Welcome Message to The Lucille Umbarger Middle School

Administration 

Principal: Kevin “KJ”Johnson - kjohnson@be.wednet.edu

Assistant Principal: Lea Wallace - lmwallace@be.wednet.edu

Counselors

Last names A-L:  Amy Stoddard -- astoddard@be.wednet.edu

Last names M-Z: Erika Aldridge-  ealdridge@be.wednet.edu

School Nurse

Robyn Nylander - rnylander@be.wednet.edu

Princpal's Message

Dear LUMS WolfPack Students, Families, and Community,

HAPPY NEW SCHOOL YEAR!!  We are so excited for this upcoming school year, and all of the amazing adventures and learning that our community will engage in each day.  This year is likely going to look different than any year in our past, and that is okay - we are going to make this year meaningful, filled with learning, rooted in community connections, and most of all fun!

This handbook has been prepared to provide you with information about our school and district policies and procedures.  Please refer to this document throughout the course of the school year, and, of course, feel free to communicate questions, concerns, and comments to us when needed.

Our hope is that you feel that the LUMS staffulty loves and supports your student(s), and that we are providing them with a challenging, engaging, and inquiry driven curriculum.  Our goal is to help every student in the school make healthy connections that guide them towards a positive future within our global community.  We will work to achieve these goals through leadership development, growth mindset building, creating a positive school community, developing greater positive family and community partnerships, and making sure that we use a lens for equity when making decisions about our school.

Thank you for sending your student to Lucille Umbarger Middle School, our Wolf Pack is stronger because of your family!

Kevin “KJ” Johnson, Principal

Lea Wallace, Assistant Principal

Education and Racial Equity Policy

Our Education and Racial Equity Policy serves as a foundation for our decisions and highlights our commitment to all students, families and staff. Please read our commitment to the Burlington-Edison School District community: B-ESD Education and Racial Equity Policy

Language Access

District parents and guardians have the right to participate in their students' education, including communicating with teachers and staff. The district will take reasonable steps to provide families competent oral interpretation and/or written translation of materials or information about any program, service, and activity and to facilitate any interaction with staff significant to a student's education. The district will provide such service when it might be reasonably anticipated as necessary or upon request by families.

The district has Spanish language support to assist district families and students with communicating directly with schools and answering questions regarding district/school programs and events, enrollment or any matter related to your student’s education. If you need to speak with a school or have questions and need assistance in Spanish, please call us at 360-757-3366 and ask to speak with the Bilingual Resource Specialist.  

LUMS Hours and Bell Schedule

Regular Schedule - Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday

Early Release Schedule - Wednesday

Half-Day Scheadule

Closed Campus

For the safety of the the school and students, once a student arrives on campus they are to remain on campus, even before first peirod, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Students who leave campus unaccompanied by a parent/guardian will be subjec tot school discpline.  Students are to be off campus by 2:45 pm, unless they are particpating ina. school-sponsored activity (ie. athletics, clubs, tutoring, etc.). 

Visitors/Volunteers

We welcome visitors to our schools and want to make sure their visit is smooth and does not disrupt our students' learning.  Here is what you need to know: 

All visitors to LUMS must check in at the main office. For the safety of our school community visitors will be asked to present ID and check in through the Safe Schools Visitor program. This allows for a quick background check, and helps the school know who is in our schools in case of an emergency.  Upon checking in and approval, visitors will be provided a printed temporary ID badge. 

Purpose of Visit: If you are visiting to talk to students about something that isn’t related to their education, we ask that you work to meet with students outside of school hours. 

Classroom Visits: If you would like to visit a classroom, we will set up a time after the principal talks with the teacher. 

Observation Visits: If you are visiting to observe learning activities, you might need to speak with the teacher before or after the visit to better understand what’s happening in the classroom.

Restrictions on Visits: The principal may say no to a visit if it could disrupt important events, like testing. If a visit becomes disruptive, the principal can ask you to leave and will explain why.

Handling Disagreements: If you disagree with any restrictions on your visit, first discuss it with the principal. If it's not resolved, you can meet with the superintendent, who will investigate and make a final decision. If you’re still not satisfied, you can bring up the issue at a regular school board meeting.

Volunteers 

Volunteers are important to helping fulfill our promise that every student in the Burlington-Edison

School District is empowered to learn in an inclusive setting and is prepared for the future of their

choice. Volunteers bring to our students and teachers the extra time and personal contact that is vital to student success. You are giving students the powerful message that people care about them. Thank you for recognizing this need and reaching out to help.

There are many opportunities for volunteer involvement. Depending on your interest and availability, you may work with students of all ages and abilities in the classroom, assist with clerical tasks for staff, help on the playground or accompany students on field trips and activities. Regardless of the area you choose to be involved, you will be enriching the programs of our schools.

To learn more about volunteering, please visit our Volunteer Page, https://bit.ly/3Zjn69b, or call 360-757-3311.

Attendance 

The Burlington-Edison School District is making a special effort to ensure that all students fully benefit from their education by attending school regularly. We want to remind families that attendance is essential to the academic achievement of each and every student. Students with poor attendance miss critical instruction in key concepts, quickly fall behind in school and are less likely to achieve academic success. Please continue to encourage your students to stay focused and access school resources.

Please note that the information below outlines the current state & district policy. Please visit the District Attendance website for the most up-to-date information: https://www.be.wednet.edu/families/attendance

Late Arrival / Early Dismissal

If students arrive after the start of school or need to leave before the end of the day, they must go through the Attendance Office. Those picking up students must be prepared to show ID. If a student is sick and wishes to go home, they must check out with the school nurse. Students

should not contact parents to pick them up without the nurse’s knowledge.

Approval of Absences

We encourage families to stay in constant communication with your student’s attendance. The current school district policy requires notification of absence/tardy within two days of the student returning to school. This can be done by a phone call, note, email, or in-person in the office. If the office does not receive notification within the two day window, the absence will be considered an unexcused absence.

Acceptable Excused Absences 

• Participation in a district or school approved activity or instructional program;

• Physical or mental health symptoms, illness, health condition, or medical appointment;

• Family emergency, including, but not limited to, a death or illness in the family;

• Religious or cultural purpose, including observance of a religious or cultural holiday or participation in religious or cultural instruction;

• Court, judicial proceeding or serving on a jury;

• Post-secondary, technical school or apprenticeship program visitation, or scholarship interview;

• State-recognized search and rescue activities consistent with RCW 28A.225.055;

• Absence directly related to the student’s homelessness or foster care/dependency status;

• Absences related to deployment activities of a parent or legal guardian who is an active duty member;

• Absence resulting from disciplinary/corrective action (e.g., short-term or long-term suspension, emergency expulsion); 

• Absences due to student safety concerns, including absences related to threats, assaults, or bullying;

• Absences due to a student's migrant status; 

• Principal and parent, guardian, or emancipated youth mutually agreed upon activity; and 

• Absences due to the student's lack of necessary instructional tools, including internet access or connectivity.

Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy

While occasional absences are inevitable, please prioritize regular attendance. Missing more than 10% of the school year or 18 days of school can impact your child’s social development, academic learning, and path toward high school graduation. If a problem arises with health, food, transportation, housing, or anything else, please call the LUMS office so we can assist.  

Mandatory attendance laws require children aged 8 to 17 to attend school. All schools must take daily attendance and notify you of unexcused absences. A conference will be scheduled if your child has 3 unexcused absences in a month. 

If your child has 7 unexcused absences in a month or 15 unexcused absences in a year, a petition will be filed with the Juvenile Court, and intervention measures like a Community Engagement Board may be initiated. Continued truancy may require court involvement.

We understand that there are times when students may need to miss school, even with communication from parents or caregivers. However, frequent absences can add up and affect a student's learning progress. According to Washington state rules (WAC 392-401-020), there are specific reasons that a school can excuse a student’s absence. The school principal or a designated person has the responsibility to decide whether an absence meets these criteria.

Communications 

Skyward/Qmlativ Family Access

Families and students can access student grades and progress 24/7 via a secure internet based system called Skyward/Qmlativ Family Access.  Through Skyward/Qmlativ families and students can access  important information like grades, attendance, food & nutrition services, and who to contact in case of an emergency.  Our school also uses the information in Skyward/Qmlativ to direct communication, so please continue to update your home addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers. 

Learning Management System

Google Classroom is the Learning Management System at Lucille Umbarger Middle School. Courses that utilize Google Classroom use the platform as a "home base" where teachers share assignments, links to resources, information, and other forms of communication with students and their families. To receive updates from Google Classroom, contact your child’s teacher and provide an email address. 

District Mobile App

Burlington-Edison School District's mobile app is free and available for Android, iPhone and iPad. Download it by searching “Burlington-Edison SD” in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The mobile app connects with all the latest school and district applications, including Skyward, lunch menus, and district social media accounts:

• Download for Android 

• Download for iPhone 

Texting

Our district recognizes that many families prefer Text Messaging as a primary form of communication.  Text messaging from our staff should be sent through a Parent Square, which supports texting, while ensuring staff do not utilize personal devices for communication with families.  

Breakfast and Lunch 

This year breakfast and lunch are free for all students! You do not need to worry about paying for or packing school meals. 

Menus include whole grains, low fat proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables with a choice of milk. Specific menus are available on our website: https://www.be.wednet.edu/page/food-services

If you have any questions about breakfast, lunch, or general food service in B-ESD, please email questions@be.wednet.edu.

Hall Passes 

LUMS is implementing a digital Hall Pass system for students needing to leave class to use the restroom, go to the office, or check in with another member of the LUMS staff. Smart Pass will allow our staff to support students while also maximizing instructional time and enhancing student safety.  

Associated Student Body

The LUMS ASB is our student government organization which represents the student body, fosters student involvement, and creates a positive school environment.

Officers

Students run, and are elected for the following year long positions: 

• President 

• Vice-President

• Secretary 

• Treasurer

• Spirit Coordinators (two from each grade level)

Activities

Associated Student Body-sponsored social activities are open to all LUMS students and are considered to be part of the overall LUMS educational program.  To be eligible to participate students must: 

• Meet behavior expectations at previous activities AND on the day of the activity, 

• Have served all disciplinary consequences, 

• Have attended more than half of the school day, and

• Follow all behavior expectations and adult directions.

ASB Card

Every student at LUMS will be issued an ASB card with their current school picture on it.

Progress Reports, Report Cards, Homework

Progress reports will be sent home following the end of each quarter.  Report cards will be sent home following the end of each semester period. 

Homework has been shown to increase student achievement at the middle school level, provided it is used to reinforce and practice skills that students have already learned. If you find that you are doing more than 1-hour per night, please talk with your teachers and counselors so we can work together to create a more meaningful learning experience.

District and School Achievement 

To view student achievement data and other academic and accountability indicators, please visit the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) Report Card website, https://washingtonstatereportcard.ospi.k12.wa.us/. In the search area type in Burlington-Edison School District or the specific school name you would like to review, then click “Go.” There is “Washington School Improvement Framework” data within each school’s report card. 

Student Health Services

Illness at School

When students become ill at school they should report to the Health Room in the main office area.  If unable to walk to the health room safely, students should notify a staff member to call the main office for assistance. Students who are ill and feel like they may need to go home, must first go to the health room for safety, permission, and attendance purposes. To maintain an orderly learning environment, please refrain from calling/texting home regarding illness from your personal phone. 

Illness at Home

We care about protecting students and their families from illness. Please keep ill students home so we do not place other students at risk of contracting the illness. Some symptoms to keep a child at home include the following:

• Body temperature over 100 degrees Fahrenheit

• Persistent nasal drainage and/or chronic cough

• Sore throat with swollen glands

• Diarrhea

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Muscle or body aches

• Rash with fever and itching

• Active scabies

• Pink eye

In addition, if your student has been diagnosed with a contagious illness, please notify the school. Exposure to contagious illness can affect students with fragile immune systems or certain medical conditions. All health information will be treated with confidentiality.

Medication

Generally, medication should be administered by a parent/guardian before or after school. If necessary, medications can be administered in school on a daily, temporary, or on an as-needed basis under the supervision of a Certificated School Nurse. Any medication to be taken at school must be brought to school by the parent/guardian and stored in the Health Room. Requests for medication to be administered for more than fifteen consecutive days require the school to request a written request from a licensed healthcare provider with written instructions. 

Prescription and over-the-counter medications require written authorization from a parent/guardian with a written request by an appropriately licensed healthcare provider. Our school maintains no more than a 20-day supply of medication. Medication must be properly labeled in its original container. 

Under Washington state law, certain medications can be administered by unlicensed school staff following training and delegation by a school nurse during field trips and other school-sponsored events. Special arrangements will need to be made should a field trip extend outside of Washington. 

It is important that if your student is participating in a field trip or a school-sponsored activity and requires medication not typically provided during normal school hours to coordinate with your student’s teacher and school nurse four weeks prior to the event for planning. 

If a healthcare professional and a student’s parent/guardian request that a student be permitted to self-carry their own medication and/or be permitted to self-administer the medication, consultation with the school nurse and building administrator is required.  Discussion will include: 

• Student circumstances such as the type of medication, age and independence, 

• General safety concerns;

• Assurances, if approved, that the student maintains one daily dose (with the exception of multi-dose devices such as inhalers) needed during school hours, and any additional school-sponsored events.  

Controlled substances are not allowed under this provision

Immunizations and Vaccines

Children entering school are required to have certain vaccinations before they can start. These requirements are put into place to protect children, families, and communities from vaccine preventable diseases. The Department of Health has immunization charts for families that show when children should receive specific vaccines. Before a child may attend school, the family must provide a Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS). State law allows families to exempt their child from school or child care immunization requirements. In most cases, families can claim one of four exemption types; Medical, Personal/Philosophical, Religious, and Religious Membership. Personal/philosophical exemptions cannot be used for measles, mumps, and rubella requirements. 

Under state law children who don’t meet state vaccination requirements may not attend school. Schools must exclude children who do not provide paperwork showing their child has met the vaccination requirements. Children who need to catch up on vaccination requirements may stay in school under ‘conditional status. If this applies to your family, please coordinate with our school nurse, or your child may be required to stay home from school.   

Additional information about vaccines can be found at the Washington Department of Health website.https://bit.ly/44YTUIk. Our Health team is here to support you through the process. 

Life-Threatening Conditions and Emergency Medications 

For the health and safety of students with Life-Threatening Conditions (LTC), our school district maintains compliance with Washington state’s Life-Threatening Conditions Law (RCW 28A.210.320).

Examples of possible LTC include severe allergies (anaphylaxis) to food, insect stings, or contact with certain substances; diabetes; seizures disorders; certain cardiac conditions; and many more. If you are unsure if your student has an LTC, consult with your student’s school nurse.

A student with an LTC must have the following on-site before they can start school:

1. A health plan developed for the school environment addressing the Life-Threatening Condition (this plan is written by the school nurse in collaboration with the student’s parent/guardian and health care provider);

2. Emergency medications and/or equipment orders by a licensed health care provider with prescriptive authority, with written instruction – if needed;

3. Actual medication and/or equipment – if needed.

Additional Information 

The B-ESD Nursing team maintains a Health Resources Webpage, https://bit.ly/3YzYqcl, for your reference. 

Chromebooks and Internet Access 

Student Chromebooks

All students at LUMS are provided a Chromebook and charger to support their learning. Students are responsible for safety bringing their assigned Chromebook between home and school each day. 

Your Student will be responsible for the following: 

• Proper care to prevent breakage or harm

• Bring to school each day, fully charged and ready for use

If there are any issues with the device, do not attempt to repair it on your own, return it to the LUMS for support.  Depending on loss, damage, or misuse, families may be responsible for payment of repairs or replacement. 

Student Email

Students at LUMS are issued a school email account as part of their District Google account. Email accounts are used for communication as well as access to various approved digital tools. 

It is assumed that parents grant their child the right to access digital devices and resources and have a desire to have their child access digital tools, which include the internet as an educational resource unless their school has a signed Internet and Electronic Communication Exclusion form on file.

Internet Use

The Burlington-Edison School District provides all students with access to networked services as well as to the internet for access to content and communication. Technology has become an integral part of education and our students’ learning experience. Having access allows students to use online curriculum and resources purchased by the district to support student learning, to access district systems such as their school library catalog, as well as access to free educational internet sites. Our society is rich with information and technology to access this information, and it is important that our students learn to access this information effectively, ethically, and safely. 

Having our students’ safety in mind is key. While using educational tools, students will abide by the Burlington-Edison School District Acceptable Use Guidelines and Internet Safety Requirements. If you have any questions regarding specific tools, please talk to your student’s teacher(s) about the technology tools used in their particular class.

All families are encouraged to read through district policies related to internet safety and responsible use of district resources. See Board Policy 2022.

There are options available for all students who need support accessing the internet. Families may be eligible for reduced-cost internet access or WiFi hotspot devices. Please visit the Family Support Website for details.

Student Technology Support

• helpdesk@be.wednet.edu

• 360-757-3344

Internet Access Support

There are options available for all students who need support accessing the internet. Families may be eligible for reduced-cost internet access or WiFi hotspot devices. Please visit the Family Support Website for details. 

Internet Regulations and Responsible User Agreement 

Computer use is for educational purposes and school related projects provided as a privilege to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. We require that students and parents/guardians read and follow rules for acceptable on-line behavior. Student network storage areas may be monitored, just like school lockers. Network administrators may review files and/or communications to maintain system integrity and ensure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files are private. 

For the STUDENT: I understand and will abide by the preceding Regulations for Responsible Internet Access and Use. 

I understand that any violation of the regulations in these guidelines is unethical and may constitute a criminal offense. Should I commit any violation, my access privileges may be revoked, school disciplinary action may be taken, and/or appropriate legal action may be incurred. I agree to inform school authorities if I become aware of any violation of these guidelines. 

For the PARENT or GUARDIAN: As the parent or guardian of this student, I have read these Regulations for Responsible Internet Access and Use. I understand that this access is designed for educational purposes. The Burlington-Edison School District has taken precautions to eliminate controversial material. However, I also recognize it is impossible for the Burlington-Edison School District to restrict access to all controversial materials, and I will not hold them responsible for materials accessed on or through the network. I agree to inform the school if I become aware of any violation of these guidelines. Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child’s use is not in a school setting. I hereby give permission to issue an account for my child and certify that the information contained on this form is correct.

STUDENT EMAIL PARENT PERMISSION/ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY Your child’s teacher will be using email to support class work this year. Absent parental request otherwise, your child will be assigned an email account and will be allowed to send and receive email through a monitored system. All district policies are still in effect, and apply, as indicated in the Internet/Technology Usage Rules Policy. Every attempt is made to provide safe, secured student email; however, it is still the responsibility of users to follow school rules, teacher directions, and procedures and to report any inappropriate use or material to school personnel. As explained in the Internet / technology Usage Rules Policy, the use of school technology, networks, and Internet services does not create any expectation of privacy. Burlington-Edison reserves the right to search and monitor any information, created, accessed, sent, received, and stored in any format by students on school equipment. Students are responsible for ensuring that email is used appropriately and does not include any of the following: profanity, obscenities, sexually explicit comments or materials, any derogatory content/bullying against any groups race, religion or other, no viruses, no personal information (address, phone number, student IDs, etc.) and no materials that are protected by copyrights (including all media, music, photo, images, documents, etc.). Access to student email and other technology tools in the District are a privilege and access is at the discretion of the District. The District maintains the right to immediately withdraw the access of any or all technology tools when there is reason to believe that a violation of the law or District policies have occurred. In such a case, the violation will be referred to the Principal for further investigation and a decision will be made to determine restoration, suspension, or termination of access.

Cell Phones

LUMS is committed to creating a cell phone free learning environment for our students.  Having a cell phone free school enables us to focus on engaging all learners and building a strong school community.  We believe that through the removal of cell phones and smart watches, students will be able to engage with their coursework and teachers, connect with each other, and achieve at higher levels.  This will foster a stronger learning environment with fewer distractions and promote health social and emotional development. 

LUMS will use Yodr Pouches to safely and securely store their cell phones, smart watches, Airpods/Earbuds, and any other personal cell device.  Students will turn their cell phones off or put them in Do Not Disturb mode and then place them and their other items in the pouch and lock the pouch prior to the start of school. Students will then keep the Yondr pouch with them during the course of the school day and will unlock the pouch when leaving school for the day.

Family Communication 

Communication between parents/guardians and their children throughout the day is important to our community. A school day without cell phones will be new for some of our students, but not necessarily for parents and guardians. Those of us who attended school prior to cell phones remember our parents calling the main office to have a note delivered to us about a change in plans. We have several options available to students and their families.

• Parents may call or email the main office of LUMS to request a message be delivered during the school day.

• Students may come to the main office to use a phone to make a call to their parents or guardians.

• LUMS student emails will be able to receive messages from outside B-ESD. Thus, parents/guardians and students will be able to communicate during the day. 

• Since the Yondr pouches do not block incoming messages, students will see messages sent to their cell phones at the end of the school day.

Accommodations

Students with documented medical and other health needs will work with their Section 504 or IEP Case-manager. The the specific accommodation will be tailored for the individual student for the purposes listed in their 504, IEP, or healthcare plan.

Consequences

LUMS has developed consequences for students who are found to not have their cell phone, smartwatch, and AirPods/EarBuds in a Yondr pouch.

• First offense - Teachers or staff will immediately confiscate the devices and put them in a pouch which will not be returned to the student until the end of the school day. The family will be contacted and a restorative conversation will be held with the student. 

• Second offense - Teachers or staff will immediately confiscate the devices, put them in a pouch and send the pouch to the school’s main office to be stored securely. The pouch will only be returned to a parent or guardian, who will be notified that they need to come to the school office to pick up the devices. Another restorative conversation with the student and possibly a parent will be held. 

• Any further offenses will be handled on a case by case basis which could include future discipline up to and including bag searches, community service, and/or other disciplinary action including after school or Saturday detention or even suspension from school.

Parents Partnership

We take our partnership with parents and families very seriously.  Without access to their devices students, and parents, may feel an elevated sense of anxiety.  If you have concerns, please come and speak with our administrative team.  The staff at LUMS is confident that providing time for students to disconnect from social media focus on academic and face-to-face peer interactions will have a positive impact on our school community.

Student Alcohol and Drug Use Policy

The Burlington-Edison School District is committed to a comprehensive program addressing alcohol, controlled substances, and harmful substances, including steroids, through prevention, intervention, aftercare, and appropriate actions. Recognizing the impact on school, home, and community, the district will collaborate with families and community resources, while acknowledging the primary responsibility of students and parents/guardians to seek help.

Part of our responsibility is to inform you each year of the district’s policy on student use of drugs/substances/alcohol. This policy is as follows:

Any student who is under the influence of or possesses, sells, offers for sale, or distributes alcohol, controlled substances or drug paraphernalia will be subject to disciplinary action, including short-term or long-term suspension from school or expulsion from school.

Naloxone/NARCAN

For the purpose of assisting a person at risk of experiencing an opioid-related overdose, schools will maintain nasal spray opioid overdose reversal medication and dispensed in accordance with RCW 69.41.095. School employees such as a school nurse or school employee may administer the school-owned opioid overdose reversal nasal spray medication to respond to symptoms of an opioid-related overdose. Opioid reversal medication may be used on school property, including buildings, school grounds, and school buses.

Inclement Weather / Emergency information 

How do I know if school is closed or operating on an abnormal schedule?

FAMILIES, STAFF AND STUDENTS – IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE: If the Burlington-Edison School District does NOT send out a specific message regarding school hours, when our schools are operating on a normal schedule.

On the day of a possible schedule change, every effort will be made to inform our community no later than 6 a.m. from the following sources:

• Listen or watch area radio and TV stations;

• Log On to

  • www.flashalert.net

  • www.be.wednet.edu

• Call

  • Delay and Closure Line: 360-542-3420 (from approximately 5:15 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.)

• Listen for Alerts

  • B-ESD provides updates via Skyward/Qumlative, and social media platforms. Maintaining updated contact information in Skyward/Qumative is necessary to ensure messages are delivered.

When schools are closed

• All schools and programs are closed for one day.

• All after-school activities and all evening events at district buildings (including non-district events) are canceled.

• School days lost for weather closures must be made up. See the school calendar for designated make-up days.

When schools start two hours late:

• Classes begin two hours after a school’s regular start time.

• Buses arrive for student pick up two hours after the regular pick up time.

• No A.M. special education preschool.

• All student activities (after-school athletics and academic clubs) take place as scheduled unless otherwise notified.

• Students will be dismissed at the regular dismissal time unless otherwise announced.

• No out-of-district transportation.

• No A.M. NCTA programs.

• P.M.NCTA programs will be in session as usual.

• Breakfast and lunch services will still be available once school starts on that day.

Emergency Preparedness

Our schools have adopted The “I Love U Guys” Foundation’s Standard Response Protocol (SRP). Students and staff will be training, practicing, and drilling the protocol. The SRP is based on an all hazards approach as opposed to individual scenarios. Like the Incident Command System (ICS), SRP utilizes clear common language while allowing for flexibility in protocol. The SRP is based on the following actions: Hold, Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, and Shelter. These are the actions that staff and students will take when they practice drills throughout the school year. 

The SRP is action-based, flexible, and easy to learn. It rationally organizes tactics for response to weather events, fires, accidents, intruders and other threats to personal safety. The SRP’s development is ever-evolving, created with extensive collaboration between experts such as first responders, public safety, school, districts, and communities. Its tactics are data-driven, researched and based on experience and contemporary practices.

Past tragedies have demonstrated that simply having students lockdown and attempt to hide is not always the most appropriate response.

For more information on the Burlington-Edison School District’s emergency preparedness plans, please contact your child’s school. 

Family-Student Reunification

In the event of a school lockdown or evacuation for an actual emergency, the district will provide notification of a family reunification site. Please wait for that notification and do not respond to the school unless instructed to do so. Students will only be released to parents/guardians or emergency contacts authorized in Skyward/Qumaltive Family Access to pick up their child. Please ensure that you have ID during an emergency and have updated your Family Access information with proper contact information for you and any friend(s) or family member(s) who may be responsible for picking up your student.

See something, Say something

The Burlington-Edison School District is constantly evaluating and adjusting safety protocols and procedures to ensure our schools remain safe and comfortable learning environments. However, policies and equipment can only do so much. To achieve truly safe schools takes the entire campus community. Bullying, harassment, intimidation, threats, bringing weapons and drugs to school all have significant impacts on student success and the ability to maintain a safe school environment. One of the essential keys to maintaining a safe environment is, “see something, say something.” If you see or hear something inappropriate, dangerous, or something that makes you feel unsafe, report the incident to a teacher, counselor, administrator or report an anonymous Safe Schools Alert online, call or text 855-714-0195. The actions you take will not only keep our schools safer, it may save the lives of the people you care about.    

Transportation

Our goal is to provide safe and efficient transportation to all Burlington-Edison School District students in a kind atmosphere. Student bus route information is sent home to families in the mail and is available in Skyward/Qumlativ Family Access under the Busing tab. Please visit the Transportation website for details: https://www.be.wednet.edu/page/transportation. 

Busses load after school (2:35 pm)  in the bus-loading zone on the North side of campus.  Inappropriate behavior could result in the loss of riding privileges.

Student Conduct

The Burlington-Edison School District focuses on the educational achievement of each and every student. The District holds high expectations for all students and gives all students the opportunity to achieve personal and academic success. “Discipline” means any action taken by the school district in response to behavioral violations, including exclusionary as well as positive and supportive forms of discipline. The district intends that these practices be implemented in a manner that supports a positive school climate, maximizes instructional time, and increases equitable educational opportunities.

As outlined in school board Policy 3241, student conduct and behavior is closely associated with learning. An effective instructional program requires a healthy and orderly school environment. The board requires that each student adhere to the rules of conduct and submit to corrective action taken as a result of conduct violations. The rules of conduct are applicable during the school day as well as during any school activity conducted on or off campus, and off school grounds if a student’s actions materially or substantially affect or interfere with the educational process or District operations. Special rules are also applicable while riding on a school bus. 

Students are expected to: 

• Respect the rights, person and property of others;

• Pursue the required course of study;

• Preserve the degree of order necessary for a positive climate for learning;

• Comply with district rules and regulations; and

• Respect the authority of staff and reasonable discipline imposed by school employees and respond accordingly. 

The Board recognizes that schools must take reasonable steps so that students who fail to adhere to the district’s rules and regulations and who receive discipline for such misconduct remain engaged or are effectively reengaged in their educational program. 

Administrative Guidelines / Potential Disciplinary Action 

Discipline for students who fail to adhere to the district’s rules and regulations are in accordance with school board policy and procedure 3241.  Additional details are listed in From 3241F1 - B-ESD School District Matrix, and Form 3214F2 - District Continuum of Discipline Responses. 

Discipline must be reasonable and necessary under the circumstances and reflect the district’s priority to maintain a safe and positive learning environment for all students and staff. Any discipline assigned may result in probation from extra-curricular activities as per Athletic/Activities Code.

Students who involve themselves in criminal acts on school property, off school property, at school-supervised events, and which acts have a detrimental effect upon the maintenance and operation of the schools or the district, are subject to disciplinary action by the school and prosecution under the law.

Forms of Discipline 

Steps:    

1. Other Alternatives to Removal from School or Class*

2. Notify Parent/Guardian of Student Misconduct

3. Problem Solving Conference with Student and/or Family

4. Detention/Classroom Exclusion

5. In-School Suspension (ISS)

6. Out-of-School Short Term Suspension (1-10 days)

7. Out-of-School Long Term Suspension (More than 10 days)

8. Emergency Removal

9. Expulsion

Parents will be notified if classroom exclusion is utilized to address student misconduct

Any discipline assigned from steps 4 through 9 may result in probation from co-curricular activities as per the Athletic/Activities Code 

*School staff will consider and utilize, as they deem appropriate, disciplinary alternatives that minimize a student’s removal from class or school and that teach students appropriate behavior while holding them accountable for their behavior. Such alternatives may include exclusion from extracurricular, athletic or other school-sponsored activities or events; re-teaching of expectations and skills; training on topics such as bullying, social skills, appropriate behavior, conflict resolution and anger management, restorative justice, behavioral 

Violations Against School Administrative Procedures 

Listed In alphabetical order, NOT severity of misconduct

• Arson: The intentional act of setting a fire

• Assault: The unlawful threat (verbal or physical) or attempt to do physical harm to another person(s) (i.e. fighting).  Behaviors including intimidation, hazing, initiation, and harassment constitute assault. 

• Burglary, Malicious Mischief, Theft, Vandalism:  Breaking and entering of school or another’s personal property with the intent to steal or do damage.

• Cheating, Gambling, Forgery, and Plagiarism:  Academic misconduct: cheating on homework, class work, assignments, or tests.  Interfering with documents or communication between school and home (i.e. forging Parent/Guardian signature, intercepting reports, trip request, etc.)  Forging school documents is a serious offense.

• Computer/Internet Usage Violation:

  • • Level One: This violation includes having food and/or drink at computers; changing configuration files of individual or network computers; playing games or accessing social media without permission; loading and downloading games; using another person’s password (with or without permission). 

    • Level Two: This violation includes trespassing into another person’s folder; violating copyright laws (downloading music); illegally copying programs; stealing or using stolen passwords; using chat lines.

    • Level Three: Intentionally loading a virus; Employing network for commercial purposes or monetary gain; Viewing and/or distributing obscene material, pornography, violent or racist material; Using sex-oriented chat-lines; Theft/damage of hard drive and/or computer. Police may be involved at this level and a violation could lead to the extent of being charged with a felony. 

• Dangerous Weapons: Position of a weapon refers to behavioral violations that meet the definition of an offense under RCW 9.41.280. The size or length of the object does not matter if the intent of its use is to inflict physical harm. Look-a-like weapons violations may also fall into this category. 

• Disruption of the Educational Environment: Students are entitled to verbally express their personal opinions. Such verbal opinions shall not interfere with the freedom of others to express themselves and cannot be a disruption of the educational process. The use of obscenities or personal attacks is prohibited. All student meetings in school buildings or on school grounds may function only as a part of the formal educational process as authorized by the administration. 

• Drug and Alcohol:

  • • Illegal Substance: Any drug, alcohol, controlled or mood-altering substance, inhalant, or medication which is not prescribed for the students use by a licensed practitioner according to the district's medication policy.

    • Drug Paraphernalia: Any item, implement, object, or material employed in the use, possession, transport, or sale of any controlled or mood-altering substance as defined by laws and district policy.

    • Breathalyzer Test:  If the administration has reason to believe that the student is under the influence of alcohol, a breathalyzer test will be given.

Possession, use, being under the influence of illegal substances, inhalants, manufacturing/possession of drug paraphernalia, sale or delivery of illegal substances or drug paraphernalia during regular school hours, on school premises, or at school sponsored events, is prohibited. The following consequences, or other consequences, may result, as appropriate:  referral to drug/alcohol prevention specialist, emergency expulsion, expulsion, suspension, Parent/Guardian and student conference with administration before returning to school, student placed on a behavior contract, referral to law enforcement agency by the administrator. 

• • Electronic Devices: All extraneous devices, including but not limited to, cell phones, smart phones, smart watches, tablet PCs, mobile presenters, wireless tablets, digital recorders, iPods, MP3 players, digital cameras, laptop computers, as well as any other personal device that could interfere with teaching and learning, are not to be used in the classroom or during class time unless the teacher permits their use for a class-related purpose. In particular, cell phones and headphones are to be silenced and stored away. The use of a cell phone or any electronic devices during any exam other than those approved by the teacher is strictly prohibited.

The school is NOT responsible for personal electronic devices that are lost, stolen, or damaged while on campus. These items are brought to school at the student’s own risk. 

The school will not expend resources to search for lost or stolen personal electronic devices. 

• Firearms: The Burlington-Edison School Board intends that all district facilities and activities will be safe for students, staff and the community. To ensure this intention, it is prohibited for any person to be in possession of a firearm on school premises, in a vehicle, or at any school activity. Staff is directed to refer all firearm violations immediately to the school principal or designee for action. 

Firearms would include any air gun, including any air pistol or rifle, designed to propel a BB, pellet, or other projectile by the discharge of compressed air, carbon dioxide, or other gas.  

In most situations involving dangerous weapons, there is a need to remove the student(s) from school at the time of the event on an “emergency” basis. Building principals have the authority to remove student(s) from school immediately to investigate offenses regarding dangerous weapons. Referral will be made to a law enforcement agency, if warranted.

• Failure to Follow Reasonable Directions of School Personnel - Insubordination, Defiance of Authority, Disrespect, or Refusing to Identify Self or Others:  Students may not show disrespect for a teacher or adult, disrupt classes, show insubordination, refuse to comply with an adult request, blatant disrespect for school authority, or show behavior directed toward an adult or another student in school demonstrating aggression, vulgar language, or indecent gestures.

• False Alarms:  Pulling or setting off fire alarms including falsely reporting a fire or bomb on school property is prohibited. Repeated violations may result in a requirement to participate in a fire safety education course. 

• Fighting:  As a general rule, when two students are in a fight, fault can be found on both sides.  Therefore, both students will receive appropriate disciplinary consequences determined by an administrator.

• Freedom of Speech and Assembly:  Students are entitled to verbally express their personal opinions.  Such verbal opinions shall not interfere with the freedom of others to express themselves.  The use of obscenities or personal attacks is prohibited.  All student meetings in school buildings or on school grounds may function only as a part of the formal educational process as authorized by the administration.

• Gang Activities:  Affiliation with a gang, gang activities, or claiming gang membership by students is considered exceptional misconduct.  Students displaying gang colors, using gang terms, wearing bandannas, displaying gang symbols or other gang related activities, etc., is prohibited.

• Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB): Intimidating any student, staff member, administrator, teacher, or classified employee by threat of force or violence is unlawful (RCW 28A.635.100).  For additional information, please see the HIB Policy below.

• Inappropriate Behavior:  Disruptive behavior or inappropriate conduct during regular school hours, school activities (including assemblies), field trips, and overnight trips is prohibited.  Depending on the magnitude of the offense, in some situations (food fights, large scale class or campus disruptions, crowd conduct at school contests or events, or any exceptional misconduct, etc.) the school may elect to go immediately to higher level consequences such as a short-term suspension for a first offense.  Excessive public display of affection is also subject to disciplinary action.  In addition, the exhibiting of behavior or gestures which symbolize gang membership, or causing or participating in activities, which intimidate, or affect the attendance of another student at a school or at a school sponsored event is prohibited.

• Profanity: Language found to be offensive or obscene

• Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment means unwelcome conduct or communication of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment can occur adult to student, student to student or can be carried out by a group of students or adults and will be investigated by the District even if the alleged harasser is not a part of the school staff or student body. The district prohibits sexual harassment of students by other students, employees or third parties involved in school district activities. 

• Smoking, Chewing, Vaping or Possession of Tobacco Products:  The B-E School District is a smoke and tobacco free environment, mandated by state and federal law.  It is prohibited for minors or adults to use tobacco products anywhere in the school facility or on campus.

School Buses

All school rules apply when students are riding a school bus.

When there is a violation of school rules on a school bus the following discipline may result:

• Bus driver advises student of expected behavior and potential discipline

• District personnel contacts parents/guardians; report is sent home

• Student is removed from bus for up to five (5) days

• Student is removed from bus for extended period (over five (5) days)

• Student is removed from bus for the remainder of semester or school term 

Search and Seizure

The following rules shall apply to the search of school property assigned to a specific student (locker, desk, etc.) and the seizure of items in his/her possession:

• General searches of school property may be conducted at any time.

• Any search of a student and/or an area assigned to a student would be for a specific item and based on reasonable suspicion.

• Illegal items (firearms, weapons, drugs, drug paraphernalia or other possessions reasonably determined to be a threat to the safety or security of others) will be seized by school authorities and referred to a law enforcement agency.

• Items which are used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process may be removed from the student’s possession.

Student Dress

Research indicates that dress codes can have an impact on student attitude toward learning within schools. Although matters of taste are appropriately left up to students and their Parents/Guardians, we feel a strong responsibility to work with families to build a positive school culture at LUMS.  Providing recommended guidelines for parents/guardians and students to use in determining what is and is not appropriate is part of this work. The key guideline is that dress and grooming should never interfere with anyone’s right to learn or teach or endanger health or safety.  Where the nature of a learning activity rules out certain modes of dress and grooming because of health or safety, appropriate standards will be developed and made available to students involved in those activities.

The following general guidelines are designed to allow enough room for individual expression:

• Shoes/footwear must be worn at all times.

• An adequate coverage of the body is required.  Revealing clothing will be determined inappropriate if it disrupts the learning environment.

• Clothing decorated or marked with illustrations, words, or phrases, that are vulgar or obscene or promote behavior, which violates school conduct standards, is not allowed.

• Drug and alcohol related clothing, artwork, jewelry, or symbols will not be allowed to be worn at school.

Civil Rights

Our Schools Protect 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.

What is HIB? 

HIB is any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act of a student that:

• Physically harms another student or damages their property;

• Has the effect of greatly interfering with another student’s education; or,

• Is so severe, persistent, or significant that it creates an intimidating or threatening education environment for other students.

HIB generally involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated. HIB is not allowed, by law, in our schools.

How can I  make a report or complaint about HIB?

Talk to any school staff member (consider starting with whoever you are most comfortable with!). You may use our district’s reporting form (Spanish) to share concerns about HIB but reports about HIB can be made in writing or verbally. Reports may also be made through the Safe Schools portal. Your report can be made anonymously, if you are uncomfortable revealing your identity, or confidentially if you prefer it not be shared with other students involved with the report. No disciplinary action will be taken against another student based solely on an anonymous or confidential report.

If a staff member is notified of, observes, overhears, or otherwise witnesses HIB, they must take prompt and appropriate action to stop the HIB behavior and to prevent it from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer (Jeff Brown, Executive Director of Students Support Services) that supports prevention and response to HIB.  Jeff Brown can be reached at 360-757-3311 or jbrown@be.wednet.edu. 

What happens after I make a report about HIB?

If you report HIB, school staff must attempt to resolve the concerns. If the concerns are resolved, then no further action may be necessary. However, if you feel that you or someone you know is the victim of unresolved, severe, or persistent HIB that requires further investigation and action, then you should request an official HIB investigation.

Also, the school must take actions to ensure that those who report HIB don’t experience retaliation. 

What is the investigation process?

When you report a complaint, the HIB Compliance Officer or staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved with the complaint and must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 5 school days, unless you agree on a different timeline. If your complaint involves circumstances that require a longer investigation, the district will notify you with the anticipated date for their response.

When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must provide you with the outcomes of the investigation within 2 school days. This response should include: 

• A summary of the results of the investigation 

• A determination of whether the HIB is substantiated 

• Any corrective measures or remedies needed 

• Clear information about how you can appeal the decision 

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

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

If you do not agree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal the decision and include any additional information regarding the complaint to the superintendent, or the person assigned to lead the appeal, and then to the school board.

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

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

For more information about the HIB complaint process, including important timelines, please see the B-ESD Equity and Nondiscrimination webpage or the district’s HIB Policy 3207 (Spanish) and Procedure 3207 (Spanish).

Our School Stands Against Discrimination

Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because they are part of a protected class, including their race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, creed, disability, 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 conduct that may be physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Discriminatory harassment happens when the conduct is based on a student’s protected class and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when conduct 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 (Spanish) and Procedure 3210 (Spanish), visit B-ESD Equity and Nondiscrimination webpage.

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct or communication that is sexual in nature and substantially 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 submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or communication to gain something in return, such as a grade or a place on a sports team.

Examples of sexual harassment can include pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors; unwelcome touching of a sexual nature; graphic or written statements of a sexual nature; distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures; making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks; and physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.

Our schools do not discriminate based on sex and prohibit sex discrimination in all of our education programs and employment, as required by Title IX and state law.

To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy 3205 (Spanish) and Procedure (Spanish), visit B-ESD Equity and Nondiscrimination webpage.

What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?

When a school becomes aware of possible discriminatory or sexual harassment, it must investigate and stop the harassment. The school must address any effects the harassment had on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and make sure that the harassment does not happen 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 members to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns.

Concerns about discrimination: 

Civil Rights Coordinator: Jennifer Whitney, Director of Human Resources  

927 E. Fairhaven, Ave., Burlington, WA 98233 

360-757-3311, jwhitney@be.wednet.edu 

Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment: 

Title IX Coordinator: Jennifer Whitney, Director of Human Resources

927 E. Fairhaven, Ave., Burlington, WA 98233

360-757-3311, jwhitney@be.wednet.edu

Concerns about disability discrimination: 

Section 504 Coordinator: Jeff Brown, Executive Director of Student Support Services 

927 E. Fairhaven, Ave., Burlington, WA 98233 

360-757-3311, jbrown@be.wednet.edu

Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity: 

Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Jeff Brown, Executive Director of Student Support Services  

927 E. Fairhaven, Ave., Burlington, WA 98233 

360-757-3311, jbrown@be.wednet.edu

To submit a written complaint, describe the conduct or incident that may be discriminatory and 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 for a prompt investigation, and within one year of the conduct 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 must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that require a longer investigation, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing with the anticipated date for their response.

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

• A summary of the results of the investigation 

• A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws 

• Any corrective measures or remedies needed 

• Notice about how you can appeal the decision

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

If you do not agree with the outcome of your complaint, you may appeal the decision as outlined in board procedure and then to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). More information about this process, including important timelines, is included in the 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 also be discrimination if it's related to a protected class. 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

Who else can help with HIB or Discrimination Concerns?

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)

All reports must start locally at the school or district level. However, 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.

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

• Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/health-safety/school-safety-center

• Email: schoolsafety@k12.wa.us

• Phone: 360-725-6068

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

• Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/policy-funding/equity-and-civil-rights

• Email: equity@k12.wa.us

• Phone: 360-725-6162

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

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

• Website: www.oeo.wa.gov

• 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: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html

• Email: orc@ed.gov

• Phone: 800-421-3481

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, with or without a legal name change

• Change a student’s gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records

• Allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity

• Allow students to participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips in accordance with their gender identity

• Keep health and education information confidential and private

• Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and apply dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender

• 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,  or visit B-ESD Equity and Nondiscrimination webpage. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Jeff Brown, Executive Director of Students Support Services at 360-757-3311 or jbrown@be.wednet.edu.

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

Student Support Services

The McKinney-Vento Act

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act of 1986 is a federal law that provides money for homeless shelter programs. "Homeless" children are also entitled to the protections of the McKinney-Vento Act.

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 sharing housing due to economic hardship or loss of housing or similar reasons;

• Children living in "motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camp grounds due to lack of alternative accommodations"

• Children living in "emergency or transitional shelters"

• Children whose primary nighttime residence is not ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation (e.g. park benches, etc)

• Children living in "cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations…"

• Migratory children (as such term is defined in section 1309 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965) who qualify as homeless for the purposes of this subtitle because the children are living in circumstances described in clauses (a) through (e).

The McKinney-Vento Act ensures homeless children transportation to and from school free of charge, allowing children to attend their school of origin (last school enrolled or the school they attended when they first become homeless) regardless of what district the family resides in. It requires schools to register homeless children even if they lack normally required documents, such as immunization records or proof of residence.

Given the guidance above the Burlington-Edison School District (B-ESD), has developed Board Policy 3115.

The B-ESD Student Housing Questionnaire is used during student enrollment, and when a student has moved, to assist Building and District McKinney-Vento Liaisons in determining if the student(s) qualify for services under the Act.

If you believe you, or your child, may be eligible and in need of services under the McKinney-Vento Act, please seek the assistance of Jeff Brown, B-ESD McKinney-Vento Liaisons, or speak with a counselor at the student’s school.

If you feel the district's McKinney-Vento Liaisons made an incorrect determination in regards to McKinney-Vento eligibility or school or origin, please utilize the McKinney-Vento Dispute Resolution process.

Section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a civil rights law designed to eliminate disability discrimination in programs and activities that receive federal funds. Since all public school districts receive federal funds, all public school districts must comply with Section 504. Under Section 504, denying a disabled student a free appropriate public education constitutes disability discrimination.

Section 504 requires the provision of appropriate educational services; services that are designed to meet the individual needs of qualified students to the same extent that the needs of students without a disability are met. Essentially, Section 504 was designed to "level the playing field," to ensure full participation by individuals with disabilities.

Who is a disabled student under Section 504? A school-aged student is a disabled student under Section 504 if the student:

• Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities,

• Has a record of having such an impairment, or

• Is regarded as having such an impairment.

Who can I talk to about Section 504? The school counselors at each school act as case managers for students needing assistance under Section 504. In addition to the resources below, your school counselor can be of enormous help in determining if Section 504 is the appropriate support for your child. Furthermore, as the Section 504 Case Manager, the school counselor will take the lead in taking your referral through evaluation and development of a 504 plan if needed.

If you have additional questions regarding Section 504 please visit Jeff Brown at the District Office, or call him at 360-757-3311 ext 1006.

Special Education, Individuals with Disabilities Act

Special Education Services are provided to all qualified students ages birth to 21. To inquire about services for students currently enrolled in the district, contact the school psychologist at your local school. For students not currently enrolled, please call the District Office at 360-757-3311. 

Across the Burlington-Edison School District, we provide a wide spectrum of service options for the students we serve.  Special education provides supplemental services to students with special needs who meet three criteria:

• The student has a substantiated disability.  This determination involves an evaluation process by a school-based team that also includes the parents. 

• The disability adversely affects educational performance; and, 

• The adverse effects of the disability cannot be addressed exclusively through general education classes, with or without individual accommodations.

Childfind is a program for developing and implementing awareness and screening activities for the purpose of locating, identifying, and evaluating resident students, or students enrolled in a K-12 private school in Burlington-Edison, who are suspected of having a disability.

The Special Programs Department helps families determine if their student(s) are in need of receiving special education and related services.  These procedures encompass students aged birth through 21 regardless of the severity of the disability. 

Families living in Burlington-Edison with a child between birth and two years of age should contact Skagit Preschool and Resource Center (SPARC) at 360-416-7570.  

Regarding youth three to 21 years of age.  Questions or concerns about how your child is developing may be directed to the school psychologist at the student’s school, or directed to the Special Programs Office at 360-757-3311 ext. 1012.  Referrals (Spanish) for a special education evaluation can be obtained at the District Office or online.  

If your family is living in a temporary situation you may contact the district where you are currently staying for a screening. 

District policies, procedures, and any required reports relating to Special Education are available to the public, upon request, through the district’s Special Programs Office and on the district website at https://www.be.wednet.edu/page/special-programs.

Facilities Operations

Integrated Pest Management Program (IPM)

Burlington-Edison School District No. 100 has implemented an Integrated Pest Management Program (IPM). The IPM is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common sense practices and education, custodial practice, landscaping, preventative maintenance, record keeping, notification, pesticide purchase and storage as well as judicious use of conventional control methods. The only pesticide the District itself applies is Round-up, which is used for vegetative control around fences and some structures.

Occasionally the District will hire a contractor to apply other specific pesticides in/or around school buildings as needed for insect control. Interested persons can register with the District to receive 48 hour notification of pesticide applications set forth in RCW 17.21.415. The District will send home prior notifications to those persons requesting it by calling Auxiliary Services at 360-757-3387. Auxiliary Services will maintain pesticide application records in accordance with 17.21.100. Pesticide application records, post monitoring records, material safety data sheets (MSDS) and pesticide product labels will be on file at Auxiliary Services.

Compliance

The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) of 1986 requires school districts and other agencies to identify asbestos containing materials (ACM) and to inform employees regarding how the materials are being managed.  The Burlington-Edison School District No. 100 is in full compliance with all governmental regulations regarding asbestos. All new buildings and renovation projects are constructed with asbestos free materials. Old buildings which contain asbestos are inspected twice each year to make certain there are no problems. 

Pesticide application practices - Our district has established Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to help provide a safe and healthy learning, working and playing environment for students, staff, families and users of our properties. 

Asbestos Management Plan - The district developed an Asbestos Management Plan for each school, as required by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986. 

Water quality testing - The district tests water quality from drinking fountains and water sources used for cooking. 

For more information about pest management, asbestos and water quality, please contact Auxiliary Services at 360-757-3387.

Community Use of District Facilities

District-owned buildings and facilities are public property to be used in the best interest of the entire community. District and school uses of district-owned buildings and facilities have priority over any other uses, but community groups are encouraged to make use of district facilities.

Due to COVID-19, district facilities may not be available. At any time, building and field rental use may be canceled with short notice.

Please contact Shelly Hiett at 360-757-3387 or shiett@be.wednet.edu for more information about facility use. 

Annual Notification of Rights Under FERPA

Parents/guardians (“Parents”) and eligible students have a right to inspect and review “education records” and other rights under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

“Education records” means any record (in handwriting, print, tapes, film, computer or other medium) maintained by the Burlington-Edison School District or an agent of the district that contains personally identifiable information directly related to a student, except personal working notes kept by a staff member.

Parents of dependent children have the right to inspect education records regarding their children except for certain health care records. An eligible student (age 18 and older) may inspect his/her education records. If a record contains information on more than one student, access will be provided only to that portion of the record or document which relates to that student. The review will occur promptly after a request is received unless a written explanation for the failure to do so is supplied by the records official. In no case will access occur more than 45 days after the request is made.

Inspection and review will be conducted during normal working hours, unless the records official consents to other arrangements. Records officials will provide reasonable assistance in the interpretation and analysis of student records as requested. Although records must remain within district control, they may be copied or reproduced for the parent or eligible student at their own expense. Upon graduation from high school, a student may request to receive a final transcript in addition to his/her diploma.

At the time of inspection and review, the parent or eligible student granted access to records may challenge the appropriateness and accuracy of any record directly related to the student and may request correction or deletion. Records officials may honor such requests by correcting or deleting records which are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of privacy, provided that the superintendent or designee concurs.

Parents have 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 school as an ad­ministrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or com­pany with whom the school 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.

Upon request, the school discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

Parents have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC  20202-5901

For more information, read School Board Procedure 3231P – Procedure Student Records.

Notification of Rights Under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

FERPA affords parents and students over 18 years of age certain rights with respect to the student records. They are: 1) The right to inspect and review education records within 45 days of the day the district receives a request for access; 2) The right to request the amendment of student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading; 3) The right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records; 4) The right to file a complaint concerning alleged failures of the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. (34 Code of Federal Regulations Part 99 - Chapter 28A.600 RCW.)

Directory Information: Opting Out

The Burlington-Edison School District defines directory information as a student’s name, photograph, school, grade, dates of attendance, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, diplomas and awards received and the most recent previous school attended. 

The Burlington-Edison School District will routinely release directory information for the purpose of providing education, scholarship, vocational/occupational and/or military information, or to the news media and law enforcement. This information shall not be released for commercial purposes.

You have the right to withhold directory information. The “Do Not Release Directory Information” form may be completed by a parent, guardian or an eligible student over 18 years of age and returned to a school office. Please contact your child’s school for more information about withholding directory information.

Complaints Concerning Staff or Programs 

The Burlington-Edison School District Board of Directors welcomes constructive feedback about district programs and other district responsibilities, but the Board has the legal and ethical responsibility to protect its staff and students from criticism and/or disruption of school programs. The board will not entertain complaints regarding any individual staff member or student in a public session of board meetings unless that individual has requested a public hearing. The district welcomes any questions, comments or concerns that are presented in a professional manner. The district encourages those who have a concern to follow district protocol outlined below for processing concerns.  School Board Policy 4220 / Procedure 4220P

Process to Address Your Concerns

Despite our best efforts, there may be a time when something in the Burlington-Edison School District does not work for you – a time when you question why something was done, or not done. When you find yourself in this situation, we ask that you work together with us by following the steps below as established by our School Board.

• Step 1: Discuss the issue with the teacher or a guidance counselor at school, or the appropriate person in a department or program.

• Step 2: Discuss the issue with the principal. If it is a school wide concern, this becomes Step 1.

• Step 3: Contact the Assistant Superintendent's Office.

• Step 4: Contact the Superintendent’s Office.

If you are unable to resolve the concern during any of the above steps, please request the person at that level to assist you in moving the process to the next step. Board members may ask the superintendent to discuss citizen concerns with the appropriate staff person.

Complaints Related to Federal Programs

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.

To file a complaint against a school district, education service district (ESD) or other service provider (subgrantee), please visit the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction Citizen Complaints website, www.k12.wa.us/TitleI/CitizenComplaint.aspx, for an outline of the 5-step process.

B-ESD Non Discrimination/Equal Opportunity Statement

The Burlington-Edison School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, honorably-discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. The District will provide equal access to school facilities to the Boy Scouts of America and all other designated youth groups listed in Title 36 of the United States Code as a patriotic society. District programs will be free from sexual harassment. The Burlington-Edison School District offers many Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs/courses in the following areas: Agriculture Education; Business and Marketing; Family and Consumer Sciences; Health Sciences; Skilled and Technical Sciences; and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). For more information about CTE course offerings and admissions criteria, contact Kirk Hamilton, CTE Director, 927 E. Fairhaven Ave., WA 98233, 360-757-4074. Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in CTE programs. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination:

• Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator, Jennifer Whitney, jwhitney@be.wednet.edu (360-757-3311)

• Title IX Coordinator, Jennifer Whitney, jwhitney@be.wednet.edu (360-757-3311)

• ADA Coordinator, Jeff Brown, jbrown@be.wednet.edu (360-757-3311)

• Section 504 Coordinator, Jeff Brown, jbrown@be.wednet.edu (360-757-3311)

Address: 927 E. Fairhaven Avenue, Burlington, WA 98233

Title IX Inquiries may also be directed toward the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights (OCR): https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html. 

Information about the nondiscrimination and sex-based discrimination policies and grievance procedures, and how to report a concern or complaint: https://www.be.wednet.edu/page/b-esd-equity-and-nondiscrimination. 

The Burlington-Edison School District is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunity and treatment for all applicants and staff in recruitment, hiring, retention, assignment, transfer, promotion, and training. The District is a smoke-free/drug-free workplace.