Student Handbook

To Students and Parents:

The DeSmet School District Student Handbook contains information that students and parents
are likely to need during the school year. The handbook is organized alphabetically by topic.
Throughout the handbook, the term “the student’s parent” is used to refer to the parent, legal
guardian, or other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student.
The Student Handbook is designed to be in harmony with Board policy. Please note that
references to policy codes are included to help parents confirm current policy. A copy of the
District’s Policy Manual is available in the school office.

Welcome to DeSmet School District. This handbook is to acquaint you with the organization,
policies, and procedures of your school. You and your parents must read this handbook and sign
the accompanying signature card for return to the School office. The rules governing our school
are a result of the combined efforts of the Board of Trustees, Administration, faculty, students,
and community. We sincerely hope that each of you will have a successful and enjoyable year.

Matt Driessen, Ed.S., Superintendent

The Board of Trustees would like to extend an invitation to students, parents and community
members to come to board meetings throughout the school year and summer. We would also like
to encourage you to share with us your concerns, ideas, and general comments. We will be
available to listen to and we will provide guidance on how to get your concerns addressed
through the proper channels.

Heather Burgad/Trustee
Synthia Slay-Wendell
Brock Belgarde
Sigrid Sheie
Hollie Timmons

The DeSmet 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:

Matthew Driessen, Title IX Coordinator
6355 Padre Avenue, Missoula, MT 59808
406-549-4994

Inquiries may also be directed to the Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education.

Regular school attendance is essential for the student to make the most of his or her education —
to benefit from teacher-led activities, to build each day’s learning on that of the previous day, and
to grow as an individual. The District permits resident students of school age who are enrolled in
a nonpublic or home school to enroll part-time in a District school at the parent’s request.

▪ A student between the ages of 7 and 16 must attend school unless the student is otherwise
legally exempted or excused. A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her
sixteenth birthday is required to attend each school day.
▪ A student who persistently does not attend school for the day or any part of the school day
equivalent to the length of one class period is truant and may be subject to disciplinary
action. Truancy may also result in assessment of a penalty by a court of law against the
student and his or her parents. The District’s Attendance Officer may request a meeting with
the truant student’s parent or legal guardian to develop a truancy plan in the event of
continued truancy.
▪ The principal or designee will attempt to contact a student’s parent, guardian, or legal
custodian by the end of the school day in order to inform him or her of the student’s absence
if no excuse has been offered. See Policy 3120, 3122.

When a student is absent from school, the parent/guardian must call the school 406-549-4994
any time after 7:30 a.m. to notify the school of the absence or at least 30 minutes before the start
of the student’s school day if enrolled on a part-time basis. If the parent/guardian does not call,
the district personnel will call home when an absence has occurred. If contact has been made
with the parent/guardian, it will not be necessary for the parent/guardian to send a written excuse
with the student upon his/her returning to school, unless requested by the administration. If no
contact was made, the student will have one (1) day to bring a note, or the absence will be
unexcused.

A student who is absent for any reason other than an unexcused absence should promptly make
up specific assignments missed and/or complete additional in-depth student assigned by the
teacher. A student who does not make up assigned work within the time allotted by the teacher
will receive a grade of zero for the assignment.

Types of absences
● Class time is important. Doctor’s appointments should be scheduled, if possible, at times
when the student will not miss instructional time.
● Students may leave school during the day only if they check out at the office. A parent or
legal guardian must send a note or call the office to request the student be excused from
school. The secretary will notify the student. Prior to leaving the building, students must
sign the check-out clipboard in the office. When the student returns to school, s/he must
sign back into the building on the same clipboard.
● Students are not to arrive at school before 8:05, unless the student has a pass from a
classroom teacher and arrangements have been made. The instructional day begins
every day at 8:17 AM with the Pledge to the Flag.
● School ends at 3:30 for EK-8 students each day, except on Thursdays. Dismissal is at
2:30 for EK-8 each Thursday. There are other special early out days that are marked on
the calendar.
● parent excuse from instruction/assemblies/events that offend the parent’s beliefs or
practices,

Attendance Intervention

§ At the beginning of each school year, the attendance intervention committee will confer
regarding students who have had attendance issues in the past. This will provide an
opportunity for proactive intervention by the school and the family of the student.
§ Students accruing six (6) or more absences in a semester will be considered at-risk for
developing chronic absenteeism. A sixth absence in a semester will result in an
attendance letter to the parent and a referral to the attendance intervention committee for
review. Unexcused absences may result in a referral to the attendance intervention team
prior to the sixth absence. The attendance intervention committee may, at any time,
intervene on behalf of student considered to be at-risk as a result of attendance issues.
§ A student accruing ten (10) or more absences in a semester will be considered
chronically absent. The school principal or designee will contact the student’s
parent/guardian to confer regarding attendance interventions. Students accruing excessive
absences may have class credit placed on hold until an appropriate attendance
intervention plan has been developed and implemented. Chronic absenteeism may result
in a referral to Child and Family Services, or the SRO (student resource officer) and
may be referred to the Missoula County Attorney, as a child truant from school, in
accordance with Section 20-5-106, MCA.
§ Please report absences by calling the DeSmet School office at 549-4994. A message
may be left after school hours. The parent or guardian must contact the school by note or
telephone before 9:00 a.m. on the day when the child will be out of school.
§ When a child has not arrived at school by 9:00 a.m. and there has been no note or
telephone call, the school will make every effort to contact the parent or guardian.
§ Please attempt to schedule your vacation to coincide with scheduled school holidays.

Human Sexuality or Identity Instruction Absence

A student may be withdrawn or absent from a class period, assembly, school function, or other
instruction at the request of a parent/guardian/other person responsible for human sexuality
instruction. Human sexuality instruction is instruction that has the goal or purpose of studying,
exploring, or informing students about intimate relationships, sexual anatomy, sexual
reproduction, sexually transmitted infections, sexual acts, abstinence, contraception, or
reproductive rights and responsibilities. These absences do not count toward the student’s
discretionary 10-day total.

Written consent from the parent or legal guardian is required prior to any student attending
identity instruction. Identity instruction is instruction that has the goal or purpose of studying,
exploring, or informing students about gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation.
A student is excused from not attending identity instruction unless the student’s parent/guardian
provided written consent for the student to be in attendance prior to the instruction.
The District will provide parents/guardians with at least five (5) school days’ notice (but not
more than 14 school days notice) before human sexuality or identity instruction is scheduled to
occur.

Excused Absences

Absences from school may be excused only for the following reasons:
· Personal illness
· Documented appointments with health care professionals (including but not limited
to outside counselors) that cannot be made outside of the regular school day
· Legal appointments
· Emergency family situations – such as bereavement
· Planned absences for personal or educational purposes, which have been previously
approved

Unexcused Absences

Any other absence is considered unexcused. An unexcused absence is an absence from class or
classes in a single day without a valid or verified excuse from the parent or guardian, or
approved by school staff. Forged notes and fraudulent telephone calls will result in the absence
being considered unexcused. Unexcused absences may result in loss of daily classroom credit.

Tardiness

A child who arrives in the building after 8:25 AM (unless s/he rode a bus that arrived late, or has
a prearranged notice of absence) will be considered tardy. Students arriving before 10:15 AM
will be considered tardy; students arriving after 10:15 AM or leaving before 2:00 PM will be
counted one half-day absent. A student coming in tardy should report first to the office, then to
his/her classroom where the teacher will change any reporting information, i.e. hot lunch or
attendance.

Pre-Arrangement of Absences

Arrangements for excused absences other than emergencies must be made in advance. Students
should bring a signed written note to the office or have their parent/guardian call the school at
least one day prior to scheduled absences. It is the student’s responsibility to arrange with their
teachers to make up for missed work.

Reporting Daily Absences

No absence will be excused unless the school receives either a phone call or a note, signed and
dated by the parent, detailing the reason for the student’s absence. This note and/or phone call
must be received no later than two days after the student’s return to school.

When a child is going to be absent from school, a parent/guardian should telephone the school
prior to 9:00 AM on the day of the absence. If the school is not notified by 9:00, the school
secretary will call the parent/guardian in regards to the absence. For the safety of the student, it is
important that both school and parents know where a student is on a school day.

Guidelines for Make-Up Work

Upon returning to school after an excused absence or tardy, a student will have the same number
of days to make up missed work as the number of days s/he was absent. School work not turned
in to the teacher within the time specified may result in the assignment receiving a lower grade
or no credit. In the case of a prolonged absence, a deadline shall be mutually agreed upon by the
teacher, student and, if necessary, the principal.

The student is responsible for contacting teachers about assignments missed during absences.
The student will receive full credit for work made up after an excused absence, if completed
before the deadline. Parents may request makeup work for an absent child, and that request
should be made upon the reporting of the absence. The assignments will be ready at the office by
3:00 PM the same day. Requests made after 9:00 AM on the day of the absence will be ready the
next school day.

Bullying (including cyberbullying), harassment, intimidation, or hazing, by students, staff, or
third parties, is strictly prohibited and shall not be tolerated. Bullying does not include the
determination after an investigation that the students used reasonable and necessary physical
force as self-defense or the defense of another in response to a physical attack.

All complaints about behavior that may violate this policy shall be promptly investigated.

Retaliation is prohibited against any person who reports or is thought to have reported a
violation, files a complaint, or otherwise participates in an investigation or inquiry.

For additional information, please see Policy 3225.

IF A STUDENT RIDES A BIKE TO SCHOOL, S/HE MUST PARK IT IN THE DESIGNATED BICYCLE RACKS AND
SECURE IT WITH A LOCK. PROPER HEAD GEAR IS REQUIRED, PLEASE WEAR A HELMET WHILE RIDING YOUR
BIKE TO SCHOOL. A PARENT NOTE IS REQUIRED EVERY YEAR TO RIDE A BIKE TO SCHOOL OR TO WALK TO
SCHOOL.

The possession and use of cellular phones, pagers, and other electronic signaling devices on
school grounds, at school-sponsored activities, or while otherwise under the supervision and
control of District employees is a privilege.

Cell phones must be turned off and in the locker or with students’ homeroom teachers
between 8:20am and 3:30pm each day. Lunch is not an exception.

Students are prohibited from operating a cell phone or other electronic device (or camera
embedded in such device) while in a locker room, bathroom, or any other location where the
privacy rights of others may be violated. Students may not use cell phones, pagers, or other
electronic signaling devices during classes unless such use is under the direction of certified staff
for educational purposes.

Unauthorized possession or use of these devices is grounds for confiscation. Repeated
unauthorized use will result in disciplinary action. Depending on the nature of the unauthorized
use, the student’s parents and/or law enforcement may be contacted and the student’s cell phone
may be searched.

Parents and students are expressly prohibited from using covert means to listen-in or make a
recording (audio or video) of any meeting or activity at school. This includes placing recording
devices, or other devices with one- or two-way audio communication technology (i.e.,
technology that allows a person off-site to listen to live conversations and sounds taking place in
the location where the device is located), within a student’s book bag/backpack, on the student’s
person or otherwise in an area capable of listening in or recording without express written
consent of the Superintendent. Any requests to place a recording device or other device with oneor two-way audio communication technology within a student’s book bag/backpack or on a
student’s person shall be submitted, in writing, to the Superintendent along with an explanation
of why such recording is necessary. The Superintendent or a designee shall notify the parent(s),
in writing, whether such request is denied or granted within five (5) school days. Where consent
has been given by the Superintendent, the Principal must be given access by the parent to be a
school guardian on the device. This will ensure any “Listen-In” feature is disabled during school
hours due to privacy concerns.

There is a clear expectation that all students will perform academic tasks with honor and
integrity, with the support of parents, staff, faculty, administration and the community. The
learning process requires students to think, process, organize and create their own ideas.
Throughout this process, students gain knowledge, self-respect and ownership of the work that
they do. These qualities provide a solid foundation for life skills, impacting people positively
throughout their lives. Cheating and plagiarism violate the fundamental learning process and
compromise personal integrity and one’s honor. Students demonstrate academic honesty and
integrity by not cheating, plagiarizing or using information unethically in any way.

What is cheating?

Cheating or academic dishonesty can take many forms, but always involves the improper taking
of information from or giving information to another student, individual, or other source.
Examples of cheating can include, but are not limited to:
· Taking or copying answers on a test or any other assignment from another
student or source
· Giving answers on a test or any other assignment to another student
· Having parents/siblings/others do assignments and turning it in as original
work
· Copying assignments that are turned in as original work
· Collaborating on tests, assignments, papers, or projects without teacher
permission
· Allowing others to do the research or writing for an assigned paper or project
· Using unauthorized electronic devices
· Falsifying data or lab results, including changing grades electronically

What is plagiarism?

Plagiarism is a common form of cheating or academic dishonesty in the school setting. It is
representing another person’s work or ideas as your own without giving credit to the proper
source and submitting it for any purpose. Examples of plagiarism can include, but are not limited
to:
· Submitting someone else’s work, such as published sources in part or whole,
as your own without giving credit to the source
· Turning in purchased papers or papers from the Internet written by someone
else
· Representing another person’s artistic or scholarly works such as musical
compositions, computer programs, photographs, drawings, or paintings as your
own
· Helping others plagiarize by giving them your work

All members of the school community have a responsibility in maintaining academic honesty.
Educators must provide the tools and teach the concepts that afford all students the knowledge to
understand the characteristics of cheating and plagiarism. Parents must support their students in
making good decisions relative to completing coursework assignments and taking exams.
Students must produce work that is theirs alone, recognizing the importance of thinking for
themselves and learning independently, when that is the nature of the assignment. Adhering to
these standards for the purposes of academic honesty promotes essential skill that transcends
beyond the school environment. Honesty and integrity are useful and valuable character traits
impacting one’s life.

To protect children from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not
allowed to come to school while contagious. Parents of a student with a communicable or
contagious disease should phone the school nurse or principal so that other students who may
have been exposed to the disease can be alerted.

These diseases include, but are not limited to:
Amebiasis
Campylobacteriosis
Chickenpox
Diphtheria
Gastroenteritis
Hepatitis
Influenza
Measles (Rubeola)
Meningitis
Coronavirus
Mumps
Pinkeye
Ringworm of the scalp
Rubella (German Measles)
Scabies
Shigellosis
Streptococcal disease, invasive
Tuberculosis
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)

Usually student 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 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 desmetschool.org or any District or school office or by contacting the
Title IX Coordinator.

Students shall use the Section 504 Grievance Procedure to address complaints/concerns
about disability discrimination. A copy of the Section 504 Grievance Procedures can be
obtained on the District’s website desmetschool.org or any District or school office or by
contacting Matthew Driessen, Superintendent, 406-549-4994.

Computer resources, including the District’s electronic networks, are an integral part of the
District’s instructional program. Use of these resources is a privilege, not a right. Students have
no expectation of privacy in material that is stored, transmitted, or received via the District’s
electronic networks or the District’s computers. General rules for behavior and communications
apply when using the District’s computer resources. Students must sign the Authorization for
Electronic Access Agreement prior to being authorized to use the District’s computer resources.
See Appendices B (K-6) and C (7-12) for the forms. For additional information, see Policy
2168, 3612.

In order for students to take advantage of available learning opportunities and to be productive
members of our campus community, each student is expected to:

Demonstrate courtesy — even when others do not.

Behave in a responsible manner and exercise self-discipline.

Attend all classes, regularly and on time.

Prepare for each class; take appropriate materials and assignments to class.

Meet District or building standards of grooming and dress.

Obey all building and classroom rules.

Respect the rights and privileges of other students, teachers, and other District staff.

Respect the property of others, including District property and facilities.

Cooperate with or assist the school staff in maintaining safety, order, and discipline.

Applicability of School Rules and Discipline

To achieve the best possible learning environment for all our students, the DeSmet School
District’s rules and discipline will apply:
▪ 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 that bears
a reasonable relationship to school;
▪ Traveling to and from school or a school activity, function or event; and
▪ Anywhere, including virtual networks, if conduct may reasonably be considered to be a
threat or an attempted intimidation of a staff member, an interference with school purposes or
an educational function, or a threat to the safety and welfare of the student population, or
conduct that detrimentally effects the climate or efficient operations of the school.

Violation of Student Code of Conduct

A student is in violation of the Student Code of Conduct if the student engages in any
inappropriate behavior, including but not limited to:
▪ Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling tobacco, vapor products, or marijuana
products (tobacco includes, but is not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, snuff, smoking tobacco,
smokeless tobacco, alternative nicotine product, or any other tobacco or nicotine innovation;
marijuana products include but are not limited to edible products, ointments, tinctures,
marijuana derivatives, marijuana concentrates, and marijuana intended for use by smoking or
vaping);
▪ Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling alcoholic beverages.
▪ Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling marijuana (including medical
marijuana).
▪ Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling illegal drugs or controlled substances,
look-alike drugs, and drug paraphernalia.
▪ Using, possessing, controlling, or transferring a weapon in violation of the “Possession of a
Weapon in a School Building” section of this policy.
▪ Using, possessing, controlling, or transferring any object that reasonably could be considered
or used as a weapon.
▪ Disobeying directives from staff or disobeying rules governing student conduct.
▪ Using violence, force, coercion, intimidation or other comparable conduct toward anyone or
urging other students to engage in such conduct except when physical force is determined to
be reasonable and necessary and used as self-defense or the defense of another person after
an investigation into such conduct.
▪ Causing or attempting to cause damage to, or stealing or attempting to steal, school property
or another person’s property.
▪ Engaging in any activity that constitutes an interference with school purposes or an
educational function or any other disruptive activity.
▪ Unexcused absenteeism.
▪ Misconduct of any sort on any means of District transportation.
▪ Bullying, hazing, harassment (including sexual harassment), or intimidation, including
cyberbullying.
▪ Forging any signature or making any false entry or attempting to authorize any document
used or intended to be used in connection with the operation of a school.
▪ Engaging in dishonesty in academic work, including but not limited to plagiarism, cheating,
unauthorized use of artificial intelligence applications to complete school work, submitting
work generated by artificial intelligence as original work, or any other form of academic
dishonesty.

Gun-Free Schools/Firearms

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.

An administrator may immediately suspend a student if there is cause to believe the student
brought a firearm to school or possessed a firearm at school prior to any board hearing on a
recommendation for expulsion. If there is a recommendation to expel a student for bringing a
firearm to school or possessing a firearm at school, the trustees shall notify the adult student or
parent/guardian of a minor student in a clear and timely manner that the student may waive his or
her privacy right by requesting the hearing be held in public and may invite other individuals to
attend the hearing. At a due process hearing on the recommendation for expulsion due to a
student bringing a firearm to school or possessing a firearm at school, there shall be a
presentation of a summary of the information leading to the allegations and an opportunity for
the student to respond to the allegations. The Board of Trustees is permitted to expel a student
only when the trustees determine that the student knowingly (had knowledge of the facts)
brought a firearm to school or possessed a firearm at school.

The Board of Trustees is not required to expel a student who has brought a firearm or possessed
a firearm at school as long as the firearm is secured in a locked container approved by the
District or in a locked motor vehicle the entire time the firearm is at school unless the firearm is
in use for a school-sanctioned instructional activity.

If a student is determined by trustees to not have knowingly brought or possessed a firearm at
school, the student’s record will be expunged of the incident.

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 use, reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for other students, school
personnel, or other persons, or for the purpose of self-defense.

Academic Counseling

Students and parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to
learn about course offerings, the graduation requirements of various programs, and early
graduation procedures. Each spring, students in grades 6 through 8 will be provided information
on anticipated course offerings for the next year and other information that will help them make
the most of academic and vocational opportunities. [See Graduation Requirements on page
25,26]

Students who are interested in attending a college, university, or training school or pursuing
some other type of advanced education should work closely with their counselor so that they take
the high school courses that best prepare them. The counselor can also provide information about
entrance examinations and deadlines for application, as well as information about automatic
admission to state colleges and universities, financial aid, housing, and scholarships.

Personal Counseling

School counselors are available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns,
including such areas as social, family, or emotional issues, or substance abuse. Counselors may
also make available information about community resources to address these concerns. Students
who wish to meet with a counselor should contact Caitie Bloom, 406-549-4994.

Please note: The school will not conduct a psychological examination, test, or treatment without
first obtaining the parent’s written consent, unless required by state or federal law. The school
will notify the parent or guardian of the right to opt a student out of a mental health screening
and will be notified of any issues or concerns resulting from a mental health screening.

Comprehensive School and Community Treatment Services (CSCT)

The District contracts with Yellowstone Boys and Girls to provide CSCT services. CSCT
services may be available to qualify students who demonstrate a need for certain mental health
services in school. If you have questions about Yellowstone Boys and Girls or CSCT, please call
the school at 549-4994 to set an appointment.

Students who violate District policies, rules, and directives are subject to discipline at the
discretion of District administration. Discipline may include referrals, detention, in-school
suspension, out-of-school suspension, and expulsion. Administrators have the discretion to
impose, or in the case of expulsion, recommend, the level of discipline deemed appropriate for
the misconduct.

Suspension

An administrator has the authority to suspend a student for up to ten (10) school days. The
student is entitled to oral or written notification of the charges and is entitled to the opportunity
to provide his or her version. Immediate suspension when the student’s presence poses a
continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disruption to the educational
process may occur without notice or the opportunity to be heard provided that notice and the
opportunity to be heard shall follow as soon as practicable. Written notice of the suspension
containing a statement of its basis and notice of the right to a review of the suspension will be
sent to the parents as soon as possible. At the request of the parents, the Superintendent will
review the appropriateness of the suspension. The decision of the Superintendent is final.

An administrator has the authority to extend a suspension for an additional ten (10) school days.
Prior to extending the suspension beyond the original length not to exceed ten days, the
administrator must hold an informal hearing with the student and determine that the student’s
immediate return to the school would be detrimental to the health, welfare, or safety of others, or
would be disruptive to the educational process.

Expulsion

Expulsion is any removal of a student for more than twenty (20) school days without the
provision of educational services. Only the Board has the authority to expel a student after
holding a hearing that provides the student with an opportunity to be heard. After an
investigation into the student’s conduct, the administrator must send a written notice to the
parents regarding the recommendation to expel the student, the specific charges against the
student and supporting evidence, a description of the rule or regulation broken, the date, time,
and location of the board hearing, a copy of the Board’s procedure, and a description of the
student’s and parents’ rights at the hearing.

Students With Disabilities

Students with rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 may be suspended in the same manner as students without those
rights or expelled under certain circumstances, but prior to the imposition of either penalty, the
District must follow all procedural requirements of those Acts, including holding a manifestation
determination meeting when necessary, as required by these Acts.

School Materials

All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, sponsor, and the principal and are
part of the curriculum. School officials have the discretion to edit or delete material which is
inconsistent with the District’s educational mission. School-sponsored groups are permitted to
distribute materials directly to students upon approval of the building Principal or
Superintendent.

Non-School Materials

Written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual
or auditory materials may not contain material that is obscene, libelous, invasive of the privacy
of others, substantially disruptive to the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school
or school activities, or which advocates conduct inconsistent with the shared values of civilized
social order are not permitted. Outside groups, including governmental agencies, parent and
student organizations not sponsored by the school, and community organizations are permitted to
display their materials on a centrally-located bulletin board and/or table available for the
displaying of these materials.

Any student who posts material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action.
Prior approval must be obtained before displaying these materials. Materials should be
submitted to the front office at least one week prior to the requested distribution.

The purpose of DeSmet Public School District’s Student Dress Code Policy is to clearly define acceptable
student attire. The objective of the policy is to promote an atmosphere for academic success while
recognizing significant freedom of student choice and expression. The administration respects the right of
students to express themselves in word or symbol and to distribute and or display materials as part of that
expression. The right is limited, however, by the need to maintain an orderly school environment and to
respect the rights of all members of the school community. While our goal is to maintain consistency
throughout the district, it is important to note that the following policy may be supplemented by specific
building rules.

1. Hats, hoods and sunglasses may not be worn during the school day. Any headwear worn must
have a necessary function and be approved in advance by administration.
2. The length and style of hair (both facial and head) and jewelry shall be limited if it constitutes
a health or safety hazard or if it is harmful to the building or equipment. In both cases, the
student may be required to wear some type of protective covering or remove jewelry.
3. No exposed midriffs will be permitted. Shirts must cover the midriff on all sides.
4. No exposed cleavage or torso will be permitted.
5. Straps such as those found on tank tops, muscle shirts, halter tops, tube tops and/or spaghetti
strap tops are not permitted. Tops that expose the back or parts of undergarments are not
permitted.
6. All clothing must conceal undergarments. Shirts that reveal undergarments, whether due to
the transparency, length, or lack of coverage of the shirt are not permitted. Pants must be worn at
the waist and completely cover the buttocks area. Pants may not be worn in such a way as to
expose underwear or skin around the midsection.
7. The bottom hem or edge of shorts may be no shorter than the end of your fingertip when
standing. The bottom hem or edge of skirts and dresses may be no shorter than 3 inches above the
knee.
8. Any article of clothing with a printed message, word, or phrase may not contain profanity,
obscenity, or the promotion of any illegal activity or violence. Likewise, any article of clothing
with a picture or graphic may not be obscene or promote any illegal activity or violence. Any
article of clothing that is deemed inappropriate, offensive or a distraction to the educational
environment by a staff member will be required to be changed.
9. No coats or outdoor jackets may be worn in the building unless approved in advance by
administration.
10. Skintight and close-fitting clothing is not permitted. Leggings, yoga pants, or similar tight
pants worn alone are not permitted. Wearing leggings under shorts, skirts, tunic length shirts or
dresses is permitted if these items are the proper length.
11. No pajamas or sleepwear may be worn.
12. The length and style of accessories shall be limited if they constitute a health or safety hazard
or if they are harmful to the building or equipment. In both cases, the student may be required to
remove the accessory.
13. Footwear must be worn. Safety considerations may dictate the type of footwear worn in
specific classes or school settings. Sandals must have a heel strap.
14. All clothing must be free of holes, cuts, tears and/or rips that expose undergarments or skin.
15. Exceptions of the above dress code policies for accepted religious reasons will be allowed.

Students who do not follow the Dress Code may be asked to change clothes or remove accessories. If the
student does not have appropriate alternative clothing at school, it may be necessary for parents to bring
appropriate attire or accompany students home to change. The school may also provide appropriate clean
clothing if necessary and available. Repeated dress code infractions may result in additional consequences
as noted below in alignment with the district discipline code.

Consequences:

First Offense: Student required to change, warning issued and contact with parents.
Second Offense: Student required to change, assigned to detention or community service, phone contact
with parents.
Third and Subsequent Offenses: Student required to change, assigned to detention/community service or
other disciplinary action, phone contact with parents. Continued violations of the dress code policy will
result in a parent conference and may require removal from classes and/or suspension.

District Policy on Masks

Face masks are part of the dress code policy at DeSmet ISD #20. The importance of wearing a mask to
combat the spread of infectious diseases cannot be understated. When the school administration or
county health departments deem it necessary to wear protective face coverings, apparel will be approved
by the school administration and county health department, students, staff and visitors will be required to
adhere to the policy they recommend.

Mask protocols will be enforced at the bus stop, on the bus and on school grounds. Consequences of a
failure to follow the protocols could include tier one, two, or three consequences. (see appendix pages
46-47) Other consequences may include the student being referred to offsite instruction, or a change of
placement inside the school for instruction.

Participation in extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations is a worthwhile endeavor to
enhance students’ development and educational experience. Specific eligibility and conduct
rules may be adopted regarding participation in activities, clubs, and organizations.

The DeSmet Elementary School offers the following school curricular and co-curricular clubs:

Student Council

The DeSmet Elementary School offers the following extracurricular activities:

Sports offered at DeSmet School:
· Flag Football – Grades 5-8
· Basketball (Boys and Girls) – Grades 5-8
· Volleyball – Grades 5-8
· Track – Grades 5-8

(5th grade students may not be able to participate in all events, or play in all games, due to
Copper League rules and regulations)

Please refer to the [Code of Conduct or Student Activity Handbook]. Parent/guardian
permission is required for a child to participate in a school club and/or extracurricular activity
(Appendix E). Parents also have the right to withdraw their child from any club or extracurricular
activity.

Please note: Student clubs and performing groups such as the band, choir, and drill and athletic
teams may establish standards of behavior — including consequences for misbehavior — that
are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the
consequences specified by the administrator will apply in addition to any consequences specified
by the organization.

A student attending a nonpublic school or home school that meets the requirements under MCA
§ 20-5-109 may participate in extracurricular activities offered by DeSmet School District
subject to the student’s eligibility as set out in the Student Activities Handbook. The student’s
academic eligibility must be verified by the head administrator of the nonpublic school or
educator providing the student instruction in the home school as verified by the principal. Any
nonpublic or home school student seeking to participate in an extracurricular activity shall be
required to provide proof of identity and residence in the same form as a student enrolling in
school in order to establish residency. Parental permission must be obtained for the student to
participate in the extracurricular activity.

Student participation in any extracurricular activity sponsored by DeSmet Public School District
#20 is a privilege and a learning experience. Therefore, all students who choose to participate
shall be required to comply with the following eligibility requirements:

I. Participation Eligibility to be eligible to participate in extracurricular
activities during any season (fall, winter, spring) a student is required to participate in
all practice sessions and competitions. The coach or director of the activity may allow
exceptions to this policy for excused absences.

II. Academic Eligibility a weekly “F” list based on each student’s in-progress
grades shall be generated each Friday at 2:00 p.m. The eligibility period will begin
the following Monday morning, and will run for one week Monday through Sunday.
A student who receives ONE “F” on the weekly checklist will be on probation and
can practice and compete until the next grade check. If, at the next weekly grade
check, the student has at least one “F” the student immediately becomes ineligible to
participate in competition, but can practice at the discretion of the head coach. The
student will remain ineligible for competition until he or she is passing all the classes
at the time of the weekly grade check. If the ineligible student has no “F” grades on
the next grade report, he or she becomes eligible on the Monday following their week
of ineligibility. A student who receives more than one “F” on a weekly list shall
become ineligible immediately for both practice and competition and will remain
ineligible until he or she is passing all classes at the time of the weekly checklist. If a
student has more than one “F” for a semester, he or she shall be ineligible to practice
and participate for the following 4 weeks. Academic ineligibility may/shall result in
loss of participation as determined by the administration.

III. Conduct Eligibility a student, who because of violations of school district
rules and regulations or legal violations of federal or state law, is suspended from
school or is required to serve a full day of suspension, will not be allowed to
participate in extracurricular or co-curricular activities during the term of the
suspension. This ban on participation includes practice sessions, competitions, and
attendance of school sponsored activities. Legal violations may/shall result in loss of
participation as determined by the administration.

Alcohol & Illicit Drugs Use or Possession– Any student of DeSmet Public School
District #20 who uses or possesses any alcoholic beverages, tobacco or illicit drugs
(as defined in the District Board Policy #3050- Student Discipline) at any time during
the stated season of the activity in which the student desires to participate shall be
ineligible to participate in any such extracurricular activity as provided below,
including practice at the option of the coach or director, upon finding by the
administration of such use or possession during such stated season for the following
time periods:

i. For twenty (20) pupil instruction days upon the first violation of
this policy by the student; (10) pupil instruction days if self-reported. (All
suspensions begin the day that guilt is made known to or established by
the coach or administration.)
ii. For forty-five (45) pupil instruction days upon any subsequent
violation of this policy by the student.
iii. Any suspension that is not served completely before the end of a
school year will be carried over to the next school year for returning
student athletes. Seasons- Shall be concurrent with the MHSA calendar.
Procedure- Any coach, director, teacher, or other person who has
information of any violation of the policy shall immediately inform the
administration. The administration shall confront the suspected student
concerning the alleged violation as soon as possible. If the administration
finds that a student did violate the policy, immediate notice of the
violation and penalty imposed shall be given by phone or in person to the
parent or guardian with a confirming written notice mailed as soon as
possible.
iv. Other Rules The coach or director of any extracurricular activity
shall have the right to establish additional training or participation rules
and penalties in areas other than those covered by this policy, provided
such additional rules and penalties are in writing and pre-approved by the
administration to include the activities director and principal.
v. Prior Notice and Consent Before any student is allowed to
participate, including practice, he or she and parents or guardians shall
have the opportunity to read this policy and any additional rules or
penalties before the student consents in writing thereto. In the event the
student refuses to sign such written consent, the student shall not be
eligible to participate.
vi. This policy is in addition to and not in lieu of the student
alcohol/drug board policy and the student may be simultaneously subject
to the penalties and disciplinary actions provided by both policies. Finally,
nothing herein shall be construed as prohibiting the administration from
invoking any other penalty or disciplinary action for violation of this
policy or any

Please note: Student clubs and performing groups such as the band, choir, and drill and athletic
teams may establish standards of behavior — including consequences for misbehavior — that
are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the
consequences specified by the administrator will apply in addition to any consequences specified
by the organization.

A student attending a nonpublic school or home school that meets the requirements under MCA
§ 20-5-109 may participate in extracurricular activities offered by DeSmet School District
subject to the student’s eligibility as set out in the Student Activities Handbook. The student’s
academic eligibility must be verified by the head administrator of the nonpublic school or
educator providing the student instruction in the home school as verified by the principal.

Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds
and are at no charge to a student. A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own
pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits,
including:
▪ Costs for materials for a class project that the student will keep.
▪ Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to
extracurricular activities
▪ Personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel.
▪ Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation
announcements, etc.
▪ Voluntarily purchased student accident insurance.
▪ Musical instrument rental and uniform maintenance, when uniforms are provided by the
District.
▪ Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that becomes the property of the student.
▪ Parking fees and student identification cards.
▪ Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books.
▪ Fees for driver training courses, if offered.
▪ Fees for optional courses offered for credit that require use of facilities not available on
District premises.
▪ Summer school courses that are offered tuition free during the regular school year.

Any required fee or deposit may be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay.
Application for such a waiver may be made to the front office.

The District participates in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program and offers students
nutritionally-balanced and appealing meals daily. Free and reduced-price meals are available to
all students
Please refer to Policies 2510 and 8205 for additional information regarding the District’s
wellness program and its meal charging policy.

Student clubs or classes, outside organizations, and/or parent groups occasionally may be
permitted to conduct fund-raising drives for approved school purposes. An application for
permission must be made to the front office at least 20 days before the event.

Except as approved by the superintendent, fundraising by non-school groups is not permitted on
school property. Please refer to Policy 4210 for additional information.

Grades assigned by a teacher cannot be changed except by that teacher after discussions
involving the student, teacher, and administrator. Grades will comply with the following:

Kindergarten – 8th
4 – Exceeds Expectations (Developing beyond expectations)
3 – Meets Expectations (Developing appropriately)
2 – Nearing Expectations (Developing slowly)
1 – Below Expectations (Developing too slowly and needs to improve)
N/A – Not Assessed

GRADING GUIDELINES/REPORT CARDS, PROGRESS REPORTS, AND CONFERENCES

IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT PARENTS SEEK OUT INSTRUCTOR(S) EARLY IN THE TERM IN AN
EFFORT TO IDENTIFY SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS IN STUDENT EVALUATION, NOT COVERED IN
TEACHER NEWSLETTERS OR BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT. PLEASE KNOW THAT TEACHERS WILL
RESPOND TO PHONE CALLS AND E-MAILS IN A TIMELY MANNER. SHOULD A STUDENT’S
ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OR PROGRESS NOT MEET SCHOOL AND TEACHER EXPECTATIONS,
PARENTS ARE NOTIFIED. WE DO ENCOURAGE PARENTS TO INITIATE A CONFERENCE WHEN
THEY HAVE A CONCERN. REPORT CARDS ARE ISSUED AT THE CONCLUSION OF EACH QUARTER.
PARENT CONFERENCES ARE SCHEDULED IN THE FALL AND SPRING OF EACH YEAR. IN MIDDLE
SCHOOL, SOME ELECTIVE CLASSES WILL BE GRADED USING LETTER GRADES. THE FOLLOWING
GUIDELINES HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED TO ENSURE GRADING CONSISTENCY THROUGHOUT

REPORT CARDS

A SOUND AND COMPREHENSIVE REPORTING SYSTEM IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM AT DESMET SCHOOL. WE BELIEVE THAT THE HOME, THE SCHOOL
AND THE CHILD MUST FOR A SOLID BOND AIMED AT A COMMON TARGET – THE CHILD’S
DEVELOPMENT OF HIS/HER POTENTIAL. REPORT CARDS ARE GIVEN OUT AT THE END OF EACH
QUARTER, AND ARE DESIGNED TO MEASURE THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE CHILD IS ACHIEVING
THE COURSE OBJECTIVES. THE REPORTING PROGRAM CONSISTS OF REPORT CARDS, COMMENTS
WHEN APPROPRIATE, AND CONFERENCES. THE FIRST AND THIRD QUARTER REPORT CARDS ARE
SHARED WITH PARENTS/GUARDIANS AT CONFERENCE TIMES. THE SECOND AND FOURTH
QUARTER REPORT CARD IS MAILED HOME TO EACH STUDENT.

PROGRESS REPORTS

ALL TEACHERS WILL SEND HOME MIDTERM PROGRESS REPORTS THROUGHOUT THE QUARTER.
THIS REPORT WILL INDICATE WHETHER YOUR STUDENT IS CURRENTLY ON TRACK OR NOT,
AND PERHAPS WHAT SUPPORT CAN BE OFFERED. THE STUDENT’S SOCIAL BEHAVIOR WILL
ALSO BE INDICATED.
UNSATISFACTORY PROGRESS NOTICES (UPNS)
THESE NOTICES ARE SENT OUT MID-WAY THROUGH EACH QUARTER. THEY ARE SENT HOME IN
TIME FOR STUDENTS TO MAKE NECESSARY CHANGES IN PERFORMANCE/BEHAVIOR IN AND OUT
OF CLASS, IN ORDER TO IMPROVE GRADES. PARENTS WILL BE NOTIFIED WHEN UPN’S ARE
GOING TO BE SENT HOME.

PARENT/STUDENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

THESE CONFERENCES ARE SCHEDULED AT THE END OF EACH OF THE FIRST AND THIRD
QUARTER. WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO HAVE YOUR STUDENT ACCOMPANY YOU TO THE
CONFERENCE. CONFERENCES ARE SCHEDULED FOR THE FOLLOWING DATES:

NOVEMBER 13 – (12:45 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS)
NOVEMBER 14 – (NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS)
FEBRUARY 5 – (12:45 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS)
FEBRUARY 6 – (NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS)

GRADING GUIDELINES

GRADES ASSIGNED BY A TEACHER CANNOT BE CHANGED EXCEPT BY THAT TEACHER AFTER DISCUSSIONS
INVOLVING THE STUDENT, TEACHER, AND ADMINISTRATOR.

THE DECISION TO PROMOTE A STUDENT TO THE NEXT GRADE LEVEL SHALL BE BASED ON
SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF THE CURRICULUM, PERFORMANCE BASED ON STANDARDIZED
ASSESSMENTS OR OTHER TESTING, AND ATTENDANCE. A STUDENT SHALL NOT BE PROMOTED
BASED ON AGE OR OTHER SOCIAL REASON NOT RELATED TO ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE UNLESS
PROPERLY VETTED WITH THE HIGH SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION.

● PARTICIPATION IN BOTH EARLY KINDERGARTEN, KINDERGARTEN AND 8TH GRADE
PROMOTION CEREMONIES ARE PRIVILEGES EARNED BY STUDENTS THROUGHOUT THE
COURSE OF THE SCHOOL YEAR. STUDENTS NOT COMPLETING THE EXPECTED
REQUIREMENTS, BOTH BEHAVIORALLY AND ACADEMICALLY, WILL NOT BE ALLOWED
TO PARTICIPATE IN THESE SPECIAL EVENTS.
● ADMINISTRATION AND TEACHING STAFF WILL INFORM ANY
STUDENTS/PARENTS/GUARDIANS REGARDING ANY STUDENT WHO MAY NOT MEET
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADE PROMOTION AND PARTICIPATION IN PROMOTION
CEREMONIES.

ACTIVITIES

PARTICIPATION IN GRADUATION ACTIVITIES IS RESERVED FOR THOSE MEMBERS OF THE 8TH GRADE CLASS
WHO HAVE COMPLETED STATE AND DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION BEFORE THE
CEREMONY. GRADUATION ACTIVITIES WILL INCLUDE: EIGHTH GRADE FIELD TRIP (STUDENT COST AND
FUNDRAISING FOR PARTICIPATION IS STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY), GRADUATION CEREMONY. STUDENT
PARTICIPATION IN 8TH GRADE ACTIVITIES IS A PRIVILEGE AND MAY BE REVOKED FOR BEHAVIOR ISSUES.

SOME GRADUATING STUDENTS MAY BE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN GRADUATION EXERCISES ACCORDING
TO ACADEMIC CLASS STANDING OR CLASS OFFICER STATUS. STUDENTS INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN
GRADUATION EXERCISE MAY DECLINE. STUDENTS MAY WEAR TRADITIONAL AMERICAN INDIAN TRIBAL
REGALIA OR OBJECTS OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE AT A GRADUATION CEREMONY.

REQUIREMENTS FOR A DIPLOMA

A STUDENT WITH DISABILITIES ELIGIBLE UNDER THE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT
MAY SATISFY THOSE COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS INCORPORATED INTO THE INDIVIDUALIZED
EDUCATION PROGRAM (IEP). SATISFACTORY COMPLETION OF THE OBJECTIVES INCORPORATED IN THE
IEP MAY SERVE AS THE BASIS FOR DETERMINING COMPLETION OF A COURSE.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS WILL NOT GENERALLY BE WAIVED; HOWEVER, IN RARE AND UNIQUE
CIRCUMSTANCES, A RECOMMENDATIONS MAY BE MADE TO APPROVE A MINOR DEVIATION FROM THE
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS.

A STUDENT WHO HAS EXPERIENCED EDUCATIONAL DISRUPTION WILL BE ENTITLED TO GRADUATE WITH
A DIPLOMA IF THE STUDENT HAS MET THE MINIMUM CREDIT REQUIREMENTS ESTABLISHED BY THE
BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION. THE DISTRICT MAY DISTINGUISH THE DIPLOMA IN A REASONABLE
MANNER FROM OTHER DIPLOMAS ISSUED.

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, even if the 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.

Homework is a constructive tool in the teaching/learning process when geared to the needs and
abilities of students. Purposeful assignments not only enhance student achievement, but also
develop self-discipline and associated good working habits.

Teachers may give homework to students to aid in the student’s educational development.
Homework should be an application or adaptation of a classroom experience, and should not be
assigned for disciplinary purposes.

A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or
statement that, for medical or religious reasons, the student will not be immunized. The
immunizations required are: diphtheria, pertussis, rubeola (measles), rubella, mumps,
poliomyelitis, varicella and tetanus. Haemophilus influenza type B is required for students under
age five (5). 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.

A student who transfers into the District may photocopy immunization records in the possession
of the school of origin. The District will accept the photocopy as evidence of the immunization.
Within thirty (30) days after a transferring student ceases attendance at the school of origin, the
District must receive the original immunization records for the student who transfers into the
District.

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.

If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a
certificate signed by a health care provider who is licensed, certified, or otherwise authorized by
the laws of any state or Canada to provide health care under Montana law, is authorized within
the provider’s scope of practice to administer immunizations to which the exemption applies, and
has previously provided health care to the student seeking the exemption or has administered an
immunization to which the student has had an adverse reaction. This certificate must indicate the
specific nature and probable duration of the medical condition or circumstances which
contraindicate immunization. This certificate will be maintained as part of the student’s
immunization records. For further information, see Policy 3110.

Questioning of Students

Law enforcement or social service workers must contact students through the administrative
office. Students will not usually be questioned or interviewed by law enforcement or other
lawful authorities while at school. When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities,
however, wish to question or interview a student at school or the principal requests that the
student be interviewed at school:

▪ 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.

A student who must take prescription medicine during the school day that is necessary for his or
her health and well-being must have a written authorization signed by the parents and the
licensed health care provider allowing the dispensation of the medication. The student must
bring the medicine in its original, properly labeled container, to the school nurse. The school
nurse or school employee to whom the task is delegated pursuant to Montana law will either give
the medicine at the proper times or give the student permission to take the medication as
directed.

A student who has authorization to possess and self-administer medication must have completed
and filed, with the office, a written order for self-administration of a medication from a licensed
health care provider or dentist as well as written authorization from the parents for the
self-administration. The principal may authorize, in consultation with medical personnel, a
student with asthma, severe allergies, or anaphylaxis to possess and self-administer emergency
medication from an epinephrine pen (EpiPen), epinephrine nasal spray, or asthma inhaler. The
written order and written authorization must be provided annually.

For additional information, please see Policy 3416.

The District believes that the best educational result for each student occurs when all three
partners are doing their best: the District staff, the student’s parents, and the student. Such a
partnership requires trust and much communication between home and school. To strengthen this
partnership, every parent is urged to:

▪ Encourage his or her child to put a high priority on education and commit to making the most
of the educational opportunities the school provides.
▪ Review the information in the student handbook with his or her child and sign and return the
acknowledgment form(s) and the directory information notice. A parent with questions is
encouraged to contact Matthew Driessen, Superintendent.
▪ Become familiar with all of the child’s school activities and with the academic programs and
course of study, including special programs, offered in the District. Discuss with the
counselor or principal any questions, such as concerns about placement, assignment, early
graduation, methods to opt-out of programs and instruction consistent with parent/family
rights, and other options available to the child.
▪ Monitor the child’s academic progress and contact teachers as needed, including to discuss
homework, attendance, and discipline. Parents have the right to review their child’s
education records upon request.
▪ Attend scheduled conferences and request additional conferences as needed. To schedule a
telephone or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the
school office at 406-549-4994 for an appointment. A teacher will usually arrange to return
the call or meet with the parent during his or her conference period or at a mutually
convenient time before or after school.
▪ Become a school volunteer. For further information, contact the front office..
▪ Access District policies, handbooks, Board and committee meeting agendas, and District
grievance procedures to participate in the governance of the District through the Board of
Trustees. Contact information for administrators and trustees is available on the District’s
website desmetschool.org.
▪ Contact a counselor or principal to discuss rights related to student name and pronoun use
consistent with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act and Policy 3600.
▪ Participate in campus parent organizations. Parents have the opportunity to support and be
involved in various school activities, either as leaders or in supporting roles. Parent
organizations include: DeSmet Booster Club

Parent Rights

All fundamental parental rights are exclusively reserved to the parent of a child without
obstruction or interference by a government entity in accordance with state and federal law
(including without limitation to statutes and the common law) and District policy

Surveys

Parents have the right to inspect any survey or evaluation and refuse to allow their child to
participate in such survey or evaluation that does not require the collection of personally
identifiable information and is not necessary and essential for establishing the student’s
education record or validating an achievement test for admission to a postsecondary institution.
Parents have the right to opt their student in to a survey or data collection that requires the
collection of personally identifiable information and is not necessary and essential for
establishing the student’s education record or validating an achievement test for admission to a
postsecondary institution.

Instructional Materials

Parents have the right to inspect instructional materials used as a part of their child’s educational
curriculum, within a reasonable time. This does not include academic tests or assessments.

Collection of Personal Information from Students for Marketing

The District will not administer or distribute to students any survey or other instrument for the
purposes of collecting or compiling personal information for marketing or selling such
information, with the exception of the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information
collected for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing educational
products/services for, or to, students or educational institutions.

Pursuant to federal law, the District will seek parental consent prior to and will not request, nor
disclose, the identity of a student who completes any federally-funded survey or evaluation
(created by any person or entity, including the District) containing one or more of the following:

▪ Political affiliations.
▪ Mental and psychological problems
▪ Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, and demeaning behavior.
▪ Criticism of other individuals with whom the student or the student’s family has a close
family relationship.
▪ Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and
ministers.
▪ Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of students or the student’s parent/guardian.
▪ Income, except when the information will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to
participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.

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. Students will be released, with a parental request in writing, for the purpose of
receiving religious instruction. 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.

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 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. A student may read the Bible or other religious material during
free reading time or when self-selected and consistent with a classroom or course requirements.
For additional information, please see Policy 2332.

Written reports of absences and student grades or performance in each class or subject are issued
to parents quarterly. Report cards are issued to parents quarterly.

The District may require that report cards and unsatisfactory progress reports be signed by the
parent and returned to the school within 10 days.

Accident Prevention

Student safety on campus and at school-related events is a high priority of the District. Although
the District has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensure
school safety. A student should:

▪ 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

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: Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergencies

From time to time, students, teachers, and other District employees will participate in drills of
emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of
teachers or others in charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner.

Emergency School-Closing Information

The District may close the schools in the event of hazardous weather or other emergencies that
threaten the safety of students, staff members, or school property. Emergency school closing
information will be broadcast on:

KECI and KPAX, parents who enroll in emergency text messaging from the school may
receive those messages via text or email

Personal Protective Equipment

The District may require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including but not
limited to face masks, if determined to be necessary for the safety and welfare of students and
staff members. Exceptions may be made to any such requirement for PPE as permitted by law
and on a case-by-case basis.

To protect students, employees, and visitors from the serious risk to the health and safety of
students posed by alcohol, drugs, drug paraphernalia, and weapons, which are compelling
interests, it is necessary to conduct searches of persons and property under certain, limited
circumstances. Such searches are necessary to: deter the presence and possession of prohibited
substances and items; deter drug and alcohol abuse among the student population; to educate
students as to the serious physical, mental and emotional harm caused by drug and alcohol abuse;
to prevent injury, illness and harm as result of drug, alcohol abuse and/or weapons; to help
identify student drug use and assist parents in pursuing evaluation and appropriate counseling;
and to maintain a safe environment free of weapons, alcohol and drug use by vigilant
monitoring. In the school environment, including student use of District-owned parking lots,
students have a lower expectation of privacy due to the District’s responsibility for maintaining
discipline, health, and safety.

District officials may conduct reasonable searches of school property and equipment, students
and their personal effects, and vehicles parked on District property to maintain health, safety, and
security in the schools. The types of property that may be searched by school officials include
but are not limited to lockers, desks, purses, backpacks, cellular phones or other electronic
communication devices, or vehicles parked on District property.

Students and their Personal Effects

School officials may search a student, the student’s personal effects (e.g., purses, backpacks,
coats, etc.), and/or District property under the direct control of the student when there is
reasonable suspicion that the search will produce evidence that the student has violated or is
violating the law or the District’s policies or rules. Reasonable suspicion shall be based on the
specific and objective facts that the search will produce evidence related to the alleged violation.
The parent of the student shall be notified of the search as soon as possible.

School Property

School property, including, but not limited to, desks and lockers, is owned and controlled by the
District and may be searched by school authorities at any time it is not under the immediate,
direct control of the student, regardless of whether there is reasonable suspicion. School
authorities are authorized to conduct area-wide, general administrative inspections of school
property without notice to or consent of the student and without reasonable suspicion. The
District may employ contractors to handle trained dogs to assist in these searches.

Seizure of Property

If a search produces evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the
District’s policies or rules, such evidence may be seized and impounded by school authorities,
and disciplinary action may be taken. When appropriate, such evidence may be transferred to
law enforcement authorities.

Evidence produced by a search may be used in a disciplinary proceeding against the student.

The District encourages parental and student support in its efforts to address and prevent sexual
harassment in the public schools. Students and/or parents are encouraged to discuss their
questions or concerns about the expectations in this area with the District’s Title IX coordinator.

Sexual harassment is conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the following:

1. 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
2. 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
3. “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 or additional information regarding the District’s prohibition against
discrimination and harassment.

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.

Students in grades 4 – 8 are afforded the opportunity to be a part of the DeSmet
MBI-Student Council. Students must be in good standing academically and behaviorally to
hold a seat in student government, and must be aware that they are a role model for all
other students. Students who hold a seat on the Council may be removed for displaying
behavior that does not promote the best interests of students at DeSmet School. Students in
grades 6 – 8 may campaign to hold an office on the MBI-Leadership Council. Student body
officers may choose to have officers which include President, Vice President, Secretary,
Treasurer, and Historian. They may also choose a round table organization. The elected
student body officers will agree to their government structure at the beginning of the year.
Each classroom 4-6 may elect a representative to the MBI Student Council. These
representatives may be rotated throughout the year to expose more students to school
government. The school wide official offices of the MBI-Leadership Council are for the
school year. Campaigning will begin the end of September for one week only. The elections
will take place during the first week of October where each candidate for an official office
will be expected to present a 2-5 minute speech to the student body and staff. Additional
information will be sent home in mid-September of each school year.

Access by Parents and Student

A student’s school records are confidential and are protected from unauthorized inspection or use
pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The District maintains two
sets of records: a permanent record and a cumulative record.

By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a
student who is under 18. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied
access to the records, if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights.

The building principal will be responsible for maintenance, retention, or destruction of a
student’s permanent or cumulative records, in accordance with District procedure established by
the Superintendent. The principal will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and
interpretation of the records. Access to records will be granted within 45 days of receipt of a
written request. If circumstances prevent a parent or eligible student from inspecting the records,
the District will either provide a copy of the requested records or make other arrangements for
the parent or student to review the requested records.

Parents of a minor, the student (if 18 or older), and school officials with legitimate educational
interests are persons who may regularly access a student’s records. “School officials with
legitimate educational interests” include any employees, agents, or Trustees of the District;
cooperatives of which the District is a member; or facilities with which the District contracts for
the placement of students with disabilities, as well as their attorneys and consultants, who are
working with a student or otherwise performing functions the school would perform in
accordance with Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

The parent’s or student’s right of access to, and copies of, student records does not extend to all
records. Materials that are not considered educational records, such as teachers’ personal notes
on a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher, records pertaining to former students
of the District, and records maintained by school law enforcement officials for purposes other
than school discipline do not have to be made available to the parents or student. Access will
also not be granted to the parent or the student to confidential letters and recommendations
concerning admission to a post-secondary educational institution, applications for employment,
or receipt of an honor or award, if the student has waived his or her right of access after being
advised of his or her right to obtain the names of all persons making such confidential letters or
statements.

See Policy 3600 for more information.

Access by Other Individuals and Entities

Certain officials from various governmental agencies may have limited access to the records
without prior consent by the parents or student (over 18 years of age). Disclosure to these
governmental agencies may be done under some of the following circumstances:

▪ The District may grant access to or release information from student records to employees or
officials of the District or the Montana State Board of Education, provided a current,
legitimate educational interest is shown.
▪ The District may grant access to or release information from student records without parental
consent or notification to any person, for the purpose of research, statistical reporting, or
planning, provided that no student or parent can be identified from the information released,
and the person to whom the information is released signs an affidavit agreeing to comply
with all applicable statutes and rules pertaining to school student records.
▪ The District will grant access to or release information from any student record as
specifically required by federal or state statute.
▪ The District may release student records or information in connection with an emergency,
without parental consent, if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the
health or safety of the student or other persons. The Superintendent or Principal will make
this decision, taking into consideration the nature of the emergency, the seriousness of the
threat to the health and safety of the student or other persons, the need for such records to
meet the emergency, and whether the persons to whom such records are released are in a
position to deal with the emergency.
▪ The District may disclose student records or information to the youth court and law
enforcement authorities, pertaining to violations of the Montana Youth Court Act or criminal
laws by the student.
▪ The District will comply with an ex parte order requiring it to permit the U.S. Attorney
General or designee to have access to a student’s school records without notice to or consent
of the student’s parent.
▪ The District may disclose student records in a court proceeding where the parent is a party to
an action involving child abuse or neglect or dependency matters without parental consent or
notification if ordered to make this disclosure.
▪ The District may disclose student records to caseworkers or other Child Protective Services
representatives when DPHHS/CPS is legally responsible for the care and protection of the
student without notification or consent of the parent.

The District forwards a student’s records on request and without prior parental consent to a
school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Records are also released in accordance
with court order or lawfully issued subpoena. Unless the subpoena is issued for law enforcement
purposes and the subpoena orders that its contents, existence, or the information sought not be
disclosed, the District will make a reasonable effort to notify the parent or eligible student in
advance of compliance.

Parental consent is required to release the records in most circumstances. When the student
reaches 18 years of age, only the student has the right to consent to release of records.

The District charges a nominal fee for copying records; however, no parent or student will be
precluded from copying information because of financial hardship. An access log will also be
maintained for each record which details those individuals accessing the records and their
legitimate interest in the records.

Challenging Content of Records

Students over 18, and parents of minor students may inspect the student’s records and request a
correction if the records are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s
privacy or other rights. If the District refuses the request to amend the records, the requestor has
the right to ask for a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the
requestor has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the
information in the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged,
parents and the student are not allowed to contest a student’s grade in a course or references to
expulsion sand out-of-school suspensions through this process.

Directory Information

Certain information about district students is considered directory information and will be
released to anyone, including military recruiters and/or post-secondary institutions, who follow
procedures for requesting it, unless the parent objects to the release of any or all directory
information about the child. The opportunity to exercise such an objection was provided on the
form signed by the parent to acknowledge receipt of this handbook. Directory information
includes: a student’s name, address, telephone number, electronic mail address, date of birth,
participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of
athletic teams, photographs, dates of attendance, grade level, and honors and awards received in
school.

Maintenance of Records

Permanent records are maintained in perpetuity for every student who has enrolled in the
District. Cumulative records will be maintained for eight (8) years after the student graduates or
permanently leaves the District. Cumulative records which may be of continued assistance to a
student with disabilities, who graduates or permanently withdraws from the District, may, after
five (5) years, be transferred to the parents or to the student if the student has succeeded to the
rights of the parents.

Rights Under FERPA

Specific parental and eligible student rights are Appendix A in this Handbook.

Privacy Matters – Photographs and Social Media

Because of the advent of cell phones and social media, it has become almost impossible to fully
protect the privacy rights of any individual from having his or her picture taken and shared with
others. Parents have the right to annually opt out of the District sharing their child’s photograph
in publications or through District media events. The District will honor any parent opt-outs and
not share this information. However, the District cannot prevent others who are present from
sharing photos and videos from school events open to parents and/or the public, including music
performances, sporting events, open assemblies, or field trips.

Board-approved textbooks are provided free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be
covered by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care. A student who is issued
a damaged book should report the damage to the teacher. Any student failing to return a book
issued by the school or damaging a book issued by the school may be charged to replace the
book.

School Sponsored

Students who participate in school-sponsored trips are required to use transportation provided by
the school to and from the event. The principal, however, may make an exception if the parent
personally that the student be permitted to ride with the parent, or the parent presents — before
the scheduled trip — a written request that the student be permitted to ride with an adult
designated by the parent.

Buses and Other School Vehicles

The District makes school bus transportation available to all students. This service is provided at
no cost to students. Bus routes and any subsequent changes are posted at the school. Further
information may be obtained by calling 406-549-4994.

Students are expected to assist District staff in ensuring that buses remain in good condition and
that transportation is provided safely. Video cameras with audio are equipped in all buses for
student safety. When riding school buses, students are held to behavioral standards established in
this handbook. Students must:

▪ Follow the driver’s directions at all times.
▪ Enter and leave the bus in an orderly manner at the designated bus stop nearest home.
▪ Keep feet, books, band instrument cases, and other objects out of the aisle.
▪ Not deface the bus or its equipment.
▪ Not put head, hands, arms, or legs out of the window, hold any object out of the window, or
throw objects within or out of the bus.
▪ Wait for the driver’s signal upon leaving the bus and before crossing in front of the bus.

When students ride in a District van or passenger car, seat belts must be fastened at all times.

Misconduct will be punished and bus-riding privileges may be suspended.

The District has the right to use security and surveillance video cameras on District property to
ensure the health, welfare, and safety of all staff, students, and visitors to District property, and to
safeguard District facilities and equipment. Video cameras may be used in locations as deemed
appropriate by the Superintendent. Students may be videoed at events and practices open to the
public, including but not limited to public performances, dress rehearsals, athletic practices open
to the public, and athletic competitions.

Students in violation of Board policies, administrative regulations, building rules, or law shall be
subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Others may be referred to law enforcement agencies.

Video recordings from security and surveillance cameras may become a part of a student’s
educational record. The District shall comply with all applicable state and federal laws related to
record maintenance and retention. Signs will be posted at various locations to inform students,
staff, and members of the public that video surveillance cameras are in use. The District will
seek consent before recording students individually in the classroom.

The District has the discretion to permit visitors. For the safety of those within the school, all
visitors must first report to the principal’s office. Visits to individual classrooms during
instructional time are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher and so long as
their duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the
normal school environment.

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

Parents will receive annual notice of their FERPA rights. This appendix is intended only as a
summary of such rights. Parents generally have the following rights:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day
the District receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the
school principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The
principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of
the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or
eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may
ask the District to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They
should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want
changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the District decides not to
amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the District will notify the
parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them 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.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in 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 includes a
person employed by the school or school district 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, contractor, or consultant who, while not employed by the
school, performs an institutional service or 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.
4. Upon request, the school district discloses education records without consent to officials
of another school or 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.
5. The District classifies the following as Directory Information: a student’s name, address,
telephone number, electronic mail address, date of birth, participation in officially
recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams,
photographs, dates of attendance, and honors and awards received in school. School
officials may release this information to any person without the consent of the parents or
the student. Any parent or eligible student who objects to the release of any or all of this
information without his consent must notify, in writing, the principal of the school where
the records are kept by October 1 of this school year, or within 10 working days
following enrollment if enrollment takes place after October 1 of this school year. The
objection must state what information the parent or student does not want to be classified
as Directory Information. A parent has the right to provide a limited opt-out of directory
information, which could include but is not limited to the District’s disclosure or sharing
of student photographs or images. If no objection is received as required above,
information designated above will be classified as Directory Information until the
beginning of the next school year.
6. Copies of the complete FERPA Policy adopted by the District may be obtained from the
Superintendent’s Office or from the Principal’s Office of each school within the District.
7. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning
alleged failures by the Capitan Municipal School District to comply with the
requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers
FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605

Parents and Students:

Please read together and after signing, return this document to the school.

Statement of Purpose:

The District believes that all students should have access to technology when they act in a
responsible, efficient, courteous and legal manner. Internet access and other online services,
available to student and teachers, offer a multitude of global resources. Our goal in providing
these services is to enhance the educational development of our students.

Acceptable uses of technology are devoted to activities that support teaching and learning. The
following are our agreements about the use of technology in District schools:

Terms of Agreement

Using the computer correctly and responsibly is very important. I promise to follow these rules:

1. I promise to use all computer equipment carefully and not damage, change or tamper with the
hardware, software, settings or the network.
2. I promise to use the computer and the Internet for schoolwork only. I will use only the
programs and websites that my teacher has approved.
3. I promise to print only when my teacher tells me to print.
4. I promise to use my own file or my own folder on the student server.
5. I will not view, send or display inappropriate or illegal messages or pictures.
6. I promise never to use any form of electronic communication1
I to harass, frighten or bully
anyone while at school.
7. I promise to tell a staff member if I read or see something on the computer that is
inappropriate.
8. I promise to obey copyright laws.
9. I understand that if I break any of my promises, I might lose my computer privileges.

Use of New Web Tools

As part of 21st century learning, teachers and students may be using new web tools such as
blogs, wikis, podcasts and videocasts. These technologies improve students’ communication
and collaboration skills, provide a real audience and extend learning beyond the classroom walls
while building digital citizenship skills. At some point during the school year, you may be
asked to sign additional permission forms regarding the use of new web tools.

I understand that any use of artificial intelligence (AI) will be for school use and will access such
tools responsibly. I will not use to engage in academic dishonesty, violate the law, or access or
disseminate harmful or inappropriate material.

I will sign my name to show I understand and will follow the rules.
Student Name (print) _______________________________
Student Signature _______________________________
Homeroom Teacher ______________________
Grade ____Date Signed ______________
I have read this Agreement and have discussed it with my child:
Parent/Guardian Name (print) __________________
Parent/Guardian Signature ________________________________
Date Signed ____________

1 “Electronic communication” means a communication transmitted by means of an electronic device, including but not limited to, a
telephone, cellular phone, computer, pager, iPod, or other mp3 or audio-video players and cameras.

Parents and Students:

Please read together and after signing, return this document to the school.

Statement of Purpose:

The District believes that all students should have access to technology when they act in a
responsible, efficient, courteous and legal manner. Internet access and other online services,
available to student and teachers, offer a multitude of global resources. Our goal in providing
these services is to enhance the educational development of our students.

Acceptable uses of technology are devoted to activities that support teaching and learning. The
following are our agreements about the use of technology in District schools:

Terms of Agreement

Using the computer correctly and responsibly is very important. I promise to follow these rules:

1. I will not damage, change, tamper or interfere with the hardware, software, settings or the
network in any way.
2. I will obey copyright laws. I will cite sources.
3. I will not seek, view, send or display offensive, inappropriate, or illegal messages or media.
4. I will keep my passwords private.
5. I will not waste limited resources, such as disk or server space, bandwidth or printing
capacity.
6. I will not trespass in or harm another student’s folders, work or files.
7. I will use my personal email account or any personal electronic device in accordance with
school rules and or District policy.
8. I will notify a staff member immediately if I encounter materials which violate the rules of
appropriate use.
9. I will not use any form of electronic communication2
to harass, intimidate or bully anyone
while at school.
10. I am prepared to be held accountable for my actions and for any loss of privileges if these
rules are violated.

Use of New Web Tools

As part of 21st century learning, teachers and students may be using new web tools such as
blogs, wikis, podcasts and videocasts. These technologies improve students’ communication and
collaboration skills, provide a real audience and extend learning beyond the classroom walls
while building digital citizenship skills. The following terms and conditions relate to these new
web tools.

1. I will act safely by keeping personal information out of my web projects. I will not
give out my family name, email address, home address, school name, city, country or other
information that can help someone locate or contact me in person. I will not post identifying
photos or videos, unless authorized by my instructor.
2. I will treat blog and wiki spaces as I do a classroom space, and I will use appropriate
and respectful language. I will only post on school-appropriate subjects. If I include pictures
on my blog, podcast, videocast or wiki, they will be appropriate.
3. If I post a link in a blog, podcast, videocast or wiki, I will have read that information
carefully to be certain that it is appropriate for the school community.
4. I understand that any use of artificial intelligence (AI) will be for school use and will
access such tools responsibly. I will not use to engage in academic dishonesty, violate the
law, or access or disseminate harmful or inappropriate material.
5. I understand that if I fail to follow these guidelines, I may lose the opportunity to use
web-based tools.

I will sign my name to show I understand and will follow the rules.
Student Name (print) __________________________________
Student Signature _______________________________
Homeroom Teacher ______________________
Grade ____Date Signed ______________

I have read this Agreement and have discussed it with my child:
Parent/Guardian Name (print) __________________
Parent/Guardian Signature ________________________________
Date Signed ____________

2 “Electronic communication” means a communication transmitted by means of an electronic device including, but not limited
to, a telephone, cellular phone, computer, pager, iPod or other mp3 or audio-video players and cameras.

Parents and Students:

Please read together and after signing, return this document to the school.

By exercising the privilege of parking on District property, including school parking lots, I
acknowledge that I do not have any expectation of privacy in the odors emanating from my
vehicle which may alert a human or a canine to the presence of alcohol, illegal drugs, drug
paraphernalia or weapons. I acknowledge that I have received notice from the District that it
may use trained dogs to sweep for the presence of alcohol, illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia or
weapons.

By exercising the privilege of parking on District property, including school parking lots, I
consent to the District’s unannounced deployment of trained dogs around my vehicle while
parked on District property, including school parking lots.

Student Name (print) __________________________________
Student Signature _______________________________
Grade ____Date Signed ______________

For students under the age of 18:
I have read this Agreement and have discussed it with my child:
Parent/Guardian Name (print) __________________
Parent/Guardian Signature ________________________________
Date Signed ____________

The District offers student clubs and extracurricular activities, events, and programs to the Student, including, but not limited to,
curricular and co-curricular programs and clubs, sporting events, athletics, band, cheerleading as identified in the Student Handbook,
and transportation and lodging to, from, and associated with these activities (collectively “Clubs and Activities”).
Parental permission is required for the Student to participate in a Club or Activity. By signing this form, you give permission
for your child to participate in the Club(s) and Activity(ies) identified by you and:
1. Represent the Student is fully capable of participating in the Club/Activity or Clubs/Activities and agree to disclose all known
limitations to the District, including, but not limited to; medical conditions, physical limitations, and any other limitation known
to the Student or the Parents.
2. Understand and acknowledge that the Student may not be skilled in one or all of the Clubs and Activities;
3. Understand and acknowledge that the Student is subject to all eligibility requirements adopted by the District for participation as
well as any governing agency, including but not limited to the Montana High School Association;
4. Understand and acknowledge that engaging in any Activity may require a degree of skill and knowledge which the Student may
not possess;
5. Understand and acknowledge that the Club or Activity in which the Student seeks to participate may require an audition or try-out
to determine if the Student has the required skills/abilities to participate and that the Student may be “cut” from the Club or
Activity through the audition/try-out process;
6. Understand and acknowledge that the District has informed us that certain risks are inherent in some Clubs and Activities and
cannot be eliminated without destroying the unique character of the Club and/or Activity. These risks may include, but are not
limited to; the inherent dangers related to sports, athletic events, hazards of traveling in and to areas without medical services or
care, dangers due to the forces of nature (including, but not limited to, avalanches, lightning, fire, inclement weather, exposure,
flooding), dehydration, falls, injury caused by malfunction or failure of any equipment, injury or sickness resulting from food,
allergies, transportation accidents, and others;
7. Understand and acknowledge that the foregoing description of risks is incomplete, and these risks and other unlisted, unknown, or
unanticipated risks may result in injury or death;
8. Understand and acknowledge that engaging in any Activity may require a participant to listen to any instructions, warnings, or
risk assessments of the District, to ask for instruction or clarification whenever needed, and to follow instructions; and
9. Understand and acknowledge that the District may remove the Student from Activities for any breach of safety policies, or any
conduct that the District deems unsafe.
The Student and Parents hereby consent to the Student participating in the Club(s) and Activit(ies) identified in spite of, and with full
knowledge of, risks which may be associated with that Activity.
By signing this Agreement, the Student and Parents acknowledge they have carefully read and understand its contents.
Club(s) and/or Activity(ies) for which permission is given for the Student to participate:
[Either provide list of clubs and activities and have parent circle/check option or have parent/student list them:]
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
STUDENT NAME STUDENT SIGNATURE DATE
______________________________________________________________________________________
NAMEOF PARENT OR GUARDIAN PARENT OR GUARDIAN SIGNATURE DATE

Please return form to: ________________ by [date]. Signed permission must be provided before a student can
participate in a Club or Activity.