Student Code of Conduct and Annual Notices
Metropolitan School
District Of Wayne Township
Indianapolis, Indiana
2011-2012
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT AND ANNUAL NOTICES LETTER
August, 2011
Dear Parent/Guardian:
Each year, we distribute a copy of the school district's written disciplinary policy to each student and a parent or legal guardian of each student. Attached is your copy of the 2011-2012 Student Code of Conduct and Annual Notices.
The MSD of Wayne Township asks that a student’s parent or legal guardian to acknowledge in writing that he/she has reviewed the disciplinary policy. However, the failure of a parent or guardian to sign and return the parent acknowledgment form will not prevent the school corporation from enforcing the disciplinary policy.
One of the forms found on the opposite side should be completed for each child you have in school. If more forms are needed, please contact your child’s school. Once completed, return the form to your child’s school during the first week of classes.
We look forward to partnering with you this school year as we all work together to keep our learning environment safe, orderly, and drug-free. We Are Wayne!
Dr. Jeff Butts
Superintendent
PARENT ACKNOWLEDGMENT REPLY
My signature below acknowledges that I have reviewed the attached Student Code of Conduct and Annual Notices from the Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township.
_____________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
_____________________________________
Date
_______________________
Grade
Once completed, return the reply to your child’s school during the first week of classes.
Printable version
of Student Code of Conduct Parent Acknowledgment Reply.pdf
The responsibility for development and maintenance of self-discipline falls to the combined efforts of students, parents, teachers, administrators, and to our community, which establishes the value system we accept. When self-discipline fails, however, regulations for management of school behavior must be outlined by those responsible for the operation of the schools.
The Board of Education of the MSD of Wayne Township has the legal responsibility for the schools in which students are enrolled. The Board, in turn, has set policies and has appointed administrative officers to carry them out. Administrators, teachers, and other school personnel have the duty as well as the obligation to protect the student and the educational environment in which the student exercises his or her right to an education. Authority for this Board responsibility comes from the Indiana Constitution and the Indiana General Assembly and is set out in the Policy Manual of the MSD of Wayne Township.
The Board of Education and the Superintendent have established written policies, rules and regulations of general application governing student conduct in all schools. Subject to legal limitations, each principal may take any action concerning his or her school activities within his or her jurisdiction which is reasonably necessary to carry out or prevent interference with an educational function or school purposes. Such action may include establishing written rules and standards to govern student conduct. Similarly, the Superintendent or administrative staff, with the Superintendent's approval, may take any action with respect to all schools within the Superintendent's jurisdiction which is reasonably necessary to carry out or prevent interference with an educational function or school purposes. School purposes refers to the reasons for which a school corporation operates, including: To promote knowledge and learning generally, to maintain an orderly and efficient educational system, and to take any action under the authority granted to the Board of Education by the laws of the United States and the State of Indiana.
Because the Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township has a strong interest in seeing that its students achieve their fullest potential as human beings, a Code of Student Conduct has been developed. This code presents opportunities and guidelines for students as they exercise their rights and assume their responsibilities as citizens of the school community. The MSD of Wayne Township, recognizing that education is a cooperative enterprise, maintains that parents are necessary partners in achieving a quality education for all.
Students enrolled in the MSD of Wayne Township schools have certain rights and responsibilities as members of the school community. Their rights are given by the Constitution and the law of the United States, the Constitution and the laws of the state of Indiana, and the policies and regulations adopted by the Board of Education. The right to an education supersedes all other rights and must take precedence when the right to an education is infringed upon. The responsibility to exercise that right rests with a student. This Code of Student Conduct is to be applied in conjunction with any other rules for an individual school or activity. Rules, standards, or actions which interfere with a constitutionally protected fundamental student right shall be applied only in instances where they are necessary to prevent interference with an educational function or school purposes.
All students, parents, and school personnel enjoying these rights in the school community must also accept the corresponding responsibilities. The student has the responsibility not to deny any other student the right to an education. Other responsibilities include knowledge of, obedience to, and compliance with these rules and regulations. The utilization of referral agencies and alternatives may be used to develop intervention strategies. The cost of external alternative programs must be assumed by the students and/or parents.
Administrators and teachers also have rights and responsibilities. The teacher's right and duty to discipline is based on the duty to protect the student and the educational environment in which the student exercises his or her right to an education. Administrators have the responsibility for maintaining and facilitating the educational program.
Due process is guaranteed to students in certain circumstances by the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution and Indiana law. Due process in education requires that rules and regulations governing student conduct are made available to students and parents; that students know and understand these rules and regulations; that when a student is believed to have violated a rule or regulation, he or she is confronted with this belief and given the opportunity to respond to the accusation; that when rules or regulations are violated, certain consequences may occur; and that if expulsion from school is a recommended consequence and if the student or his or her parent wishes, a meeting on the expulsion will be offered. Appeals to the Board of Education, and to the civil courts may follow.
I. EDUCATION
A. Eligible students whose parents or guardians reside within the areas served by the MSD of Wayne Township and transfer students have a right to a public education beginning with kindergarten and extending through the twelfth grade. This right extends to all students, including married students, students with a child or children, pregnant students, and disabled students regardless of the severity of their disability. Attendance in school is mandatory in Indiana from age seven or from the time of official enrollment until the student graduates or becomes eighteen.
RESPONSIBILITIES
A. It is a joint responsibility of the student and parent or guardian to see that the student attends school regularly:
1. To be on time to school and each class assignment.
2. To have appropriate supplies, texts, and/or equipment on hand when required for class.
3. To have assignments prepared.
4. To understand and obey rules and regulations.
5. To accept authority of school personnel.
6. To seek help when it is needed.
RIGHTS
B. No student shall be subjected to corporal punishment, suspended, or expelled from the MSD of Wayne Township without an appropriate level of due process being implemented. However, a student's immediate removal may be necessary to restore order or to protect persons where the student's presence in school would constitute an interference with an educational function or school purposes.
RESPONSIBILITIES
B. To have the parent or guardian notify the school of the student's absence.
C. To obtain and complete assignments for all absences.
D. To understand due process and its basic principle, which is to provide justice, not evasion.
Research indicates a positive correlation between attendance and grades. Parents are encouraged to maintain a close contact with the school so that a joint effort might be made to prevent the development of attendance and discipline problems.
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II. FREE SPEECH AND EXPRESSION RIGHTS
Students may express publicly or privately, in writing or orally, their opinions, concerns and ideas as long as that expression does not interfere with the rights of others in the school setting.
RESPONSIBILITIES
To see that the student’s expression is offered in an appropriate manner at an appropriate time and place so that it does not interfere with an educational function or school purposes, present a hazardous condition, contain vulgarities, libelous or slanderous components as defined by law, or advocate violation of a law or school rule.
RIGHTS
III. SAFE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT
Students are entitled to a safe school environment in which to learn.
RESPONSIBILITIES
A. To monitor one's own behavior so that harm to self or to others does not occur.
B. To help forestall, when possible, wrongful acts by other students or individuals.
C. To advise staff members when the safety of individuals or property is threatened.
RIGHTS
IV. PERSONAL PROPERTY
A. Students have the right to have personal belongings secure within the educational setting.
B. Students shall be provided the rules regarding searches of lockers and their contents. Lockers and other storage areas remain the property of the MSD of Wayne Township. Where possible, searches shall be conducted in the presence of the student. The principal may request law enforcement officials to assist in a search. A student may be searched when there is reasonable suspicion to believe the student possesses any illegal item or an item that will cause harm to that student or to any other person.
RESPONSIBILITIES
A. To keep personal property in appropriate places.
1. To keep locker combinations confidential and to use only their assigned locker.
2. To refrain from bringing to school any materials or items that would be disruptive or dangerous.
3. To respect the property rights of all others.
B. To refrain from transporting or keeping illegal and/or dangerous items on school property.
RIGHTS
V. INDIVIDUAL FAIR TREATMENT AND RESPECT
Students have a right to expect courtesy, fairness, and respect from school personnel and other students.
RESPONSIBILITIES
To treat others in the educational setting with courtesy, fairness and respect.
RIGHTS
VI. DRESS AND GROOMING HABITS
Students may dress and groom themselves in any manner that is not disruptive to the educational program or dangerous to themselves or others.
RESPONSIBILITIES
A. To follow the Wayne Township Schools’ dress code, dressing and exhibiting grooming habits appropriate for the educational activity.
B. To refrain from grooming in the classroom or where it would constitute an interference with an educational function or school purposes.
C. To wear required safety devices or uniforms that ensure the student's safety or unrestricted movement.
RIGHTS
VII. PRIVACY
Students' educational records will be protected, and any disclosure will be consistent with legal requirements specified in the state and federal law.
RESPONSIBILITIES
To keep school personnel promptly informed about changes in addresses, phone numbers emergency contacts, etc.
RIGHTS
VIII. FACILITIES, FACULTY, AND CURRICULUM APPROPRIATE TO NEEDS
Students' right to a public education assumes that a diversified curriculum will be taught by appropriately licensed teachers in clean, equipped facilities.
RESPONSIBILITIES
A. To contact appropriate persons and to use appropriate channels to make needs known.
B. To refrain from destroying or damaging school property.
RIGHTS
IX. EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Students who express an interest in and meet the qualifications for participation in any extra-curricular activity may not be denied participation on the basis of age, sex, race, color, creed, national origin, disability, or ability to pay.
RESPONSIBILITIES
To be enrolled in school, to become informed about the rules for participation, and to under-stand that ability may govern participation in certain activities.
REINFORCEMENT OF POSITIVE BEHAVIOR
The MSD of Wayne Township recognizes the importance of follow-up and reinforcement of positive behavior changes. Many informal and formal ways of telling a student that he or she has improved are used in the elementary and secondary schools. Some of them are:
Acknowledgment and praise
Identification of accomplishments
Notes or telephone calls home
Reinstatement of privileges
Special privileges
Special duties
Special honors
Rewards
Positive progress reports
Certificates
CONSEQUENCES OF INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR
The superintendent, principal, administrative personnel, and teachers are authorized to take any action in connection with student behavior reasonably desirable or necessary to help any student, to further school purposes, or to prevent any interference with an educational function, including such actions as:
| Conference with student and/or parent | Temporary removal from class |
| Isolation by teacher | Financial restitution |
| Behavioral modification agreement | Referral to Special Services |
| Assigning additional work | Denial of graduation ceremony |
| Denial of bus privileges | Probationary Agreement< |
| Student program adjustment | Corporal punishment |
| Detention before or after school | Suspension and expulsion |
Incidents constituting a violation of criminal or juvenile law will be reported to law enforcement agencies
Loss of privileges, including, but not limited to, athletic activities, non-credit school activities, and school provided transportation. The loss of school-provided transportation for an extended period of time may be appealed to an assistant superintendent.
Temporary Reassignment: Administrative placement of a student away from regular activities.
It is highly recommended that the parents be contacted in most cases of inappropriate behavior.
A. DEFINITIONS
1. Parent means natural or adopting father or mother or a court-appointed guardian, or a parent awarded custody or control. This term includes non-custodial parents unless their parental rights have been terminated by a court order.
2. Student means any person enrolled in the M.S.D. of Wayne Township.
3. The terms superintendent and principal include their respective designees.
4. Suspension: Any disciplinary action whereby a student is separated from school attendance according to Indiana Code. Due process procedures must be followed.
5. Expulsion: Disciplinary action whereby a student:
A. Is separated from school attendance for a period of more than ten (10) days.
B. Is separated from school attendance for the balance of the current semester or current year unless a student is permitted to complete required examinations in order to receive credit in the current semester of current year. Any expulsion that will remain in effect during the first semester of the following school year must be reviewed by the expulsion examiner before the beginning of the school year.
C. Suffers a penalty which automatically prevents his or her completing within the normal time his or her overall course of study in any school in the school corporation.
6. In Possession: Students are required to inspect their possessions and vehicle for the presence of items that may not be possessed on school property, before coming on school property. Students are “in possession” of an item for purposes of these rules when the item is on their person, in their immediate possession such as in their hand, a pocket, a purse, or a backpack, is in a place under their exclusive control, or the student is aware the item is in a place to which the student has access such as a shared locker or vehicle. More than one student may have “constructive possession” of a single item and be responsible for possession of the item. Possession of an item on a direct route to the main office of the school from the place on school property where an item was first found shall not be a violation of these student conduct rules.
B. GROUNDS FOR SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION
The following rules define misconduct for which a student may be suspended or expelled from school
attendance and denied credit for all activities occurring during the period of suspension or expulsion:
1. Behavior that injures or presents a risk of injury to the student or another person, or provoking or attempting to provoke or cause another person to fight. Examples: Fighting with another person; throwing an object at a person; pushing, hitting, striking, or tripping another person; driving a vehicle in a dangerous manner; handling dangerous materials such as chemicals in chemistry class in a dangerous way; calling a person a derogatory name, or encouraging a person to fight.
2. Damaging or stealing school property or the property of another person or organization. Examples: Taking a student’s textbooks and hiding them from the student responsible for the books; removing property without permission from a locked or unlocked desk, car, or locker.
3. Disrupting a class or school activity. Examples: Distracting other students while a teacher is lecturing; or disrupting a student convocation with noise.
4. Harassing, bullying, threatening, hazing, or intimidating another person. “Harassing” or bullying behavior is unwelcome behavior that interferes with a victim’s ability to learn or derive benefit from a school activity that is directed toward the victim after the victim (or another person on the victim’s behalf) has stated or shown that the behavior is unwelcome. “Hazing” behavior is behavior directed toward a student with that student’s consent that is nevertheless abusive, demeaning, or dangerous. Examples: Picking on a student who is distracted or intimidated by the behavior; bullying or pushing another student around; hazing a student as a part of joining a club or group. For more information, please see the MSD of Wayne Township School Board Policy JFHB/ACB/GBMBA/KLEA: Hazing, Harassment, Bullying, Intimidation, & Provocation
5. Possessing a knife, firearm, bullets, a dangerous device, fireworks, or other item thatis or appears to be a dangerous device. “Dangerous device” means an item that is readily capable of causing injury to a person and is not essential in performing a task that must be performed by a student for school purposes. The term includes all weapons, including firearm ammunition, fireworks, a smoke or noise bomb, a handgun, a rifle, a shotgun, a stun gun, chemical mace, pepper gas, a laser pointer or other laser light device, and all personal protection devices such as a tear or CS gas dispenser, including personal protection devices that emit only sound. Example: Bringing any weapon on school property or to a school activity such as a ball game or play.
6. Consuming, possessing, offering, providing, accepting, or being under the influence of alcohol or an alcoholic beverage, an illegal drug, a prescription drug (except as authorized in a prescription by a licensed health care provider), an over-the-counter medication containing a stimulant such as preparations containing caffeine, ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine as an ingredient (except as authorized in a prescription by a licensed health care provider), or any substance represented to be or thought by the intended recipient to be an illegal or prescription drug. Examples: Bringing any medicine not prescribed for the student possessing the medicine to school. Possession of any illegal drug such as marijuana, or a tablet or pill represented to be an illegal or prescription drug.
7. Consuming, possessing, offering, providing, accepting, or being under the influence of an inhalant, a solvent, or other volatile substance or combination of volatile substances, contrary to safety instructions provided on the product’s labeling, or the direction of school personnel. Example: Intentionally inhaling glue or acetone fumes.
8. Possessing drug preparation or drug consumption paraphernalia such as rolling papers, clips, or displaying materials that promote or encourage alcohol or drug use. Example: Wearing a t-shirt with a commercial beer logo or a marijuana leaf visible to other students.
9. Possessing cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, or other tobacco product or a device such as a lighter designed primarily for use in consuming tobacco products. Example: Carrying cigarettes, cigar, snuff, chewing tobacco, cigarette papers, or a lighter.
10. Engaging in consensual sexual behavior such as kissing, fondling, or sexual relations. Example: Kissing or fondling another student without objection by the other student.
11. Wearing clothing, jewelry or a hair style that is dangerous to the student, indecent, vulgar, profane, indicative of gang activity or affiliation, or presents a message that is inconsistent with the educational mission of the School District, or results in disruption of an educational function. Examples: Wearing clothing with an alcoholic beverage logo or slogan, or a message that encourages and/or depicts the use of alcohol or illegal drugs, wearing or displaying gang insignia or gang identification items.
12. Cheating, plagiarizing, submitting the work of another person for academic credit, allowing another student to cheat, or violating a building level student honor code, or the honor code of an extracurricular activity. Examples: Using notes or other memory aides when not permitted by the teacher giving the test or exercise. Submitting a theme or assignment found on the Internet as an original work by the student. Allowing another student to copy answers during a test. Consuming an alcoholic beverage during a weekend while a member of an athletic team.
13. Creating or distributing information including information distributed via e-mail or through a web site, that results in or is likely to result in the disruption of an educational function, advocates a violation of law or a student conduct rule, is sexually explicit or obscene, is libelous, slanderous or defamatory, or invades the privacy of an identified or identifiable person. Web sites maintained on servers other than School District servers are covered by this conduct rule where the content of the communication is in violation of this rule. Example: Sharing copies of materials about how to build a “stink bomb”.
14. Possessing a pager, cellular phone, or two-way radio during the school day without prior approval of the principal. Possession of a pager or phone at a school activity after the normal school day shall not violate this rule if the pager or phone is provided by the parent/guardian. A pager or phone approved by the principal shall be capable of silent operation and shall be set so as not to emit an audible alert or signal during an academic class, study hall, or convocation. Example: Possessing a pager or phone without prior permission.
15. Refusing or failing to follow a directive from a school employee with responsibility for student supervision (including Instructional Assistants, Bus Drivers, and Bus Aides), including a directive to respond truthfully and completely when questioned about a school-related matter. Example: Responding with a known lie about another student’s misconduct when questioned by a teacher or administrator.
16. Violating a building level student conduct rule, a Transportation Department student conduct rule, or violating a rule established for a special event. Examples: Violation of any rules developed for a building or class. Violation of a rule established for an athletic contest or graduation ceremony.
17. Violating the School District’s policy on acceptable use of the Internet, computers, e-mail, or voice mail, facsimile machines, or any other School District communications resource. Examples: Signing on to a school computer network as another person or sending harassing or threatening messages to another person in school or outside of school.
18. Violating Indiana or Federal law. Example: Bringing a handgun, rifle, shotgun, or firecrackers onto school property.
19. Not having legal settlement in the School District or attending without Out-of-District Transfer approval.
20. Attempting to commit an act which is a violation of these student conduct rules. Example: Attempting to punch another student but missing.
21. Refusing to cooperate in the search of a vehicle, locker, or other place where the search is based upon reasonable suspicion of a teacher or administrator or is conducted pursuant to the consent to search given in the student parking agreement. Example: Refusing to unlock a car brought on to school property when directed to unlock the vehicle by an administrator or school security officer.
22. Aiding, assisting, or conspiring with another person to violate these student conduct rules or state or federal law. Example: Guarding the entrance to a rest room while other students smoke in the rest room.
23. Failing to report the actions or plans for action of another person to a teacher or administrator where those actions or plans, if carried out, could result in harm to a person or persons or damage property. Example: Failing to report seeing a student in possession of a handgun on the bus on the way home from school.
24. Invading the privacy of a person by photographing the person or recording another person’s words or actions without that person’s permission, or displaying a photograph or recording made with permission to persons not authorized by the subject to have access to the recorded image or words. Examples: Taking a photograph of another student, or posting a photo or video clip on a web site.
Return of confiscated personal property
Upon completion of all due process procedures relating to the possession of property, personal property taken from a student because of a violation of these rules may be returned to a parent/guardian if the item can be lawfully possessed by an adult, and the item has not been returned to the parent/guardian pursuant to this provision before.
A parent/guardian seeking return of confiscated property may be required to sign a waiver of further appeals of discipline of the student, provide a picture identification such as an Indiana drivers license or identification card, and provide proof of ownership of the confiscated property.
If the personal property is prescription medication, the parent/guardian will be required to show a prescription from a health care provider to the parent/guardian or student for the medication.
A handgun or weapon of any type will only be released through a law enforcement officer. The law enforcement officer will ask for the same items listed above, and will insure that the weapon not illegal per se, illegally modified, or wanted in a investigation; and can be lawfully released to the parent/guardian.
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Assistance in interpreting school rules
The examples of violation of the rules provided with each rule are
provided for purposes of illustrating what student conduct would
violate each rule. The examples given are not the only the only
possible violation of the rule. Students, parent, or school employees
unsure as to whether a particular act would be a ground for suspension
or expulsion are encouraged to consult with the building principal
for guidance before the student engages in the act.
Time and geographic application of student conduct rules
The student conduct rules listed above apply to student conduct:
a) during school activities on or off school
property;
b) on school property at any time; or
c) while traveling to or from school or a school
activity.
In addition, a student committing an act that violates Indiana or Federal law at any time or place may be suspended or expelled if the unlawful act is directed toward a school employee, student, or Board member; arises out of a school relationship; or has caused or can be predicted to cause in-school consequences.
C. PROCEDURES FOR SUSPENSION
1. A principal may suspend a student for conduct constituting grounds for expulsion or suspension. A suspension shall occur only after the principal has made an investigation and determined that a factual reason for a suspension has occurred, and suspension is necessary to help the student or to prevent interference with an educational function or school purposes. However, the student may be suspended by the expulsion examiner until the date of expulsion meeting if the expulsion examiner determines that this suspension is necessary.
2. No suspension may be made without affording the student an opportunity for an informal meeting. At the informal meeting the student is entitled to: (a) a written or oral statement of the alleged offense; (b) and, if the alleged offense is denied, a summary of evidence; and an opportunity to explain his or her conduct. Notice of the charges and the informal meeting shall precede suspension of the student, except where the nature of the misconduct requires immediate removal. In such a situation, the notice and informal meeting shall follow as soon as reasonably possible after the suspension.
3. Following a suspension, the principal shall send a written statement to the student's parent or guardian describing the student's conduct, misconduct, or violation of any rule or standard and the reasons for the action taken.
4. The principal shall make a reasonable effort to hold a conference with the parent before or at the time the student returns to school.
1. A principal who recommends a student for expulsion shall file a written charge with the superintendent's designee. For purposes of making the superintendent's determination, the assistant superintendent will act as the superintendent's designee.
2. If the superintendent's designee decides that there are reasonable grounds for investigation or that investigation is desirable, he or she shall appoint an expulsion examiner.
3. The expulsion examiner shall send a statement to the student and parent(s) that a meeting oncharges will be scheduled if the parent(s) or student requests.
4. If an expulsion meeting is held, the student may be represented and will be given an opportunity to present his/her side of the story. The meeting shall be closed to the public.
5. The expulsion examiner’s decision shall be mailed by certified mail and first class mail to the student and his/her parent(s).
6. The student or his/her parent(s) may, within ten (10) calendar days of receipt of the expulsion examiner’s decision appeal that decision to the Board of Education. The Board of Education will meet to consider the appeal and its decision will be sent by certified mail to the student and parent(s).
7. The student’s suspension may be continued by the expulsion examiner until his/her decision is rendered if the expulsion examiner determines that the student must be suspended immediately to prevent or substantially reduce the risk of interference with an educational function or school purposes, or a physical injury to the student or others.
Expulsion of a student with disabilities is considered a change in placement. If there is a situation that may warrant a recommendation of expulsion for a student with disabilities, then a Case Conference must be held prior to any consideration of punishment to determine whether there is a relationship between the misconduct and the disability. If there is no causal relationship, the regular due process procedures should be followed. If there is a causal relationship between the misconduct and the disability, the Case Conference Committee should consider whether or not a change of placement is necessary and determine what the placement should be. The student with disabilities should not be suspended pending an expulsion meeting unless the student is a substantial disruption to the school environment or a danger to herself or himself or others. If the student is a substantial disruption or a danger, he or she may be suspended only until the school is able to place the student in an appropriate, more restrictive environment.
ANNUAL NOTICES
NON-DISCRIMINATION
A. The Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township is committed to making decisions based upon merit and achievement and the Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, age, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or United States military service veteran status in any educational program or activity.
B. The commitment not to discriminate extends to employment and admission to any educational program
or extracurricular activity.
C. A complaint on any of the above grounds may be filed by or on behalf of any student or employee.
D. The Discrimination Complaint Form may be obtained from the main office of each school corporation building. Help in completing this form is available from the Chief Personnel Officer who can be reached at 1220 South High School Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46241, telephone number 988-8600.
E. Additional information, clarification or complaint may be directed to the following school officials who have been given the responsibility for assuring compliance with federal and state laws governing non-discrimination in educational programming, activities and employment. Discrimination issues related to gender, race, age, employment, ancestry, national origin, religion, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, or United States military service veteran status, Title IX, Sexual Harassment or Gender Equity – Chief Personnel Officer, at 988-8600. Issues of Disability - Section 504 – Deputy Chief Personnel Officer at 988-8600.
Board of Education policy JFJ requires written permission of a parent/guardian prior to a student taking part in a survey, questionnaire, analysis, or evaluation, which asks about personal or family matters. This policy also guarantees a parent/guardian the right to inspect instructional materials, which are to be used in connection with such a survey, questionnaire, analysis, or evaluation prior to the decision about permission. A parent/guardian wishing to inspect survey materials should contact the principal of their child's school for an appointment. Board of Education policy JFJ establishes greater parental rights than the rights required by the federal Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232h; 34 CFR Part 98), and therefore complies with the requirements of that law.
In accordance with the USA EPA's AHERA Standard (ref: 40 CRF 763.80), all information concerning asbestos-containing materials in the schools of the MSD of Wayne Township is available for review and copying by all students, staff and guardians upon request during normal business hours. A copy of the plans for all buildings under the jurisdiction of this local education agency are available in the Administration Building, which is located at 1220 S. High School Road, Indianapolis, IN 46241; telephone number (317) 988-8600. Inquiries regarding any facet of the regulation or the management plans should be directed to Mr. Dennis Tackitt at the above telephone number during normal business hours.
RESIDENCY AND EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS
Students who are determined to be in a homeless living situation have the following rights:
1. Enrollment in the school they last attended or the school in whose attendance area they are currently staying even if they do not have all of the documents normally required at the time of enrollment;
2. Access to free meals and textbooks, Title I and other educational programs, and other comparable services including transportation where applicable;
3. To attend the same classes and activities that students in other living situations also participate in without fear of being separated or treated differently due to their housing situations.
Any questions about these rights can be directed to the Director of Elementary Education at (317) 988-8600 or the State Coordinator at (800) 833-2199.
The MSD of Wayne Township may bill Indiana Medicaid for district services provided to eligible special education students in compliance with all applicable regulations. All public school districts are entitled to receive Medicaid reimbursement for providing specific special education services to eligible students. Medicaid reimbursement to a school district does not affect the student's spend down payment or the amount of medical services which the student currently receives or will receive in the future.
ASSISTANCE FOR SCHOOL BOOKS, SUPPLIES, AND FEES
Parents who meet the financial eligibility standards for free and reduced price meals under the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program and who make proper application to the school district are not required to pay the fees for school books, supplies, or other required class fees. Such fees shall be paid by the school corporation after the determination of financial eligibility is made. Family applications must be completed listing all students attending school in Wayne Township. The application and eligibility standards may be obtained through any of the schools or through the MSD of Wayne Township, 1220 South High School Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46241, telephone 988-8600.
SCHOOL BUS CONDUCT AND SAFETY RULES
These rules are designed to promote safety on the buses at all times, since the safety of all students is our top priority. In order to help ensure student safety, periodic video taping may occur on the bus. School bus transportation is a privilege. If transportation privileges are denied, parents or guardians are responsible for getting the child to and from school. To promote a safe, orderly, efficient and enjoyable bus ride to and from school the rules listed below must be followed by all students:
AT THE BUS STOP
1. Be on time. Board only at your regularly assigned stop, unless
special permission is received in advance.
2. Stay out of the street and away from the road.
3. Help protect surrounding property while waiting.
4. Wait to enter until the bus comes to a full stop, and the door
has been opened by the driver. Take your turn and do not push when
entering the bus.
ON THE BUS
1. Always obey the driver promptly and respectfully.
2. Be seated promptly and stay in assigned seat.
3. Keep all books and materials on your lap or contained in a pack
or bag.
4. Be courteous and use no profane language.
5. Speak in low tones.
6. Never push, shove, scuffle or horseplay.
7. Keep all belongings including head, hair, hands and feet inside
the bus and to yourself.
8. Never smoke or use any tobacco product.
9. Never fight.
10. Never throw objects inside or outside the bus.
11. Never eat or drink on the bus.
12. Treat bus seats and equipment with care and respect.
13. Keep the bus clean and orderly.
LEAVING THE BUS
1. Leave the bus only at your regularly assigned stop, unless special
permission is received in advance.
2. Wait to leave until the bus comes to a full stop, and the door
has been opened by the driver. Take your turn and do not
push when leaving the bus.
3. Once off, clear the area immediately. If crossing the street
in front of the bus, wait for a signal from the bus driver then
walk quickly across the street.
The MSD of Wayne Township Schools will forward educational records, including those related to special education placement, to an educational institution that is receiving, or has received, one of our students without the parent or eligible student signing a release request. If a parent, legal guardian or eligible student objects to the automatic transfer of school records, the objection should be submitted in writing to the building principal prior to the student’s last day in the MSD of Wayne Township.
FAMILY LIFE AND AIDS EDUCATION
Family life and AIDS education are a part of the elementary and secondary educational offerings. Films, videos and other materials used have been approved by the Board of Education as recommended by an advisory committee consisting of parents, nurses, teachers, and administrators. A notice of the opportunity for parents of grades 4,5, and 6 students to view and discuss family life and AIDS education films/videos will be sent home with each student. A separate notice will be sent in the mail if requested in writing by the parent. At grades 7,8, and 9, notice of the use of these films/videos will be given to parents in a newsletter or mailing. The school will assist those parents who wish to preview the material. It is the parent's responsibility to notify the school if he/she wishes the student to have alternative activities or be excluded from seeing any such film or videos.
It is not the intention of this program to supplant or replace the home or religious training, but to supplement the roles of parents and clergy by reinforcing their efforts to transmit knowledge and help students develop values about social, moral, mental, and physical consequences of human sexual behavior. Abstinence is taught as required by state law.
Drug education also is taught as part of the health program.
Whenever a child enrolls in the Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township, the parents are required to furnish the school corporation with a written statement of the child's immunization no later than the first day of school, accompanied by the physician's certificates or other documentation, unless such a written statement is on file with the corporation. Minimum immunization requirements for school entry vary by grade level and a student’s age. Please check with your health care provider or school nurse for the latest Indiana State Department of Health requirements.
The law does provide for exemption from immunization for those children who show a physician's statement indicating the child cannot receive the immunizations because of health reasons and for those children whose parents present the school with a written statement objecting to the immunizations for religious reasons. The request for exemption must be filed annually.
Indiana and federal law as well as School District policy presumes that a student’s non-custodial parent continues to be entitled to the rights of a parent. This includes access to student records, participation in parent-teacher conferences, and picking a student up from school at dismissal or for an appointment. If a custodial parent has a current court order that specifically limits a non-custodial parent’s participation in school activities or access to the student at school, the custodial parent should present the court order to the Principal of the school the student attends, and supplement if modified by the court.
Preferences of a custodial parent not supported by a court order can not be enforced. If a request for a court order is pending, the custodial parent should meet with the Principal of the student’s school to explain any circumstances that may result in harm to the student.
INDIANA DRIVER'S LICENSE/PERMIT RESTRICTION POLICY
A. Habitual truancy policy for 13-14 year old students - The MSD of Wayne Township defines habitual truancy as a student's willful refusal to attend school in defiance of parental authority and the school corporation's attendance officer. If a student's attendance record indicates a pattern of defiant absences, and if the student accumulates 3 or more unexcused absences (involving two or more incidents) within one semester or 6 or more absences (involving three or more incidents) within one school year, he/she will be considered a habitual truant and the school will inform the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and the student will not be issued a driver's license or permit until he/she is 18 years of age or until the Board of Education determines in a periodic review that the student's record has improved to the degree required by Board policy. Each secondary school’s assistant principal has additional information available regarding the periodic review and Board policy.
B. Issuance or invalidating a student's operating license or learners permit - Indiana law prohibits the issuance of invalidates a student's operators license or learners permit when he/she has been suspended or expelled from school. Any student receiving 6 or more days of suspension in any one school year will not have his/her eligibility form for the issuance of a license/permit approved by the principal. If a student under eighteen (18) years of age is expelled or suspended for 6 or more days, his/her principal shall notify the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to invalidate the student’s license or permit. Any student whose license/permit has been invalidated may appeal to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles pursuant to Indiana Code.
HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, AND BULLYING
Harassment, intimidation, and bullying may be a barrier to learning for students and optimum job performance for employees. Victim’s are encouraged but not required to make it clear that the offending words or actions are unwelcome. Words or actions of this nature should be reported to an administrator by a victim and by any person who observes another person being victimized. Reports may not be made anonymously, but persons making a report will be protected from retaliation or penalty unless the person making the report knew it was false when reporting. For more information, see "Grounds for Suspension and Expulsion".
STUDENT PUBLICATIONS & PRODUCTIONSS
Publications such as a school newspapers or yearbook, and productions such as plays and musical productions are presented as a part of the School District’s curricular offerings, and are not an open or public forum for the unrestricted presentation of the views of a student or community member.
As curricular offerings, the content of these activities will be consistent with Wayne Westside Values (see the section with this title).
Parents or eligible students (18 years of age) or older have 14 calendar days from the first student day of the school year to object in writing to the building principal to the release of the following directory information about the student without parental consent:
Name, address, parents' names, home and work telephone numbers
Date and place of birth, hair and eye color, race, sex, height,
weight, grade level
Major field of study; participation in school activities and sports
Dates of school attendance; honors and awards received
Other similar information: e.g., yearbook information
Print and electronic media including pictures and digital images
of students involved in school activities
Motor vehicle description and license plate number
Unlawful activities on or near school property to the appropriate
law enforcement agency or court officer
Recommended disciplinary action for school related offenses to the
appropriate law enforcement agency or court officer
Audio and video recordings made on bus and building security cameras in areas other than restrooms and locker rooms
The purpose of medication administration in school is to help each student maintain an optimal state
of health to enhance his/her educational efforts. Medications given during school hours should be only
those necessary to allow the student to comfortably and capably perform in the school setting.
All medication is to be sent in by the parent/guardian, properly labeled and with written permission. (A permission form is available at your school.) All medication will be kept in a secured location and should be presented to the school nurse or principal's designee when brought into the building. It is the child's responsibility to come to the specified location to receive the medication unless other arrangements are made.
The following guidelines are intended to provide assistance for a safe, effective program of medication administration for students while they are at school.
A program for administration of medication is developed and managed by a school nurse.
a. Only medication necessary to maintain the child in school will be given at school.
b. Written instructions signed by parent/guardian and/or physician are obtained and retained for file.
c. Medication must be in original container with pharmacy label affixed. A pharmacy label can serve as a physician order.
d. Non-prescription medicine should be provided in the original container. Parents are responsible for refilling any prescription(s) or purchasing additional non-prescription medicine.
e. Administration of medication requiring an assessment of the student to determine dosage shall only be done by a qualified person. If it is necessary for medication to be administered by an unlicensed person, a physician's written order will be required specifically allowing an unlicensed person to administer the medication.
f. If a school employee is not a licensed school nurse and is responsible for administering medication, training regarding the medication, side effects, dosage, and techniques necessary for the safe administration will be arranged by the school nurse for that employee. Documentation of the training will be kept on file. General guidelines will be available in the substitute nurse folder and a contact person will be noted.
g. A school may not require teachers or other employees to administer medication that requires skills beyond their qualifications (injectables, glucose testing).
h. All permission for long-term medication shall be renewed at least annually and any changes shall be documented by written authorization of a licensed prescriber.
i. A medication administration sheet shall be maintained by the school nurse for each student receiving medication at school. All persons administering medication shall document that the student received the medication, time, date, method by which the medication is administered, and signature.
j. If it is agreed between parent and school that a student would benefit from the responsibility of self-medication, a program shall be developed for that student. When developing a plan for
self-administration of emergency medications, the safety of the other school children must be taken into consideration. The medication must be kept inaccessible to other students.
k. A student with a chronic disease or medical condition may possess and self-administer emergency medication if the following conditions are met. (1) Student’s parents have filed an authorization with the school nurse or principal’s designee to possess and self-administer the emergency medication. (2) Physician states in writing that the student has an acute or chronic disease or medical condition for which emergency medication has been prescribed; student has been instructed in how to self-administer the emergency medication; the nature of the disease or medical condition requires emergency administration of medication. Please note the authorization and physician’s statement must be filed annually.
l. If, at the end of the school year, the medication has not been picked up, the medication will be disposed of and documentation of that disposal will be completed by the school nurse.
m. Parents who do not comply with these regulations shall come to school to administer the medication to their child.
COMPUTER NETWORK & INTERNET ACCESS
Internet access through the School District is a valuable learning resource for students. Students will be permitted to have access to the Internet and the School District’s computer network unless their parent/guardian files a written objection at the beginning of each school year.
A form for refusing student access may be found on the School District web site: http://www.wayne.k12.in.us/.
Internet access through the School District is screened by filtering software to attempt to prevent student access to content that is inappropriate for students, but no filter can provide perfect protection from inappropriate content. Staff monitoring of student computer usage and parent assistance are necessary to allow a student to have the substantial educational value of Internet access, while limiting the dangers.
DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS THAT ARE NOT SCHOOL SPONSORED
Materials in any form that are not school sponsored shall not be distributed at school or a School District activity at a time or in a manner that disrupts a curricular or extracurricular activity, restricts the passage of students, employees and visitors through school buildings or facilities, or causes litter or an unsafe condition in a school or facility. Materials advertising a commercial product or service may not be distributed at school or a School District activity without prior approval. Materials for not for profit community groups such as a church or Scout troop also need prior approval. Once the content is approved, the manner and time of distribution will be determined by the Principal.
Parents are encouraged to visit their child’s school. Visits should be arranged with your child’s teacher at least one school day in advance. Visits are encouraged on most school days, but there are a few days, such as a day when testing is being conducted, that visitors will not be permitted.
For the protection of students and staff, all visitors are required to report to the main office of the school being visited before going to any other part of the school. When reporting to the main office, visitors may be asked to provide picture identification such as an Indiana driver’s license or identification card. During a visit, visitors may be asked to wear an identification badge and limit their participation in activities according to the directions from the teacher in charge of the activity.
Expelled students and persons who have previously been asked to leave a school or school activity because they have been seriously disruptive may be directed not to return to School District property or the property where a school activity is being held. Failure to comply may result in arrest for Criminal Trespass.
POSSESSION OF WEAPONS ON SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY
It is a Class D felony under Indiana law for a person other than a law enforcement officer to bring a firearm on to School District property. A permit to carry a firearm does not allow a person to bring a firearm on to School District property except when the person possesses the firearm in a motor vehicle that is being operated by the person to transport another person to or from a school or a school function.
School District policy also forbids the possession of all weapons on School District property except by a law enforcement officer. Before coming on School District property or to a school activity with any weapon, you are encouraged to check with the Principal of the school to be visited before bringing the weapon to the school or activity.
WAYNE WESTSIDE COMMUNITY VALUES
Since 1989 Wayne Township Schools have participated in a Values Awareness Program. Community organizations such as youth service agencies, athletic and recreational groups, PTO’s, business organizations, churches, and the school district identified thirty core values. Adults and organizations in the community have the opportunity to demonstrate, communicate and emphasize these core values so that all youth will develop appropriate values to make them more productive and successful citizens.
On an annual basis ten values are emphasized. The current list of Wayne Westside Community Values may be found on the school district’s website.
