Material - do not bring to school or print on the computer at school material deemed unsuitable for children and/or the school setting.
5.
Profanity/Vulgarity - verbal, gestures or written.
SERIOUS MISCONDUCT
Students may lose privileges, serve an after-school detention or be suspended in-or-out-of-school for 1-10 days or recommended for expulsion based on the situation or on previous misconduct violations.
1.
Fighting - fighting on school property will not be tolerated. Those students who choose to settle their disagreements in such a manner will be suspended from school. On the second instance of fighting, the student will be suspended from school for multiple days. Students should never "play fight", hit, kick or bite anyone. Consequences will be given for aggressor and non-aggressor, although they may be different.
2.
Threatening - making threats to harm others will not be tolerated.
3.
Weapons - possession, use or threat of use of any weapon. This includes but is not limited to knives, guns or other instruments that can be used for harm. Pocket knives are NOT allowed at school.
4.
Theft - generally handled in-house, however, the police may be notified.
5.
Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco and/or Drug Paraphenalia - possession, distribution or use. Police will be notified.
6.
Destruction/Damage to School Property - this includes but is not limited to writing on school furniture and graffiti.
DETENTION
5th & 6th grade After-School Detentions will be held M-Th after school until 3:15 p.m. Parents/guardians will be notified in advance. Parent/guardians are responsible for the student's transportation home.
SUSPENSION
Parents/guardians will be notified by the principal of the reason for the suspension (in or out of school). Students are required to make up the work they miss. Parents have the right to a review of this suspension before the Board of Education or a hearing officer appointed by the board.
EXPULSION
Students are usually suspended, pending expulsion procedures. Parents/guardians will be notified by the principal or superintendent of the reason for the proposed expulsion, stating the rules and regulations allegedly violated, the length of the proposed expulsion, and the date, time and place of the Board of Education hearing.
ANNUAL YEARLY PROGRESS (AYP)
We have made AYP!
VIDEOTAPE SURVEILLANCE
Industry Elementary has video surveillance to aide in monitoring common areas.
STUDENT RECORDS
Parents have the right to inspect and copy student records for a small copying fee.
NON-DISCIRMINATION
Schuyler Industry School District #5 does not discriminate against any individual on the basis of color, race, nationality, religion, sex, sexual orientation, ancestry, age, marital status, or physical/mental handicap.
SEARCH & SEIZURE
For the safety and supervision of students, in the absence of parents/guardians, to maintain discipline and order in the schools, and to provide for the health, safety and welfare of students and staff, school authorities are authorized to conduct searches of lockers, students and their personal effects.
If a search produces evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the District's policies or rules, such evidence may be seized by school authorities and disciplinary action will be taken. When appropriate, evidence gathered from a search may be transferred to law enforcement officials. These grounds for disciplinary action apply whenever the student's conduct is reasonably related to school activities, including but not limited to:
a.
On school grounds before, during or after school hours and at any other time when the school is being used by a school group.
b.
Off school grounds at a school activity, function or event.
c.
Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function or event.
d.
Anywhere, if the conduct may reasonably be considered to be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a staff member, or an interference with school purposes for an education function.
UNIFORM GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE:
Students or their parent (s) / guardian (s), employees, or community members should notify any District Complaint Manager if they believe that the Board of Education, its employees, or agents have violated their right guaranteed by the State of Federal Constitution, State or Federal statute, or Board policy including:
1. Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act;
2. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972;
3. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973;
4. Claims of sexual harassment under the Illinois Human Rights Act, Title Vll of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of
1972.
The Complaint Manager will endeavor to respond to and resolve complaints without resorting to this grievance procedure and, if a complaint is filed, to address the complaint promptly and equitably. The right of a person to prompt and equitable resolution of the complaint filed hereunder shall not be impaired by the person's pursuit of other remedies. Use of this grievance procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of other remedies and use of the grievance procedure does not extend any filing deadline related to the pursuit of other deadlines.
1.
Filing a Complaint
A person (hereinafter Complainant) who wishes to avail himself or herself to this grievance procedure may do so by filing a complaint with any District Complaint Manager. The Complainant shall not be required to file a complaint with Complaint Manager and may request a Complaint Manager of the same sex. The Complaint Manager may request the Complainant to provide a written statement regarding the nature of the complaint or require a meeting with the parent (s) / guardian (s) of a student. The Complaint Manager may assist the Complainant in filing a grievance.
2.
Investigation
The Complaint Manager will investigate the complaint or appoint a qualified person to undertake the investigation on his or her behalf. The complaint and identity of the Complainant will not be disclosed except: (1) as required by law or this policy, or (2) as necessary to fully investigate the complaint, or (3) as authorized by the Complainant. The Complaint Manager shall file a written report of his or her findings with the Superintendent. If a complaint of sexual harassment contains allegations involving the Superintendent, the written report shall be filed with the Board of Education, who shall render a decision in accordance with Section 3 of this policy. The Superintendent will keep the Board informed of all complaints.
3.
Decision and Appeal
After receipt of the Complaint Manager's report, the Superintendent shall render a written decision, which shall be provided, to the Complainant. If the Complainant is not satisfied with the decision, The Complainant may appeal it to the Board of Education by making a request to the Complaint Manager. The Complaint Manager shall be responsible for promptly forwarding all materials relative to the complaint and appeal to the Board of Education. Thereafter, the Board of Education shall render a written decision, which shall be provided, to the Complainant. The grievance procedure shall not be construed to create an independent right to the Board of Education hearing.
Appointing Complaint Managers:
The Superintendent shall appoint at least two Complaint Managers, one of each gender. The District's Nondiscrimination Coordinator may be appointed a Complaint Manager. The Superintendent shall insert into this policy the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of current Complaint Managers.
Name: Mr. Tim Sullivan
Address: 740 Maple
Phone number: 217-322-4311
Behavior Interventions for Students with Disabilities
This Board policy is available upon request.
Harassment
Students and employees should be free from sexual harassment in order to promote appropriate social interaction in the classroom. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or any conduct of a sexual nature, such as (1) crude or suggestive remarks directed at an individual based on that individual's gender; (2) sexual proposition advances; (3) requesting sexual favors by threat. Sexual harassment occurs when such conduct unreasonably interferes with an individual's performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment.
SCHOOL HARASSMENT PROCEDURE:
A.
PHILOSOPHY - It is the philosophy of Schuyler-Industry Schools that we will provide for our students an educational environment free of unwelcome sexual advances for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct or communications constituting sexual harassment as defined in TitleVII of the Civil RightsAct.
1.
It shall be a violation of this procedure for any Schuyler-Industry School student or staff
member to harass another staff member or student through conduct or communication
of a sexual nature.
2.
Schuyler-Industry School Officials shall be responsible fir promoting understanding and acceptance of, assuring compliance with, state and federal laws and Schuyler-Indstry Schools and on transportation to and from schools.
Violations of this procedure will be cause for disciplinary action and will constitute a major infraction.
B.
Definition
-
Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors or any conduct of a sexual nature when:
1.
Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly of implicitly a term condition of an individual's status and a student.
2.
Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for decisions affecting such individual, or
3.
Such conduct has the purpose or affect of substantially interfering with an individual's work or school performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive school environment.
Sexually harassing behaviors can include but are not limited to:
A.
Jokes, language, epithets, advances or propositions of a sexual nature.
B.
Possession of or display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures, magazines, or cartoons.
C.
Comments about a person's body or sexual orientation, prowess or deficiencies.
D.
Touching, leering, whistling, or suggestive, insulting or obscene comments or gestures.
E.
Harassment consistently targeted at only on sex, even if the content of the verbal abuse is not sexual.
F.
Hostile environment harassment involves the maintenance of an atmosphere, which unreasonably interferes with an individual's performance and / or creates a hostile or offensive environment.
C.
PROCEDURES
- Any person who alleges sexual harassment by a staff member or student at Schuyler-Industry Schools may file a complaint directly to their building administrator or any one of the members of the panel set up in investigate such reports. The panel will consist of the building principal and / or the district psychologist and a Schuyler County teacher named by the building principal and / or district psychologist. Filing a complaint of such will not reflect upon the individual's status, nor will it affect future employment, grades, or work assignments.
v
If the complaint is given to a building administrator who is not a member of the investigation panel, the administrator shall, within 24 hours, forward the complaint on to a member of the panel so that it can be investigated.
v
A member of the panel will investigate the complaint by interviewing each party individually, as well as any third party who witnessed the incident. Any third person with knowledge of belief of conduct, which may constitute sexual harassment, shall report the conduct immediately to the proper officials.
The person alleging the harassment will be asked to document the incident in writing. The written report may be done anonymously. If the report is made verbally, the school official shall document the report in writing within 24 hours. There shall be a form provided to use for such written reports.
v
If, after a thorough investigation of the incident, it is determined by the panel members that them complaint was unfounded, that decision shall be provided by the panel member to the involved parties and any written record of that complaint shall be kept separate from the employee's personnel or the student's file.
D.
APPEAL
-
If, after a thorough investigation of the incident, a party is not satisfied with the decision made by the panel member, the party has the right to appeal, in writing to the district superintendent, the decision to the entire panel for review. The dissatisfied party and all other involved parties shall have the right to a hearing by the panel. That hearing shall be held within 5 school days from the time the written appeal is received.
After the hearing, a written decision will be rendered by the panel and provided to the involved parties. If it is determined by the panel that the complaint was unfounded, that decision shall be provided to the involved parties and any written record of the complaint was unfounded, that decision shall be provided to the involved parties and any written record of the complaint shall be kept separate from the employee's personnel or the student's file.
E.
SANCTIONS
-
If, after a thorough investigation of the incident, it is determined that the complaint is founded, the following will occur:
v
In the case of a staff member, a substantiated charge will be immediately reported to the superintendent and disciplinary action, consistent with the terms of any applicable collective bargaining agreement, individual contract policy, or statute will result.
v
In the case of a student, a substantiated charge will constitute a major infraction. Mediation will also be required of both parties in the complaint in order to have the students resolve differences to prevent future occurrences. In instances where it is deemed appropriate by the school official, the victim of the harassment may be asked to write a letter describing his / her feelings to the harasser.
F.
NO RETALIATION FOR REPORTING
-
Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment. Anyone who retaliates against: 1) an individual who reports sexual harassment, 2) an individual who testifies, assists or participates in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing relating to the complaint will be disciplined in a manner consistent with: a) a collective bargaining agreement, b) student handbook, c) individual contract, d) Board policy, or e) statute
G.
. NOTIFICATION
- Notice of this procedure will be circulated and explained to all students. It will also be disseminated to parents. Training sessions on this procedure and the prevention of sexual harassment shall be held for Schuyler County School staff and students on an annual basis.
This handbook may be amended during the school year without prior notice.
SCHUYLER-INDUSTRY COMMUNITY UNIT DISTRICT #5
2007-2008 CALENDAR
August
22 Wed. Teachers' Institute
No Student Attendance
23 Thurs. Teachers' Institute
No Student Attendance
24 Fri. First Student Attendance Day
September 3 Mon. Labor Day
No Student Attendance
21 Fri. Smiles Day
No Student Attendance
October 5 Fri. School Improvement Day
½ Day of Attendance
8 Mon. Columbus Day
No Student Attendance
26 Fri. 1st Quarter Ends (43 student days)
November 2 Fri. Parent Teacher Conferences No Student Attendance
16 Fri. Board Holiday
No Student Attendance
21 Wed. Early Dismissal for Thanksgiving (1 hour early)
22 Thurs. Thanksgiving Day
No Student Attendance
23 Fri. Thanksgiving Vacation
No Student Attendance
December 21 Fri. Early Dismissal for Christmas (1 hour early)
24-Jan. 1 Christmas Vacation
No Student Attendance
January
2 Wed. Classes Resume
11 Fri. 2nd Quarter Ends (44 student days)
21 Mon. Martin Luther King Day
No Student Attendance
February 1 Fri. School Improvement Day ½ Day of Attendance
18 Mon. Presidents' Day
No Student Attendance
March 7 Fri. Teachers' Institute
No Student Attendance
18 Tues. 3rd Quarter Ends (44 student days)
20 Thurs. Early Dismissal for Easter (1 hour early)
21 Fri. Good Friday
No Student Attendance
24 Mon. Easter Vacation
No Student Attendance
April
11 Fri. School Improvement Day ½ Day of Attendance
Please note: These last days could change! The last Teachers' Institute and last day of school will move ahead for each emergency/snow day taken.
Emergency Dates: May 23, 27, 28, 29, 30.
May
21 Wed. Teachers' Institute
No Student Attendance
22 Thurs. 4th Quarter Ends (44 student days)
Last Student Day/Report Card Day
* 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Quarters will each have 44 days. Dates may be adjusted if emergency days are used.
Holidays that will be waived (School in session)
Lincoln's Birthday
Mon., Feb. 12, 2008
Casimir Pulaski Day Mon., March 3, 2008
School Improvement Days (Early Dismissal)
Fri., Oct. 05, 2007 / Fri., Feb. 1, 2008 / Fri., Apr 11, 2008
