Attendance Law and WVSD Attendance Policy

 

Students and parents must be informed of the compulsory attendance law each year. It is given to parents in writing at registration; it is also included in each student agenda, and it is posted on the website. 

Students are expected to be in school each day. This is the first and most important requirement for a successful school experience. Punctuality and attendance are also a significant part of a student’s experience in any given subject area because of the discussion, participation, academic activities and classroom peer relationships. It is important that students and parents understand that absences must be held to a minimum.  

 

SCHOOL POLICIES AND STATE LAWS

It is important that you understand our school policies and procedures, as well as Washington State Law, to ensure your child is successful in school. State law for mandatory attendance, called the Becca Bill, requires children from age 8 to 17 to attend a public school, private school, or a district-approved home school program. Children that are 6- or 7-years-old are not required to be enrolled in school. However, if parents enroll their 6- or 7-year-old, the student must attend full-time. Youth who are 16 or older may be excused from attending public school if they meet certain requirements.  More information can be found at OSPI’s webpage on Attendance and Truancy.

We have found two problems with attendance:  

   1. Unexcused absences

   2. Chronic absences  

Unexcused Absences

We, the school, are required to take daily attendance and notify you when your student has an unexcused absence.  Following an absence, students have 48 hours to have the absence excused through a note or phone call from a parent.  Unexcused absences (after 48 hours) result in student detention, and students may not be able to make up their missed work.    

If your student has two unexcused absences in one month, state law (RCW 28A.225.020) requires we schedule a conference with you and your student to identify the barriers and supports available to ensure regular attendance.  The district is obligated to develop a plan that may require an assessment to determine how to best meet the needs of your student and reduce absenteeism.    

 A conference is not required if your student has provided a doctor’s note, or pre-arranged the absence in writing, and the parent, student and school have made plan so your student does not fall behind academically. If your student has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan, the team that created the plan needs to reconvene.  

If your student has seven unexcused absences in any month or ten unexcused absences within the school year, we are required to file a petition with the Juvenile court, alleging a violation of RCW 28A.225.010, the mandatory attendance laws. The petition may be automatically stayed and your student and family may be referred to a Community Truancy Board, or you and your student may need to appear in Juvenile Court.   The Community Truancy Board will meet with students, parents, and school administrators to examine causes for the frequent absences and recommend interventions to help students attend school more consistently.   If your student continues to be truant you may need to go to court.   

 

Chronic Absences

A second absence problem is students who are chronically absent.  Chronic Absenteeism is considered to be missing 10% or more days of school.  This means that missing 9 days in a semester, or 18 days in a year is considered chronic. Any student missing 9 non-school related days per class in a semester, regardless of reason, will result in the student having an attendance review and receiving a formal grade check for their classes which will be sent home to parents.  At 18 absences, regardless of reason, students will receive a drop notice.  To prevent loss of credit, students will need to appeal to the attendance committee within 5 school days.  The committee shall decide on follow up action which may include an attendance contract, referral to a Community Truancy Board, or loss of credit. 

Planned Absences

Students who have a planned absence need to have a pre-approved Pre-Trip form signed by all affected teachers and the principal or designee at least one day ahead of the absence.  Students in sports have additional requirements in order to be able to participate on a day with a partial absence.      

           

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP YOUR STUDENT’S ATTENDANCE

• Set a regular bed time and morning routine.
• Don’t let your student stay home unless they are truly sick. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
• Avoid appointments and extended trips when school is in session.
• Develop back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent.  
• Keep track of your student’s attendance.  Missing more than 9 days could put your student at risk of falling behind. 
• Talk to your student about the importance of attendance.  
• Talk to your students’ teachers if you notice sudden changes in behavior. These could be tied to something going on at school.
• Encourage meaningful afterschool activities, including sports and clubs. 

Do you have concerns about your child’s development in the areas of . . .

·     Language?

·     Hearing?

·     Vision?

·     Social-Emotional?

·     Cognitive?

·     Gross Motor?

·     Fine Motor?

·     Self Help?              

 

Child Find Screening and Special Education Services are available to students from birth to 21 years of age

Most children follow typical developmental patterns. A child whose development may be delayed can often be identified through early screening. The purpose of Childfind is to locate, evaluate and identify children, aged birth through 21 who have a disability who are not currently receiving special education and related services and who may be eligible those services. All severities and conditions of disability are included. Activities are to reach children who reside within the school district boundaries, regardless of whether they are enrolled in public schools. If you have a child between the ages of birth to 21 who may have a disability and would like to understand what services may be available, please contact one of the building principals.If you have further questions, concerns, or would like to schedule a screening for your child, please contact: Lori Snodgrass, Willapa Elementary Principal, at 942-3311 or Jay Pearson, Special Education Coordinator, at 360-942-5855. 

This civil rights complain form should be used for filing discrimination complaints regarding food service and must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discrimination.  Complaints of discrimination may be written or verbal – use of a form is not required to file a complaint.  The complaints will be given to the Child Nutrition Services director at OSPI.  

Willapa Valley has adopted Policy 3241 for Classroom Management, Discipline, and Corrective Action, found at the Policies and Procedures section of the website.  In addition, Procedure 3241 and the Behavior Intervention Flow Chart provide information about the implementation.  For any questions, please contact the principal of the school building.  

The Willapa Valley School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, disability, or age in its program or activities. The Willapa Valley School District offers classes in several career and technical education program areas under its open admissions policy. For more information about CTE course offerings and admissions criteria, contact Superintendent Tammy McMullen at PO Box 128, Menlo, WA, 98561 or 360-942-5855.   

Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in career and technical education programs. The following people have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Superintendent Tammy McMullen, PO Box 128, Menlo, WA  98561; 360-942-5855; tammym@willapavalley.org

For more information about the district’s meal service, visit the Willapa Valley Meal Service webpage.  

Willapa Valley School District Meal Charge Policy

The Willapa Valley School District School recognizes that healthy, nutritious meals are an important component to student readiness and ability to learn. Title 7, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 210.10(a)(1) General Nutrition Requirements states, “Schools must provide nutritious and well-balanced meals to all the children they serve.” In accordance with this regulation, the Willapa Valley School District will not deny any student access to school meals.

Employees who have a negative meal account balance will be allowed to continue to charge meals until the unpaid balance reaches $50. No further charges will be allowed until the balance is paid in full.

METHOD OF PAYMENT

The Willapa Valley School District will accept pre-payment of school meals in the form of cash, check, debit, or credit card. Meal payments may be submitted to the school office, the district office, or paid online.

NEGATIVE MEAL ACCOUNT BALANCES

When a student account falls into a negative balance, these procedures will take place:

• When a zero or negative balance is reached, a verbal notice will be given to the student by the Food Services representative.
• At the end of each grading period of the school year, written reminders of negative meal payment balances will be mailed home to parents & guardians requesting immediate payment.
• After $50 of unpaid meal charges, parents/guardians shall be contacted directly by phone, email, or mail by a district representative requesting immediate payment or the establishment of a payment plan.
• When negative balances become excessive, (over $100), parents will be notified by certified mail.

Additional Steps:

• If a student with a negative meal account balance transfers from Willapa Valley High School, official transcripts may not be sent to the enrolling school until the account is paid in full.
• If a senior student’s account is not in good standing at the conclusion of their senior year, the administration may withhold issuance of final grades and/or transcripts until the balance is paid in full.

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at the USDA website, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by:

1. mail:
   U.S. Department of Agriculture
   Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
   1400 Independence Avenue, SW
   Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or
2. fax:
   (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or
3. email:
   Program.Intake@usda.gov

 This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

THE DRUG-FREE-SCHOOLS ACT

The use, possession, or distribution by students or staff of alcohol or drugs, including anabolic steroids, in the building or at school-sponsored activities on or off school grounds is wrong, harmful, and is prohibited. Use of drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia or alcoholic beverages could subject one to criminal action, shall be grounds for staff termination, student expulsion and/or participation in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program. Compliance with all regulations of the Drug Free School Act shall be mandatory.

USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Smoking or use of tobacco products anywhere on or near school grounds is prohibited per RCW 28A.210.310. Those caught will be suspended, subject to prosecution referral, and repeat offenders may be eligible for expulsion. Being “caught” means:

¨      Actually smoking or chewing a product; holding a product

¨      Electronic cigarettes and products are to be considered a tobacco product

¨      A burning tobacco product or a fresh pile of spit’n’chew in the vicinity of a student and no one will claim it

Preparation Is Key to Safety
School district personnel and student will practice several types of drills associated with some these specific emergencies on a regular basis during the school year. These drills will include:

• Evacuation (fire)

• Earthquake/Tsunami

• Intruder

• Shelter-in-place

• Complete site evacuation

Drills are important to build confidence and trust, build in automatic responses, and to practice and learn. Talk with your child about the importance of drills and teach your child the importance of listening to teachers in emergency situations.

Keep Your Family Emergency Information Current
Emergency and crisis situations can happen at any time so it is very important for you to keep your family contact information current. Notify your child's school every time there is a change and change your information in Skyward. This includes a current list of friends and family members who are authorized to pickup your child with their contact information. In an emergency evacuation, students will be released only to individuals on the authorized pick-up list. 

During a School Emergency 
In order for our emergency response plans to be effective, we must depend on the cooperation and assistance of many people, such as the police and fire departments. We also depend on the parents of our students to support our disaster response efforts. Your cooperation is vital to helping us protect the safety and welfare of all children and school employees. We ask parents to observe the following procedures during a crisis situation:

• Do not telephone the school. We understand and respect your concern for your child, but it is essential that the telephone system be available for emergency communications.  Limit your calls to your child's cellphone. 

• Check the district's website for emergency announcements and status reports. You will also receive instructions on where you should go and how/when you may be able to pick up your child.

• Do not come to the school or evacuation location until you are instructed to do so. It may be necessary to keep the streets and parking lot clear for emergency vehicles. If a building is in a lock down situation, you will not be allowed to enter.

• If evacuation is required, students may be transported to a location away from the school. You will be notified of this through media bulletins, the district mass message system, and/or the county message line. Photo ID is required for the student pick-up.

Develop a Family Plan

• Each member of the family should know basic contact information from memory.

• Each member of the family should have more detailed written contact information easily accessible.

• Establish a meeting place for the family to reunite.

• Have and emergency supply of food, water, and first-aid.

• Develop and keep handy an emergency go-kit.

• Practice your plan

Your local Red Cross has more information on developing family plans and preparedness courses.

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.  They are:

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 (or appropriate school official) 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 student's education records that the parent or eligible student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the Willapa Valley School 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 is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on a official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate education interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
4. The right to file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office

US Department of Education

600 Independence Avenue SW.

Washington DC 20202-4605

 

*State Law Qualification: Although FERPA allows 45 days to honor a request; the state policy records law requires an appropriate response to a "public records" request within five business days RCW 42.56.520.

Willapa Valley Protects Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)

Schools are meant to be safe and inclusive environments where all students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities. This section defines HIB, explains what to do when you see or experience it, and our school’s process for responding to it.

Willapa Valley HIB Policies:  

• 3205 Policy on Prohibition of Sexual Harassment of Students
• 3205P Procedure on Prohibition of Sexual Harassment of Students
• 3207 Policy on Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying
• 3207P Procedure on Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying
• 3210 Policy on Nondiscrimination
• 3210P Procedure on Nondiscrimination
• 3211 Policy on Gender Inclusive Schools
• 3211P Procedure on Gender Inclusive Schools
• 3241 Policy on Classroom Management, Discipline, and Corrective Action
• 3241P Procedure on Classroom Management, Discipline, and Corrective Action
• HIB Reporting form

Our School Protects Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)

We strive to make our school a safe and inclusive environment where all students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities. This section explains what HIB is, what to do when you see or experience it, and how our school responds to it.

What is HIB?

State law (RCW 28A.600.477(5)(b)(i)) defines HIB as “any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act including, but not limited to, one shown to be motivated by any characteristic in RCW 28A.640.010 and 28A.642.010 (discrimination based on a protected status) or other distinguishing characteristics, when the intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act:

(A) Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property;

(B) Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education;

(C) Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or

(D) Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.”

HIB often involves one student having, or appearing to have, more power than another student. While HIB often appears as repeated behaviors, it is important to take single serious incidents seriously. It usually happens more than once or is very likely to happen again. HIB is against the law in our schools.

HIB policy only applies to actions between students. It does not cover harassment, intimidation, or bullying of an employee, volunteer, parent/legal guardian, or community member.

How can I make a report about HIB?

Talk to any school staff member, start with whoever you feel most comfortable with, such as a teacher, counselor, coach, or other school staff. You can report HIB by telling school staff in person or in writing (written reports can be made in your home language; please ask your school or district for support with translation). You can make your report anonymously/without giving your name or confidentially (asking that your name not be shared with other students or parents/caregivers involved). No student will be disciplined based only on an anonymous or confidential report.

If a staff member learns about, sees, or hears HIB happening, they must act quickly to stop the behavior(s) and keep it or them from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer helps prevent and respond to HIB.

What happens after I make a report about HIB?

When you report HIB, school staff must act quickly to stop the behavior and prevent it from happening again. If you and the school agree the problem is resolved, then no further action may be needed. But, if you feel that you or someone you know is facing HIB that is unresolved, severe, or keeps happening, you should ask for an official HIB investigation by completing an Incident Reporting Form.

The school must also make sure that students who report HIB are not treated badly for speaking up. This is called retaliation, and it is not allowed.

What is the investigation process?

The HIB investigation begins if you submit the HIB Incident Report Form, and the incident meets the definition of HIB toward a student. When you submit the Incident Reporting Form, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved that a complaint was received. They must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation is usually finished within five school days. If it takes longer, the school will keep you updated, generally once a week, until it is done.

When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must share the results with you within two school days.

This response should include:

• A summary of what the investigation found
• A decision about whether the HIB was substantiated (found to have happened)
• Any steps the school will take to address the problem
• Clear information about how you can appeal the decision

If HIB is confirmed, the school will address it.

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

For the student named as the “targeted student” in a complaint:

If you disagree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal. To appeal, send a written request asking the superintendent (or the person they've assigned) to review the investigation. They will send you a written decision.

For the student named as the “aggressor” in a complaint:

A student found to be an “aggressor” in a HIB complaint may not appeal the decision of the investigation itself. They can, however, appeal any corrective actions (consequences) that come from the HIB investigation findings.

What information may I have about other students?

Student privacy laws limit what the school can tell you about any intervention or discipline given to another student. You will be told whether HIB was found to have happened and that steps were taken, even if the details of those steps impacting all students involved cannot be shared.

For more information about the HIB complaint process, including important timelines, please see the district’s HIB webpage or the district’s HIB Policy [3207] and Procedure [3207P].

How do I make a HIB complaint about a staff member?

This process is for concerns about one student harassing, intimidating, or bullying another student. If your concern is about a staff member's behavior, ask your school for information on how to report it.

Our School Stands Against Discrimination

Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because of a protected status, including their race, ethnicity, color, national origin, immigration or citizenship status, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, homelessness, religion, creed, disability, neurodivergence, use of a service animal, or veteran or military status.

What is discriminatory harassment?

Discriminatory harassment can include teasing and name-calling; graphic and written statements; or other behavior that is threatening, harmful, or humiliating. It happens when the behavior is based on a student’s protected status and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when behavior is so severe, pervasive, or persistent that it limits a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the school’s services, activities, or opportunities.

To review the district’s Nondiscrimination Policy 3210 and Procedure 3210P, visit willapavalley.org.

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is unwelcome behavior or communication that is sexual in nature and seriously interferes with a student's educational performance or creates an intimidating or hostile environment. Sexual harassment can also occur when a student is led to believe they must accept unwelcome sexual behavior or communication to receive something in return, such as a better grade or a place on a sports team.

Examples of sexual harassment include:

• Pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors.
• Unwelcome sexual touching.
• Written, graphic, or electronic messages that are sexual in nature.
• Sharing sexually explicit texts, emails, or pictures.
• Making sexual jokes, spreading sexual rumors, or making suggestive comments.
• Physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.

Our school does not discriminate based on sex. We prohibit sex discrimination in all education programs, activities, and employment, as required by Title IX and state law.

To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy 3205 and Procedure 3205P, visit willapavalley.org.

What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?

When a school learns about possible discriminatory harassment or sexual harassment, it must investigate and take steps to stop the unwanted behavior. The school must address any effects of the harassment on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and prevent the harassment from happening again.

What can I do if I’m concerned about discrimination or harassment?

Talk to a Coordinator or submit a written complaint. You may contact the following school district staff to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns. If English isn’t your first language, you can request an interpreter or prepare the complaint in your language. If you have a disability and need accommodations to make a complaint, let the school know your disability needs.

Concerns about discrimination:

Civil Rights Coordinator: Tammy McMullen, Superintendent; PO Box 128, Menlo, WA  98561; tammym@willapavalley.org; 360-942-5855

Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment:

Title IX Coordinator:  Tammy McMullen, Superintendent; PO Box 128, Menlo, WA  98561; tammym@willapavalley.org; 360-942-5855

Concerns about disability discrimination: Tammy McMullen, Superintendent; PO Box 128, Menlo, WA  98561; tammym@willapavalley.org; 360-942-5855

Section 504 Coordinator: Jay Pearson, 504 Coordinator; PO Box 128, Menlo, WA  98561; ; PO Box 128, Menlo, WA  98561; jayp@willapavalley.org; 360-942-5855

Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity:

Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Kate Languell, School Counselor, PO Box 128, Menlo, WA  98561; katel@willapavalley.org; 360-942-5855

To submit a written complaint, describe the behavior or incident that you believe may be discriminatory. Send it by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery to the school principal, district superintendent, or civil rights coordinator. Submit the complaint as soon as possible so the school district can investigate it promptly. You must submit your complaint within one year of the behavior or incident.

What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?

The Civil Rights Coordinator will give you a copy of the school district’s discrimination complaint procedure. The Civil Rights Coordinator will make sure your complaint is investigated promptly and thoroughly. The investigation will be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If exceptional circumstances require more time, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing and tell you the expected date for the response.

When the investigation is complete, the school district superintendent or the staff member leading the investigation will send you a written response. The response will include:

• A summary of the investigation results.
• A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws.
• Any corrective actions or remedies that are needed.
• Information about how to appeal the decision.

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

If you disagree with the decision about your complaint, you may appeal the decision to the Willapa Valley School Board. You may then file a complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). For more information about this process, including important deadlines, see the school district’s Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and Sexual Harassment Procedure (3205P).

I already submitted an HIB complaint – what will my school do?

Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) can be discrimination if it is based on a protected status. If you give your school a written report of HIB that involves discrimination or sexual harassment, your school will notify the Civil Rights Coordinator. The school district will investigate the complaint using both the Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and the HIB Procedure (3207P) to fully address your concerns.

Our School is Gender-Inclusive

In Washington, all students have the right to be treated consistent with their gender identity at school. Our school will:

• Address students by their requested name and pronouns, whether or not they have legally changed their name.
• Update students’ gender designation so they accurately reflected in school records.
• Provide students with access to restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity.
• Ensure students can participate in sports, physical education classes, field trips, and overnight trips consistent with their gender identity.
• Keep students’ health and education information private and confidential.
• Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and enforce dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender.
• Create an inclusive, respectful environment and protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity.

To review the district’s Gender-Inclusive Schools Policy 3211 and Procedure 3211P, visit willapavalley.org. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator:

Kate Languell, School Counselor, ; PO Box 128, Menlo, WA  98561; katel@willapavalley.org; 360-942-5855

For concerns about discrimination or discriminatory harassment based on gender identity or gender expression, please see the information above on page ##.

Our School is Committed to Students and State Law  

Students have the right to learn in schools that follow state law and protect their rights. Willful noncompliance happens when a school district leader or school board member does something—or fails to do something—that they knew, or reasonably should have known, would violate state law. Under ESHB 1296, OSPI is responsible for investigating complaints about willful noncompliance and working to find fair solutions. 

These laws include requirements related to:

• Civil rights and nondiscrimination (RCWs 28A.640 and 28A.642)
• Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (RCW 28A.600.477)
• Curriculum requirements and instructional materials policies (RCWs 28A.150.230, 28A.300.475, 28A.320.170, 28A.320.230, and 28A.320.235)
• Use of restraint or isolation (RCW 28A.600.485)
• Student discipline (chapter 28A.600 RCW)

How do I make a complaint about willful noncompliance with state law?  

You must first use available complaint processes to try to resolve your concern. This means the available complaint processes start with your school district, even if the school district superintendent or a school board member is the subject of your complaints. School personnel are not allowed to retaliate for making a formal complaint.

If no available complaint processes are available, you must check OSPI's website for other OSPI complaint procedures at How to File a Complaint, and follow any applicable processes. If none exist, or you have completed all other processes, you must send written notice to the district superintendent at least 30 calendar days before filing a complaint with OSPI.

Complaints to OSPI must be submitted within 30 calendar days after a final decision in the local complaint process, when one applies. The complaint must be in writing and include enough information to describe the concern and the actions or failures to act that may be willful noncompliance. You may send the complaint by mail, email, or hand delivery to OSPI.

When OSPI receives a complaint that meets the requirements for investigation, it will open an investigation. OSPI will send you written notice of the allegations under investigation. After the investigation is complete, OSPI will issue written findings to you and your school. These findings will state whether noncompliance occurred and may require the school to take actions to fix the issue.

Who else can help with HIB, Discrimination, or Willful Noncompliance Concerns?

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)

All reports must start locally at the school or district level, even if the complaint involves the school or school district. School personnel should not retaliate against students or families for making a formal complaint.

OSPI can assist students, families, communities, and school staff with questions about state law, the HIB complaint process, and the discrimination and sexual harassment complaint processes, as well as complaints alleging willful noncompliance with state law under ESHB 1296. 

OSPI School Safety Center (For questions about harassment, intimidation, and bullying)

• Website: Safe Schools  
• Email: schoolsafety@k12.wa.us
• Phone: 360-725-6068

OSPI Equity and Civil Rights Office (For questions about discrimination and sexual harassment)

• Website: Equity
• Email: equity@k12.wa.us
• Phone: 360-725-6162

OSPI Office of Legal Affairs (For more details on the willful noncompliance complaint process)

• Website: State Law - non complaince
• Email: OLA@k12.wa.us

Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO)

The Washington State Office of the Education Ombuds works with families, communities, and schools to help solve problems so every student can fully participate and thrive in Washington’s K-12 public schools. OEO provides informal conflict resolution, coaching, facilitation, and training on family and community engagement and systems advocacy.

• Website: www.oeo.wa.govOEO website
• Email: oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov
• Phone: 1-866-297-2597

U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR)

The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces federal nondiscrimination laws in public schools, including those that prohibit discrimination based on sex, race, color, national origin, disability, and age. OCR also has a discrimination complaint process.

• Website: Ed
• Email: ocr@ed.gov
• Phone: 800-421-3481

The McKinney-Vento Act is a federal law that assures children and youth who do not have permanent housing are provided full and equal access to school and school activities.  It gives children and youth rights to enroll in school, stay in school, get transportation to school, and gives access to school lunch programs. If you become aware of students who may qualify for services under the McKinney-Vento Act, or are in need of services for students in your family, please contact the principal of your school or the Willapa Valley School District Homeless Liaison, Lori Snodgrass, 942-3311 with this information.  

The McKinney-Vento Act defines homeless children as “individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.” The act provides examples of children who would fall under this definition: Children and youth sharing housing due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason

• Children and youth living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or campgrounds due to a lack of alternative accommodations
• Children and youth living in emergency or transitional shelters
• Children and youth abandoned in hospitals
• Children and youth whose primary nighttime residence is not ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation (e.g. park benches, etc.)
• Children and youth living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations
• Migratory children and youth living in any of the above situations

 The district is prohibited from releasing any personally identifiable records or files about an individual student without written parental consent.  However, the district may release a list of students belonging to a group (e.g., graduating seniors, etc.) A student's name will be excluded from a listing of students on written request by a parent.  Information on a list may include: 

• The student's name, address and telephone number
• Date and place of birth
• Major field of study
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• Weight and height of members of athletic teams
• Dates of attendance
• Degrees and awards received 
• The most recent previous educational agency or institute attended by the student. 

 

The district may also release photographs of students for public information purposes. Parents may request that any or all of these categories of information, including personally identifiable photographs, not be release without their prior consent. To make such a request, please contact the principal at your building.

Federal law and USDA regulation require nutrition programs to make reasonable modifications to accommodate children with disabilities. Under the law, a disability is an impairment which substantially limits a major life activity or bodily function, which can include allergies and digestive conditions, but does not include personal diet preferences.

To request dietary accommodations, learn about district policies, or other meal service information, visit the Willapa Valley Meal Service webpage.  

All instructional materials, including supplementary materials and teacher's manuals, used with any survey, analysis or evaluation in a program or project supported by federal funds are available for inspection by parents and guardians.

 No student will be required as part of any project or program supported by federal funds to submit to a survey, analysis or evaluation that reveals information concerning:

• Political affiliations
• Potentially embarrassing mental or psychological problems
• Sexual behavior and attitudes
• Illegal, anti-social self incriminating or demeaning behavior
• Critical appraisals of close family members
• Privileged or similar relationships
• Religious practices, affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; or
• Income, or other information necessary to establish eligibility for a program; without the prior consent of adult or emancipated students, or written permission of parents.

 The district shall make arrangements to protect student privacy during the administration of surveys and the collection, disclosure or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution purposes

In compliance with the requirements of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) the Willapa Valley School District would like to inform you that you may request information about the professional qualifications of your student’s teacher(s) or instructional paraprofessional(s) [ESSA Section 1112(e)(1)(A)].  

The following professional qualification information may be requested pertaining to your child’s teacher(s):  

1. Whether the teacher has met Washington teacher certification requirements for the grade level and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.

2. Whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency or other provisional status through which Washington qualifications or certification criteria have been waived.

3. The college major and any graduate certification or degree held by the teacher.  

4. Whether the student is provided services by paraprofessionals, and if so, their qualifications.

The following professional qualification information may be requested pertaining to an instructional paraprofessional instructing your child:  

Paraeducators must be at least eighteen years of age and hold a high school diploma or its equivalent.  In addition, a paraeducator must meet one of the following:

1. Have received a qualifying score on the Education Testing Service (ETS) paraeducator assessment

2. Hold an associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university

3. Have earned 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits at the 100 level or higher at an accredited college or university

4. Have completed an apprenticeship as a paraeducator, in a program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council.* For more information go to Minimum employment requirements - Professional Educator Standards Board 

Note: Paraprofessionals must work under the supervision of a certified teacher. In schools that operate a schoolwide program, all paraprofessionals must meet professional qualifications. In a Target Assistance program, only paraprofessionals instructing Title I intervention, under the direct supervision of a certificated teacher, must meet the above qualifications.  

 

Citizen Complaint Against a School District or Other School Service Provider

A citizen complaint is a written statement that alleges a violation of a federal rule, law or regulation or state regulation that applies to a federal program.  • Anyone can file a citizen complaint.  • There is no special form.  • There is no need to know the law that governs a federal program to file a complaint.  

For a full description of the complaint process and additional information, see the Citizen Complaint Against A School District info sheet.

 

For all other FNS nutrition assistance programs, state or local agencies, and their subrecipients, must post the following Nondiscrimination Statement:

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by:

1. mail:
   U.S. Department of Agriculture
   Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
   1400 Independence Avenue, SW
   Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or
2. fax:
   (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or
3. email:
   Program.Intake@usda.gov

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Para todos los demás programas de asistencia de nutrición del FNS, agencias estatales o locales y sus subreceptores, deben publicar la siguiente Declaración de No Discriminación:

De acuerdo con la ley federal de derechos civiles y las normas y políticas de derechos civiles del Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos (USDA), esta entidad está prohibida de discriminar por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo (incluyendo identidad de género y orientación sexual), discapacidad, edad, o represalia o retorsión por actividades previas de derechos civiles.

La información sobre el programa puede estar disponible en otros idiomas que no sean el inglés. Las personas con discapacidades que requieren medios alternos de comunicación para obtener la información del programa (por ejemplo, Braille, letra grande, cinta de audio, lenguaje de señas americano (ASL), etc.) deben comunicarse con la agencia local o estatal responsable de administrar el programa o con el Centro TARGET del USDA al (202) 720-2600 (voz y TTY) o comuníquese con el USDA a través del Servicio Federal de Retransmisión al (800) 877-8339.

Para presentar una queja por discriminación en el programa, el reclamante debe llenar un formulario AD-3027, formulario de queja por discriminación en el programa del USDA, el cual puede obtenerse en línea en: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resource-files/usdaprogram-discrimination-complaint-form-spanish.pdf, de cualquier oficina de USDA, llamando al (866) 632-9992, o escribiendo una carta dirigida a USDA. La carta debe contener el nombre del demandante, la dirección, el número de teléfono y una descripción escrita de la acción discriminatoria alegada con suficiente detalle para informar al Subsecretario de Derechos Civiles (ASCR) sobre la naturaleza y fecha de una presunta violación de derechos civiles. El formulario AD-3027 completado o la carta debe presentarse a USDA por:

(1) correo:
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or
(2) fax:
(833) 256-1665 o (202) 690-7442; o
(3) correo electrónico:
program.intake@usda.gov

Esta institución es un proveedor que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades. 

Willapa Valley High School, including all parking areas around the school, is a weapon free zone (RCW 69.50.435). This includes all manufactured or handmade weapons.  It is a violation of district policy and state law for any person to carry a firearm or dangerous weapon on school premises, school-provided transportation or areas of other facilities being used exclusively for school activities. Unless otherwise provided by law, in cases involving the possession of a firearm or an air gun the principal/designee shall, without exception, expel the student.  In cases involving other weapons, the principal/designee shall place the student on long-term suspension, unless expulsion is warranted under the specific circumstances.  Students who make threats with or use a weapon, as described above, will be expelled for one year or more. (RCW 9.41.280) All school facilities post “Gun-Free Zone” signs.

School officials shall notify the student’s parents or guardians and the appropriate law enforcement agency of known or suspected violations of this policy. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to discipline, including a one-year expulsion for a violation involving a firearm.