Part A: Foundations and Basic Commitments

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section A: Foundations and Basic Commitments

Policy	Regulation	Form	Description	Pages
AA			Philosophy	2
AAB			Objectives	3
AB			FERPA	4
ABA			Educational Records	5
ABB			Student Records	6
ABC	ABC-R		Public Records and Regulation	7-8
AC			Make-up Days & Emergency School Closing	9
AD	AD-R		Crisis Plan-Suicide/Death Crisis Intervention and Post Intervention	10-20
ADA			Bomb Threat Policy	21-24
AE			Public Complaints — School Personnel	25-26
AF			School District Committees	27
AG			Title I Parental Involvement Policy	28-29
AH			Title IX/504 Policy and Grievance Policy	30-32
AI			Wellness/Nutrition	33-34

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  AA

 

AA

PHILOSOPHY

The primary function of the Mobridge-Pollock Public School System is to promote the well-rounded and continuous growth of its youth into effective citizens in a democratic society.  To attain this goal the school shall endeavor to provide a suitable environment for helpful guidance, training, and experiences which will assist each student to become better adjusted in his/her family, social, and business relationships, concerned for his/her own welfare and the welfare of others, open-minded on controversial issues, trained in work habits, skills, and logical reasoning, and prepared for profitable and gratifying use of leisure time.  Furthermore, the school shall endeavor to provide for the physical and moral well-being of each student.  Finally, the school shall cooperate with the home, church, and other community forces to build the educative experience of its youth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  AAB

 

AAB

OBJECTIVES

WE BELIEVE

1.  That the school should discover each student's needs and abilities, deal with him/her as an individual, and aid him/her to develop into a useful member of an integrated social unit.
2. That an ever-changing curriculum is necessary to fit the student for successful living in today's world and that of tomorrow.
3.  That this curriculum should provide for each student:
     a.  Organized fields of information and the opportunity to develop basic skills necessary to fulfill his/her needs.
b.  A constructive program of physical development and health education.
c.  Curriculum and co-curriculum programs which emphasize:

         (1)  The ideals of American democracy, including the development of responsibility, respect for his/herself, his/her family, his/her school, his/her country, and the world.

         (2)  Concepts of citizenship, patriotism, and understanding of governmental functions.

         (3)  The development of acceptable social attitudes and desirable behavior patterns.

         (4)  The development of abilities and personality.

         (5)  Conversation of all resources, human and natural.

4. Implement conditions and/or strategies that maximize all students’ opportunities to successfully demonstrate exit outcomes.

5.  Instruction should be carried on through the process of inquiry, emerging technology and problem-solving rather than ready acceptance of or uncritical rejection of new ideas.   Instruction should lead to the development of critical thinking individuals capable of demonstrating knowledge gained through 21^st century skills and tools.

6.  That the student should be made cognizant of the cultural resources of the community and be encouraged to avail himself/herself of these opportunities to the end that the level of community life will be raised.
7. That parents and citizens should be encouraged to visit classes, offer opinions and suggestions, and become friends of the school and staff.

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  AB

 

AB

FERPA 

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT 

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 building principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect.  The building 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 are inaccurate or misleading.

Parents or eligible students may ask (this school district) to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading.  they should write the building 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 an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  ABA

 

 ABA

EDUCATIONAL RECORDS

Educational records shall mean the official accumulated collection of a student's academic and activity achievements, test scores, results, and interpretations; classes attempted and grades/credits received, attendance records, teacher anecdotal entries; counseling referral and outcomes; school medical and department discipline records.

Educational records shall not be opened to anyone other than local school teachers or officials without parental/guardian consent, or the consent of students over 18 years of age, except that such records may be forwarded to and received from other school without authorization when the student transfers between those schools.  When records are forwarded to post-high school institutions to which the student has applied or has been accepted, they may be sent without authorization and shall not contain records relating to discipline or counseling, and teacher anecdotal records except that records of special education shall contain counseling and medical records.  Educational records may also be released without consent in case of health or safety emergencies.

Educational records shall be maintained by the district according to current statute, and the following contents will be destroyed upon graduation, or at age 21 whichever comes first:  Discipline records, medical records except immunization records required by law, anecdotal records, and counseling records.

School records pertaining to the individual child may be used only for the promotion or welfare of the pupil and shall not be made available to any outside person or agency unless it is clear that such a person or agency will use the records to the advantage of the child or his/her family.

No teacher may give information from the child's record to anyone outside the school staff unless he/she shall first obtain the permission of the principal and the parents except for educational or employment services.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  ABB

 

ABB

STUDENT  RECORDS

Student Records are microfilmed or placed on other media each year for students that graduate from the Mobridge-Pollock  School District #62-6 and for former students that were dropped from the role and have turned 19 years of age.  These records are kept permanently in the school district business office.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  ABC

 

ABC

PUBLIC RECORDS

The Mobridge-Pollock School District believes in operating in an open, transparent manner and will make district records available for public inspection, provided the release of the record(s) does not conflict with state or federal law.

The board hereby designates the superintendent as the District’s public records officer.  The public records officer shall be responsible for allowing inspection of records upon public request, and for maintaining confidentiality of those records not open to the public.  The public records officer shall also establish fees that may be charged for the retrieval and copying of public records.

Legal References:
                SDCL 1-2710 U.S.C. §503 as amended by the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002       (P.L. 107-107).
                P0 U.S.C. §7908 (§9528 of the ESEA) as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001
                (P.L. 107-110).

Cross References:
                GBL, Personnel Records
                JOA, Student Recruitment
                JO-N, Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
                KBA, Public’s Right to Know

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  ABC-R

 

 ABC-R

PUBLIC RECORDS – REGULATION

The Business Manager will act as the public records officer for handling routine record requests.  Public records are available for viewing during the school’s normal business hours.  The cost of copying public records will be $_____ per page.  A log will be maintained of all requests, and the disposition.

Whether the request may be made by phone, e-mail, or letter is the choice of the superintendent making the regulation.

If a request is refused, it may be submitted in writing, and if refusal is maintained, a written confirmation will be submitted.

Certain records are exempt from public access.  Included are student information, and personnel information other than directory or salary.

Denial may also be based on the cost of retrieval, and form requested.  If staff time is required, the district may charge an hourly fee to compensate for this time.

It is the desire of the administration to fully comply with the letter and spirit of the district’s policy and South Dakota Law.  While there may be disagreements over the availability of records, the district will make every attempt to settle disputes amicably and factually through the processes established by state and federal law.

Legal References:           

                                SDCL 1-27
                                10 U.S.C. §503 as amended by the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal                                            Year 2002 (P.L. 107-107).
                        20 U.S.C. §7908 (§9528 of the ESEA) as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of                                    2001 (P.L. 107-110).

Cross References:

                                GBL, Personnel Records
                                JOA, Student Recruitment
                                JO-N, Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
                                KBA, Public’s Right to Know      KBAA, PUBLIC RECORDS

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  AC

 

 AC

MAKE-UP DAYS

Emergency days will be approved and made-up as part of the regular school calendar each school term.  In the event that additional days above and beyond the emergency days already scheduled are needed to meet the state minimum standard and/or school district policy, the school board will amend the school calendar to schedule additional emergency days.

 

AC

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING

When school is called off for any emergency no support staff will work unless specifically authorized by the administration.  Wages will only be paid to those authorized to work. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  AD

 

  AD

CRISIS MANAGEMENT PLAN
Mobridge-Pollock School District #62-6
Mobridge, South Dakota

This document will serve as a plan of action for a collaborative team approach to handle a crisis in the Mobridge-Pollock School District #62-6 if such a crisis occurs.

The key elements of this plan include the following:

                1.  Keeping our students and staff safe and out of harm’s way.
                2.  Dealing effectively and fairly with the news media.
                3.  Stopping the rumor mill (internally and externally).
                4.  Informing district staff.
                5.  Identifying the specific role of each member of the school staff during a crisis.

This plan provides for crisis communication strategies, which include the following:

        1. Procedure to alert and communicate immediately about the crisis, its management and our           school district response.
2.   Establishing a spokesperson.
3.  Process to determine and verify the facts.
4.  Follow-up information and actions to be taken by the district during a crisis.

All school district employees must be familiar with the contents of this plan.  In theabsence of directives from his/her supervisor, each school district employee is authorized to implement prudent action to save lives and mitigate the effects of a disaster or crisis situation.  In all cases the school district employee must notify his/her supervisor as soon as possible after proper care is administered to protect the school community.

The Mobridge-Pollock School District #62-6 is committed to preventing crisis situations by providing for the emotional health of our students.  Therefore, this plan also includes warning signs of trouble in young people and skills which staff can use to address individual student needs.

 

 

 WARNINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Building Announcements:  All warnings and or announcements will be given by the BUILDING PRINCIPAL.  The building principal shall use his/her best judgment in the proper dissemination of information related to the specific crisis.  Announcements to employees and students may be given via a written announcement, intercom message, or by human messenger.  Students are not to be used in carrying out this process unless there is no other way to transfer the warning or announcement.  The building principal will announce SPECIFIC ACTIONS that shall be taken to protect the safety and well-being of the school community as a routine part of these warnings and announcements.  (Fire, Code Black and Tornado drills will be routinely held and instructions will be given in each building pertinent to these drills at the beginning of the school year.)

Press Releases:  All press releases will be given by the BUILDING PRINCIPAL.  Press releases will be timely.  They shall be specific in nature and shall not embellish the situation.  Students shall not be interviewed on school premises.  Cameras will not be allowed in the school buildings and the media will be asked to show consideration for the emotional and education interests of the students and their families.

Employee Warnings and Announcements:  Employees shall observe strict confidentiality in sharing pertinent information relative to the safety of the school community.  Employees shall  either inform the building principal or guidance counselor immediately if he/she is aware of a crisis situation that may jeopardize the safety of an individual student or employee of the school district.  Disciplinary and guidance referrals shall be used under ordinary circumstances to relay information of importance about student behavior to the building principal and guidance counselor.

Guidelines For Secretary:   Calls or visits to the school referring to the current crisis shall be referred to the building principal.  If the building principal is not available, the referral should be made to the school superintendent.

 

CRISIS MANAGEMENT

Crisis Response Intervention  Team:  The crisis response intervention team is a group of concerned school district employees and appropriate community members from the Mobridge-Pollock School District 62-6 selected to assist in a crisis situation.  Appropriate in-service training will be provided for the entire staff and a special training will be developed as needed for the team members.  The building principal and superintendent will determine the extent of the crisis and decide on the severity of the crisis.  They will decide if the crisis team shall become involved.  The level of involvement will depend on the severity of the crisis.

Crisis Response Team Meeting:  The crisis response intervention team should meet soon after a crisis to evaluate the process and make any changes.  The crisis response intervention team should meet at least twice each year to evaluate the crisis management plan.  The building principal shall be responsible to schedule these meetings.

 

 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Crisis:  For the purpose of this manual, a crisis is a state of temporary upset and disorganization affecting a person’s health, education, or welfare in such a way so that the person is restricted in his/her ability to carry out appropriate and expected functions and activities.

Crisis Management:  This is a process directed at securing or providing for the physical safety, psychological support, and/or educational assistance needed by those affected by a crisis so that they are better able to resume the function and activities normally expected of them.

Networking:  Networking means that the full resources of the community are made available according to the needs created by the crisis.

Crisis Prevention:  This shall include the programs, activities, and procedures intended to:                   

            1. reduce the likelihood that a person will experience and/or precipitate a crisis; and,      2. prepare a person to cope with a crisis with minimal adverse effects.

Postvention:  This is the procedure to deal with the emotional aftermath of a crisis.

ROUTINE BUILDING SECURITY PROCEDURES:

Securing Exterior Doors:

During the instructional day, all exterior doors remain locked except for the main entrance of all buildings.  Each building principal will establish a plan for maintaining individual building security.  Those security measures will be disseminated to all appropriate personnel.

Custodians are responsible for limiting access to buildings not authorized for use at after school and evening activities and during days before and after school.  Furthermore, custodians are responsible to assure that all exterior doors remain locked and operational.

All advisors, coaches and school/community groups utilizing school buildings after hours and on weekends are responsible for re-securing doors, limiting participant access to the buildings, assuring that the buildings are clear and locked prior to leaving the building.

No one is authorized at any time to wedge open any door to allow individuals access to any school district building.

 

 

 

 

 

PARENTS, VENDORS AND OTHER VISITORS TO BUILDING SITES:
                A. All visitors are required to report directly to the building office to visit in a school district building.  (Employees must ask visitors if they have checked in with the office if visitors are observed in the hallways at any time.  Employees must verify their contact with visitors in the building office either by intercom or personal contact as soon as possible).
                B. All visitors are required to report directly to the main building office upon leaving the building.  The office secretary shall keep a written log of each visitor.
                C. Substitute teachers, student teachers and guest speakers must check in with the building office to be identified by either the office secretary or building principal.  A written log will be kept of visitors.
                D. All visitors will sign the visitor log and check-in and check-out in the appropriate spot upon each visit. 
                E. Each building site will install the necessary signs to assure visitors ready access to office locations and specific instructions within each of the buildings.

EMERGENCY BUILDING SECURITY PROCEDURES (CODE BLACK)

The building principal will call for the “CODE BLACK” if there is a threat of bodily harm to school district students and or employees.  This notice shall be given via the intercom or by messenger. 

A. The following notifications will occur immediately upon implementing a “CODE BLACK”:
        -Law enforcement will be called concerning the threat/crisis with a request for a police officer to be present at the building site or sites.
        -The Crisis Response Intervention Team will be notified immediately of the “Code Black” if that status is implemented before there is a team meeting.
        -The Crisis Response Intervention Team will notify the appropriate entities according to Appendix A.
        -Notify student groups away from the building site about their return to the building site.  (Under a “CODE BLACK” student groups away from the building site should not be returned to the building until directed to do so by the building principal).

B. The following actions will occur immediately upon implementing a “Code Black”:
        -All exterior doors including the main entrance to the building will be locked.
        -An adult monitor will be assigned to the main entrance to screen individuals requesting entrance to the building until a police officer arrives to monitor the entrance to school district buildings.         -All classroom doors will be locked by staff; only via the intercom will the door be authorized to be opened during the “CODE BLACK” status; classes will not leave the room until released by the building principal or his/her designee on the intercom.
        -Classroom teachers will take attendance immediately to determine if there are students absent from their classroom.  Names of those students absent from the classroom shall be reported to the office via the e-mail.
        -The “CODE BLACK” status will be removed by the building principal once the threat/crisis is determined to have passed.
        -A “CODE BLACK” practice drill will be scheduled annually and will involve all agencies that could actually become involved in a real situation.  A public announcement will be given prior to the practice drill to alert the community of the practice drill.

INCIDENT/CRISES SCENARIOS

A. Response to person with a weapon or similar threat:  When a threat of harm to students or staff is identified at any of the building sites by the building principal, a “CODE BLACK” situation will be implemented immediately.  A “CODE BLACK” is implemented at the sole discretion of the building principal in emergency situations.  If a staff member/student hears gun shots or sees someone with a weapon in the building:  Do not investigate the matter-call into the office immediately to report the incident-give a description of the person and your location in the building. The building principal will implement the “CODE BLACK”.  Teachers should lock classroom doors and keep students in the room and away from doors and windows.  Physical Education staff and others in labs will take students to locker rooms or classrooms and  lock  the  doors.  (Unless  already  outside)   All personnel  will wait  for the  building  principal to inform them —staff or students will not respond to any knocks on the door until released to do so by the office on the intercom.

B.  Armed individual comes into the classroom:  Try to turn on the intercom to allow the office to hear   the intercom.  If possible, notify the building principal by intercom or messenger.  Call “CODE BLACK”.  Do as the gunman demands.  Do not make sudden moves which could frighten the subject.  Never argue.  Take your time.  Keep your students as calm as possible.  Physical force should not be used unless someone’s life is in imminent danger.  Talk to the gunman.  Learn as much as possible about the individual.  Keep the gunman’s attention on you, not on your students.  If the gunman starts shooting tell the students to get down and lie on the floor.  Try to take cover behind equipment if possible.

C. Response to other crises:  The response to other crises at a building site may be modified or tailored to fit the particular incident/crisis by the building principal and/or the crisis response team.    

AD-R

DEALING WITH  SUICIDE/DEATH-CRISIS INTERVENTION

This procedure shall be used to determine services available to members of the Mobridge-Pollock School District #62-6 who demonstrate suicidal thoughts, suicide threats, or suicide attempts and is to be used in cases of suicide or other deaths.

The most tragic aspect of suicide is that SUICIDE CAN BE PREVENTED with early detection and treatment.  This is especially true since suicide is usually a time limited problem occurring in crisis situations.  Unfortunately, to many young people, suicide becomes a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

Suicide prevention is everyone’s business and responsibility.  All threats, notes, or statements are to be taken seriously.

A SUICIDE CRISIS RESPONSE TEAM will be formed at each school building when a suicide related incident arises.  The team should be composed of an administrator, school nurse, counselor, the adult person to whom the incident was reported, all of the teachers who have daily contact with the person at risk.  The team will be augmented by members of the community as the situation dictates; i.e. mental health personnel, law enforcement, clergy, etc.  The team shall evaluate the risks, make recommendations for referral, record the action taken and follow up.

If suicidal behavior is admitted by a student, or reported by a student about another student, parent, or sibling to a teacher, counselor, administrator, or any support personnel, including secretaries and custodians, they should follow the PROTOCOL GUIDES (Appendix A and B) determined by the particular circumstance.

 GUIDELINES FOR SUICIDE/DEATH CRISIS POST-VENTION

In the event of a death of student(s) of staff in the Mobridge-Pollock School District, the following guide should be used by the staff:

      1. Notify the administrative team.
2. Contain the story and protect the privacy of the family.
3. Verify the death and determine whether the death was a suicide.
4. Convene the Crisis Response Team to review plan of action.
5. Contact support personnel for assistance in helping students with their grief. (Appenidx E)
6. Prepare a formal statement to be read aloud to the students and staff.
7. Conduct a staff meeting before school begins to share with the staff facts of the death, the prepared statement and the plan for helping the at-risk persons.
8. Inform the media that information will only be available from the Building Principal or the Superintendent.
9. Do not allow the media to interview any student or staff on school ground during regular school hours.
10. Try to get things back to normal as soon as possible.

IN A SUICIDE SITUATION, THE MOBRIDGE-POLLOCK SCHOOL DISTRICT WILL NOT:

      1. Allow anyone to describe the death as a suicide until verified.
2. Describe suicide as a heroic or glorified act.
3. Fly the school flag at half-mast.
4. Observe a moment of silence in the school to glorify the deceased.
5. Have a memorial service at school or “In Memorial” page in the yearbook.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEALING WITH GRIEF

The following information was developed to aid employees in understanding the grieving process.

      1. Grief is a natural and necessary reaction to a significant change or loss.
2. Grief is a healthy, human response to many situations.
3. Grief is the best way to accept your loss and help put it in perspective.  It can help you face the reality of your loss, and recover and grow through your experiences.
4. Because everyone will experience a severe loss or change, it is important to understand the “process” of grief.

Shock and Denial:  Your first reaction may be to deny your loss.  “This really isn’t happening.”  You may also experience shock, or emotional numbness.  It is important to realize that these are normal human responses.  Soon these feelings will pass and you will be able to deal with your loss.
Anger:  When you lose something precious it hurts and may seem to be unfair.  You may feel angry at family members, yourself, or others for not preventing the loss.  You may also feel anger directed at the deceased for taking his/her life and denying you the opportunity to enjoy life together.
Guilt:  It is not unusual to blame yourself for something you did or didn’t do prior to your significant loss.  You must remember that you are human, and there are many events that are beyond your direct control.
Depression:  You may feel physically and mentally drained and unable to perform even simple and routine tasks.  “Why bother, thing will never be the same.”  Small steps with high success will serve as the foundation toward becoming involved in life again.
Loneliness: You may feel lonely and afraid due to increased responsibilities and changes in your social life.  “I just can’t make it on my own.”  As you create new coping skills for each new challenge and develop new friendships, you will learn to handle these feelings.
Hope:  There will come a time when you will be able to accept your loss.  You will remember the experiences with less pain and focus on a future filled with hope.  You will recover.

 

ACTION STEPS FOR DEALING WITH GRIEF

            -Verbalize your feelings.  Write them down.
            -Ask for help.
            -Accept help.
            -Do something special for yourself or for someone else.
            -Get plenty of rest.
            -Keep yourself in shape, both mentally and physically.  See your doctor.
                -Establish short-term goals.
                -Develop long-range goals.
                -See a counselor.

 DEALING WITH OTHER CRISIS SITUATIONS

(These may include but are not limited to weapon’s possession, bomb threats, explosions, fights, harassment, natural disasters, hostage taking).

Just as the school community should understand and practice fire drill procedures routinely, they should also be aware of responding to the presence of firearms and other weapons, severe threats of violence, hostage situations, and other acts of terror.  The Mobridge-Pollock School District 62-6 will provide employees and students with knowledge and understanding to these realities in the following ways:
                1. At least once each year provide an in-service to explain and instruct employees and students on crisis procedure and crisis prevention.  (being observant, knowing when to get help, modeling appropriate problem solving skills, anger management, and conflict resolution).
                2. Review the school district crisis management plan with employees and students each year.    3. Practice responding to the imminent warning signs of violence and instructing employees each year on what they might do to prevent violent acts.

CRISIS PROCEDURE CHECKLIST

The building principal shall be responsible to address each individual act considered a crisis.  The building principal shall be responsible for involving the Crisis Response Intervention Team.  The building principal will use this step-by-step procedure after he/she has determined that a crisis either may occur or has occurred.

This Crisis Procedure Checklist shall be followed in the order that it is written.

          Assess life/safety issues immediately.
           Provide immediate emergency medical care.
           Call 911 and the superintendent.
           Convene the Crisis Response Intervention Team and implement crisis response               procedures and actions.
           Evaluate available and needed resources.
           Alert school employees to the situation.
          Secure all areas of the building.
           Implement evacuation or other procedures to protect building occupants.
           Implement evacuation or other procedures to protect building occupants.
           Notify parents and media to prevent confusion and misinformation.
           Contact appropriate community agencies to prepare for networking.
            Implement post-vention procedures.

CONCLUSION:

Crises that involve sudden violence in our school community are traumatic because they are rare and unexpected.  Everyone in the school community is touched in some way.  Everyone in the school community can help prevent such acts by maintaining a reasonable awareness to the possibility of such occurrences.

School safety is everyone’s responsibility.   School district employees, students, parents and community members must work in harmony to provide a safe school environment for our students and employees.

 

Appendix A

 

BUILDING PRINCIPAL

 

 

Superintendent                   Crisis                        Employees                          Patrons            

                              Response

                                                            Team                       

 

 

Police

School Board

Civil Defense Director

Media

Ministerial Association

Social Workers, Counselor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

PROTOCOL GUIDE
FOR SUICIDE CRISIS RESOURCE TEAM INTERVENTION
AT MOBRIDGE-POLLOCK SCHOOLS

1. Assure the person at risk is not left alone.  Arrange for friends, teachers, counselor, or administrator to be with the person.

     a. If immediate physical harm is a potential, or if emergency medical help is needed, the ambulance/police/emergency number is 911 (or 845-5000).  The hospital number is 845-3692.

2.  Refer the person by contacting the counselor or available administrator.  (SEE 1a ABOVE)

3.  Counselor or administrator will interview the student at risk.  In their absence, referring teachers may use S.L.A.P. or D.I.R.T. or another valid tool to do so (See attachment).

4. The interviewer will continue to arrange for the person to not be left alone, and will convene the crisis resource team.  The crisis resource team, notified by the counselor or administrator receiving the referral, will meet to assess the risk and determine the action to be taken:

            a.  Parental contact will be made in all cases, and parental input will be solicited.
            b.  Referral
            c.  Other social agency (is) contacted (see index)
            d. In-house counseling
            e. Informing all school personnel
            f. Other

**In the event that a suicide attempt or threat surfaces during non-school hours (most suicides occur during this time) and a school employee is involved, he/she will contact any of the community/school resources that are available.

5.  If low risk is present, the student may be allowed to continue his/her daily schedule as usual.  Contact of the school’s crisis team should be made and the case discussed.

6.  When the immediate crisis subsides, the crisis team chair maintains contact with the student and follows up any referrals with phone calls or other communication.

 

 

 

	AT  RISK  PERSON  IDENTIFIED
EMERGENCY (911)	Don’t leave alone
POLICE (845-5000)	Emergency	No emergency
Ambulance (911)	Refer to counselor or administration
Hospital (845-3692)	For interview
Emergency Agency	Emergency	No emergency
	Protocol Now in Effect
	Convene Crisis Team
Determine Risk:	High	Low
	Contact Parents	Contact Parents
	Don’t leave alone	Allow to return to routine
Referral to other agencies or parents	Discuss monitoring options
Receiving agency protocol in effect
Follow-up & record contacts
After crisis subsides team maintains student contact, follow up referrals, record events.

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  ADA

 

ADA

BOMB THREAT POLICY

The Board recognizes that bomb threats are a significant concern to the schools.  Whether real and carried out or intended as a prank or for some other purpose, a bomb threat represents a potential danger to the safety and welfare of students and staff and to the integrity of school property.  Bomb threats disrupt the instructional program and learning environment and also place significant demands on school financial resources and public safety services.  These effects occur even when such threats prove to be false.

Any bomb threat will be regarded as an extremely serious matter and treated accordingly.  The Board directs the Superintendent to react promptly and appropriately to information concerning bomb threats and to initiate or recommend suitable disciplinary action.

A. Conduct Prohibited

No person shall make, or communicate by any means, whether verbal or non-verbal, a threat that a bomb has been, or will be, placed on school premises.  Because of the potential for evacuation of the schools and other disruption of school operations, placement of a bomb or of a “look-alike” bomb on school premises will be considered a threat for the purpose of this policy.

It is also a violation of Board policy to communicate by any means that any toxic or hazardous substance or material has been placed, or will be placed, on school premises with the intent to endanger the safety and welfare of students or staff and/or to disrupt the operations of the schools.  For the purpose of this policy, “toxic or hazardous substance or material” means any material or substance, including biomedical materials or organisms, that, when placed as threatened, could be harmful to humans.

B. Definitions
1. A “bomb” means an explosive, incendiary or poison gas bomb, grenade, rocket, missile, mine, “Molotov cocktail” or other destructive device.
2. A “look-alike bomb” means any apparatus or object that conveys the appearance of a bomb or other destructive device.
3. A “bomb threat” is the communication, by any means, whether verbal or nonverbal, that a bomb has been, or will be, placed on school premises, including possession or placement of a bomb or look-alike bomb on school premises.
4. “School premises” means any school property, school buses and any location where any school activities may take place.

 C. Bomb Threat Procedures:

1. A bomb threat checklist will be located by all phones within the Mobridge-Pollock School District.  The person receiving the threat, wither by phone or other means, will follow the procedures outlined on the checklist for the receiver of a bomb threat.

2. As soon as the building principal or superintendent is notified of the threat, they will notify other administrators and custodians that a bomb threat has  been received.  Administrators will then assess the threat and the building/buildings will be immediately evacuated.

3. Administrators will visit each classroom and occupied location in the building and will notify staff members to follow evacuation procedures as follows, unless it is determined that faster evacuation is necessary.  In which case, the fire alarm will be activated.

4. Students will be instructed to evacuate the building through the nearest exit and to walk in an orderly fashion across the street or a similar distance if they exit from a side of the building that does not have a street.

5. Students and staff will not take items such as book bags or books with them when they exit the building.

6. All staff members will make a quick assessment of their work areas and hallways on their way out.  If any staff members notice anything suspicious they will report their findings to an administrator or custodian as soon as possible.

7. Administrators and custodians will check the building to make sure all students are evacuated.

8. School staff will take students to a pre-determined emergency site for their attendance center.
9. Teaching staff will take roll to make sure that all students are accounted for once they arrive at a safe location.

10. Concerned parents or guardians should listen to KOLY Radio for information concerning the emergency situation.

11. A thorough search of the school buildings/grounds will be conducted by personnel arranged by local law enforcement officers.

12. After the search is completed, the administration and law enforcement will determine when to return the staff and students to the school buildings.

13. If it is determined that it is unsafe to re-enter the buildings due to a suspicious finding, the following procedures will be followed:
                a. School closing will be aired on the Dakota Radio Group and KLND radio. 
                b. Parents and guardians will be asked to pick up their children (if they would normally pick              them up) at one of the three locations.
                c. School dismissal time will also be aired so that parents know what time to expect children at      home.

 

 

D. Reporting of Bomb Threats

A student who learns of a bomb threat or the existence of a bomb on school premises must immediately report such information to the building principal, teacher or other employee in a position of authority.

An employee of the school unit who learns of a bomb threat shall immediately inform the building administrator.  The building administrator shall immediately take appropriate steps to protect the safety of students and staff in accordance with the District’s bomb threat procedure, as developed under Section C, and inform the Superintendent of the threat.

All bomb threats shall be reported immediately to the local law enforcement authority, as provided in the bomb threat procedures.

The Superintendent shall be responsible for reporting any bomb threat to the Board of Education.  Reports will include the name of the school, the date and time of the threat, the medium used to communicate the threat, and whether or not the perpetrators have been apprehended.

E. Student Discipline Consequences

Making a bomb threat is a crime.  Any students suspected of making a bomb threat shall be reported to law enforcement authorities for investigation and possible prosecution.  Apart from any penalty imposed by law, and without regard to the existence or status of criminal charges, a student who makes a bomb threat shall be subject to disciplinary action.

The administration shall suspend and may recommend for expulsion any student who makes a bomb threat.

F. Aiding Other Student(s) In Making Bomb Threats

A student who knowingly encourages, causes, aids or assists another student in making or communicating a bomb threat shall be subject to the disciplinary consequences described in Section E of this policy.

G. Failure to Report a Bomb Threat

A student who fails to report information or knowledge of a bomb threat or the existence of a bomb or other destructive device in a school building or on school property may be subject to disciplinary consequences, which may include suspension and/or expulsion.

H. Staff Discipline Consequences

A school system employee who makes or communicates a bomb threat will be reported to appropriate law enforcement authorities and will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.  Disciplinary action taken shall be consistent with collective bargaining agreements, other employment agreements and Board policies.

A school system employee who fails to report information or knowledge of a bomb threat or the existence of a bomb on school premises will be subject to discipline up to and including termination of employment.

 

 I. Civil Liability

The District reserves the right to bring suit against any individual responsible for a violation of this policy and to seek restitution and other damages as permitted by law. 

J. Lost Instructional Time

Instructional time lost as a result of a bomb threat will be rescheduled at the earliest appropriate opportunity as determined by the Superintendent within parameters set by the Board.

Time lost may be rescheduled on a vacation day, or after what would normally be the last day of the school year, except on days when schools must be closed as required by law. 

K. Notification Through Student Handbook

All student handbooks shall address the District’s bomb threat policy and procedures and explain the educational consequences of bomb threats.  In addition, student handbooks shall notify students and parents that bomb threats violate Board policy and civil and criminal law. 

L. Media Referral to Superintendent

In the event that the media requests information regarding the event, they will be referred to the Superintendent or his/her designee.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  AE

 

AE

PUBLIC COMPLAINTS ABOUT SCHOOL PERSONNEL

 

Constructive criticism of the schools is welcomed by the Mobridge-Pollock School District when it is motivated by a sincere desire to improve the quality of the education program and to help the school personnel in performing their tasks more effectively.

The Board places trust in its employees and desires to support their actions in such a manner that employees are freed from unnecessary, spiteful, or negative criticism and complaints.

Whenever a complaint is made directly to the Board as a whole or to a Board member as an individual, it shall be referred to the school administration for study and possible solutions.  The individual employee involved shall be advised of the nature of the complaint and will be given every opportunity for explanation, comment, and presentation of the facts as he or she sees them.

In cases of discipline or other school matters relating to their children, parents will first discuss the matter with the teacher.  If, for some reason, they are not satisfied, they may further discuss that matter with the following persons in the following order:   the principal of the building, then the chief executive officer (CEO)/superintendent or his/her designee.  If the chief executive officer (CEO)/superintendent is unable to satisfy the parents, he/she will report the case to the Board for consideration and action.  The board will not consider or act on complaints that have not been explored at the appropriate administrative level.  The Board will consider hearing citizen complaints when they cannot be resolved by the administration.  Matters referred to the Board must be in writing and should be specific in terms of the complaint and the action desired.

If it appears necessary, the administration, the person who made the complaint, or the employee involved may request an executive session of the Board for the purposes of further study and a decision by this body.  Generally, all parties involved, including the school administration, shall be asked to attend such a meeting for the purposes of presenting additional facts, making further explanations, and clarifying the issues.  Hearsay and rumor shall be discounted, as well as emotional feelings except those directly related to the facts of the situation.

The Board will render its decision which the chief executive officer (CEO)/superintendent will implement.  The decision of the Board may be appealed pursuant to 13-46.

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  AE

 

 AE

 

PUBLIC COMPLAINTS
 

Constructive criticism of the schools will be welcomed by the Board when it is motivated by a sincere desire to improve the quality of the educational program or to equip the schools to do their tasks more effectively.

Whenever a complaint is made directly to the Board as a whole or to an individual Board member, the individual or group involved will be advised to take their concern to the appropriate staff member.

The Board believes that complaints and grievances are best handled and resolved as close to their origin as possible, and that the staff should be given every opportunity to consider the issues and attempt to resolve the problem prior to involvement by the Board.  Therefore, the proper channeling of complaints involving instruction, discipline, or learning materials will be as follows:

          1.  Teacher

          2.  Principal

          3.  Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/Superintendent

          4.  Board

If a complaint, which was presented to the Board and referred back through the proper channels, is adjusted before it comes back to the Board, a report of the disposition of the matter will be made to the Board and then placed in the official files.

The Board expects the professional staff to receive complaints courteously and to make a proper reply to the complainant.

Matters referred to the chief executive officer (CEO)/superintendent and/or Board must be in writing and should be specific in terms of the action desired.

Exceptions to this policy will be made when the complaints concern Board actions or Board operations only. 

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  AF

 

AF

 

SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMITTEES
 

The Board of Education may authorize the establishment of committees from among the school district employees, school district patrons, students, and Board of Education membership as deemed necessary to study school district operations and conduct curriculum revision.  Prior to convening to serve any advisory role in the school district, all committees and its membership shall be approved by the Board of Education.  The Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee shall serve as an ex-officio member of all committees.

The function of the committees shall be fact-finding or advisory in nature.  They shall be ad hoc in scope and serve for no longer than necessary to discharge the completion of their assignment.  Reports by committees shall be made directly to the Board of Education. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  AG

 

AG

TITLE I PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT POLICY
 

The Mobridge-Pollock School District #62-6 shall establish a School District Parent Advisory Committee which shall meet at least two times each year to plan, review, and improve the Title I program.  The membership of this committee shall consist of the Federal Program’s Coordinator and Title I parents who represent each of the school district buildings; Freeman Davis, Upper Elementary, Middle School, and High School.  Committee members shall be approved by the Mobridge-Pollock School District Board of Education.

The purpose of the committee shall be: 

A.      Involve parents in the development of the annual Consolidated Plan under Section 1112, and the process of school review and improvement under Section 1116.

B.      An annual meeting will be held to share information with parents.  At this meeting we will discuss the perception of the school, school climate, ongoing programs, and data that has been collected.  Information shared with the committee will come from students, staff members, and patrons of the community.  Within this plan will be strategies for implementation.

C.      Provide coordination, technical assistance and other support necessary to assist participating buildings in planning and implementing effective parental involvement activities to improve student academic achievement and student performance.

D.      Set aside dollars for parent involvement will be used to support the needs of the parent advisory committee in implementing effective involvement activities that will enhance learning throughout the Mobridge-Pollock School District.  The federal program director and school improvement coordinator will work directly with the advisory committee on the professional development needs.

E.       Coordinate and integrate parental involvement strategies with other school district programs.Federal Programs Director and School Improvement Coordinator will work with Principals to develop coordination of programs through the state, community, and businesses.  The district will continue to build programs with Head Start, local pre-schools, SD College Access, and TATU.  We will also continue to integrate programs within the school that address the bullying and harassment issues.

 

 

F.       Develop the school district’s and parent’s capacity for strong parental involvement.

Federal Programs Director, School Improvement Coordinator, and Building Principals will work with parents in developing an on-going plan to build parent involvement throughout the school year.  Encouraging parents to attend state training opportunities will be used to help increase the awareness of the need to get parents involved.  Surveys will be used to measure the effectiveness of this training.

G.     Provide all parents the opportunity to annually conduct an evaluation of the content and effectiveness of the Parental Involvement Committee in improving academic quality of the students served, including identifying barriers to greater participation by parents in activities authorized under this federal mandate. 

H.      Evaluations will be given to parents at the beginning and the end of the year to help in measuring the effectiveness of Title I Programs.  Evaluations will be made available through the school website as well as central locations throughout the community.

I.        Involve parents in the activities related to this federal mandate. Parents will be encouraged in a timely manner to participate in school events through newsletters, letters home, parent portal, school reach, school website and local paper.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE:  AH

 

AH

TITLE IX/504 POLICY AND GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

It is the policy of the Mobridge-Pollock School District #62-6 to provide a learning and working environment free from discrimination.  To that end, the school district requests students, parents, and staff to assist the Board of Education in identifying barriers to a discrimination-free learning and working environment in our school district.  The following policy and grievance procedure is provided as an avenue for the fair and expeditious processing of complaints toward the elimination of elements that pollute the learning and working environment with unlawful discrimination.

DEFINITIONS:  Grievance:  a complaint alleging a violation of any policy, procedure, or practice which would be prohibited by Title IX, Section 504 and other federal and state civil rights laws, rules and regulations.  Title IX:  the Education Amendments of 1972, the 1975 implementing regulations, and any memoranda, directives, guidelines, or subsequent legislation that may be issued.  Section 504: Rehabilitation Act of 1973.  Federal and State Civil Rights Laws, Rules and Regulations:  1964 Civil Rights Act, Title VI, Title VII as amended, Title IX, Age Discrimination Act of 1967 and 1975 as amended, Equal Pay Act of 1963, Section 504, and implementing federal and state rules and regulation.  Grievant(s): a student, parent, guardian or employee of the Mobridge-Pollock School District #62-6 who submits a grievance. Address:  Mobridge-Pollock School District #62-6, 114 East 10^thStreet, Mobridge, SD  57601.  Title IX-or Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator:  The employee designated to coordinate the district’s efforts to comply with the equity regulations and facilitate processing of complaints.Day:  a working day; the calculation of days in grievance processing shall exclude Saturdays, Sundays and school holidays. 

Basic Procedural Rights (Applicable to all levels of the grievance process): 

The Title IX or Section 504 coordinator shall receive complaints, actively and independently investigate the merit of complaints, and assist the parties in resolution of complaints.  The coordinator may be utilized as a resource by any party at any level of this procedure.

Relevant records shall be available in accordance with the school district’s policies.

This procedure does not deny the right of the grievant to file formal complaints with other state and federal agencies or to seek private counsel for complaints alleging discrimination.

In most instances parents or legal guardians should be part of the hearing and resolution process.  In investigations of sexual harassment, it is recommended that the grievant be accompanied by a friend, parent or advisor for support during any part of the process.

Intimidation, harassment or retaliation against any person filing a grievance or any person participating in the investigation or resolution of a grievance is a violation of law and constitutes the basis for filing a separate grievance.

All records pursuant to the grievance shall be maintained by the school district separate and apart from student records for a period of not less than five (5) years.

If a grievance is taken to the Board of Education for a formal contested case hearing, parties shall have the right to representation, to present witnesses and evidence, and to question opposing witnesses.

It is the policy of the Mobridge-Pollock School District #62-6 to process all grievances in a fair, expeditious and confidential manner. 

The school district or superintendent may request that the Title IX coordinator or an authorized representative of the school district conduct an investigation of suspected violations of Title IX.  The investigator will prepare a report as outlined in the grievance process.

Process:

Level I:  Principal or Immediate Supervisor (optional)

Many problems can be solved by an informal meeting with the parties and the principal or immediate supervisor.  An individual with a complaint is encouraged to first discuss it with the teacher, counselor, or building principal involved with the objective of resolving the matter promptly and informally.  Employees with a complaint are encouraged to first discuss it with their immediate supervisor with the same objective.  An exception is that complaints of sexual harassment should be discussed with the first-line supervisor or building principal that is not involved in the alleged harassment.

Level 2: Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator

If the complaint or issue is not resolved at Level 1, the grievant may file a written grievance stating:

        -the nature of the grievance.

        -the remedy requested.

        -signed and dated by grievant. 

The Level 2 written grievance must be filed with the Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator within fifteen (15) days of the event or incident, or from the date the grievant could reasonably become aware of such occurrence.

The Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator has authority to investigate all written grievances.  If possible, the Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator will resolve the grievance.  If the parties cannot agree on the resolution, the Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator will prepare a written report of the investigation which shall include the following:

                -A clear statement of the allegations of the grievance and remedy sought by the grievant.
                -A statement of the facts as contended by each of the parties.
                -A statement of the facts as found by the coordinator and identification of evidence to support                each fact.
                -A list of witnesses interviewed and documents reviewed during the investigation.
                -A narrative describing attempts to resolve the grievance. 

The coordinator’s conclusion as to whether the allegations in the grievance are meritorious. If the coordinator believes the grievance is valid, the coordinator will recommend will recommend appropriate action to the Superintendent.

The coordinator will complete the investigation and file the report with the Superintendent within fifteen (15) days after receipt of the written grievance.  The coordinator will send a copy of the report to the grievant.  If the Superintendent agrees with the recommendation of the coordinator, the recommendations will be implemented.  The coordinator and Superintendent may appoint an outside investigator once a written grievance is filed.

Level 3: Board of Education

If the Superintendent rejects the recommendation(s) of the coordinator, and/or either party is not satisfied with the recommendation(s) from Level 2, either party may make a written appeal within ten (10) days of receiving the report of the coordinator to the Board of Education for a hearing with the Board of Education.  On receipt of the written appeal, the matter shall be placed on the agenda of the Board of Education for consideration not later than their next regularly scheduled meeting.  A decision shall be made and reported in writing to all parties within thirty (30) days of that meeting.  The decision of the Board of Education will be final.

Other Options for Grievant:

At any time during this process, a grievant may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights, Denver, Colorado.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobridge Pollock School District Policies and Regulations

NEPN CODE: AI

 

AI

WELLNESS/NUTRITION
 

To support its mission, the Mobridge-Pollock School District will provide an environment that cultivates maximum staff/student potential.  Nutrition influences development, health, well- being and potential for learning.  To afford staff/students the opportunity to fully participate in the educational process, staff/students must attend school with minds and bodies ready to take advantage of the learning environment.  This district-wide nutrition policy encourages all members of the school community to create an environment that supports lifelong healthy eating habits.  Decisions made in all school programming need to reflect and encourage positive nutrition messages and healthy food choices.

 

The policy of the Mobridge-Pollock School District is to:

                1. Provide a positive environment and appropriate knowledge regarding food.
                2. Ensure that all staff/students have access to healthy food choices during school and at                             school  functions.
                3. Provide a pleasant eating environment for students and staff.
                4. Allow a minimum of 20 minutes for students/staff to eat lunch and socialize in the designat-                  ed cafeteria area.
                5. Enable all students/staff, through a comprehensive curriculum, to acquire the knowledge                       and skills necessary to make healthy food choices for a lifetime.
                6. When using food as a part of class or student incentive programs, staff and students are en-                  couraged to utilize healthy, nutritious food choices.
                7. When curricular-based food experiences are planned, staff and students are encouraged to                 seek out good nutrition choice whenever appropriate.
                8. Reduce student/staff access to foods of minimal nutritional value.
                9. In keeping with contractual obligations to the National School Lunch/Breakfast programs, en-                                sure the integrity of the school lunch program by prohibiting food and beverage sales that are                             in direct conflict with the lunch/breakfast programs.
                10. Encourage the practice of good nutrition by reducing the sale or distribution of foods of                         minimal nutritional value through a four-year plan that focuses on:          

                                                Reduce access to non-nutritional foods.
                                                Educate students/staff about healthy foods.
                                                Selective pricing that favors sales of healthy foods.

 

 

To accomplish these goals:

 

· Child Nutrition Programs comply with federal, state and local requirements.  Child Nutrition Programs are accessible to all children/staff.

· Sequential and interdisciplinary nutrition education is provided and promoted.

· Patterns of meaningful physical activity connect to students’ lives outside of physical education.

· All school-based activities are consistent with local wellness policy goals.

· All foods and beverages made available on campus (including vending, concessions, a la carte, student stores, parties, and fundraising) during the school day are consistent with the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

· All foods made available on campus adhere to food safety and security guidelines.

· The school environment is safe, comfortable, pleasing, and allows ample time and space for eating meals.  Food and/or physical activity is not used as a reward or punishment.