TFJH Student Handbook
- Board, Administration, and Staff
- Belief Statements
- Mission Statement and Core Values
- Junior High Welcome
- Attendance
- Communication / Infinite Campus
- Complaints by Students and Parents
- Discipline
- Distribution and Posting of Materials
- Dress Code
- Electronic Devices and Toys
- Extracurricular Participation
- Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA)
- Field Trips, Excursions, and Outdoor Education
- General Information & Guidelines
- Grading Scale
- Immunizations
- Library Policies
- Lockers
- Lunch
- Non-Discrimination Policy
- Office Procedures
- Promotion Policy
- Safety
- Special Services
- Stolen Items
Board, Administration, and Staff
ADMINISTRATION, BOARD AND STAFF
Board of Trustees |
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Mrs. Sandra Muster | Board Chairperson | |
Mr. Ryan Frields | Board Vice-Chairperson | |
Mrs. Mona Jacobson | Board Member | |
Mrs. Jeneese Baxter | Board Member | |
Mr. Jake Helvey | Board Member | |
District Administration | ||
Mr. Edward Scully | Superintendent | |
Mr. Len Dorscher | K-8 Principal | |
Mrs. Jodi Morgan | High School Principal | |
Mr. Jase Miller | Junior High Head Teacher | |
Mrs. Taylor Salmi | Special Education Coop Director | |
Mrs. Stacy Milner | District Clerk | |
Junior High Faculty & Staff | ||
Mr. Jase Miller | Supervising Teacher / Math | |
Mrs. Danice Toyias | Social Studies / Drama | |
Mr. Doug Padden | Science / Robotics | |
Mrs. Karissa Snead | Language Arts | |
Mrs. Chris Kelly | Special Education Teacher | |
Mrs. Melissa Wilson | Secretary | |
Mrs. Brittany Nichols | Band | |
Mrs. Lisa Mickelson | Choir | |
Mrs. Karli Thomas | Physical Education (7) | |
Mr. Jake Mickelson | Physical Education (8) | |
Ms. Taylour Freed | Counselor | |
Mr. Micah Grossberg | Art | |
Mr. Bill McGuire | Shop | |
Mrs. Sandra Kazmierczak | Library | |
Mrs. Melissa Adams | Para Professional | |
Ms. Lilly Buchanan | Para Professional | |
Mrs. Sherri Helvey | Para Professional | |
Mrs. Lisa Anderson | Custodian | |
Mr. Josh Schmidt | Maintenance | |
Belief Statements
BELIEF STATEMENTS
We believe
.. students learn in different ways and at varying rates; we respect and support those differences.
.. with the support of the community we can provide a respectful, safe, and caring school environment.
.. certain district and societal rules require immediate student consequences.
.. with appropriate adult guidance, discipline should be considered an opportunity for student personal growth.
.. keeping in mind a student's self respect and dignity, a student should be provided an opportunity to learn to solve his/her own problem.
.. in updating our district curriculum to keep pace with the changing world.
.. in integrating technology within every academic area at all levels.
.. in the school improvement process to maximize student learning.
.. it is important to have ongoing training and in-service for staff so that educational practices will be based upon research, information, and proven procedures.
.. with parent, community, and school support, students can become contributing members of society.
.. learning is a life long process and is a key to success.
.. the school must provide opportunities for students to develop critical thinking by respecting and concentrating on academic, cultural, and life skills as outlined under state standards.
.. in celebrating success.
Mission Statement and Core Values
Junior High Welcome
WELCOME
Attendance
ATTENDANCE POLICIES AND GUIDELINES
- Activities & Preplanned Absences
- Excused Absences
- Human Sexuality Instruction Absences
- Attendance & Tardy Matrix
- Release of Students from School
Activities & Preplanned Absences
ACTIVITIES OR PREPLANNED ABSENCES
Excused Absences
EXCUSED ABSENCES
Human Sexuality Instruction Absences
HUMAN SEXUALITY INSTRUCTION ABSENCES
Attendance & Tardy Matrix
THOMPSON FALLS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDANCE MATRIX
NUMBER OF ABSENCES | ACTION |
Every absence | Documented by school and call home from office if parent has not notified the school |
10 total yearly absences | Letter to parent/guardian from principal with copy going in student’s file and given to counselor. Parent/guardian will be contacted for a meeting to discuss the cause of excessive absences and to develop an attendance plan. |
20 total yearly absences | Student is considered chronically absent. Documentation in student’s file. Documentation is submitted to County Superintendent |
THOMPSON FALLS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL TARDY MATRIX
NUMBER OF TARDIES | ACTION |
Every tardy | Documented by school and student sent to class with tardy slip |
10 total yearly tardies | Letter to parent/guardian from principal with copy going into student’s file and given to counselor. Parent/guardian will be contacted for a meeting to discuss the cause of excessive tardies and to develop an attendance plan. |
20 total yearly tardies | Student is considered chronically tardy. Documentation in student’s file. Documentation is submitted to County Superintendent. |
Release of Students from School
RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL
Communication / Infinite Campus
INFINITE CAMPUS
- Emergency Notification- receive emergency messages for school closes, delays, etc.
- Message Options- receive general messages regarding attendance, behavior, assignments, low lunch account balances and more.
- Preferred Communication-set your preferences to indicate how you would like receive general or emergency messages (choose from voice, text, and e-mail option).
Complaints by Students and Parents
COMPLAINTS BY STUDENTS AND PARENTS
Usually students or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed simply, by a phone call or a conference with the teacher. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, the District has adopted a Uniform Complaint Procedure policy for most complaints (Policy 1700) with the exception of complaints / concerns regarding or involving challenges to educational material, those governed by a specified procedure in state or federal law that supersedes a uniform grievance process, and those about sexual harassment and/or disability discrimination. A written copy of the Uniform Complaint Procedure can be obtained at the Superintendent’s office.
If a student or parent believes that the Board, its employees, or agents have violated their rights, he or she may file a written complaint with any District Principal or Supervisor under the applicable grievance procedure. If still unresolved, the matter generally may be referred to the Superintendent. Under some circumstances, the District provides for the complaint to be presented to the Board of Trustees in the event the matter cannot be resolved at the administrative level.
Some complaints require different procedures. Any building office or the Superintendent’s office can provide information regarding specific processes for filing complaints. Additional information can also be found in Policy 1700, available in any principal’s and Superintendent’s offices.
Students shall use the Title IX Grievance Procedure to address complaints / concerns about sexual harassment. A copy of the Title IX Grievance Procedures can be obtained on the District’s website www.thompsonfalls.net/policies or any District or school office or by contacting the K-8th Grade Title IX Coordinator, Mrs. Jodi Morgan.
Students shall use the Section 504 Grievance Procedure to address complaints/ concerns about disability determination. A copy of the Section 504 Grievance Procedures can be obtained on the District’s website www.thompsonfalls.net/policies or any District or school office or by contacting Mr. Len Dorscher.
Discipline
DISCIPLINE
A teacher or principal has the authority to hold a pupil to strict accountability for disorderly conduct in school, on the way to or from school, or during intermission or recess (MCA 20-4-302.1). Students and parents are notified that violations will invite consequences that are based upon several factors, including, but not limited to the severity of the act, the situation in which it occurred, the frequency of the behavior problem, and the needs of the child.
The “9 Essential Skills” of Love and Logic and District Policy 2000, District Mission/Belief Statements, will be used as guidelines for district staff in working with students. Also, Love and Logic principles empower the teacher with input from the students and parents about the process for managing student misbehavior. “Recovery Area” should be a common non-disciplinary term that is used in grades K-12.
The Board of Trustees has established a set of district expectations dealing with student safety, such as violence, drugs, alcohol, bullying, etc. All students will be treated as individuals. In the event that the actions of the staff appear to be unfair, the student/parent should visit with the staff member involved and present his/her case. In the event that the case has merit, the consequence will be adjusted accordingly. This is the school’s written guarantee that the right of due process will be observed and respected at school. (See District Policy 3210 for Uniform Grievance Procedures)
The successful teacher uses the “90-10 Goal” of using preventative strategies 90% of the time, and 10% of the time using intervention strategies as developed by Charles Fay. Examples of preventative strategies are:
- Building positive relationships with all students
- Teaching routines and procedures
- Setting enforceable limits in respectful ways
- Sharing control limits
- Modeling enthusiasm, compassion, character, and respectful dress
- Providing high levels of friendly supervision and unstructured settings
- Using instructional strategies and content that maximizes engagement and learning
- Intervening with preventative interventions when misbehavior is still small
- Speaking to students as we would want someone to speak to us
- Communicating to students that we value them more than their academic achievement, athletic ability, or appearance Guiding students toward solving their own problems and making restitution when they create problems for others
- Reacting with empathy instead of anger, frustration, or sarcasm
- Short term recovery
- Delegation of Authority
- Category A: Classroom Discipline
- Category B: School Wide Discipline
- Disciplinary Measures
- Gun-Free Schools
- Bullying / Harassment / Intimidation / Hazing
- K-8 General Level Behaviors
- K-8 Bullying Level Behaviors
- Category C: Title IX & Sexual Harassment
- Procedures for Board Expulsion
Delegation of Authority
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY
Each teacher, and any other school personnel when students are under his/her charge, is authorized to impose any disciplinary measure, other than suspension, or expulsion, corporal punishment or in-school suspension, which is appropriate and in accordance with the policies and rules on student discipline. Teachers may remove defiant students from a classroom to be sent home for recovery for the remainder of a period for disruptive behavior that is serious enough to hinder the teaching process.
The following infractions are grouped into categories and not intended to be all inclusive. Some infractions may not be included here and modifications may be made if necessary at the discretion of the administration.
Category A: Classroom Discipline
CATEGORY A: CLASSROOM DISCIPLINE
Classroom Offenses:
- Unexcused tardiness.
- Minor disruptive behavior (excessive talking, disrespect, disruptive behavior, note writing, etc.).
- Nonparticipation.
- Cheating, copying, and forgery.
- Inappropriate language.
- Food and drinks in class without permission.
- Other rules that violate posted classroom rules.
Teachers will document all offenses and their consequences. Serious or repeated misbehavior may be referred to the building administrator. Parents will be notified of repeated misbehaviors and parent conferences may be requested before referral to the building administrator.
Category B: School Wide Discipline
CATEGORY B: SCHOOL-WIDE DISCIPLINE
- Any clothing displaying drugs, marijuana, alcohol, nicotine, tobacco or vapor products, which expresses obscenities, pornographic, or suggestive material, or which immodestly exposes a student’s chest, abdomen, buttocks, or undergarments is prohibited. This includes spandex garments, pajama bottoms, sweat pants, spaghetti straps and see through materials. Pants must be worn above the hips; no sagging pants allowed. Caps are not to be worn in the building, and are subject to confiscation.
- Vandalism. Damaging or defacing any private belongings or school property, including books. Parents will be held liable.
- Theft of personal or school property. This includes stealing while on any school sponsored activities.
- Trespassing: Any unauthorized entry into school buildings before, during, or after regular school hours.
- Littering on school grounds or in buildings.
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The use, possession or selling of alcohol, illegal drugs, marijuana, tobacco, vapor products, alternative nicotine products or controlled substances, or drug paraphernalia while at school or at a school-sponsored activity. This includes, but is not limited to, the following: Over-the-counter or prescription drugs, glue, paint, paint thinner, correction fluid, or other similar substances. Distribution of any type of pills tablets, capsules, or other materials, regardless of actual composition, will be grounds for disciplinary action. Students who must take a prescription medication during school hours must do the following:
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a) Have parents fill out the school’s prescription medication form. (District Policy/Students 3416)
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b) Provide a doctor or pharmacist’s authorization specifying the type, dosage, and purpose of the medication.
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c) All medications must be kept in the office and taken under office supervision.
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- The sale or distribution, or possession with intent to sell or distribute, any of the substances listed above in item 6.
- Displaying slogans or drawings promoting drugs, marijuana, alcohol or tobacco/vapor product/alternative nicotine product use on school property, including lockers.
- Forgery of absence notes, or tampering or altering of school records.
- Providing false information to school officials or hindering an investigation.
- Truancy
- Inappropriate displays of affection. Physical contact that is not generally acceptable in a school setting, dictated by common sense and decency.
- Harassment. This includes bullying (verbal or physical), sexual harassment, hazing, threatening others in any manner or retaliation and reprisal. Definitions can be found in Board Policy/Students 3225.
- The use of profanity, spoken or written, and including inappropriate gestures. In addition to the automatic detention for each offense, beginning with the third violation, students will receive one day of In-School Suspension for each subsequent offense during a given semester.
- Profanity directed toward teachers
- Throwing objects, including rocks and snowballs, or any other objects. Fighting in school, on school property, or at a school function, to include pushing or shoving matches. Being present during a fight, including observing, encouraging, or assisting in any way. Assault on another student, or on any staff member, on school property or at a school-sponsored activity.
- Tripping the fire alarm system
- Using, possessing, transferring, any object that could reasonably be considered or used as a weapon, a look-a-like weapon, including (but not limited to) knives (including pocketknives) and firearms (loaded or unloaded) on school grounds. In accordance with the Gun Free School Act, any student who brings a firearm onto school property shall be expelled for a period of not less than one calendar year unless the Board of Trustees has authorized the school administration in writing to modify the requirement for expulsion, including eliminating the requirement for expulsion, on a case-by-case basis. Board Policy 3310. Students are not allowed to possess a knife of any blade length on school property.
- Harassment, assault or threatening of any school personnel, including teachers, administrators, substitute teachers, custodians, lunch room workers, bus drivers, parent volunteers, or any other persons working in any capacity within the district., on-or off campus. Any and all threatening statements will be taken seriously and dealt with accordingly.
- Any person, including an adult, who behaves in an unsportsmanlike manner during an athletic or co-curricular event may be ejected from the event and/or denied admission to school events for up to a year, after a Board hearing. (Board Policy/Community Relations 4315)
- Engaging in any activity forbidden by law while on campus or at any school-sponsored activity.
- Defiance towards any district employee.
- Students shall not access or transmit obscene, abusive, or sexually explicit material on computers and internet.
Engaging in any of the following will lead to consequences at the classroom/building level:
- Involved in any activity that constitutes disorderly conduct, an interference with school purposes or an educational function, or any disruptive activity.
- Unexcused absenteeism, tardies, and leaving the school grounds without obtaining permission at the school office.
- Cell phones cannot be taken in the locker room/bathroom. Violators will have the device taken from them and kept in the office until a parent picks it up. Repeat offenders will be considered as defiant and will be treated accordingly.
- Not dressing appropriately as outlined in building level handbook.
- The forgoing of any signature, or the making of any false entry, or the authorization of any document used or intended to be used in connection with the operation of the school.
The grounds for disciplinary action apply whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities, including, but not limited to:
- On, or within sight of school grounds before, during, or after school hours or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group
- Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity, or event, or any activity or event which bears a reasonable relationship to school
- Traveling to and from school or a school activity, function or event
- Anywhere at any time during the calendar year, if the conduct may be considered to be a threat to the educational process at school by either harming staff or students (selling drugs, physically or mentally abusing staff/students, etc.)
Disciplinary Measures
DISCIPLINARY MEASURES
- Logical and natural consequences
- Detention, including Saturdays
- Clean-up duty
- Student grade (for unexcused absence, suspension)
- Loss of student privileges
- Loss of bus privileges
- Restitution for damages to school property
- Suspension
- Notification of juvenile authorities and/or police/school resource officer
- Expulsion
No person who is employed or engaged by the District may inflict or cause to be inflicted corporal punishment on a student. Corporal punishment does not include, and District personnel are permitted to place their hands on a student in a manner that is reasonable and necessary to maintain safety for other students, school personnel, or other persons, or for the purpose of self-defense.
The Board of Trustees has established a set of district expectations dealing with student safety, such as violence, drugs, marijuana, alcohol, tobacco/nicotine/vapor products, bullying, etc. All students will be treated as individuals. In the event that the actions of the staff appear to be unfair, the student/parent should visit with the staff member involved and present his/her case. In the event that the case has merit, the consequence will be adjusted accordingly. This is the school’s written guarantee that the right of due process will be observed and respected at school. (See District Policy 3200 Student Rights & Responsibilities/3300 Student Due Process Rights)
Engaging in any of the following activities will result in at minimum an out-of-school suspension, and possibly, expulsion by the Board of Trustees (See District Policy/Students 3300 Corrective Action and Punishment):
- Using, possessing, under the influence of, distributing, purchasing, or selling alcohol, tobacco, alternative nicotine products, vapor products, illegal drugs, marijuana, or controlled substances, look-alike drugs, and drug paraphernalia products.
- Possessing a weapon in a school building or on the school grounds.
- Causing or attempting to cause damage to, or stealing or attempting to steal, school property or another person’s property.
- Bullying (See District Policy/Students 3225 on Bullying)
Different procedures may apply to students with disabilities are required by law.
Gun-Free Schools
GUN-FREE SCHOOLS / FIREARMS
Bullying / Harassment / Intimidation / Hazing
BULLYING / HARASSMENT / INTIMIDATION / HAZING
- “Third parties” include, but are not limited to, coaches, school volunteers, parents, school visitors, service contractors or others engaged in District business, such as employees of businesses or organizations participating in cooperative work programs with the District and others not directly subject to District control at inter District and intra-District athletic competitions or other school events.
- “District” includes District facilities, District premises, and non-District property if the student or employee is at any District-sponsored, District-approved, or District related activity or function, such as field trips or athletic events, where students are under the control of the District or where the employee is engaged in District business.
- “Hazing” includes, but is not limited to, any act that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or as a condition or precondition of attaining membership in or affiliation with any District-sponsored activity or grade-level attainment, including, but not limited to, forced consumption of any drink, alcoholic beverage, drug, or controlled substance, forced exposure to the elements, forced prolonged exclusion from social contact, sleep deprivation, or any 18 other forced activity that could adversely affect the mental or physical health or safety of a student; requires, encourages, authorizes, or permits another to be subject to wearing or carrying any obscene or physically burdensome article, assignment of pranks to be performed, or other such activities intended to degrade or humiliate.
- “Harassment” includes, but is not limited to, any act which subjects an individual or group to unwanted, abusive behavior or a nonverbal, verbal, written, or physical nature, on the basis of age, race, religion, color, creed, national origin, sex, ancestry, disability, or marital status.
- “Intimidation” includes but is not limited to, any threat or act intended to tamper with, substantially damage or interfere with another’s property, cause substantial inconvenience, subject another to offensive physical contact, or inflict serious physical injury, on the basis of age, race, religion, color, creed, national origin, sex, ancestry, disability, or marital status.
- “Bullying” happens when someone with more power unfairly hurts someone with less power over and over again. Power may be physical strength, social skill, verbal ability, or another resource.
Reporting
REPORTING
Responsibilities
Consequences
CONSEQUENCES
Retaliation & Reprisal
RETALIATION AND REPRISAL
K-8 General Level Behaviors
THOMPSON FALLS K-8 GENERAL BEHAVIORS
LEVEL ONE
GENERAL BEHAVIORS (not limited to this list) |
MENU OF POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES (not limited to this list) |
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LEVEL TWO
GENERAL BEHAVIORS (not limited to this list) |
MENU OF POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES (not limited to this list) |
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LEVEL THREE
GENERAL BEHAVIORS (not limited to this list) |
MENU OF POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES (not limited to this list) |
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K-8 Bullying Level Behaviors
BEHAVIOR MATRIX
The following behavior rubrics are to be used as a guide as each student will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
THOMPSON FALLS K-8 BULLYING LEVEL BEHAVIORS
LEVEL ONE
Verbal Bullying |
Non-Verbal Bullying |
Physical Bullying |
Possible Consequences |
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LEVEL TWO
Verbal Bullying |
Non-Verbal Bullying |
Physical Bullying |
Possible Consequences |
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LEVEL THREE
Verbal Bullying |
Non-Verbal Bullying |
Physical Bullying |
Possible Consequences |
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Category C: Title IX & Sexual Harassment
TITLE IX AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY/NON-DISCRIMINATION/TITLE IX COORDINATORS
Any concerns regarding equality in educational opportunities and treatment with regard to race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, disability shall be directed to the Title IX and Non-Discrimination Coordinator(s) for Thompson Falls School District No 2.
Sex-based harassment is against the law and School District No. 2 is committed to the prevention of all forms of sex-based harassment in the schools.
Sexual harassment is conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the following:
- Quid pro quo: An employee of the recipient conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of the recipient on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct
- Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the recipient’s education program or activity; or
- “Sexual assault” as defined in 20 U.S.C. 1092(f)(6)(A)(v), “dating violence” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(10), “domestic violence” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(8), or “stalking” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(30).
A determination of responsibility resulting from a formal complaint against a student for engaging in sexual harassment will result in appropriate disciplinary action, according to the nature of the offense.
Complaints may be submitted via the District’s Title IX Grievance Procedure. Please refer to
Policies 3210 and 3225 for additional information regarding the District’s prohibition against
discrimination and harassment.
Procedures for Board Expulsion
PROCEDURES FOR BOARD EXPULSION
- the intent to recommend an expulsion;
- the specific charges against the student;
- what rule or regulation was broken; the nature of the evidence supporting the charges;
- the date, time and place where the hearing will be held;
- a copy of the procedure that will be followed by the Board; and
- a reminder of the rights the student and parents have, including the right to counsel, the right to cross examine witnesses, and the right to present witnesses.
A formal hearing will be held before the Board of Trustees. This hearing must meet the following minimum requirements.
a. The student may choose to utilize legal counsel at his/her own expense, without prejudice.
b. The student may present witnesses.
c. The student or his/her counsel may ask questions of witnesses presented by the school district administration or its counsel.
d. The administration also has the right to cross-examine witnesses and to be advised by legal counsel.
e. The burden of proof of the offense lies with the school district.
District Policy 3300
The hearing may be rescheduled by the parent/guardian by submitting a request showing good cause to the Superintendent at least 3 school days prior to the scheduled date of the hearing. The Superintendent shall determine if the request shows good cause.
Expulsion of a student for bringing or possessing a firearm at school must follow the procedures set out in the “Gun-Free Schools/Firearms” section above.
Students with rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act may be expelled under certain circumstances, and the District must follow all procedural requirements of those Acts, including holding a manifestation determination meeting, prior to moving forward with an expulsion.
Distribution and Posting of Materials
DISTRIBUTION AND POSTING OF MATERIALS
Organizations and individuals must have the approval of the administration before materials may be posted or presented to students in any manner. This includes, but is not limited to, announcements, posters, handouts, and flyers. Material must provide information valued or needed by the school. Permission will be denied to post any material that would disrupt the educational process, violate the rights of others, invade the privacy of others, infringe on a copyright, or be obscene, vulgar, and indecent.
Dress Code
DRESS CODE
It is recognized that parents and school personnel have a common interest in the physical, educational, and moral development of students. However, the appearance of any young person is primarily the responsibility of the individual and his/her parents. Student dress and appearance has a definite influence on classroom atmosphere and achievement. Students should exercise good judgment in their choice of attire for everyday school wear. During school hours, students are to be appropriately clothed and groomed for their work day. School also believes it has the responsibility to teach that proper dress is a reflection of the student’s pride in themselves and the school. Part of the school’s mission is to prepare students for life after junior high and high school.
Clothing must be adequate to ensure a decent appearance, must be modest, and must be in accordance with community standards. The building level administrator will make the final determination. In order to help provide a safe and orderly school environment please adhere to the following guidelines:
- The student and clothing must be clean.
- Students will not be permitted to wear any clothing or accessories displaying drugs, marijuana, alcohol, tobacco/vapor products/alternative nicotine products/controlled substances, which expresses obscenities, racism, pornographic, or suggestive material, or which immodestly exposes a student’s chest, abdomen, buttocks
Electronic Devices and Toys
ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND TOYS
All electronic devices (cell phones, IPads, IPods, etc.) are to be turned into the office at the start of the academic day unless the classroom teacher has given permission to use said device(s). Devices may be picked up at the office at the end of the student’s academic day. Failure to comply will result in the electronic device(s) being kept at the office until a parent/guardian can pick it/them up. Students are not allowed to have laser lights at school, and they will be subject to confiscation. Students are also requested to leave playthings at home, as they will not be allowed in classes.
Extracurricular Participation
EXTRACURRICULAR PARTICIPATION: SEE ATHLETIC / ACTIVITIES HANDBOOK
Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA)
THOMPSON FALLS SCHOOLS CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS
Notification to Parents Regarding Confidentiality of Student Educational Records
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or older (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:
- The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days after the day Thompson Falls Elementary School receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the records 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.
- The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the Thompson Falls Elementary School to amend a record should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. 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 of their right 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.
- The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. 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) or a person serving on the school board. A school official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of the school who performs an institutional service of function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist; a parent or student volunteering to serve on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or a parent, student or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the school discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.
- The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the Thompson Falls Elementary School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’ education records, without consent of the parent or eligible student, if the disclosure meets certain conditions found in § 99.31 of the FERPA regulations. Except for disclosures to school officials, disclosures related to some judicial orders or lawfully issued subpoenas, disclosures of directory information, and disclosures to the parent or eligible student, § 99.32 of the FERPA regulations requires the school to record the disclosure. Parents and eligible students have a right to inspect and review the record of disclosures. A school may disclose PII from the education records of a student without obtaining prior written consent of the parents or the eligible student:
- To other school officials, including teachers, within the educational agency or institution whom the school has determined to have legitimate educational interests. This includes contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to whom the school has outsourced institutional services or functions, provided that the conditions listed in § 99.31(a)(1)(i)(B)(1) – (a)(1)(i)(B)(3) are met. (§ 99.31(a)(1))
- To officials of another school, school system, or institution of postsecondary education where the student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer, subject to the requirements of § 99.34 (§ 99.31(a)(2))
- The authorized representatives of the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary or Education, or State and local educational authorities, such as the State educational agency (SEA) in the parent or eligible student’s State. Disclosures under this provision may be made, subject to the requirements of § 99.35, in connection with an audit or evaluation of Federal or State supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs. These entities may make further disclosures of PII to outside entities that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any audit, evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf, if applicable requirements are met. § 99.31(a)(3) and 99.35)
- In connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the information is necessary for such purposes as to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of the aid, determine the conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. (§ 99.31(a)(4))
- To State and local officials or authorities to whom information is specifically allowed to be reported or disclosed by a State statute that concerns the juvenile justice system and the system’s ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records were released, subject to § 99.38. (§ 99.31(a)(5))
- To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to:
- a) Develop, validate, or administer predictive tests;
- b) administer student aid programs; or
- c) improve instruction, if applicable requirements are met. (§ 99.31(a)(6))
- To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions. (§ 99.31(a)(7))
- To parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes. (§ 99.31(a)(8))
- To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena if applicable requirements are met. § 99.31 (a)(9))
- To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency, subject to § 99.36. (§ 99.31(a)(10))
- Information the school has designated as “directory information” if applicable requirements under § 99.37 are met. (§ 99.31 (a)(11))
- To an agency caseworker or other representative of a State or local child welfare agency or tribal organization who is authorized to access a student’s case plan when such agency or organization is legally responsible, in accordance with State or tribal law, for the care and protection of the student in foster care placement. (20 U.S.C. § 1232c(g)(1)(L))
- To the Secretary of Agriculture or authorized representatives of the Food and Nutrition Service for purposes of conducting program monitoring, evaluations, and performance measurements of programs authorized under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, under certain conditions. (20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1)(K))
NOTICE FOR DIRECTORY INFORMATION
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Thompson Falls School District, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. However, Thompson Falls School District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Thompson Falls School District to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include:
- A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production;
- The annual yearbook;
- Honor roll or other recognition lists;
- Student directories;
- Graduation programs; and
- Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following information – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.
If you do not want Thompson Falls School District to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by September 10th or within 5 days of enrollment. Thompson Falls School District has designated the following information as directory information:
- Student's name
- Address
- Telephone listing
- Electronic mail address
- Photograph
- Date of birth
- Dates of attendance
- Grade level
- Honors and awards received
- Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
- Weight and height of members of athletic teams
Field Trips, Excursions, and Outdoor Education
FIELD TRIPS, EXCURSIONS, AND OUTDOOR EDUCATION
The Board recognizes that field trips, when used as a device for teaching and learning integral to the curriculum, are an educationally sound and important ingredient in the instructional program of the schools. Such trips can supplement and enrich classroom procedures by providing learning experiences in and environment beyond the classroom. The Board also recognizes that field trips when the educational objectives achieved by the trip clearly outweigh any lost in-class learning opportunities.
Building principals have the authority to approve all field trips.
Building principals shall develop procedures for the operation of a field trip. Each field trip must be integrated with the curriculum and coordinated with classroom activities which enhance its usefulness.
Written parental permission must be obtained for each approved trip. Teachers are expected to submit the signed forms showing parental approval and acknowledgment of the student conduct guidelines, to the office prior to departure for the scheduled activity.
General Information & Guidelines
- Instruction in the US Constitution and Pledge of Allegiance
- Religious Practices
- Bus Routes
- Computer & Internet Use
- Computer Lab & Classroom Internet Decorum
Instruction in the US Constitution and Pledge of Allegiance
INSTRUCTION IN THE U.S. CONSTITUTION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The District will provide instruction to students regarding the United States Constitution and pledge of allegiance. Thompson Falls Junior High School will recite the pledge of allegiance daily at the beginning of the first class, which may be followed by a moment of silence. Any student who, for any reason, objects to participating in the pledge exercise will be excused from participation. A student who declines to participate in the pledge may engage in any alternative form of conduct so long as that conduct does not materially or substantially disrupt the work or discipline of the school.
Religious Practices
RELIGIOUS PRACTICES
Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. Students may also pray in groups and discuss their religious views with other students as long as they are not disruptive or coercive. The school will not require, encourage, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation 22 during any school activity. Student prayer, even if nonsectarian or non-proselytizing, will not be broadcast over the school public address system. Students may study religions ancillary to the studies of human history and development and various national, cultural, and ethnic groups. This study will give neither preferential nor derogatory treatment to any religion or religious belief. The inclusion of religious music, symbols, art, or writings during instruction or in school programs or performances may occur where the religious content has a historical and/or independent educational purpose consistent with the approved curriculum.
Bus Routes
BUS ROUTES
Buses are owned and operated by Mosher Transportation and not the school district. The District will work with Mosher transportation to ensure there is communication about route delays. Parents themselves should be aware of road conditions and call Mosher Transportation for information about bus routes.
Computer & Internet Use
COMPUTER & INTERNET USE
Computer Lab & Classroom Internet Decorum
COMPUTER LAB AND CLASSROOM INTERNET DECORUM
- Students are allowed to use the computers and Internet to complete school projects as assigned by teachers.
- Projects (research, teacher approved) during school hours with permission.
- Use of personal e-mail activities and/or visiting appropriate web sites with teacher permission only.
- Students shall not access or transmit material that is profane or obscene (pornographic, etc.) that advocates or condones the commission of unlawful acts (illegal) or that advocates or condones violence or discrimination toward other people (hate literature). Under direct supervision and with parental approval, circumstances may allow investigation of hate literature for research purposes. Blackfoot Telecommunications is providing TFJH Internet filtering to eliminate most of these problems.
- Transmission of obscene, abusive, or sexually explicit language.
- Purchasing products or services using the school connection with teacher permission only.
- Violation of any local, state, or federal statute.
- Accessing other individual’s materials, information, or files without permission.
- Violation of copyright or otherwise use the intellectual property of another individual. Keep track of your sources.
- Uses that involve waste of time or resources (paper, toner, etc)
- Students may not use the internet to access networking/social media sites such as Facebook, Snap Chat, Xanga, Instagram, games (without permission) etc.
Disciplinary Measures
For violations of the Internet library or classroom policy disciplinary measure include, but are not limited to:
- Students will simply be asked to leave the computer lab for minor offenses and a record will be made of the time and problem.
- Detention
- Loss of computer lab privileges for at least nine (9) weeks or to the end of the semester.
- Recommended suspension.
Grading Scale
GRADING SCALE
All grades at the junior high are based on the following grading scale:
90% - 100% | A |
80% - 89% | B |
70% - 79% | C |
60% - 69% | D |
Below 60% | F |
Honor Roll |
|
3.25 - 3.32 | Honorable Mention |
3.33 and above | Honor Roll |
Grade and Point Value
A | 4 |
B | 3 |
C | 2 |
D | 1 |
F | 0 |
E | Effort Grade (Below passing but doing as well as possible |
I | Incomplete Grade. Any work due must be turned in within ten school days following the end of the grading period. After that time no further makeup work will be accepted for credit, unless special arrangements have been made. the final grade will reflect the percentage that the student earned after considering all complete makeup work. |
Report cards are mailed out the week following the end of each quarter. In addition, mid-quarter reports are mailed home halfway through each quarter showing the current grades in each class. Students who have library fines, lunch fees, or other overdue expenses will have their grade reports held until those fees have been brought up to date. Please note: parents and students can access grades via the Infinite Campus grade portal.
Assemblies are held following the end of each quarter to recognize high achievement and perfect attendance. Students receive certificates noting their areas of academic success. Parents are welcome to attend these assemblies.
Immunizations
IMMUNIZATIONS
Montana State Law requires that all students meet established immunization requirements before entering school in the fall. Those students whose immunizations are not up-to-date will not be allowed to attend classes until all shots are administered except in the case of a medical or religious exemption.
If a student’s religious beliefs conflict with the requirement that the student be immunized, the student must present a form signed by the student (or by the parent, if the student is a minor) stating that immunization conflicts with the religious tenets and practices of the parents and student. This form will be maintained as part of the student’s immunization records.
The school nurse maintains all records and will inform the secretary of any students in need of inoculations. (District Policy 3410) A list of required vaccinations can be found at each school’s office or by contacting the district’s school health professional. Except for those vaccinations required by law, the District will not discriminate against a student by denying or withholding educational opportunities based upon the student’s vaccination status.
Childhood Illnesses
CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES
- FEVER – exclude from school with re-entry 24 hours after fever has subsided.
- VOMITING during the night – stay home the following day
- STREP THROAT – Symptoms are fever and sore throat. Treatment consists of antibiotics as prescribed by a physician. Child must remain out of school until 24 hours after medication is started.
- PINKEYE – (Conjunctivitis) is an inflammation of the thin, transparent outer tissue layer of the eyeball and the inner surface of the eyelids. The inflammation causes redness, tearing, and occasionally the formation of a pus discharge. The student may complain of “itching or burning” eyes. The most common causes are bacteria, viruses, and allergies. If your child wakes in the morning with eyes “crusted and matted”, you should have him/her checked by a physician before sending him/her to school. Treatment consists of antibiotic eye drops or ointment obtained from a physician. The child should remain out of school for 24 hours after treatment has begun.
- MONO – exclusion is not indicated for cases or exposed students.
- HEAD LICE – Obtain “Nix” or “RID” from the store and follow specific instructions for treatment. Be sure to fine comb hair after treatment. The best way to get all nits out is by hand. It is necessary that your child be “Nit-free” before returning to school. You will need a note from the school nurse, clinic nurse, county health nurse, or any qualified professional stating your child is “Nit-free”.
- HAND, FOOT, AND MOUTH DISEASE – This illness can cause painful sores in or on your mouth, and/or on the hands, feet and sometimes buttocks and legs. The illness usually lasts 7 -10 days. Symptoms include fatigue, sore throat, or a high fever. In some cases, a rash appears before blisters do. The blisters may break open and crust over and usually last about a week. The disease is most likely to spread within the first week. Wash hands frequently and keep children home who have a fever or open blisters.
- RINGWORM – Ringworm appears on the arms, chest, abdomen, and more rarely, the face. It starts as a tiny red spot that slowly grows in a circular fashion, clearing in the center as it enlarges. The edges remain reddish and scaly. No scabs, pus, or crusts are formed. Treat with medications such as Tinactin or Lotrimin as prescribed by a physician. Student is non-contagious after 1st treatment and may be in school after 1st treatment while sores are healing.
- SCABIES – Scabies is caused by a mite too small to be seen by the naked eye. Since the mites live underneath the skin, contagion takes rather prolonged contact. All that is required for safety is washing the hands after touching a child with scabies. Typically, the scabies mite makes a white bump that causes intense itching, particularly at night. As a result of scratching, a scab appears on the skin. The scab tends to be linear rather than round. Scabies is commonly found on the backs of the hands, the webs between the fingers, the inner side of the wrist and forearms, and the chest and abdomen. It can also be found on the upper arms and legs, and the neck. It is practically never on the face, on the small of the back, between the shoulder blades, on the palms of the hands, or soles of the feet. It will often be found on more than one family member. Diagnosis is usually done by a physician. Treatment consists of a prescription medication with repeated application 7-10 days later. A child with scabies presents no immediate emergency and need not be kept home.
- CHICKENPOX – Chickenpox is a highly contagious childhood illness. The child is contagious from 24 hours before the onset of fever until the drying of all crusts. Chickenpox first appears on scalp, face, chest, and abdomen, and spreads to the arms and legs. You will see a tiny, clear blister with redness around it. The blisters rapidly form crusts and scab over. Aveeno or oatmeal baths may help with itching. Tylenol is recommended for fevers. The child must stay out of school until all crusts are dry – usually 5 to 7 days.
- FIFTH’S DISEASE – This is a very mild skin disorder caused by a virus. A fine, red rash first appears on the face like a “slapped cheek”. It then spreads to the chest, abdomen, arms and legs. It is contagious 2 to 3 days prior to the onset of the rash. It is not contagious when the rash appears, therefore the child does not need to stay out of school unless he/she has a fever. If the child does have a fever, he/she should remain out of school until 24 hours after the fever is gone. There is no specific treatment for the rash. Usually, a pain and fever reducing medication like Tylenol is all that is needed. The rash may last a week or more and will appear worse when the child is exposed to heat, cold, or sunshine.
- CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) – Symptoms include: cough, fever or chills, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, muscle or body aches, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell, diarrhea, headache, new fatigue, nausea or vomiting, congestion or runny nose.
The county health department may provide additional guidance and rules for conditions not listed. The school will notify parents in the event such conditions and rules arise.
Library Policies
LIBRARY POLICIES
Lockers
LOCKERS
Lunch
LUNCH
Non-Discrimination Policy
NON DISCRIMINATION
Thompson Falls School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability, in the educational programs and activities it operates including admission and employment. The District is required by federal law, including but not limited to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX, and Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act and their regulations, to not discriminate against individuals in violation of these laws. The District also provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding complaints under Title IX (sex discrimination and sexual harassment) and all other non-discrimination policies.
Office Procedures
- Administering Medicines to Students
- Enrollment Procedure
- Checking In At School / Signing Out of School
- Use of Telephones and Copier
- Visiting School
Administering Medicines to Students
ADMINISTERING MEDICINES TO STUDENTS
Medication, if needed, should be given at home when possible. Parents should identify pupils requiring medication at school with written approval by a medical doctor who specifies the type, dosage, and purpose of the medication for the school nurses use. Students observed by school personnel self-administering unauthorized medication are reported to the principal. Contact the building secretary for an application form to take medication at school.
Enrollment Procedure
ENROLLMENT PROCEDURE
- Completed enrollment forms
- Sign a Release of Confidential Information form to request records from the sending school
- Present a copy of the student’s immunization records
- Provide proof of residency, proof of age, and proof of identity.
- Provide the office with the student’s home address and relevant contact information. *Please notify the offices of any address/contact changes as they occur throughout the year
- There is a 24-hour waiting period in order to allow adequate processing time for the office staff
Students who are homeless or in foster care will be enrolled without presentation of all required documentation.
A student whose parent or guardian is being relocated to Montana under military orders may be preliminarily enrolled in classes and may apply for programs offered by the District prior to arrival and establishing residency.
If the individual enrolling the student is not the parent, the individual may be required to provide documentation establishing the authority to enroll the student.
In compliance with District Policy 3141, Non-Resident students must also:
- Comply with the above requirements for resident students and provide transcript records
- Complete the Non-Resident Application Form
- Provide a copy of temporary guardianship
- Enrollment paperwork for non-resident students is due 10 days prior to the beginning of the semester in order to allow adequate processing time for the office staff
The District will enroll any non-resident student required to be admitted under MCA § 20-5-321.
Homeless Students
HOMELESS STUDENTS
In accordance with federal and state law and regulations, the District will provide homeless students with access to the instructional programming that supports achievement of the content standards and to other services for which they are eligible. Students shall not be segregated into a separate school or program based on their status as homeless, nor shall they be stigmatized in any way.
The District will determine, according to the best interest of the child whether the child will be enrolled in the school of origin or in the public school that non-homeless students who live in the attendance area in which the child is actually living are eligible to attend. In determining the best interest of the child the District will, to the extent feasible, keep the child in the school of origin, unless doing so is contrary to the wishes of the parent.
If the child is unaccompanied by a parent or guardian, the homeless liaison will assist in placement and enrollment decisions, with the views of the child taken into consideration.
The District shall immediately enroll the homeless child into the selected school, even if the parent/child is unable to produce records normally required for enrollment, such as previous academic records, immunization records, evidence of residency, or other documentation. Homeless students shall be provided services comparable to services available to other students in the school system including, but not limited to, transportation services; educational services for which the student meets the eligibility criteria, such as educational programs for disadvantaged students, students with disabilities, gifted and talented students, and students with limited English proficiency; vocational and technical programs; preschool programs; before and after school-care programs; and school meals/nutrition programs.
Homeless students are entitled to transportation to their school of origin or the school where they are to be enrolled.
Students in Foster Care
STUDENTS IN FOSTER CARE
Students in foster care are entitled to educational stability under Title I for the duration of their time in foster care. “Foster care” means “24-hour substitute care for children placed away from their parents or guardians and for whom the child welfare agency has placement and care responsibility.” This includes, but is not limited to, placements in foster family homes, foster homes of relatives, group homes, emergency shelters, residential facilities, child care institutions, and pre-adoptive home.
The District will take efforts to ensure that a child in foster care:
- Remains in his or her school of origin (school last enrolled in at the time of placement in foster care) unless it is not in the child’s best interest; or
- If the school of origin is not in the child’s best interest, the child must be immediately enrolled in a new school regardless of being able to produce records otherwise required.
The District will collaborate with the child welfare agency involved in a particular student’s case to make the “best interest” determination as quickly as possible. The District will also collaborate with the child welfare agency regarding the provision of transportation to the selected school for the student.
Checking In At School / Signing Out of School
CHECKING IN AT SCHOOL / SIGNING OUT OF SCHOOL
A telephone call or a note from either parent or guardian is necessary when a student is absent or late for any reason. Notes must be given immediately to the attendance secretary. Teachers will have a list of admits. When a student arrives late or after an absence, the student is required to report directly to the office for an admittance or tardy slip. All absences and tardies will be recorded on the report card.
A student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day except with permission from the principal or designee and according to the building sign-out procedures. Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be released before the end of the instructional day. A student who will need to leave school during the day must bring a note from his or her parent that morning. A student who becomes ill during the school day should, with the teacher’s permission, report to the office or school nurse. The administrator or nurse will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the student’s parent. When in doubt as to custodial rights, the District will rely on the most recent information available in the student’s records. A student will only be released with prior written permission from the custodial parent to a previously unauthorized adult unless an emergency situation justifies a waiver.
Use of Telephones and Copier
USE OF TELEPHONES AND COPIERS
Visiting School
Promotion Policy
JUNIOR HIGH PROMOTION POLICY
8TH GRADE TRIP
Safety
- Accident Prevention
- Emergency Medical Treatment and Information
- Drills
- Emergency School Closing Information
- Search
- Staff
- Law Enforcement
- Video Surveillance
Accident Prevention
ACCIDENT PREVENTION
- Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.
- Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook, as well as any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.
- Remain alert to and promptly report safety hazards, such as intruders on campus.
- Know emergency evacuation routes and signals.
- Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other District employees who are overseeing the welfare of students.
Emergency Medical Treatment and Information
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT AND INFORMATION
If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school will need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment and information about allergies to medications, etc. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up to date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, etc.). Please contact the office to update any information.
Drills
Emergency School Closing Information
EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING INFORMATION
Search
SEARCH
Staff
Law Enforcement
LAW ENFORCEMENT
- The principal shall verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority.
- If the interview is not at the request of the principal, the principal shall ascertain the authority of law enforcement to question or interview the student at the school. If the interview is by court order or other exigencies exist (concern about loss/damage of evidence, flight from jurisdiction, or health, safety, or welfare of the student or other students or staff), the principal has the discretion to allow the interview to take place. Otherwise, if law enforcement can reasonably interview the student at a time when the student is not in school, the principal may, absent a court order or warrant, deny the request for an immediate interview of a student.
- The principal will make reasonable efforts to notify parents unless the officer produces a court order prohibiting the notification of the parents.
- In the event that a parent cannot be present or cannot be reached, the principal will observe the interview.
- Law enforcement must comply with all legal requirements regarding notification of parents and consent prior to interviewing students.
- Social service workers may be permitted to interview students at a school consistent with Montana law. The principal will observe the meeting if the social service worker declines to notify the parents.
Students Taken Into Custody
State law requires the District to permit a student to be taken into legal custody by a law enforcement officer or probation officer to comply with a lawful court order, a warrant for arrest, or a law enforcement determination that probable cause exists for the arrest. To the extent practicable, the arrest should be conducted out of the view of other students in the administration offices. A social service worker may take custody of a student with a lawful court order or under the powers of MCA § 41-3- 301.
The principal will immediately notify the Superintendent and will make reasonable attempts to notify a parent unless the officer or official produces a court order prohibiting the notification of the parents. Because the principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a custody action, notification will most likely be after the fact.
Service of Process
At times, law enforcement may seek to serve a student with a subpoena or other legal documents (i.e., complaint, summons). Absent a court order, the principal has the discretion to determine whether service at school is disruptive to the educational environment. If service is directed by a court or is not disruptive to the educational environment, the principal will make reasonable attempts to contact the parents regarding the service. Where the principal has determined that service would be disruptive to the educational environment, the principal will make a reasonable attempt to coordinate with law enforcement to serve the student when school is not in session. Service on a student will be accomplished out of the view of other students in the administration offices.
Video Surveillance
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE
Special Services
- Guidance & Counseling Services
- Title I: A School Wide Program
- Special Education
- Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Guidance & Counseling Services
GUIDANCE & COUNSELING SERVICES
Title I: A School Wide Program
TITLE I: A SCHOOL WIDE PROGRAM
A school-wide program is a strategy for implementing comprehensive school change. A school-wide program permits a high poverty school (40% or more) to use funds from Title I, Part A and other federal education program funds and resources with regular and state resources to upgrade the entire educational program of the school in order to raise academic achievement for all students. Research has shown that for lowest achieving students in highest poverty schools to meet high standards of performance, their entire instructional program, not just a separate Title I program, (or other programs) must be substantially improved.
Special Education
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973
Stolen Items
STOLEN ITEMS
It is suggested that students keep valuable items at home, as the school cannot be responsible for items that are lost or stolen while the student is at school or at school-related activities. Please be aware that the school cannot perform random searches without reasonable suspicion in the event personal property is stolen.
SCHOOL - PARENT COMPACT - Please sign and return
RBHI MENTAL WELLNESS - Please Read and Choose
RBHI Mental Wellness Screening Information
Thompson Falls Schools and RBHI Mental Wellness Screening
wellness screening will become another essential and valuable part of school health and academic screening for all students. Mental health challenges are no different than physical health or academic challenges a child might face. They are discoverable via screening. They are treatable, especially when detected early.
Individuals with good mental well-being have energy, happiness, pride, healthy relationships, and resilience. These are traits that our school tries to foster in students. Persons with lower mental well-being may experience anxiety, fear, depression, sadness, or shame. Some may feel a burden to others. Some may feel life itself is difficult or impossible. This may place them at higher risk of suicide. Our school wants to help these students have a better life experience. First, we must identify which students need extra support.
WHY SCREEN FOR MENTAL WELL-BEING?
Schools often use validated screeners to measure a student’s skills and knowledge. Academic and health screenings help students, families, and providers learn how well school and health care programs are working. They also identify students who might need extra help. Without routine screening, teachers often would not know that a particular student or group of students needs extra help with a particular aspect of learning. For example, dividing fractions or hearing the sound breaks in words are more difficult for some students. Likewise, screening for height, weight, vision, hearing, and dental screenings help determine if students are physically healthy.
Screening for mental health issues measures a critical aspect of children’s overall health. It can help measure of the effectiveness of the school’s approach to mental health. It also provides an effective way to find out if a student is in need of help. This is important because not all students experiencing mental health issues have outward signs. Many do not tell anyone they are struggling. Such issues negatively impact
happiness, relationships, behavior, health, safety, and academic performance.
Many of our students experience social, mental, and emotional well-being. However, here, and nationwide, at least 1 in 5 students experience a significant mental health issue during their school years. In Montana, rates of youth suicide have regularly been among the highest in the country. We need to do more to help our children live their fullest lives. The good news is that mental health issues are like any other health issue,
such as learning healthy eating habits or taking insulin to treat diabetes. They are usually very treatable, especially if detected early. Additionally, students experiencing mental health issues can be taught skills that will help prevent or lessen the severity of future mental health issues.
Our school carefully examined whether screening poses any risk to students. For example, we looked into whether asking about students’ mental health could cause a student to become suicidal, make thoughts of suicide worse, or increase the risk of suicide attempt. This is called “iatrogenic risk.” All 17 studies looking at iatrogenic risk among those with suicidal thoughts or behaviors have shown that there is no risk associated with mental health screening. Just as math screenings do not cause math learning difficulties, mental health screening does not cause mental health issues.
HOW DOES SCREENING WORK?
Our school is working with a local nonprofit, Rural Behavioral Health Institute (RBHI), which specializes in digital school-based mental health screening. RBHI works closely with MERET Solutions, a leader in mental health screening for the medical industry. RBHI and MERET Solutions received a grant that will provide free computerized mental health screening to all 6th -12th grade students in our school in the 2024-2025 school year.
Our school will also provide opportunities for students and their families to give feedback about their experience. Please see the consent form attached to this letter. The form requests your permission for your child to participate in the screening. The consent forms will be collected by the school secretaries. School and healthcare officials hope that all families will want to be a part of the screening. It will help identify and offer help to any students who may need extra support. It will also help the school determine how well programs are working. Each student will be assigned a unique code. This will keep results strictly confidential. The day of screening, students will logon with a computer or smartphone and enter their
codes to access the screener. The screener takes about 5 to 15 minutes. Any student who wishes to stop during the process of screening will be told they can before screening starts.
Only the school counselors will have access to the codes associated with the students’ names. They will only access an individual student’s results if the results indicate the student could benefit from additional support. Parents and guardians may request their child’s results. The parent or guardian may also grant permission for the school to share their child’s result with their doctor or therapist. In the unlikely event that a student is in danger of self-harming and the parent or guardian is unreachable, the school counselor will alert the Crisis Response Team. The team will begin working with the student to further assess risk and maximize the student’s safety.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS THE CONSENT FORM GOOD FOR THE WHOLE YEAR?
Yes, the consent form is for the 2024-2025 school year. Parents and guardians or the student may decide at any time not to participate. If time allows and in coming school years, we may ask students to take the screener twice during the year. This will probably be once a semester. The reason we want students to take the screener more than once is that it will give us a better idea of how students are feeling over time. Sometimes a student has a bad day, goes through a breakup, or has a fight with a friend. A student may indicate they have symptoms of anxiety or depression or thoughts of suicide when under stress. Later, the student may feel much better. Screening will help us find the students who aren’t feeling better to make sure they receive the support they need.
IS SCREENING SAFE?
Yes. There has been a lot of research on screening for mental health in children and adolescents. All the research shows that asking whether someone is experiencing thoughts about depression, anxiety, or suicide does NOT cause suicide or make a youth feel worse. To the contrary, students often report they feel better knowing support is available if they need it.
WHAT IS IN THE SCREENER?
There are 4 assessments, all validated for youth 6th grade on up.
- Suicide risk – eC-SSRS (electronic Columbia – Suicide Severity Risk Scale)
- Recommended by the FDA as gold standard suicide risk survey
- Varied number of questions (number depends on answers) about suicidal thoughts, suicidal plans, and suicide attempts
- Depression symptoms – Patient Health Questionnaire (Adolescent Version)
- 9 questions about common symptoms of depression and how frequently in the past 2 weeks a student had them, if ever
- Depression is a major risk factor for suicide.
- 11% of adolescents will have had depression by the time they are 18.
- Anxiety symptoms – General Anxiety Disorder Scale
- 7 questions about common symptoms of anxiety and how frequently in the past 2 weeks a student had them, if ever
- Anxiety is a major risk factor for suicide.
- 32% of youth have had anxiety by age 18.
- It is possible your child might feel uncomfortable or tired answering some of the questions in the screener. Your child may refuse to answer any of the questions, take a break, or stop taking the screener at any time.
- Any time information is collected there is a small potential risk of unplanned sharing of an individual’s personal information. Every effort will be made to keep your child’s information confidential. Your child will be given a code to use instead of her/his name. All data will be anonymous unless there is immediate risk of self-harm. If this occurs, your child’s screening will be shared with the crisis response team. There will be no way for anyone outside the designated person(s) at the school to link your child’s name to the data your child provides in the questionnaire.
- The school, RBHI, and MERET Solutions will make every effort to protect your child’s privacy using one-way encrypted data. This is like the system used by healthcare providers for patient records.
- RBHI and MERET Solutions will never have access to the identities associated with the data.
- Your child’s data will never be sold.
WHO DO I CONTACT ABOUT THIS INTERVENTION IF I HAVE QUESTIONS?
Please contact Rob Christensen at rchristensen@tfalls.org or 406-827-3561.
DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE TO TAKE PART IN SCREENING?
No. This screening is considered part of the school’s health program. While we view this as one of several helpful health screenings and encourage all students to participate, if you do not want your child to participate in screening, they do not have to.
WHAT ABOUT FUTURE USE OF DATA AND RE-CONTACT?
The screener data will not be kept in the student’s cumulative file or on the student information system. However, there will be a flag placed in Infinite Campus that alerts the school and parents that a record of the data exists on the MERET server.
Our school district may do different analyses using grouped data. No individual students will ever be identified except to provide them care. For example, we may want to know how many students show signs of depression. We may want to determine if depression symptoms improve after an intervention is done in the school. We may share grouped data with other school districts in Montana to compare how our students are doing and how our programming compares. RBHI may share summarized data from schools with funders or in public talks about the program but will NEVER use our school’s name or the name of any student.
If you change your mind and do not want us to keep your child’s screening information, please call or email the school office. You and your child will not be identified in any report about the intervention. Your child’s data can be deleted permanently at any time.
RBHI Informed Consent for Screening
* Required