Carthage R-9

Dear Parent(s)/Guardians,

 

We want to welcome you to Carthage R-9 School District and to our early childhood program.  We hope this handbook will provide you with necessary general information.  All policies and regulations are available on the District website at www.carthagetigers.org/r9boardpolicies.  If at any time you have questions concerning policy and procedures, please contact the early childhood office.

 

All personnel in the early childhood program strive with diligence to fulfill the Carthage R-9 School District vision and mission.

 

CARTHAGE R-9 MISSION STATEMENT:

Carthage R-9 Schools exist to ensure high levels of learning, develop exemplary character, and nurture the whole individual—preparing all students to contribute meaningfully to their community, society, and the future.

 

CARTHAGE R-9 VISION STATEMENT:

Carthage R-9 Schools will be a top-performing district in Southwest Missouri—recognized for excellence in learning, character development, innovation, and community pride.

District Administrative Office

(417) 359-7000

709 W. Centennial Ave.

Carthage, MO 64836

Dr. Luke Boyer Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Holley Goodnight Assistant Superintendent of Schools-Business

Dr. Matthew Huntley Assistant Superintendent of Schools-Instruction

Mr. Bryan Shallenburger Director of Special Services

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

This digital document is designed for easy navigation. To find specific topics, press Ctrl + F (Windows) or Command + F (Mac) and enter your keyword in the search bar

 

ELIGIBILITY FOR PROGRAM

Students are eligible to attend the Carthage Early Childhood program as a student who needs special education services or as a peer model student.  Students who are determined eligible for special education services may begin attending two years prior to starting Kindergarten.  Peer model students are eligible to attend one year prior to starting Kindergarten. 

 

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION

Eligibility for the Early Childhood Special Education program is determined through an evaluation conducted by a multidisciplinary team, of which the parent is a member.  A child is eligible for services when:

• A child’s development is significantly below that of his/her peers.  Significantly below is defined as performance at/or below 1.5 standard deviations of the mean in any TWO developmental areas listed below,

OR

At or below 2.0 standard deviations in any ONE area of development.

 

Areas of development that can be used for eligibility determination include:

• Cognitive
• Adaptive Behavior
• Communication
• Physical
• Social/Emotional

 

AGE REQUIREMENTS

When a child turns three, he/she is eligible for services, if the Missouri state criteria for disability are met.  At that time, an Individual Education Program (IEP) is written for the child.  A child may begin to receive services anytime during the school year on or after his/her third birthday.  The child may continue to receive services through Early Childhood Special Education up until the school year the child is eligible to attend Kindergarten.  When eligible for Kindergarten, the child will not be eligible for Early Childhood Special Education; however, the child may receive special services through the school-age programs.

 

Class options are as follows:

AM SESSION

Monday-Friday (8:00 AM-11:00 AM)

 

PM SESSION 

Monday-Friday (12:25 PM-3:25 PM)

 

The ECSE program serves children two years prior to Kindergarten with a disability in a self-contained classroom which means all students have an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Students who are one year prior to kindergarten may be placed in an integrated classroom or a self-contained classroom.  Integrated classrooms contain at least 10 students with half having an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and half being peer model students.  Placement is based on an IEP team decision.  

 

Child’s attendance of AM or PM session is determined by location of child’s residence.  If child is picked up and/or dropped off at a location other than his/her residence, AM or PM session is determined by location of bus stop.

 

ELIGIBILITY FOR HALF-DAY PEER MODEL STUDENT

The DIAL-4 Screening results are used for criteria in placing peer model students.  Placement is based on the following percentile ranges:  0-60^th.  Once students within these percentage ranges have had the opportunity to enroll, students with percentages 60^th and above will be considered for placement.  Dependents of Carthage R-9 employees who attend Tiger Cub Care and employees who choose their children attend the half-day program will also be considered for placement  as peer models.   Peer model students will be placed in the integrated classes at the Early Childhood Center.  Classes contain at least 10 students with half of the students having an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and half being peer models.  These classes are held at the Carthage Early Childhood Center and  are taught by an Early Childhood Special Education certified teacher and have a paraprofessional.  Transportation will be provided.  Class options for peer model students are as follows:

 

Carthage Early Childhood Center

AM SESSION (8:00 AM-11:00 AM)

Monday-Friday

 

PM SESSION  (12:25 PM -3:25 PM)

Monday-Friday

 

Child’s attendance of AM or PM session is determined by location of child’s residence.  If child is picked up and/or dropped off at a location other than his/her residence, AM or PM session is determined by location of bus stop.

 

ELIGIBILITY FOR FULL-DAY STUDENT  

Classes for this program are housed at Pleasant Valley Elementary School. Classes contain 20 students and are taught by an Early Childhood certified teacher along with a paraprofessional. Priority for placement in the full day program is based on eligibility for free/reduced lunch and DIAL-4 Screening results.  Students who qualify for free/reduced lunch and who achieve scores in the 0-60th percentile will be considered for placement.  Once students within this criteria have had the opportunity to enroll, students with percentages above the 60th percentile and dependents of Carthage R-9 employees will be considered for placement.  Transportation will be provided.

 

Pleasant Valley Elementary 

Monday-Friday (8:11 AM - 3:18 PM)

 

ELIGIBILITY FOR ITINERANT SERVICES

Students who meet the eligibility criteria for a disability and have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) may be served at Carthage Headstart or a community daycare setting in the Carthage R-9 School District.  The decision to serve students on an itinerant basis will be made by the IEP team.  State aid funding is a requirement for students served at a community daycare setting.

 

SCHOOL PROCEDURES

 

ABSENCES AND TARDIES

If your child attends the Early Childhood Center and is absent or late, parents are to contact the Early Childhood Office prior to 8:15 for AM Session or 12:45 for the PM Session.  If your child attends Pleasant Valley and is absent or late, parents are to contact the Pleasant Valley Office prior to 8:30 AM.   This ensures that for the safety of the child, his/her whereabouts are known.  Parents are requested to call transportation to let them know that your child will not require transportation that day at least a half an hour prior to designated pick-up time.  The transportation number is (417) 359-7014.

 

Peer Model students at Carthage Early Childhood Center and students who attend Pleasant Valley Elementary who are absent for ten days and who do not inform the office of the absences prior to being absent will be withdrawn from the program.  When a student has five unexcused absences, parents will receive a letter informing them of the absences.  Parents are required to sign an attendance agreement indicating they have been informed of the policy as part of the enrollment process.

 

ADMINISTERING MEDICINES TO STUDENTS- see Policy 2870, Regulation 2870, Form 2870

The giving of medicine to students during school hours is discouraged and restricted to medication that cannot be given on an alternative schedule.  The Board of Education recognizes that some students may require medication for chronic or short-term illness/injury during the school day to enable them to remain in school and participate in their education.  Employees providing routine first aid according to District procedures will be immune from liability or disciplinary action.  Similarly, trained employees will be immune from civil liability for administering CPR and other lifesaving methods in good faith and according to standard medical practices.  The Board of Education also recognized that the administration of medication may be required under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and/or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to provide a free appropriate public education for students identified as disabled under those laws.

 

The district prohibits the use, sale, transfer, possession or self-administration of any medications by students while on district grounds, on district transportation, or during district activities unless explicitly authorized in accordance with this regulation.  Therefore, administrative procedures have been established for storing and administering medications in compliance with this regulation and pursuant to state and federal law.  Medications will only be administered at school when it is not possible or not effective for the student to receive the medication at home.

 

Prescription Medication

The child’s parent shall provide a written request that the child be given medication during school hours.  The request shall state the name of the child, name of drug, dosage, frequency of administration, route of administration, and the parent’s signature.  The diagnosis/indication for use of the medicine shall be provided.  When possible, the parent should state adverse effects and applicable emergency instructions.

 

The district will accept only a medication with the prescription label properly affixed to the medication.  The label must contain the name of the child, name of the drug, dosage, frequency of administration, route of administration, and the prescriber’s name.

 

The district will not administer the initial dose of any new prescription except in an emergency.  No more than a month’s supply of prescription medication will be kept at school.  Prescription medication is to be in the most current pharmacy-labeled bottle.  Prescription drugs will be administered up to one (1) year after the date on the prescription label.

 

Over-the Counter Medication

The district will not supply over-the-counter medications at any time.  Administration of over-the –counter medication does not require a prescription provided one administers the medication according to the specific directions outlined on the manufacturer’s label and the annual permission form has been signed by the parent/guardian.  The district will not administer the initial dose of any over-the-counter medications except in an emergency.  Unless a doctor’s order is provided, no aspirin or medication containing aspirin (salicylate) will be administered due to the possibility of Reye’s Syndrome, a serious illness reported to be associated with aspirin use in children and teenagers.  Over-the-counter medications must be in the original container with the original label and instructions for administration intact.

 

Emergency Medication

Written standing orders will be obtained annually for the administration of emergency medication.  Epi-pens may be administered by non-licensed personnel, provided a registered nurse has delegated the responsibility and provided appropriate training on an annual basis.

 

Storage and Administration of Medication

A parent/guardian or other responsible adult party designated by the parent/guardian will deliver all medication to be administered at school to the school nurse or designee for students pre-kindergarten through ninth grade.  All medication, prescription or over-the-counter, must be in a pharmacy or manufacturer-label container.  The district shall provide secure, locked storage for medication to prevent diversion, misuse, or ingestion by another individual.

 

The administration of medication, including over-the-counter medications, is a nursing activity, governed by the State of Missouri Nursing Practice Act.  It must be performed by the registered professional school nurse.  The nurse may delegate and supervise the administration of medication by unlicensed personnel who are qualified by education, knowledge and skill to do so.  The registered nurse must provide and document the requisite education, training, and competency verification.  The nurse is also empowered to contact the prescriber or pharmacist filling the prescription to discuss the prescription if the nurse has questions regarding the administration of such medication.

 

Parent/Guardian Administration

In situations where the parent/guardian chooses, the parent/guardian may come to school to administer medicine to his/her child.

 

Exception for Potentially Harmful Administration

It shall be the policy of this district that the district will not knowingly administer any medication to a child if the district’s registered professional school nurse believes, in his/her professional judgment, that such administration could cause harm to the child, other children, or the district itself.  Such cases may include, but are not necessarily limited to, situations in which the district is being asked to administer medication in a dosage that exceeds the highest recommended dosage listed in the current annual volume of the Physician’s Desk Reference or other recognized medical or pharmaceutical text.

 

Medication Disposal

Prescription medication remaining at the end of summer school must be taken home by the parent/guardian or will be destroyed.  Over-the-counter medication that is not expired may be kept in lock-up for use the following year if the parent/guardian signs an Administration of Medication form for the following year.

 

For purposes of this regulation, the following definitions apply:

Medications include prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and for purposes of this policy, herbal preparations.  Authorized prescriber includes a health care provider licensed or otherwise authorized to prescribe medications by state law.  

 

ASSESSMENT AND REFERRALS TO OUTSIDE SERVICES- see Policy 2815

The evaluation team is responsible for the initial assessment of the child.  Where necessary, the District will make available information regarding responsive services including individual and small group counseling, crisis counseling, and referral to other agencies or professional resources.  The District will cooperate and assist other agencies with the diagnosis and treatment of children referred for responsive services.  Child information will not be provided to outside agencies until the child’s parents/guardians have signed a release of information form.  Except as required by law, including but not limited to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the cost of diagnostic and treatment services provided outside the District is the sole responsibility of the child’s parents/guardians.  

 

BULLYING– see Policy 2655

The District is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment free of any form of bullying or intimidation by students toward District personnel or students on school grounds, during the school day, at any school-sponsored activity, or in any school-related context.  Bullying of students and District personnel is prohibited on all school property, during any District-sponsored activity, and on all District school buses. “Bullying” means intimidation, unwanted aggressive behavior, or any other unwanted negative action that is repetitive or is substantially likely to be repeated and causes a reasonable student to fear for his or her physical safety or property; substantially interferes with the educational performance, opportunities, or benefits of any student without exception; or substantially disrupts the orderly operation of the school. Bullying may consist of physical actions, including gestures, or oral, cyberbullying, electronic, or written communication, and any threat of retaliation for reporting of such acts. Bullying occurs when a student:

 

1. Communicates to another individual by any means (including face to face, by telephone, in writing, through cyberbullying, or via electronic communications), an intention to intimidate, or inflict physical, emotional, or mental harm without legitimate purpose, or.  
2. Physically contacts another individual with the intent to intimidate or to inflict physical, emotional, or mental harm without legitimate purpose. Physical contact does not require physical touching, although touching may be included.

 

“Cyberbullying” means bullying as defined above through the transmission of a communication including, but not limited to, a message, text, sound, or image by means of an electronic device including, but not limited to, a telephone, wireless telephone, or other wireless communication device, computer, or pager. The District shall have jurisdiction to prohibit cyberbullying that originates on a school’s campus or at a District activity of the electronic communication was made using the school’s technological resources, if there is sufficient nexus to the educational environment, or if the electronic communication was made on the school’s campus or at a District activity using the student’s own personal technological resources. The District may discipline any student for such cyberbullying to the greatest extent allowed by school policy/law.

 

Anti-Bullying Coordinator

The Superintendent shall, on an annual basis, appoint a District employee who is teacher-level staff or above at each school to serve as the Anti-Bullying Coordinator (ABC). The list of District ABCs shall be kept on file at central office, along with this policy. 

 

Reporting

District employees are required to report any instance of bullying of which the employee has first-hand knowledge.  District employees who witness an incident of bullying are required to report the incident to the school ABC within two school days of the employee witnessing the event, unless the ABC is unavailable or is the subject of a report. In that case, the report should be made directly to the District’s Compliance Officer (Board Policy 1300). All District employees shall instruct all persons seeking to report an incident of bullying to communicate directly with the school ABC. If a verbal report is made, the person will be asked to submit a written complaint to the school ABC. If such person refuses or is unable to submit a written complaint, the school ABC will summarize the verbal complaint in writing. Even if a written complaint is not directly filed, if the school ABC otherwise learns about possible bullying or cyberbullying, the District will conduct a prompt, impartial, adequate, reliable, and thorough investigation to determine whether unlawful conduct occurred and will implement the appropriate interim measures, if necessary. The District may take action upon finding a violation of law, District policy, or District expectations even if a complaint is not directly filed.

 

Investigation

Within two school days of receiving a report of an incident of bullying, the school ABC, the school principal, or his/her designee, shall initiate an investigation of the incident. The school principal may appoint other school staff to assist with the investigation. The investigation shall be completed within ten school days from the date of the written complaint of bullying, unless good cause exists to extend the investigation.

 

Retaliation

The District prohibits retaliation against any person who files a complaint of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation, and further prohibits retaliation against any person who testifies, assists, or otherwise participates in any investigation, proceeding, or hearing relating to such bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation. The District will discipline or take other appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel who retaliates against any such person.

 

Consequences and Remedies

When the District receives a report of bullying, cyberbullying, and/or retaliation, the District will take appropriate interim measures to protect the alleged victim(s). If, after investigation, it is determined that bullying, cyberbullying, and/or retaliation did occur, the District shall take prompt effective, appropriate action reasonably calculated to end the bullying, cyberbullying, and/or retaliation and to protect individuals from further such bullying, cyberbullying, and/or retaliation. Students who are found to have violated this policy will be subject to the following consequences:  loss of privileges, classroom detention, conference with teacher, parents contacted, conference with principal, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, expulsion, and/or law enforcement contacted. Consequences imposed shall depend on factors such as: age of student(s), degree of harm, severity of behavior, and number of incidents. The District will discipline or take other appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel who is found to have violated this policy. Patrons, contractors, visitors, or others who violate this policy may be prohibited from District property or otherwise restricted while on District property.

 

Public Notice

The Superintendent or designee will continuously publicize the District’s anti-bullying policy and will disseminate information to employees, parents/guardians, and students, as well as to newly-enrolled students and newly-hired employees, regarding how to report incidents of bullying. This policy shall also be published in District student handbooks. In addition:

 

1. The District shall provide information and appropriate training to District staff who have significant contact with students regarding the policy; 
2. The District shall give annual notice of the policy to students, parents/guardians, and staff;
3. The District shall provide education and information to students regarding bullying, including information regarding the District policy prohibiting bullying, the harmful effects of bullying, and other applicable initiatives to address bullying, including student peer-to-peer initiatives to provide accountability and policy enforcement for those found to have engaged in bullying, reprisal, or retaliation against any person who reports an act of bullying;
4. The administration of the District shall instruct its school counselors, school social workers, licensed social workers, mental health professionals, and school psychologists to educate students who are victims of bullying on techniques for students to overcome bullying’s negative effects. Such techniques shall include, but not be limited to, cultivating the student’s self-worth and self-esteem; teaching the student to defend himself or herself assertively and effectively; helping the student develop social skills; and/or encouraging the student to develop an internal locus of control; and
5. The administration of the District shall implement programs and other initiatives to address bullying, to respond to such conduct in a manner that does not stigmatize the victim, and to make resources or referrals available to victims of bullying.

 

All complaints of violation of this policy will be promptly investigated by the District, and appropriate action will be taken. Complaints alleging unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in violation of Board Policy/Regulation 1300 shall also be referred to the District Compliance Officer for investigation pursuant to the application board policy/regulation.

 

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES- see Policy 2860

A student shall not attend classes or other school-sponsored activities, if the student (1) has, or has been exposed to, an acute (short duration) or chronic (long duration) contagious or infectious disease, and (2) is liable to transmit the contagious or infectious disease, unless the Board of Education or its designee has determined, based upon medical evidence, that the student:

1. No longer has the disease.
2. Is not in the contagious or infectious stage of an acute disease.
3. Has a chronic infectious disease that poses little risk of transmission in the school environment with reasonable precautions. 

School officials may require any child suspected of having a contagious or infectious disease to be examined by a physician and may exclude the child from school, in accordance with the procedures authorized by this policy, so long as there is a substantial risk of transmission of the disease in the school environment.

A student who has a chronic infectious disease, and who is permitted to attend school, may be required to do so under specified conditions. Failure to adhere to the conditions will result in the student being excluded from school. A student who has a chronic infectious disease and who is not permitted to attend school or participate in school activities will be provided instruction in an alternative educational setting in accordance with District policy.

Students with acute or chronic contagious or infectious diseases and their families have a right to privacy and confidentiality. Only staff members who have a medical reason to know the identity and condition of such students will be informed. Willful or negligent disclosure of confidential information about a student's medical condition by staff members will be cause for disciplinary action.

The District will implement reporting and disease outbreak control measures in accordance with the provisions of Missouri Department of Health publication PACH-16, "Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases: A Guide for School Administrators, Nurses, Teachers and Day Care Operators," a copy of which shall be on file in the office of the Supervisor of Health Services and in the office of each school nurse.

 

COMMUNICATION

Communication between parents and teachers is very important.  Parents can assist in the communication process by reading all notices sent home from school and calling, emailing or sending a note when questions or concerns arise.  The teachers will check the backpacks each day for notes from home and parents should do so as well.

 

Telephone conversations are very important; however, during class time the secretary at the school will handle all calls and messages.  Staff will return your call at their earliest convenience.  Email is another good method of communication.  The staff welcomes communication from parents.

 

DRESS

The staff asks that parents keep in mind that we frequently use paint or do other messy activities.  Also, children at this age have toileting accidents.  We ask that you dress your child in informal, comfortable, easily managed clothing.

 

Each child needs to bring one weather-appropriate change of clothing (including socks) in his/her backpack each day, should there be an accident.

 

If your child uses diapers or pull-ups, please send an adequate supply in the child’s backpack daily.  Also, please include baby wipes for your child as well.

 

The staff asks that parents be mindful of the weather and dress children accordingly.  Weather permitting; the children do go outside for recess.  If the temperature or wind chill factor is below 32 degrees F, children will not have outside recess.

 

Children are involved daily in gross motor activities in the classroom as well as at outside recess.  The staff would recommend that you send your child to school in tennis shoes, sneakers, or other shoes that are not likely to come off easily.  Please consider sending your child in shoes they are able to run and play in safely. ☺

 

ENROLLMENT

Children must be officially enrolled before attending classes.  To enroll the following information must be presented:

 

Proof of residency* Proof of age 

Emergency contact Immunization records

 

*The Carthage R-9 School District accepts the following as documentation of residency: 

Utility Bill

Rental Contract

Reality Contract

 

If you do not receive a bill in your name, then you will be required to fill out the Residing with or Renting from Proof of Residency Documentation form.

 

In the event that you change your residency, you will need to provide proof of residency of the new address to the Welcome Center which is located at 710 Lyon Street. 

 

EXCLUSION FROM AND RETURN TO SCHOOL (See R9 Comprehensive Health Service Plan)

Evaluation for exclusion will be based on history of symptoms and physical assessment by the nurse.  Conditions include, but are not limited to:

• Students with red eyes and/or eyelids with thick white or yellow eye discharge and pain.  Return to school requires a note from a physician stating they are not contagious, treatment for 24 hours, or until the symptoms resolve.
• An unidentifiable rash that has not been evaluated by a doctor.  Return to school requires a note from a physician stating they are not contagious, treatment for 24 hours, or until the symptoms resolve.
• Student with vomiting and/or diarrhea due to suspected illness.  Return to school after symptom free for 24 hours or determined to be noncommunicable.
• Student with fever of 100 degrees F or above.  Student should be fever-free without the aid of medication for 24 hours before returning to school.

 

 

FERPA EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS ANNUAL NOTIFICATION- see Regulation 2400.1

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the child’s educational records.  These rights are:

1. The right to inspect and review the child’s educational records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access.  Parents or eligible students should submit to the appropriate school official a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect.  The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2. The right to request the amendment of the child’s educational records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate.  Parents or eligible students may ask the school to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate.  They should write to the school official, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate.  If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their rights to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s educational records, except to the extent the FERPA authorized disclosure without consent.  One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interest.  A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the school has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.  A school official has a legitimate responsibility.  Upon request, the school discloses educational records without consent to officials of another school district in which the student seeks or intends to enroll.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U. S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the Carthage R-9 School District to comply with the requirements of FERPA.  The name and address of the office that administers to FERPA are:

 

Family Policy Compliance Office

U. S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington DC 20202-4605

 

HEALTH INFORMATION RECORDS- see Regulation 2410

All information contained in a child’s health information records, except information designated as directory information by the District, shall be confidential and shall be directly accessible only to school officials who demonstrate a legitimate educational interest in the child health information and to parents/guardians or eligible students.  Interviews with children, parents/guardians or staff members concerning student health information, or phone calls concerning such, should take place in private offices.  Confidential health information should not be left as a message with a secretary, on voicemail or answering machines.  The District will comply with all state and federal laws pertaining to confidentiality of student health information.

 

HEALTH SERVICES- see policy 2830

The District will be responsible for providing first aid or emergency treatment for students in cases of sudden illness or injury.  Where necessary, and with notice to the parent/guardian, emergency health services will be secured.  The parent/guardian is responsible for the cost of their child’s medical treatment.

 

ILLNESS OR INJURY

In case of illness or injury the school nurse or a member of the school staff will care for a child temporarily.  School personnel will render first aid treatment only.  If emergency medical treatment is necessary the parents will be contacted.  If parents are not available the child will be taken to the emergency room at the hospital.  Remember, an emergency telephone number where parents can be reached and the name and telephone number of the student’s family doctor must be on file at the school.  Students who have a temperature of 100 degrees, are vomiting, or have diarrhea will be sent home immediately.  If your child has had an injury outside of school that required medical attention (i.e., stitches, bandages, etc.), we ask that you send a note to the teacher or call the school nurse.  That way the staff will be better informed on how to care for your child at school.

 

INOCULATIONS OF STUDENTS- see policy 2850, regulation 2850

All students attending District schools are required to be in compliance with state programs mandating immunization against specific diseases.  Failure to comply with District immunization requirements will result in exclusion from school until proof of compliance is provided.  Parents/guardians of homeless students are encouraged to submit proof of compliance as soon as possible.

 

The Superintendent shall institute procedures for the maintenance of health records, which are to show the immunization status of every student enrolled or attending in the District, and for the completion of all necessary reports in accordance with guidelines prepared by the Department of Social Services-Missouri Division of Health.

 

Upon written request, the District will notify the parents/guardians of pre-kindergarten students whether other pre-kindergarten students are attending school with an immunization exception.  The identity of students for whom an immunization exception has been filed is confidential and will not be released except as required by law.

 

INTERAGENCY COLLABORATION

It is important for us to keep in close contact with all other agencies your child is involved with, and to be kept abreast of any updated information regarding your child provided by doctors, other programs, etc.  We welcome any relevant information provided by doctors or outside therapies or agency that may assist in the education of your child.

 

LICE

In keeping with the Carthage R-9 School District’s philosophy of avoiding the unnecessary exclusion of students from school, the district will not exclude otherwise healthy students from school due to non-viable nit infestations (nits greater than ¼” from the scalp).  Students with active infestations (live lice or nits found within ¼” of the scalp) will be excluded from school only to the minimum extent necessary for treatment.  It will be the responsibility of the school nurse or designated trained personnel to recommend a student’s removal from school, if warranted.  

 

Effective head lice control is based on a high standard of education, prevention and accountability for parents, students and staff.  The school nurse will provide education programs regarding the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of head lice for staff, students and parents.  Routine head checks for non-symptomatic students are not recommended and; therefore, routine school-wide or classroom head lice screenings will not be performed.

 

When a member of the school staff suspects a child may have head lice, the child will be referred to the school nurse or trained designated personnel.  If the child is clear, no action is needed.

 

Non-Viable Nits Only:

1. Child may remain in school.
2. Notify parents and provide education on treatment and prevention.
3. Encourage parents to remove all nits and to do regular checks of their children’s hair and start immediate treatment if head lice are detected.
4. Advise against treating students who are not infested.
5. Recheck in one week.

 

Live Lice/Viable Nits:

1. Contact parent/guardian.
2. Child will remain in health room until parent arrives.
3. Child may ride the bus home if cannot reach a parent/guardian.
4. Notify other school to do head checks on siblings and any other student(s) who resides with the child.
5. Provide information on treatment and prevention.
6. To be admitted to school a child must be accompanied by a parent/guardian/relative, and must be checked by the school nurse or designated trained personnel.
7. Non-viable nits-may return to school.
8. Live lice-exclude from school.
9. Students will be considered truant if more than 3 consecutive days are missed due to head lice.

 

MO HEALTHNET for KIDS

The Federal Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), part of the MO HealthNet for Kids program, is a health insurance program for uninsured children of low-income families who do not have access to affordable health insurance.  In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of Missouri, under 19 years of age or be a primary caregiver with a child under the age of 19, not covered by health insurance (including Medicaid), and a U.S. national, citizen, legal alien, or permanent resident.  Please visit Missouri Department of Special Services to apply.

 

PARENT CONTACTS/EVENING ACTIVITIES

The staff wants to share information regarding your child’s progress and information that may assist you in helping your child at home.  Frequent, informal contacts between parents and teachers are conducted on a consistent basis.  You may additionally request a meeting at any time you feel one is needed.  

 

Parent/teacher conferences are held once a year.  These will be held within the same window of time the district’s parent/teacher conferences are held.

 

Quarterly progress updates concerning your child’s IEP goals will also be sent home.

 

In the event the school has evening activities, please be aware that any child sent home from school or not attending a school session due to illness should not return for evening activities or programs. 

 

PARTIES/SNACKS

Classroom parties are designed by the staff to meet specific student and program goals.  In general, the program will provide all food and supplies for class parties.  If you wish to donate food items or supplies for a party, please contact your child’s teacher.  If you wish to send birthday treats to school for your child, please contact your child’s teacher.  All food served at birthday parties, class parties, or to be shared during snack time shall be pre packaged or prepared by a licensed outside vendor.  We ask that you keep in mind that cupcakes are potentially messy so we encourage you to bring an alternative birthday treat. 

 

We will have an option for students to purchase a snack from food services.  For those who qualify, there will be an opportunity for free/reduced snack.  If you are not free/reduced and you do not wish to purchase our snack, you are asked to provide a snack in your child’s backpack each day.  Please put the snack in a lunch box in your child’s backpack.  Please include a drink also.  Students will bring money in a properly completed envelope that is provided.  The envelopes will be turned in to the Office.  The District would like, if possible, to have students pay for food service by the month or week.  All snacks should be paid for in ADVANCE.  We hope you understand that schools work on a budget and cannot extend credit.  If extenuating circumstances exist with respect to your snack bill, please contact Kim Ensminger, Director of Early Childhood. You will receive a menu each month regarding snacks for each day of the month.  The snack will consist of a variety of the following foods (milk, grain, and fruit).    

 

Snack Prices

Regular-  Breakfast:  $1.35

              Lunch:  $2.65

        Reduced- Breakfast:  $.30

              Lunch:  $.40

 

MEAL CHARGES- See Policy 5550

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to maintain consistent meal account procedures throughout the District. Unpaid charges place a financial strain on District finances.  The Food Service Department is responsible for maintaining food charge records and for notifying the District’s accounting department of outstanding balances.

 

Administration

1. Student Groups

1. Elementary and intermediate students will be allowed to charge a maximum of five dollars ($5.00).  These meals will include only the menu items of the reimbursable meal.  After the balance exceeds five dollars ($5.00), the student may be given an alternative meal which will include a cheese sandwich, fruit and choice of milk.  The student will be provided the alternative meal on a tray in the lunch line, and will not be charged for this meal.
2. Junior high and high school students will be allowed to charge one meal.  Alternate meals are not provided at the junior and senior high school levels.

2. No charges will be allowed for a la carte foods and beverages.
3. Adults are not allowed to charge meals.
4. Parents/guardians of students with negative balances will be contacted electronically, by correspondence, by phone call by the District Accounting Office, or by the Food Service Department.
5. The District accepts the following methods of payment:  Cash, check or electronic payment through My School Bucks.
6. On May 1^st annually all charging will be cut off.

1. Parents/guardians will be sent a written request for “payment in full.”
2. All charges not paid before the end of the school year will be carried forward into the next school year.
3. Graduating seniors must pay all charges in full.  Failure to do so may result in the delinquent student being denied participation in graduation ceremonies.

7. If a financial hardship is suspected, families will be encouraged to apply for free/reduced meals at any time during the school year.
8. Each building principal will send a letter to all parents on or before the first day of school notifying them of the requirements of this policy. This policy will also be published on the District’s website.

 

Due to early childhood not having an alternative meal to provide students whose account balance exceeds $5.00, parents will be asked to send a snack for their child until the account is paid. 

 

PERSONAL BELONGINGS

Please do not allow children to bring items to school that are not a part of the educational program unless specifically asked for by the teachers.  No toys, collectibles, games, radios, balls, roller blades, wheelies (shoes with wheels on the soles), cleats, or CD players/iPods are to be brought.  Parents are urged to put names on items such as coats, sweaters, and backpacks.  Parents may check in the office for lost items.  If lost items are not picked up, they will be sent to a local charity.

 

PHOTOGRAPHIC RELEASE

Upon enrollment, parents/guardians are asked to sign a permission form for ECSE staff to take photographs of your child to use in the classroom and school throughout the school year.  This provides parents with the opportunity to grant or deny permission for the use of their child’s photograph.

 

PROHIBITION AGAINST WEAPONS AND FIREARMS- see Policy 1433

The presence of firearms and weapons poses a substantial risk of serious harm to District students, staff, and community members.  Therefore, possession of firearms and weapons is prohibited on school premises at all times, except for law enforcement officials and as otherwise provided in Policy 1433.  As used in Policy 1433, the phrase school premises includes all District buildings, grounds, vehicles, and parking areas.  This prohibition also extends to the sites of school activities, whether or not those school activities are conducted on School District property.

 

Individuals found to be in violation of this policy will be dealt with severely.  Students will be disciplined up to and including expulsion as provided in Policy and Regulation 2620- Firearms and Weapons in School.  Law enforcement officials will be notified and the individual violating this policy will be directed to leave school premises.   Non-students violating this policy will be  barred from all school premises and school activities for a period of one (1) year.  Subsequent violations by the same individual will result in a permanent bar from school premises and school activities.

 

Student participation in school-sanctioned gun safety courses, student military or ROTC courses, or other school sponsored firearm related events does not constitute a violation of Policy 1433, provided the student does not carry a firearm or other weapon into any school, school bus, or onto the premises of any other activity sponsored or sanctioned by school officials.  In addition, persons passing through school district property for purposes of dropping off or picking up a student do not violate this policy if they possess a lawful permitted weapon in the vehicle during this time.

 

FIREARMS AND WEAPONS IN SCHOOL- see Regulation 2620

Discipline

 

Definition of Firearm

The term firearm includes, but is not limited to, such items as:

1. Any item which is a loaded or unloaded weapon, weapon frame, or weapon barrel and which is designed to, or may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by action of an explosive, or

2. Any item which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant, and which has a barrel with a bore of at least one-half inch in diameter, or

3. Any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas, such as: bombs; grenades; rockets with a propellant charge of greater than four ounces; and other similar devices as recognized under federal law, or

4. Any combination of parts either designed to or intended for use in converting any device into a device as described in paragraphs above.

 

Definition of Weapons

The term weapon shall mean a “firearm” as defined above, and shall also include the items listed below, which are defined as “weapons” in section 571.010,RSMo.

1. Blackjack

2. Concealable firearm

3. Explosive weapon

4. Firearm

5. Firearm silencer

6. Gas gun

7. Knife

8. Machine gun

9. Knuckles

10. Projectile weapon

11. Rifle

12. Shotgun

13. Spring gun

14. Switchblade knife

Other weapons, including but not limited to:

1. Pepper spray

2. Stun gun

3. Mace spray

4. Any knife, regardless of blade length (optional)

5. Items customarily used, or which can be used, to inflict injury upon another person or property.

 

Students Who Bring Firearms or Weapons to School

The District will take the following action upon determining that a student has brought a firearm or weapon to school:

1. The District will refer the student to the appropriate criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system, and

2. The District will suspend the student from school for a period of not less than one year (365 days) from the date of the infraction, and may, at its discretion, expel the student from school permanently.  This suspension provision may be modified on a case-by-case basis upon recommendation of the District Superintendent if the Superintendent determines that circumstances justify such a modification.

3. The District may, at its discretion, provide a student suspended under this Regulation with educational services in an alternative setting.

 

Applicability of Regulation to Students with Disabilities

If the student who is determined to be in violation of this Regulation is a student with a disability under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, school administrators may assign the student to an alternative education placement, including suspension, for a period of up to forty-five (45) school days and/or take other steps to address the student’s misconduct, as permitted by law.  In such cases, the District and/or the student’s IEP team will follow all procedures required by state and federal law.

 

PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS (PPRA) – see Policy 1610

PPRA affords parents of elementary and secondary students certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams.  These include, but are not limited to, the right to:

• Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the protected areas if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education.
• Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of
  1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
  2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and

• Inspect, upon request and before administration or use – 
  1. Protected information surveys of students and surveys created by a third party.
  2. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

 

PROHIBITION AGAINST HARASSMENT, DISCRIMINATION AND RETALIATION- See Policy 1300

The District is committed to maintaining a workplace and educational environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs, services, activities and facilities.  The District is committed to providing equal opportunity in all areas of education, recruiting, hiring, retention, promotion and contracted service.  In accordance with law, the District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, disability, age, genetic information (inapplicable to students), or any other characteristic protected by law in its programs and activities.  In addition, the District provides equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups. Further, no person shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subject to discrimination based on the above listed characteristics under a school nutrition program for which the District receives federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA Food and Nutrition Service).

The Director of Special Services has been designated as the District’s Section 504 Compliance Officer to handle complaints or inquiries regarding discrimination based on an individual’s disability.  All other complaints or inquiries regarding the District’s non-discrimination policies will be handled by the Assistant Superintendent for Business.  Both Compliance Officers can be contacted at 709 W. Centennial Avenue or 1515 Hazel Avenue, Carthage, Missouri 64836, telephone number 417-359-7000.  For information regarding how to report a claim of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, see Board of Education Regulation 1300.  Policy and Regulation 1300 shall govern all complaints and concerns by parents, patrons, employees, or students of the District related to discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, disability, age, genetic information (inapplicable to students), or any other characteristic protected by law. 

PROHIBITION A AGAINST HARASSMENT, DISCRIMINATION and RETALIATION- See Regulation 1300

Harassment or discrimination because of an individual’s race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, disability, age, genetic information (inapplicable to students), or any other characteristic protected by law is prohibited in this District.  The District also prohibits retaliation against a person who files a complaint of discrimination or harassment or participates in an investigation of allegations of harassment or discrimination.

This Regulation governs and outlines the procedure for filing a complaint of harassment or discrimination based on a protected classification by students, employees, parents, and patrons of the District. Students with a complaint regarding the identification, evaluation, educational program, or placement of a child with a disability under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 should be filed in accordance with the procedures outlined in Regulation 2110. 

 

DISTRICT’S COMPLIANCE OFFICERS

The Director of Special Services has been designated as the District’s Section 504 Compliance Officer to handle inquiries or complaints regarding discrimination based on an individual’s disability.  All other complaints or inquiries regarding the District’s non-discrimination policies will be handled by the Assistant Superintendent for Business.  Both Compliance Officers can be contacted at 709 W.  Centennial Avenue or 1515 Hazel Avenue, Carthage, Missouri 64836, telephone number 417-359-7000.

The District has designated the Compliance Officers (hereinafter referred to as “Compliance Officer”) with the responsibility to identify, prevent, and remedy unlawful discrimination and harassment in the District.  The Compliance Officer is in charge of assuring District compliance with this Policy and Regulation, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; as well as other state and federal nondiscrimination laws.

The Compliance Officer will:

 

1. *Receive complaints of discrimination or harassment based on an individual’s race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, disability, age, genetic information (inapplicable to students), or any other characteristic protected by law;
2. Oversee the investigative process;
3. Assess the training needs of District staff and students in connection with the dissemination, comprehension, and compliance with this Regulation;
4. Arrange for necessary training required for compliance with this Regulation;
5. Insure that investigations are conducted by an impartial investigator; and
6. In the event the complaint is about the Compliance Officer or Compliance Officer’s immediate supervisor, the District will consider appointment of an outside investigator.

*If any complaint involves the Compliance Officer, the Complaint shall be filed directly with the Superintendent or President of the Board of Education.

 

DEFINITIONS

For the purpose of this Regulation and Policy 1300, the following terms are defined:

Compliance Officer:  The District employee(s) designated by the Board of Education to coordinate the District’s compliance with District policy, Missouri statutes, and federal laws regarding discrimination, harassment, and retaliation based on an individual’s race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, disability, age, genetic information (inapplicable to students), or any other characteristic or any other characteristic that is protected by law. 

Disability:  A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity. 

Discrimination:  Adverse conduct directed at an individual or group based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, disability, age, genetic information (inapplicable to students), or any other characteristic that is protected by law.  The encouragement, cooperation, coercing, or support of adverse conduct that is based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, disability, age, genetic information (inapplicable to students), or any other characteristic that is protected by law is discrimination.

Genetic Information:  As used in this policy, regulation and form, applies only to employees and applicants.

Harassment:  Harassment is conduct, including but not limited to, intimidation, ridicule or insult, toward an individual or group because of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, disability, age, genetic information (inapplicable to students), or any other characteristic that is protected by law and is so severe or pervasive that it:

• Affects an individual’s ability to work in, participate in, or benefit from an educational program or activity; and
• Creates an intimidating, threatening, abusive hostile or offensive environment; or
• Has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably altering the work or educational environment.

For the purposes of this Regulation, sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature or based upon sex when a) benefits or decisions are implicitly or explicitly conditioned upon submission to, or consequence is applied for refusing to comply with, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or conduct of a sexual nature; or b) the

school or work environment becomes permeated with intimidation, ridicule or insult that is based on sex or is sexual in nature and that is sufficiently severe or pervasive enough to alter the conditions of participation in the district’s programs and activities or the conditions of employment.

A student regardless of age cannot consent to behavior of a sexual nature with an adult irrespective of the circumstances.

Retaliation:  Adverse conduct including, but not limited to, conduct of a coercive, intimidating, threatening, discriminatory, or harassing nature because of an individual’s good faith complaint, participation in the investigation, testifying, or resolution of discriminatory or harassing conduct based on an individual’s race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, disability, age, genetic information (inapplicable to students), or any other characteristic that is protected by law.

Student:  An individual that is currently enrolled as a student of the District.

 

Illustrations and Examples of Prohibited Harassment

For the purpose of this Regulation and Policy 1300, the determination if conduct is unwelcome is a fact-intensive question that shall be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

 

Examples of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment may include a range of subtle and not-so-subtle behaviors and may involve individuals of the same or different gender. Legitimate, non-sexual physical conduct necessary to avoid physical harm to persons or property, to console an individual, or spontaneous movement during a sporting activity is not sexual harassment.

Depending on the circumstances, examples of conduct, which may constitute sexual harassment as defined in this Regulation, include, but are not limited to:

• sexual advances;
• request for sexual favors;
• threatening an individual for not agreeing to submit to sexual advancement;
• sexually motivated touching of an individual’s intimate parts;
• coercing, forcing, or attempting to coerce or force the touching of an individual’s intimate parts;
• display of drawings, graffiti, cartoons, pictures, symbols or other written material of a sexual nature;
• sexual gestures;
• sexual or dirty jokes;
• sexually provocative or explicit speech;
• communications about or rating an individual as to his/her body, sexual activity, or performance; and
• verbal abuse of a sexual nature.

 

Examples of Race, Color, Nation Origin, Ancestry, Religion, Disability, Age or Genetic Information Harassment

As defined in this Regulation, examples of conduct that may be considered harassment based on an individual’s race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, disability, age, or genetic information (inapplicable to students),  or any other characteristic that is protected by law include, but are not limited to:

• display of drawings, graffiti, cartoons, pictures, symbols or other written material;
• jokes;
• gestures;
• slurs, derogatory stereotypes or remarks, rumors, name-calling, insults, teasing, or taunting;
• threats or intimidating conduct;
• hostile action, physical aggression or violence; and
• damage or theft of property.

 

OBLIGATION TO REPORT

The District is steadfastly committed to providing an inclusive environment that is free from discrimination and harassment for all of its students and staff.  Unless a concern is informally resolved, staff and students shall report all incidents of discrimination, harassment and retaliation to the Compliance Officer as set forth in this Regulation. When a formal complaint is filed with the Compliance Officer, the investigation and complaint process detailed below will be used, including a possible determination by the Compliance Officer that the incident has been appropriately addressed through the informal process.  Reports of discrimination, harassment and/or related retaliation must contain as much specific information as possible to allow for proper assessment of the nature, extent and urgency of preliminary investigative procedures. 

 

INTERIM MEASURES

The District will take action to protect a complainant or persons subjected to discrimination, harassment, or retaliation as necessary during the course of an investigation.  Appropriate interim measures will be offered and may include, but are not limited to, physical separation, contact limitations, reassignment, alternative work or assignments, altering class or bus seating assignments, additional supervision, counseling, training, warning, conferences, exclusion and employee suspension pending an investigation as permitted by the District’s policies and law.  Additional interim measures to prevent retaliation may include, but are not limited to, notification of the retaliation prohibition, confirming the individual knows how to report retaliation, and follow-up contact.

 

INVESTIGATION AND RESPONSE

The District will investigate allegations of harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation and take appropriate steps reasonably calculated to resolve the situation, eliminate the misconduct, prevent its recurrence and as appropriate, remedy its effects. The District will take equitable and remedial action within its authority on complaints that come to the attention of the District, either formally or informally. 

Allegations of criminal misconduct will be reported to law enforcement and suspected child abuse will be reported to law enforcement and/or the Children’s Division. Regardless of whether the misconduct is reported to law enforcement and/or the Children’s Division, school staff will investigate to determine what occurred and take appropriate steps to resolve the situation, to the extent that such investigation does not interfere with an ongoing criminal investigation.

Engaging in harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation will result in appropriate discipline or other appropriate sanctions against offending students, staff or other third parties involved in District activities.  Anyone else who engages in harassment, discrimination, and retaliation on school property or at school activities will have their access to school property and activities restricted, as appropriate.

Employees and students should fully cooperate with the investigation process.

 

Informal Process for Resolution

The District takes seriously the obligation to investigate complaints of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation and to take appropriate remedial measures when necessary. The District recognizes that the obligation to investigate and remedy may be accomplished through an informal process, depending on the circumstances.

Anyone may use informal procedures to report and resolve complaints of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation. If a staff member receives an informal complaint of harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation and the complaint cannot be resolved informally, the staff member shall inform their relevant building administrator or supervisor.  The administrator/supervisor may attempt to resolve the matter informally and should inform complainants of Policy and Regulation 1300. 

Building administrators/supervisors shall provide information to the Compliance Officer on a regular basis about complaints reported and resolved through the informal process.

Informal complaints may become formal complaints at the request of the complainant, parent/guardian, or the District.

During the course of the informal complaint process, the District will take prompt and effective steps reasonably calculated to end the harassment, discrimination, and retaliation and to correct any effects on the complainant.

Informal remedies may include, but are not limited to:

• If the complainant so desires, an opportunity for the complainant to explain to the alleged harasser that his or her conduct is unwelcome, offensive or inappropriate, either in writing or face-to-face;
• A statement from a staff member to the alleged harasser that the alleged conduct is not appropriate and could lead to discipline if proven or repeated;
• A general public statement from an administrator in a building reviewing the District’s nondiscrimination and harassment policy without identifying the complainant;
• Developing a safety plan;
• Separating students; or
• Providing staff and/or student training.

The District will inform the complainant (and their parent/guardian when applicable) how to report any subsequent problems. Additionally, the District may conduct follow-up inquiries to see if there have been any new incidents or instances of retaliation, and to promptly respond and appropriately address continuing or new problems.

 

Formal Process for Resolution

Step One – Complaint to District

Anyone may initiate a formal complaint of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation by filing a written complaint with the District’s Compliance Officer. At any step in the formal resolution process, where appropriate, the District will take interim measures to protect the complainant or alleged victim before the final outcome of the District’s investigation.  Additionally, the District may appoint an outside investigator at any step of the informal or formal resolution process.  A subordinate shall not investigate his/her supervisor.

The following process will be followed at Step One:

Filing of Complaint

• All formal complaints will be in writing and will set forth the specific acts, conditions or circumstances alleged to have occurred and to constitute harassment, discrimination or retaliation. The Compliance Officer may draft the complaint based on the report of the complainant for the complainant to review and approve. The Compliance Officer may also conclude that the District needs to conduct an investigation based on information in his or her possession, regardless of the complainant’s interest in filing a formal complaint.
• Formal complaints must be submitted to the Compliance Officer.
• A charge or complaint of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation filed with an outside agency does not constitute a formal complaint or trigger an obligation to follow the formal complaint investigation procedures as contemplated under this Regulation.

Investigation of Complaint

• The Compliance Officer will receive and investigate all formal, written complaints of harassment, discrimination or retaliation or will investigate if information in the Officer’s possession leads them to believe further investigation is required. The Compliance Officer will delegate his or her authority to participate in this process if such action is necessary to avoid any potential conflicts of interest. Upon receipt of a complaint, the Compliance Officer will provide the complainant a copy of this Regulation.
• Investigations will be carried out in a manner that is adequate in scope, reliability and impartiality. During the investigation process, the complainant and accused party or parties, if the complainant has identified an accused party, will have an opportunity to identify witnesses and present relevant evidence. The District and complainant may also agree to resolve the complaint in lieu of an investigation.
• When the investigation is completed, the Compliance Officer will compile a written report of the investigation. The report may include a recommendation of appropriate action to remedy the allegations included in the complaint. The Compliance Officer will forward the report and recommendations to the Superintendent.  If the Superintendent is the subject of the complaint, the report and recommendations will be forwarded to the Board President.

Response to Complaint

• The Superintendent will review the report completed by the Compliance Officer.
• The Superintendent will respond in writing with a Letter of Outcome to the complainant and the accused party within thirty (30) calendar days of the Compliance Officer’s receipt of the written complaint, unless otherwise agreed to by the complainant or if circumstances related to the complaint require an extension of the time limit. In the event an extension is needed, the District will notify the complainant in writing of the reason for the extension and the anticipated response date.
• The Letter of Outcome will include: 1) a statement of the outcome of the investigation including whether a preponderance of the evidence establishes that harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation occurred in violation of Policy 1300; 2) if violation of Policy 1300 is found to have occurred, the assurance that the District will take steps to prevent recurrence and remedy its effects on the complainant and others, if appropriate; and 3) notice of the right to appeal to the school board and the necessary filing information.
• Any corrective measures deemed necessary will be instituted as promptly as reasonable.
• The District will inform the complainant (and their parent/guardian if the complainant is a student) how to report any subsequent problems. Additionally, where appropriate the District will conduct follow-up inquiries to see if there have been any new incidents or instances of retaliation, and to respond and appropriately address continuing or new problems.
• If the Superintendent is the subject of the complaint, the actions set forth herein to be completed by the Superintendent will be completed by the Board President.

Step Two – Appeal to Board of Education

Notice of Appeal

• The complainant or accused party may appeal to the Board of Education by filing a written notice of appeal with the secretary of the Board within ten (10) calendar days following receipt of the Letter of Outcome.
• On receipt of the written appeal, the matter shall be placed on the agenda of the Board for consideration not later than their next regularly scheduled meeting, unless otherwise agreed to by the complainant and the Superintendent or for good cause.
• Parties will be allowed to provide comment and information as the Board deems relevant and material.

 

Board Decision

• Unless otherwise agreed to by the appealing party, the Board will provide written notice of its determination within thirty (30) calendar days following the filing of the notice of appeal and provide the appealing party with a copy of the determination. 

 

RETALIATION

The District prohibits retaliation against a person who files a complaint of discrimination or harassment, and further prohibits retaliation against a person who participates in related proceedings or investigations.

Notwithstanding this provision, employees or students found to have intentionally made false or materially misleading allegations of suspected discrimination, harassment and/or related retaliation under this Regulation may be disciplined, up to and including dismissal or expulsion. 

 

CONFIDENTIALITY

The District will respect the privacy of the complainant, the individuals against whom the complaint is filed, and the witnesses to the extent possible, consistent with applicable law, the District’s legal obligations to investigate, to take appropriate action, and to conform with any discovery or disclosure obligations.  However, pursuant to the District’s discretion, information may be disclosed, if necessary, to aid in the investigation, resolution, or appeal of the complaint.

 

CONSEQUENCES AND REMEDIES

The District will take prompt, effective and appropriate action to address substantiated discrimination, harassment or retaliation, prevent its recurrence and remedy its effects.

 

Consequences

Consequences for violations of this Policy and Regulation may have educational, restorative, rehabilitative and/or punitive components.

Conduct constituting harassment, discrimination or retaliation as defined in this Regulation will be subject to discipline including, but not limited to, written warning or reprimand, conference, required training, “no contact” order, reassignment, probation, suspension or termination for employees, suspension or expulsion for students, or exclusion from District property.

In the event that the evidence suggests that the conduct at issue is also a crime in violation of a Missouri criminal statute, the District Compliance Officer shall report the conduct to the appropriate law enforcement agency charged with responsibility for handling such crimes.

As required by and in compliance with law and District policy, a report will be made to the Missouri Children’s Division if there is reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect of a child.

Students, employees and others will not be disciplined for speech in circumstances where it is protected by law.

 

Remedies

The District will consider remedies for the victim as appropriate including, but are not limited to, providing additional resources such as counseling, moving or reassignment of the perpetrator, or allowing the victim to retake or withdraw from a class. 

An allegation of discrimination, harassment and/or related retaliation complaint may not necessarily stop, delay or affect pending personnel actions.  This includes, but is not limited to, performance evaluations or disciplinary actions related to a reporter who is not performing at acceptable levels or standards or who has violated district policies or regulations. 

 

TRAINING AND PUBLICATION OF POLICY

The District will train its employees on this Policy and Regulation.  The training will include the requirements of nondiscrimination and the appropriate responses to discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.  The District will notify its employees to report complaints of discrimination, harassment or retaliation in accordance with this Policy.  This training will be provided to employees on an annual basis, and at such other times as the Superintendent, in consultation with the District’s Compliance Officer, determines is necessary or appropriate.  Additionally, the District will provide additional training to the District Compliance Officer on identifying, investigating, and reporting on acts that may constitute discrimination, harassment or retaliation.  District students will be notified regarding this Policy. This Policy will be posted on the District’s website and available in Central Office.

 

PUBLIC ACCESS TO DOCUMENTS – See Policy 1450

In order to facilitate public access to the District’s public records, the Board hereby authorizes the Superintendent to designate a custodian of records.  The custodian will be responsible for maintaining the District’s public records as well as for assuring access to the District’s public records.  The identity, business address, and office telephone number of the custodian of records will be published annually and will be available at the District’s administrative office.  The procedures for implementing public access provided in this policy are set forth in Regulation 1450.

Custodian of Records
709 W. Centennial Ave.
Carthage, MO. 64836
417-359-7000

 

PUBLIC NOTICE

All responsible public agencies are required to locate, evaluate, and identify children with disabilities who are under the jurisdiction of the agency, regardless of the severity of the disability, including children attending private schools, highly mobile children such as migrant and homeless children, and children who are suspected of having a disability and in need of special education even though they are advancing from grade to grade.  The Carthage R-9 School District assures that it will provide a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) to all eligible children with emotional disorders, hearing impairments and deafness, mental retardation, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairments, specific learning disabilities, speech or language impairment, traumatic brain injury, visual impairment/blindness, and young child with a developmental delay.

 

The Carthage R-9 School District assures that it will provide information and referral services necessary to assist the State in the implementation of early intervention for infants and toddlers eligible for the Missouri First Steps program.

 

The Carthage R-9 School District assures that personally identifiable information collected, used, or maintained by the agency for the purposes of identification, evaluation, placement, or provision of FAPE of children with disabilities may be inspected and/or reviewed by their parents/guardians.  Parents/guardians may request amendment to the educational record if the parent/guardian believes the record is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the privacy or other rights of their child.  Parents have the right to file complaints with the U. S. Department of Education of the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education concerning alleged failures by the district to meet the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

 

The Carthage R-9 School District has developed a Local Compliance Plan for the implementation of State Regulations for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).  This plan contains the agency’s policies and procedures regarding storage, disclosure to third parties, retention, and destruction of personally identifiable information, and the agency’s assurances that services are provided in compliance with the General Education Provision Act (GEPA).  This plan may be reviewed at the Carthage R-9 School District’s Administrative Offices, 709 W. Centennial Avenue, Carthage, Missouri 64836, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

 

This notice will be provided in native languages as appropriate.

 

RECESS

If the temperature or wind chill factor is below 32 degrees F, children will not have outside recess.  

 

RELEASING OF STUDENTS

Students will be released to individuals listed on the enrollment form which indicates that parents have given permission to those individuals to take their student from school.  In the event that the individual is unfamiliar to staff, the individual will be asked to provide picture identification.  

 

REPORTING STUDENT ABUSE- see Policy 2710, Regulation 2710

The Board of Education believes that school staff members are in a unique position to assist children, families, and the community in dealing with the issue of child abuse and neglect.  Child abuse is defined as any physical injury, sexual abuse, or emotional abuse inflicted on a child other than by accidental means.  Neglect is defined as the failure to provide the proper or necessary support, education, nutrition, or medical, surgical, or other care necessary for the child’s well-being.

 

If a student reports alleged sexual misconduct on the part of a teacher, or any other school employee, to a school employee, such employee and the Superintendent shall forward the information within twenty-four hours of receiving it to the Children’s Division.  The District will investigate the allegation for the purpose of making decisions about the accused person’s employment.  However, if the report of alleged sexual abuse is received from someone other than a student, a report will be made to the Children’s Division if the District has reason to believe that a child has been or is likely to have been abused or neglected.  Any school district employee, acting in good faith, who reports alleged sexual misconduct on the part of a school employee will not be disciplined or discriminated against because of such reporting.

 

The District will annually provide employee training, which will include but not be limited to current information concerning identification of the signs of sexual abuse in children as well as the identification of the danger signals of potentially abusive relationships between children and adults.  This training will emphasize the importance of mandatory child abuse reporting, including the obligation to report suspected abuse by other mandated reporters.  Employees will receive training on the need for and methods to create an atmosphere of trust so that students believe school employees are available to discuss matters concerning abusive behavior.

 

The District will post in each student restroom and in a clearly visible location in each school

office, the toll free child abuse and neglect hotline number established by the Children’s

Division. These signs will be published in both English and Spanish. Such child abuse and

neglect hotline numbers shall be depicted in large print on posters 11 inches by 17 inches and

will be placed at eye level for easy viewing. The hotline number will be shown in bold print.

The signs shall also contain instructions to call 911 for emergencies and contain directions for

accessing the Children’s Division’s website for more information on reporting abuse and neglect.

 

Service Animals in School- See Policy and Regulation 6145

The District recognizes that service animals may be used to provide assistance to qualified individuals with disabilities. This policy governs the presence of service animals in the District’s buildings, on school property (including school buses), and at school activities. The Board of Education adopts this policy to ensure that individuals with disabilities are permitted to participate in and benefit from District programs, activities and services, and to ensure that the District does not discriminate on the basis of disability.

Qualified students and/or adults with disabilities may be accompanied by a "service animal" on school property, in school buildings, and at school functions when required by law and subject to the conditions of this policy.

Service Animals

Under federal law, a "service animal" means "any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability." Other species of animals, whether wild or domestic, trained or untrained, are not service animals for the purposes of this definition (See, however, provisions on miniature horses below). The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the handler’s disability. The crime deterrent effects of an animal’s presence and the provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship do not constitute work or tasks for the purposes of this definition.

Under Missouri law, the term "service dog" is defined as "any dog specifically trained to assist a person with a physical disability by performing necessary physical tasks which the person cannot perform.” Such tasks shall include, but not be limited to, pulling a wheelchair, retrieving items, and carrying supplies.

The District will permit the use of a miniature horse as a service animal if the miniature horse has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability.

In determining whether to permit the use of a miniature horse as a service animal, the District will consider: (1) the type, size, and weight of the miniature horse and whether the facility can accommodate these features; (2) whether the handler has sufficient control of the miniature horse; (3) whether the miniature horse is housebroken; and (4) whether the miniature horse’s presence compromises legitimate safety requirements that are necessary for the safe operation of the facility. All additional requirements outlined in this policy which apply to service animals shall apply to miniature horses.

If an individual with a disability requests to use a service animal in a District building, on District property, in a District vehicle or at a District function, the District will not ask about the nature or extent of the person’s disability. However, the District may make the following inquiries to determine whether an animal qualifies as a service animal: (1) whether the animal is required because of a disability; and (2) what work or task the animal has been trained to perform. The District may not make these inquiries when it is readily apparent that an animal is trained to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.

The District will not require documentation, such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal.

Guidelines for Use of a Service Animal on School Property or at School Functions

Service animals will be permitted on District property and at District events in accordance with the law.

*Requests by students and employees to be accompanied by a service animal at school should be submitted in writing to the Director of Human Resources. These requests must be renewed annually

Students: Use of an animal other than a service animal by a qualified student with a disability will be permitted in school when it is determined that the student’s disability requires such use in order to have equal access to the instructional program, school services and/or school activities or when the student’s IEP or 504 team determines that the student requires the use of the animal to receive a free appropriate public education.  All other requirements of this policy apply. 

Employees:  Use of an animal other than a service animal by a qualified employee with a disability will be permitted when such use is necessary to enable the employee to perform the essential functions of his/her job or to enjoy benefits of employment comparable to those similarly situated non-disabled employees.  All other requirements of this policy apply.

Parents and Patrons at School or School Events:  Individuals with disabilities may be accompanied by their service animals while on District property for events or activities that are open to the general public.  All requirements of this policy apply.

Control:  A service animal must be under the control of its handler at all times.  A service animal must have a harness, leash, or other tether, unless either the handler is unable because of a disability to use a harness, leash, or other tether, or the use of a harness, leash, or other tether would interfere with the service animal’s safe, effective performance of work or tasks, in which case the service animal must be otherwise under the handler’s control through voice, signals or other effective means.

Supervision and Care of Service Animals:  The owner or handler of a service animal is responsible for the supervision and care of the animal, including any feeding, exercising, and clean up.  The District is not responsible for the care or supervision of a service animal.  The District shall not be responsible for the training, feeding, grooming or care of any service animal permitted to attend school or a school function under this policy.

Damages:  The owner or handler of a service animal is solely responsible for any damage to school property or injury to personnel, students, or others caused by the animal.

Removal of Service Animals from School Property

District administrators may ask an individual with a disability to remove a service animal from District buildings, property, vehicles or activities if:

1. The animal is out of control and the animal’s handler does not take effective action to control it;
2. The animal is not housebroken;
3. The presence of the animal poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others;
4. The student, employee or handler fails to appropriately care for the animal, including feeding, exercising, taking outside for performance of excretory functions, and cleaning up;
5. The presence of the animal substantially disrupts or interferes with the educational process, school activities or the instruction program;
6. The presence of the animal would require a fundamental alteration to any school program.

If the District properly excludes a service animal based on the factors detailed herein or any other legal basis, the District will provide the individual with a disability the opportunity to participate in the service, program or activity without having the service animal on the premises.

Emotional Support/Professional Therapy Dogs

An animal that is used to provide comfort, emotional support, or other therapeutic service does not meet the definition of a Service Animal or Service Dog which is permitted for use by students, employees, and patrons of the District consistent with this policy.   However, the District may employ the use of such dogs to work with staff to provide certain types of support for its students at the discretion of District administration and counselors for their intended purpose.  

 

STUDENT ALLERGY PREVENTION AND RESPONSE- see Policy 2875, Regulation 2875

The school nurse shall oversee the administration of these procedures in consultation with the food service director, the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), the wellness committee, the transportation director, local health authorities and, where appropriate, the special education director or 504 coordinator. 

Definitions

Allergen - A substance that triggers an allergic reaction. 

Allergic Reaction - An immune system response to a substance that itself is not harmful but that the body interprets as being harmful. Allergic reactions trigger inflammation in the skin (hives, itching, a rash); in the respiratory system (coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing); in the gastrointestinal tract (vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain); and the cardiovascular system (lowered blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, shock). Anaphylaxis is another type of allergic reaction. 

Anaphylaxis - A life-threatening allergic reaction that involves the entire body. It may be characterized by symptoms such as lowered blood pressure, wheezing, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea and swelling and hives. Anaphylaxis may result in shock or death. 

Emergency Action Plan - An EAP is a written plan for students who have life-threatening conditions, such as an allergy. This plan is designed to inform school district personnel who may be called upon to respond. 

Individualized Health Plan - An IHP is a document created by the district in cooperation with the parents and, when appropriate, a student's health care provider for students who have specific health care needs. It is a nursing care plan that has student-centered goals and objectives, and describes the nursing interventions designed to meet the student's short and long-term goals. 

Life-Threatening Allergy - An allergic reaction that is severe enough to potentially cause death. 

 

General

In accordance with Board policy, the nurse or designee will provide training to all staff members about the causes and symptoms of and responses to allergic reactions and the proper administration of epinephrine. This training will be provided to current staff members within thirty (30) calendar days of the adoption of the Allergy Prevention and Response policy and on an annual basis thereafter. Staff members who are hired after this training has been conducted will be provided the information within ten (10) calendar days of the first day of employment.

Pursuant to Board policy, students may carry medication for the treatment of allergies. The district does not stock epinephrine premeasured auto-injection devices for general emergency use.

 

Response to an Allergic Reaction

Any staff member who becomes aware that a student is having an allergic reaction must: 

1. Stay with the student;
2. Notify the nurse immediately or direct another person to do so; and
3. Contact the parents.

If a staff member determines that the allergic reaction is potentially life-threatening the staff member will implement the student's 504 Plan, Individualized Health Plan (IHP) or Emergency Action Plan (EAP) if the staff member is familiar with the plan. 

If the student does not have a 504 Plan, IHP or EAP, the staff member is not familiar with the 504 Plan, IHP or EAP or such plan is not immediately available, the staff member will immediately take or direct another person to take the following actions.

1. Call 911.
2. Notify the school nurse or, if the nurse is not available, notify _the building secretary_.
3. Administer epinephrine, if available, at the direction of the school nurse pursuant to his/her training or designee. If the school nurse is not present, the staff member may administer epinephrine pursuant to his/her transcript, if available, if the staff member determines it is necessary to safeguard the health of the student. 
4. Notify the parents. 
5. Provide first responders with information about the student's allergy and reaction and any actions already taken. 
6. A staff member will remain with the student until a parent/guardian or emergency contact arrives or until the student is transported from the district by first responders.

As soon as possible after the life-threatening allergic reaction, the nurse will consult with the 504 compliance coordinator and the student's parent/guardian to determine whether a 504 Plan or IHP/EAP would be appropriate for the student. 

 

Instructional Areas

No food preparation or consumption will take place in any instructional area unless the instructor has permission from the building administrator. Courses that include food preparation or consumption as a regular part of the curriculum are exempt from this provision, but instructors in these courses have an increased responsibility to monitor student adherence to prevention procedures. 

 

Dining Areas

The school nurse or designee will provide the food service director with a copy of any 504 Plan or IHP that concerns diet, along with a photograph of the student. Any 504 Plan or IHP that requires food substitutions must include a written statement from a licensed physician that: 

1. Describes the disability or condition. 
2. Explains how the student is restricted as a result of the disability or condition. 
3. Identifies the major life activities affected by the disability or condition. 
4. Lists omitted and permitted substitute foods. 

The food service director will provide information to food service personnel as necessary. Food service personnel will not act on individual requests for dietary accommodations. If a student or parent/guardian of a student who does not have a 504 Plan or IHP/EAP on file with the food service director requests an accommodation, he or she will be referred to the school nurse and/or the Section 504 Coordinator for assistance. 

The food service director will arrange for all food service staff to be trained in food label reading, cross-contamination avoidance, safe food handling and food item labeling requirements. 

If there is any change in the menu after the menu has been posted, the food service director will notify the school nurse or designee. The nurse or designee will notify parents of students with a 504 Plan or IHP/EAP for food allergies, if necessary and applicable. 

The principal may designate one (1) or more tables in the dining area as peanut and/or nut-free areas. Any student may use these tables, but may not have any food or beverage that contains or may contain peanuts or other nuts. If any student has been identified as having life-threatening allergies to a food or beverage other than peanuts or nuts, the principal may instead designate one (1) or more tables as allergen-free areas and specify the prohibited foods and beverages. Staff responsible for cleaning dining areas will clean any such designated tables prior to each use according to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommendations using separate cleaning supplies. No student will be required to sit at the designated table. 

Staff members supervising dining areas will promote a "no sharing/no trading" environment to prevent students from trading food, beverages or dining utensils. 

 

Transportation and Off-Site Activities

Except as otherwise outlined in this procedure, drivers will not allow students to eat or drink on district transportation unless the student has written permission from his or her building principal. Written permission will be provided if the student has a medical need to consume food or beverages during the time the student is transported. A student who has a medical need to consume food or beverages on district transportation must have an IEP, 504 Plan or IHP that addresses which foods or beverages the student may consume. 

Students being transported to and from activities on district transportation may be allowed to consume food and beverages if the staff member serving as sponsor has verified that none of the students being transported have documented life-threatening food allergies. 

Staff members must submit a list of students taking part in off-site activities, such as competitions and field trips, to the nurse at least five (5) days prior to the activity. The nurse will verify which, if any, students have allergies and provide the staff member with a copy of the relevant 504 Plans or IHPs or EAPs and any medications that may be needed in the case of an allergic reaction.                                  

 

STUDENT EDUCATIONAL RECORDS- See Policy 2400

A cumulative educational record shall be maintained for each student from his/her entrance into school through the last date of attendance or through graduation, whichever occurs first.

Each student's educational record will include information required by state and federal statutes, regulations or agencies and shall include other information considered necessary by school officials.

The District will comply with the mandates of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Safe Schools Act regarding confidentiality of student records and disclosure of personally identifiable information.

The parents/guardians of students who are attending or have attended the District's schools have the right to inspect and review the educational records of their students and to request amendment of their students' educational records. The District has adopted procedures (Regulation 2400) for the granting of parental requests for access to the educational records of their students within a reasonable period of time, but in no case more than forty-five (45) days after the request is made.

All information contained in a student's educational record, except information designated as directory information by the District, shall be confidential and shall be directly accessible only to school officials who demonstrate a legitimate educational interest in the student's records and to parents/guardians or eligible students.

Upon request by military recruiters or an institution of higher learning, the District will provide students' names, addresses and telephone listings. Parents will be notified annually of their right to individually request that such information not be released without prior parental consent. Military recruiters will be provided the same access to students as is given to institutions of higher learning.

 

STUDENT INSURANCE

The Carthage R-9 School District cannot assume financial responsibility for injury of students.  To assist parents in managing this risk, we make Student Accident insurance available annually, which parents may purchase.  Enrollment forms will be sent home the first week of school.

 

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES- see Regulation 6250

The District will adhere to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, its implementing regulations, and the Missouri State Plan for Special Education.  The District will observe the required guidelines in providing special education and related services to identified students with disabilities.

 

STUDENT WELFARE- see Policy 2750, Regulation 2750

Wellness

The District is committed to the optimal development of every student.  The District believes that for students to have the opportunity to achieve personal, academic, developmental and social success, there needs to exist a positive, safe, and health-promoting learning environment at every level, in every setting, throughout the school year.

 

The District promotes healthy schools by supporting wellness, good nutrition, and regular physical activity as part of the total learning environment.  The District supports a healthy environment where children learn and participate in positive dietary and lifestyle practices.  Schools contribute to the basic health status of children by facilitating learning through the support and promotion of good nutrition and physical activity.  Improved health optimizes student performance potential.  

 

Research shows that two components, good nutrition and physical activity before, during and after the school day, are strongly correlated with positive student outcomes.  For example, student participation in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) School Breakfast Program is associated with higher grades and standardized test scores, lower absenteeism and better performance on cognitive tasks. Conversely, less-than-adequate consumption of specific foods including fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, is associated with lower grades among students.  In addition, students who are physically active through active transport to and from school, recess, physical activity breaks, high-quality physical education and extracurricular activities do better academically.  Finally, there is evidence that adequate hydration is associated with better cognitive performance.

 

Student Suicide Awareness

This policy and the accompanying regulation reflect the District’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment to protect the health, safety, and welfare of students.  The corresponding regulation for this policy outlines key protocol and procedures for this District in educating employees and students on the actions and resources necessary to prevent suicide and to promote student well-being.  This policy is being adopted pursuant to Section 170.048 RSMo.  This policy and corresponding regulation will go into effect no later than July 1, 2018.

Student Suicide Awareness 

 

The District will address suicide awareness and prevention through the following policy components:

 

1. Crisis response team
2. Crisis response procedures
3. Procedures for parent involvement
4. Community resources available to students, parents, patrons, and employees
5. Responding to suicidal behavior or death by suicide in the school community
6. Suicide prevention and response protocol education for staff
7. Suicide prevention education for students
8. Publication of policy

 

1. Crisis Response Team

The District will include suicide awareness and prevention in already established District or building crisis response teams or will establish such team(s) if not already in existence. Crisis response team members will include administrators, counselors and the school nurse, and may also include school social workers, school resource officers, teachers and/or community resources as appropriate. The crisis response team will be responsible for implementation of crisis response procedures.

 

The District will adopt an evidence based/informed tool for assessing suicide risk. The crisis response team, the building administrator or his/her designee will receive training and coaching in using this tool to collect and document student suicidal behaviors and safety planning strategies.

 

2. Crisis Response Procedures

Student suicidal behaviors are not confidential and may be revealed to the student’s parents, guardians, school personnel or other appropriate authority when the health, welfare or safety of the student is at risk.

 

      Any school employee who has a reasonable belief that a student may be at risk for suicide or 

      witnesses any attempt towards self-injury will notify a member of the crisis response team, 

      the building administrator or his/her designee.

 

If a student suicide behavior is made known to any school employee and a member of the crisis response team, the building administrator or his/her designee is not available, the employee will notify the student’s parent/guardian, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255) or local law enforcement in an emergency situation.  As soon as practical, the employee will notify the building designee or principal.

 

     The following steps will be employed in response to any risk of student suicide:

 

3. Procedures for Parent Involvement

A member of the crisis response team, the building administrator or his/her designee shall reach out to the parents/guardians of a student identified as being at risk of suicide to consult with them about the risk assessment of their student, to make them aware of community resources, and to discuss how to best support the student’s mental well-being and safety.

 

If the parent refuses to cooperate or if there is any doubt regarding the student’s safety, local mental service providers and/or law enforcement may need to be engaged, and a report may need to be made to the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline.

 

Contact with a parent concerning risk of suicide will be documented in writing.

 

4. School and Community Resources

A student exhibiting suicidal behavior will be directed to meet with the building designee, their parent/guardian and counselor to discuss support and safety systems, available resources, coping skills and a safety plan as necessary.

 

The District will, in collaboration with local organizations and the Missouri Department of Mental Health, identify local, state and national resources and organizations that can provide information or support to students and families. A basic list of resources can be found on the Department of Mental Health website and the District will strive to develop its own list of local resources to be made readily available.

 

5. Responding to Suicidal Behavior or Death by Suicide in the School Community

When the school community is impacted by suicidal behavior or a death by suicide, the District will confer with their crisis response teams and, when appropriate, confer with local community resources and professionals to identify and make available supports that may help the school community understand and process the behavior and/or death.

 

The crisis response team, the building administrator or his/her designee will determine appropriate procedures for informing the school community of a death by suicide and the supports that will be offered.  Staff and students who need immediate attention following a death by suicide will be provided support and resources as determined necessary.

 

6. Suicide Prevention and Response Protocol Education for Staff

All District employees will receive information annually regarding this policy and the 

District’s protocol for suicide awareness, prevention and response. The importance of suicide prevention, recognition of suicide protective and risk factors, strategies to strengthen school connectedness and building specific response procedures will be highlighted. Such information shall include the following:

1. Current trends in youth mental health, well-being and suicide prevention and awareness
2. Strategies to encourage students to seek help for themselves and other students
3. Warning signs that indicate a student may be at risk of suicide
4. The impact of mental health issues and substance abuse
5. Communication to students regarding concerns about safety and that asking for help can save a life
6. Understanding limitations and boundaries for giving help and techniques to practice self-care
7. Identification of key school personnel who are comfortable, confident and competent to help students at risk of escalated distress and suicide

 

All District staff will participate in professional development regarding suicide awareness and prevention.

 

7. Suicide Prevention Education for Students

Starting no later than fifth grade, students will receive age appropriate information and instruction on suicide awareness and prevention.  Information and instruction may be offered in health education, by the counseling staff or in other curriculum as may be appropriate.

 

Student education will include the following:

1. Information about mental health, well-being and suicide prevention and awareness
2. Promotion of a climate that encourages peer referral and which emphasizes school connectedness
3. Recognition of the signs that they or peers are at risk for suicide
4. Identification of issues that may lead to suicide including depression, anxiety, anger, and drug/alcohol dependency
5. Directive to not make promises of confidence when they are concerned about peer suicide
6. Identification of a trusted adult on campus with whom students can discuss concerns about suicide

 

8. Publication of Policy

The District will notify employees, students and parents of this policy by posting the policy and related procedures and documents on the district’s website and discussing this policy during employee training as detailed herein.

 

TOBACCO FREE BUILDINGS- see Policy 5250

To promote the health and safety of all students and staff, and to promote the cleanliness of all facilities, the Carthage R-9 School District bans the use of all tobacco products and the use of substances appearing to be tobacco products, including, but not limited to, e-cigarettes in all school facilities, buildings and school buses at all times.

This ban extends to all employees, students and patrons attending school-sponsored athletic events and meetings.  The Board issues this ban in a sincere appeal to all employees, students and patrons to cooperate in helping to create within our facilities a truly healthy environment for all concerned.

 

TRANSITIONAL LIVING/HOMELESS STUDENTS– see Policy 2260

The Board of Education is committed to providing equal access for all eligible homeless students to a free, appropriate education in the same manner as provided to other District students. In carrying out this commitment, the District will identify and assess the needs of the District’s homeless students; provide for the placement of its homeless students in the school of best interest; provide access to the District’s programs; and appoint a homeless liaison. The Superintendent will review all District policies to determine whether they act as barriers to the enrollment of homeless students. Special attention will be given to policies regarding transportation, immunization, residency, birth certificates, school records, and guardianship.

 

If additional information is needed, please call the administration office at 417-359-7000 and ask for the coordinator of this program.

 

TRANSPORTATION

Busing

Transportation is provided by the Carthage R-9 School District for students who qualify to receive it.  In order to ensure your child safely arrives and departs from school, please be aware of these guidelines:

1. A child will not be dropped off at the child’s bus stop unless an adult is present.  In the event that an adult is not present, the child is then brought back to the ECC office or PV office and parent/guardian or emergency contact will be called.  In the event that parent/guardian or emergency contact cannot be reached, then the Carthage Police Department will be contacted.  *Bus drivers will not call to ask for a parent or adult to come out.  Nor can the bus driver or aide leave the bus to knock on your door.  Please be waiting outside for your child.   
2. Parent must use the same bus stop consistently.
3. Any changes in pick up/drop off location must be cleared through the ECC office a week prior to initiation.
4. A change in pick up/drop off location may result in a lapse in transportation services while the change takes effect.
5. If the child does not need transportation on any given day, the parents must call transportation at 359-7014.
6. The time given to you for pick up and drop off is only an estimate and will vary from day to day.  Please be prepared at least 15 minutes prior to and after estimated time.  Again, times will vary and cannot be exact.
7. If you are going to pick up your child instead of having him/her ride the bus, please call the ECC office by 10:30 AM for the AM Session and 2:45 PM Session.  For students who attend Pleasant Valley, please call the PV office by 2:00 PM.  
8. If your child is transported to or from a babysitter or daycare provider, you are responsible for communicating with the babysitter or daycare provider concerning your child’s transportation.  The school is not responsible for communicating pick-up/drop-off times or whether or not your child is absent that day and will not be riding the bus to the babysitter or daycare provider.
9. Please do not relay messages to the school through the bus driver.  He or she has a lot of responsibility in getting children to school safely and may not remember your message.  If you need to report a message to the school or teacher, please call the office or email your child’s teacher.

 

Please note that the early childhood buses will comply with the following rules:

BUS BEHAVIOR CONSEQUENCES

 

All rule infractions are cumulative in most cases for the school year.  A series of minor infractions may result in serious consequences.

All misconduct must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.  The administration reserves the right to alter the consequences due to the severity, frequency, or previous warnings regardless of sequence or frequency misconduct.

Possession of weapons, controlled substances, or representations of controlled substances, alcohol, fighting, or other serious incidents will be reported to the appropriate authorities and may result in suspension or expulsion from school in addition to loss of bus privileges.

Restitution may be required for all damages resulting from student action including but not limited to vandalism, fighting, theft, throwing objects, or other damages.  The student cannot ride the bus until restitution has been paid in full.

Parent Transport

1. In order to ensure the safety of your child, you will be given signs with your child’s name on it to place on the window of your car.  You will be given enough signs for those listed on your enrollment form as being allowed to take your child from school.  If you or the person picking your child up do not have a sign then you will have to park and come to the office to show identification.
2. Please pull up to the flagpole when dropping off your child or picking them up.
3. Please do not let your child out of the vehicle until a staff member is there to receive him/her.
4. Staff is not responsible for buckling your child in his/her car seat.  Please make sure your child is properly secured before exiting the parking lot.  If you need to assist your child in buckling his/her car seat, please pull up past the flagpole.  This helps prevent back-up of traffic within the line.
5. For the safety of all children, we ask that you utilize the parent pick-up lane rather than walking your child to the front door. 

 

VISITORS– See Policy 1430

So that we can protect our children properly, all visitors (including parents) are required to report to the school office upon entering the building to pick up a visitor’s badge.  Please do not go directly to your child’s room and wait in the hall for them to be dismissed at the end of the day.  This is distracting to students and teachers and instructional time must be protected.  If you need to see the teacher, go to the office and they will notify the teacher so that he/she will stay in the room to meet with you after students are dismissed.  Parents needing to have a conference with a teacher should make an appointment so the teacher’s time with students is not interrupted.  Parents are welcome and are encouraged to visit school.

 

All persons who do not obtain permission from the principal’s office to visit the school, or visitors who create serious distractions to the learning environment in the building or on the premises, shall be considered trespassers and subject to arrest and prosecution.

 

WITHDRAWALS

If you are withdrawing your child, please notify the office and the student’s teacher in order for the required paperwork to be completed.  Records will be sent to the school in which you enroll upon their request.  Records will not be hand carried by parents.