Annual Parent Notification Guide

Code References:

EC California Education Code

HSC California Health and Safety Code

CCR California Code of Regulations

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

USC United States Code

RTC California Revenue and Taxation Code

BP Bonita Unified School District Board Policy

AR Bonita Unified School District Administrative Regulation

EC 221.5: Career Counseling and Course Selection 

Commencing with grade 7, school personnel shall assist pupils with course selection or career  counseling, exploring the possibility of careers, or courses leading to careers based on the  interest and ability of the pupil and not on the pupil’s gender. Parents or legal guardians are notified so that they may participate in such counseling sessions and decisions.

EC 221.6: Title IX 

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is one of several federal and state anti discrimination laws that ensure equality in educational programs and activities that receive  federal funding. Specifically, Title IX protects male and female pupils and employees, as  well as transgender pupils and pupils who do not conform to sex stereotypes, against  discrimination based on sex, including sexual harassment. California law also prohibits  discrimination based on gender, gender expression, gender identity, and sexual orientation.  Under Title IX, pupils may not be discriminated against based on their parental, family, or marital status, and pregnant and parenting pupils may not be excluded from participating in  any educational program, including extracurricular activities, for which they qualify.  

For more information about Title IX, or how to file a complaint of noncompliance with Title  IX, contact:

For employee matters:

Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources

115 W. Allen Ave, San Dimas, CA

909-971-8200, x. 5400

For student matters:

Senior Director, Student Services

115 W. Allen Ave, San Dimas, CA

909-971-8200, x. 5320

EC 231.5: Sexual Harassment 

The Bonita Unified School District is committed to maintaining a learning and working  environment that is free from sexual harassment. Any student who engages in sexual  harassment of anyone in or from the district may be subject to disciplinary action up to and  including expulsion. Any employee who permits, engages in, or fails to report sexual  harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. For a copy  of the district’s sexual harassment policy or to report incidences of sexual harassment, please contact your school office or the Office of Student Services, or review policies and regulations on the district website at www.do.bonita.k12.ca.us 

EC 232.7: Body Shaming 

California's Education Code Section 232.7, enacted through Assembly Bill (AB) 10 in October 2023, mandates that all California public and charter schools develop and adopt policies addressing body shaming by the 2025-2026 school year.  AB 10 aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to develop healthy attitudes regarding body image.  To view Bonita Unified School District's policy to address body shaming visit: https://drive.google.com/file/d/11d9aDvmS2W-0H2a-_XBfqC_-UDTc--sB/view?usp=sharing

EC 234: Safe Place to Learn Act 

It is the policy of the State of California to ensure that all local education agencies continue  to work to reduce discrimination, harassment, violence, intimidation, and bullying. It is  further the policy of the state to improve pupil safety at schools and the connections  between pupils and supportive adults, schools, and communities. As such, school districts  must adopt policies and procedures that address the following:

1. Policy that prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying based on  actual or perceived characteristics set forth in PC 422.55 and EC 220, and disability, gender,  gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual  orientation, or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or  perceived characteristics.  

2. Policy that applies to all acts related to school activity or school attendance occurring within a school under the jurisdiction of the superintendent of the school district. 3. Process for receiving and investigating complaints of discrimination, harassment,  intimidation, and bullying that shall include, but not be limited to all of the following:

(a) A requirement that, if school personnel witness an act of discrimination,  harassment, intimidation, or bullying, he or she shall take immediate steps to  intervene when safe to do so.  

(b) A timeline to investigate and resolve complaints that shall be followed by all  schools under the jurisdiction of the school district.

(c) An appeal process afforded to the complainant should he or she disagree with the  resolution of a complaint filed.

(d) Maintenance of complaints and their resolution for a minimum of one review  cycle.

(e) Manner to ensure that complainants are protected from retaliation and that their  identities remain confidential, as appropriate.

4. Identification of a responsible local educational agency officer for ensuring compliance.

The agency office responsible for compliance is:

Senior Director, Student Services

115 W Allen Ave, San Dimas, CA 91773

909-971-8200, x. 5320

To report an issue or file a complaint, contact the school office or the district office. A written complaint form can be accessed at https://sites.google.com/bonita.k12.ca.us/bonitausd-studentservices/complaint-procedures 

EC 234.4: School Safety, Bullying 

The Bonita Unified School District is committed to the prohibition of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying. Annual training will be provided to all staff who  work with students, to prevent bullying and cyberbullying.  

You may find a list of bullying resources provided by the California Department of Education  at https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/ss/se/bullyres.asp   

If you or your child should experience any bullying on campus, at school events, or on the way to or from school, please contact our district counseling liaison available to assist you in identifying and stopping this behavior at 909-971-8200.

EC 234.6: Bullying and Harassment Prevention Information (Sporting Event/Game Incident Report Form) 

The California Department of Education provides a "Sporting Event/Game Incident Report" form specifically for documenting incidents of racial discrimination, harassment, and/or hazing at high school sporting events.  Anyone experiencing, witnessing, or becoming aware of such behavior is encouraged to submit the form to the relevant school district.  

You may find the Sporting Event/Game Incident Report provided by the California Department of Education by clicking here   

EC 234.7: Educational Equity 

All persons in public schools, regardless of their Immigration status, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual  orientation, or any other specified characteristic, are to be afforded equal rights and  opportunities in the schools, and are not to be discriminated against on the basis of these  specific characteristics in any program or activity conducted by the school that receives or  benefits from state financial assistance or enrolls students who receive state financial aid.  School officials are prohibited from collecting information or documents regarding  citizenship or immigration status of students or their family members.

EC 313.2: English Learners Identification 

Parents are to be notified by schools that in addition to the child's English proficiency status,  for which they are notified using the English Language Proficiency for Assessments for  California (ELPAC), and they are to be notified that their child is a “Long-term English Learner” or is an “English learner at-risk of becoming a Long-term English Learner”.

EC 11500: Parent Engagement, School Accountability 

To participate in the district offerings of parent education and to provide parental input to the local training programs for parents, please contact the following district representative for more information on how you may contribute:  Senior Director Student Services, 909-971-8330, ext. 5321.  Information regarding the district's Parent and Family Engagement Policy can be found on the district website at:  https://do.bonita.k12.ca.us/documents/SAC/AR%C2%A0%206020%20Parent%20Involvement.pdf

EC 17612: Notification of Planned Use of Pesticide Products 

Information on the use of pesticides and information on how to be notified of pesticide use within the district can be found on the district website at:  

http://do.bonita.k12.ca.us/District/Business-Services/Pesticide-Use-Information/index.html

EC 32210: Behavior on School Grounds 

It is unlawful for any person, except a parent/guardian acting toward their minor child, to intentionally or to attempt to injure, intimidate, interfere by force, threat of force, physical obstruction, or nonviolent physical obstruction with any person attempting to enter or exit any public or private school grounds.

In addition, any parent, guardian, or other person whose conduct in a place where a school employee is required to be in the course of their duties materially disrupts class work or extracurricular activities or involves substantial disorder is guilty of a misdemeanor which is punishable upon the first conviction of a fine not less than five hundred dollars ($500) and not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by imprisonment in a county  jail for not more than one (1) year, or by both the fine and imprisonment. (EC 44811)

EC 32255: Pupil Right to Alternative Assignment to Animal Dissection 

(a) Except as otherwise provided in Section 32255.6, any pupil with a moral objection to  dissecting or otherwise harming or destroying animals, or any parts thereof, shall notify his or her teacher regarding this objection, upon notification by the school of his or her rights pursuant to Section 32255.4.

(b) If the pupil chooses to refrain from participation in an education project involving the  harmful or destructive use of animals, and if the teacher believes that an adequate alternative education project is possible, the teacher may work with the pupil to develop and agree upon an alternate education project for the purpose of providing the pupil an alternate avenue for obtaining the knowledge, information, or  experience required by the course of study in question.

(c) The alternative education project shall require a comparable time and effort investment by the pupil. It shall not, as a means of penalizing the pupil, be more arduous than the original education project.

(d) The pupil shall not be discriminated against based upon his or her decision to exercise his or her rights pursuant to this chapter.

(e) Pupils choosing an alternative educational project shall pass all examinations of the respective course of study in order to receive credit for that course of study. However, if tests require the harmful or destructive use of animals, a pupil may, similarly, seek alternative tests pursuant to this chapter.

(f) A pupil's objection to participating in an educational project pursuant to this section shall be substantiated by a note from his or her parent or guardian.

32255.4. Each teacher teaching a course that utilizes live or dead animals or animal parts  shall also inform the pupils of their rights pursuant to this chapter.

Classes and activities, conducted as part of a program in agricultural education that provide  instruction on the care, management, and evaluation of domestic animals are exempt from  the provisions of this chapter.

EC 33479: Sudden Cardiac Arrest 

Each school year, before a pupil participates in an athletic activity governed by the  California Interscholastic Federation (CIF), the school shall collect and retain a copy of the  sudden cardiac arrest information sheet required by the CIF for that pupil. Before a pupil  participates in an athletic activity not governed by the CIF, the pupil and the pupil’s parent or guardian shall sign and return an acknowledgment of receipt and review of the  information sheet posted on the California Department of Education website.

EC 35179: Student Swimming Safety

Pool sport coaches will be fully trained in CPR in case of accidental drowning in the pool.  If there is an event on-campus or hosted at a swimming pool facility, at least one adult with a valid certification of CPR training will be present throughout the duration of the event.

EC 35256: School Accountability Report Cards 

A School Accountability Report Card (SARC) is produced annually for each school in the  Bonita Unified School District and is published no later than February 1 of each year.  

The SARC for each school can be found on the District website at http://do.bonita.k12.ca.us/District/Educational-Services/SARC/index.html 

If you would like a hard copy of a SARC please contact your school office or the Office of Student Services at 909-971-8330, ext. 5321.

EC 35291: Development of Rules for Governance and Discipline 

The governing board of any school district shall prescribe rules not inconsistent with law or with the rules prescribed by the State Board of Education, for the government and discipline  of the schools under its jurisdiction. The governing board of each school district which  maintains any of grades 1 through 12, inclusive, may, at the time and in the manner prescribed by Sections 48980 and 48981, notify the parent or guardian of all pupils  registered in schools of the district of the availability of rules of the district pertaining to student discipline.

Information on school rules and procedures, including the school discipline plan and actions that could result in suspension or expulsion, are produced and distributed by each school. Please contact your school for more information.

Information on district rules and procedures are contained with the Board Policies and Administrative Regulations. District Board Policies can be found on the District website at  https://do.bonita.k12.ca.us/Board-of-Education/Board-Policies/index.html 

For a paper copy of a Board policy or administrative regulation, please contact the Educational Services Division at 909-971-8200, ext. 5301.

EC 35291: Nondiscrimination and Sexual Harassment Policy 

Nondiscrimination 

In compliance with the “No Child Left Behind” Act and Title VI, Title IX, Education  Amendment Act of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Governing  Board desires to provide a safe school environment that allows all students equal access  and opportunities in the district’s academic and other educational support programs,  services, and activities. District programs and activities shall be free from discrimination,  harassment, intimidation, and bullying of any student based on the student’s race, color,  ancestry, national origin, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital or parental  status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity,  gender expression, gender transition, transgender status, or gender nonconformity; the  perception of one or more of such characteristics; or association with a person or group  with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.

The Board prohibits intimidation or harassment of any student by any employee, student or  other person in the District. Prohibited discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying  includes physical, verbal, nonverbal, or written conduct based on one of the categories listed above that is so severe and pervasive that it affects a student's ability to participate in or  benefit from an educational program or activity; creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; has the effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with a student's academic performance; or otherwise adversely affects a student's educational opportunities.

Sexual Harassment 

It is the policy of the Bonita Unified School District Board of Education that all persons,  regardless of their sex, be afforded equal rights and opportunities and enjoy freedom from discrimination of any kind in our educational programs and settings. Furthermore, it is the  policy of the Bonita Unified School District Board of Education that sexual harassment of, or  by, any employee or student shall not be tolerated. The Board considers sexual harassment  to be a major offense, which can result in disciplinary action to the offending employee or  suspension or expulsion of the offending student.

1. Pursuant to Education Code Section 212.5, sexual harassment is defined as follows:

A. “Submission to the conduct is explicitly or implicitly made a term or a condition of  an individual’s employment, academic status, progress or promotion."

B. “Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the individual is used as the basis for  employment or academic decisions affecting the individual."

C. “The conduct has the purpose or effect of having a negative impact upon the individual’s work or academic performance, or of creating an intimidating,  hostile, or offensive work or educational environment."

D. “Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the individual is used as the basis for any decision affecting the individual regarding benefits and services, honors,  programs, or activities available at or through the educational institution."

2. Students: In addition to the reasons specified in Education Code Section 48900; Section 48900.2 specifies that a student (in grades 4-12) may be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion if the superintendent or principal of the school in which the  student is enrolled determines that the student has committed sexual harassment as  described in Section 212.5. All recommendations and/or orders to expel shall be made  pursuant to Education Code Section 48915.

A. For purposes of this policy, the conduct described in Education Code Section  48900.2 must be considered by a reasonable person of the same gender as the  victim to be sufficiently severe or pervasive to have a negative impact upon the  individual’s academic performance or to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive  educational environment.

B. Any student who feels that he or she has been the victim of sexual harassment as  previously defined in this policy pursuant to the provisions of Education Code  Section 212.5 shall immediately report the same to the principal or administrator of  the school in which he or she is in attendance. The principal or administrator  receiving the complaint shall immediately commence an investigation into the complaint. Any student who has knowledge of conduct by employees of the District,  volunteers, or other individuals of the school community or students which may  constitute sexual harassment as previously defined, are encouraged to immediately  report such conduct to the principal or administrator of the school at which he/she  is in attendance. The school’s progressive discipline guide is printed in each school’s  handbook.

EC 35291: Uniform Complaint Procedures 

The Bonita Unified School District is primarily responsible for complying with applicable  state and federal laws and regulations governing educational programs. Whenever possible  complaints should be discussed with the teacher or principal and resolved informally. If an  informal resolution is not possible, the following formal complaint procedures apply.

The Uniform Complaint Procedures apply to the filing, investigation and resolution of  complaints alleging: 1) failure to comply with federal of state law or regulations, 2) unlawful  discrimination against any protected group based on actual or perceived characteristics set  forth in Section 200 or 220 of the California Education Code or Section 11135 of the  Government Code, 3) failure to comply with school safety planning requirements, 4)  unlawful harassment, intimidation, and bullying based on actual or perceived characteristics  set forth in Section 422.5 of the California Penal Code, 5) unlawful imposition of pupil fees  for participation in educational activities in public schools, or 6) failure to comply with the  requirements established through the Local Control Funding Formula related to the Local  Control and Accountability Plan as described in EC sections 52060 through 52076 or  sections 47606.5 and 47607.3.  

The Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Development (Kendra Peterson, Ed.D., 909-971- 8200, ext. 5400) will receive and investigate formal written complaints alleging unlawful discrimination or the District’s failure to comply with state or federal laws governing categorical programs. The complaint review process shall be completed and the complainant shall receive the District’s written decision within 60 calendar days from the date the Human Resources Development Office receives the complaint, unless the complainant agrees in writing to an extension of the timeline.

An unlawful discrimination complaint must be filed not later than six months from the date the alleged discrimination occurs, or six months from the date the complainant first obtains  knowledge of the facts of the alleged discrimination. The complainant has the right to appeal  the District’s decision to the California Department of Education (CDE) by filing a written  appeal within 15 days of receiving the District’s decision. The appeal to the CDE must  include a copy of the complaint filed with the District, a copy of the District’s decision, and  the rationale for appealing the District’s decision—was the law misapplied or misinterpreted or were the facts incorrect.

A complainant may pursue available civil law remedies outside of the District’s complaint  procedures. Complainants may seek assistance from mediation centers or public/private  interest attorneys. Civil law remedies that may be imposed by a court include, but are not  limited to, injunctions and restraining orders. For discrimination complaints, however, a  complainant must wait until 60 days have elapsed from the filing of an appeal with the CDE  before pursuing civil law remedies. The moratorium does not apply to injunctive relief and  is applicable only if the District has appropriately, and in a timely manner, apprised a complainant of his/her right to file a complaint in accordance with Education Code 262.3  and Title 5 CCR 4622.

Copies of the District’s complaint procedures are available free of charge from the Bonita Unified School District Human Resources Development Office, 115 Allen Ave., San Dimas CA 91773, and on the District website, do.bonita.k12.ca.us

Supplemental Uniform Complaint Procedure (Williams) 

The District has established policies and procedures regarding deficiencies related to  instructional materials, emergency or urgent facilities conditions that pose a threat to the  health and safety of students or staff, and teacher vacancy or mis-assignment. Uniform  Complaint Procedures outlined in the Education Code and California Code of Regulations (5 CCR 4600 et seq.) are used to identify, investigate, and resolve complaints regarding those issues according to timelines specified under Uniform Complaint Procedures.

The Uniform Complaint Procedures and Title IX Compliance Officer for Bonita Unified School District is:

Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources

115 W. Allen Avenue, San Dimas, CA 91773  

(909) 971-8200 ext. 5400

Complaints concerning special education programs shall be addressed in accordance with  the regulations and procedures of the Special Education Local Planning Area.

For more information contact:

Senior Director Specialized Services

(909) 971-8330 ext. 5340

EC 44808.5 Off-Campus Lunch 

The governing board of the Bonita Unified School District, pursuant to Education Code  44808.5, has decided to permit the students enrolled at Bonita High School and at San Dimas  High School to leave the school grounds during the lunch period. Neither the school district nor any officer or employee thereof shall be liable for the conduct  or safety of any pupil during such time as the pupil has left the school grounds pursuant to  this section.

EC 46014: Absences for Religious Observance 

Pupils, with the written consent of their parents or guardians, may be excused from school  in order to participate in religious exercises or to receive moral and religious instruction at  their respective places of worship or at other suitable place or places away from school  property designated by the religious group, church, or denomination, which shall be in  addition and supplementary to the instruction in manners and morals required elsewhere  in this code. Such absence shall not be deemed absence in computing average daily  attendance, if the following conditions are complied with: 1) Each pupil so excused shall attend school at least the minimum school day for their grade for elementary schools, and as provided by the relevant provisions of the rules and regulations of the State Board of Education for secondary schools, and 2) No pupil shall be excused from school for such purpose on more than four days per school month.

EC 48205: Acceptable Reasons for Absence from School 

Notwithstanding Section 48200, a pupil shall be excused from school when the absence is:

(1) Due to the pupil’s illness, including an absence for the benefit of the pupil’s mental or behavioral health.

(2) Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer.

(3) For the purpose of having medical, dental, optometrical, or chiropractic services rendered.

(4) For the purpose of attending the funeral services or grieving the death of either a member of the pupil’s immediate family, or of a person that is determined by the pupil’s parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupil’s immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than five days per incident.

(5) For the purpose of jury duty in the manner provided for by law.

(6) Due to the illness or medical appointment during school hours of a child of whom the pupil is the custodial parent, including absences to care for a sick child, for which the school shall not require a note from a doctor.

(7) For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an attendance or appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of the pupil’s religion, attendance at a religious retreat, attendance at an employment conference, or attendance at an educational conference on the legislative or judicial process offered by a nonprofit organization, when the pupil’s absence is requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board of the school district.

(8) For the purpose of serving as a member of a precinct board for an election pursuant to Section 12302 of the Elections Code.

(9) For the purpose of spending time with a member of the pupil’s immediate family who is an active duty member of the uniformed services, as defined in Section 49701, and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from, deployment to a combat zone or combat support position. Absences granted pursuant to this paragraph shall be granted for a period of time to be determined at the discretion of the superintendent of the school district.

(10) For the purpose of attending the pupil’s naturalization ceremony to become a United States citizen.

(11) For the purpose of participating in a cultural ceremony or event.

(12) (A) For the purpose of a middle school or high school pupil engaging in a civic or political event, as provided in subparagraph (B), provided that the pupil notifies the school ahead of the absence.

(B) (i) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) is required to be excused for only one schoolday-long absence per school year.

(ii) A middle school or high school pupil who is absent pursuant to subparagraph (A) may be permitted additional excused absences in the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.

(13) (A) For any of the purposes described in clauses (i) to (iii), inclusive, if an immediate family member of the pupil, or a person that is determined by the pupil’s parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupil’s immediate family, has died, so long as the absence is not more than three days per incident.

(i) To access services from a victim services organization or agency.

(ii) To access grief support services.

(iii) To participate in safety planning or to take other actions to increase the safety of the pupil or an immediate family member of the pupil, or a person that is determined by the pupil’s parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupil’s immediate family, including, but not limited to, temporary or permanent relocation.

(B) Any absences beyond three days for the reasons described in subparagraph (A) shall be subject to the discretion of the school administrator, or their designee, pursuant to Section 48260.

(14) Authorized at the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Section 48260.

A pupil absent from school under this section shall be allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit therefor. The teacher of the class from which a pupil is absent shall determine which tests and assignments shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence.

For purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall not exceed one schoolday per semester.

Absences pursuant to this section are deemed to be absences in computing average daily attendance and shall not generate state apportionment payments.

For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) A “civic or political event” includes, but is not limited to, voting, poll working, strikes, public commenting, candidate speeches, political or civic forums, and town halls.

(2) “Cultural” means relating to the practices, habits, beliefs, and traditions of a certain group of people.

(3) “Immediate family” means the parent or guardian, brother or sister, grandparent, or any other relative living in the household of the pupil.

(4) “Victim services organization or agency” has the same meaning as defined in paragraph (7) of subdivision (g) of Section 230.1 of the Labor Code.

Confidential Medical Appointments

This section is for the purpose of notifying parents/guardians that school authorities may  excuse any student from school to obtain confidential medical services without the consent of the student’s parent/guardian. Absences for confidential medical appointments may be requested by the student and  verified by the student’s physician. When excusing students for confidential medical services or verifying such appointment, District staff shall not ask the purpose of such appointments. Staff may contact a doctor or medical office only to verify the time of the appointment.

EC 48205: Right of Pupils to Make Up Academic Work When Absent 

A pupil absent from school under this section shall be allowed to complete all  assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon  satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit  therefore. The teacher of the class from which a pupil is absent shall determine which test  and assignments shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests  and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence.

For purposes of this section, attendance at religious retreats shall not exceed one school day per semester.

EC 48206.3: Availability of Individualized Instruction (Home/Hospital) 

A pupil with a temporary disability which makes attendance in the regular day classes or the alternative educational program in which the pupil is enrolled impossible or inadvisable may receive individualized instruction for one hour a day for each day of the week that school is in session. Please  contact the Office of Student Services at 909-971-8330, ext. 5321 for further information.  

A pupil with a temporary disability, who is in a hospital or other residential health facility,  excluding a state hospital, may be deemed to have complied with the residency requirements for school attendance in the school district in which the hospital is located.  

It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to notify the school district in which the hospital or other residential health facility is located of the presence of a pupil with a temporary disability. Upon receipt of the notification, the district will within five working days determine whether the pupil will be able to receive individualized instruction pursuant to EC  48206.3 and, if so, provide the instruction within five working days or less.  

A pupil with a temporary disability may remain enrolled in the district of residence or charter school and may attend regular classes when not confined to the hospital setting, the total days of instruction may not exceed the maximum of five days with both school settings and  attendance may not be duplicated. If necessary, the district of residence may provide  instruction in the home for the days not receiving instruction in the hospital setting, depending upon the temporary doctor orders. The supervisor of attendance shall ensure that  absences from the regular school program are excused until the pupil is able to return to the  regular school program.

An honorary high school diploma which is clearly distinguishable from the regular diploma of  graduation may be awarded to a pupil who is terminally ill, from the resident governing school board, a county office of education or a charter school.

EC 48207: Students in Residence or Hospital Facilities 

A pupil with a temporary disability who is in a hospital or other residential health facility,  excluding a state hospital, which is located outside of the school district in which the pupil's  parent or guardian resides, shall be deemed to have complied with the residency  requirements for school attendance in the school district in which the hospital is located.

EC 48263: Habitual Truant Referral to SARB or Probation 

If a minor pupil in a school district of a county is a habitual truant, or is a chronic absentee, as defined in Section 60901, or is habitually insubordinate or disorderly during attendance at school, the pupil may be referred to a school attendance review board, or to the probation department for services if the probation department has elected to receive these referrals. The school district supervisor of attendance, or any other persons the governing board of the school district or county may designate, making the referral shall provide documentation of the interventions undertaken at the school to the pupil, the pupil’s parents or guardians, and the school attendance review board or probation department and shall notify the pupil and parents or guardians of the pupil, in writing, of the name and address of the school attendance review board or probation department to which the matter has been referred and of the reason for the referral. The notice shall indicate that the pupil and parents or guardians of the pupil will be required, along with the referring person, to meet with the school attendance review board or probation officer to consider a proper disposition of the referral.

If the school attendance review board or probation officer determines that available community services cannot resolve the problem of the truant or insubordinate pupil or if the pupil or the parents or guardians of the pupil, or both, have failed to respond to directives of the school attendance review board or probation officer or to services provided, the school attendance review board may, pursuant to Section 48263.5, notify the district attorney or the probation officer, or both, of the county in which the school district is located, or the probation officer may, pursuant to Section 48263.5, notify the district attorney, if the district attorney or the probation officer has elected to participate in the truancy mediation program described in that section.

EC 48900: Suspensions 

A pupil shall not be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion, unless the  superintendent of the school district or the principal of the school in which the pupil is  enrolled determines that the pupil has committed an act as defined pursuant to any of  subdivisions (a) to (r), inclusive:

(a) (1) Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another person.

(a) (2) Willfully used force or violence upon the person of another, except in self-defense. 

(b) Possessed, sold, or otherwise furnished a firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object, unless, in the case of possession of an object of this type, the pupil had obtained  written permission to possess the item from a certificated school employee, which is  concurred in by the principal or the designee of the principal.

(c) Unlawfully possessed, used, sold, or otherwise furnished, or been under the influence  of, a controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of  Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code, an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant of  any kind.

(d) Unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell a controlled substance listed in  Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety  Code, an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant of any kind, and either sold, delivered, or  otherwise furnished to a person another liquid, substance, or material and  represented the liquid, substance, or material as a controlled substance, alcoholic  beverage, or intoxicant.

(e) Committed or attempted to commit robbery or extortion.

(f) Caused or attempted to cause damage to school property or private property.

(g) Stole or attempted to steal school property or private property.

(h) Possessed or used tobacco, or products containing tobacco or nicotine products,  including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, miniature cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets, and betel. However, this section does not  prohibit use or possession by a pupil of his or her own prescription products.

(i) Committed an obscene act or engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity.

(j) Unlawfully possessed or unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell drug  paraphernalia, as defined in Section 11014.5 of the Health and Safety Code.

(l) Knowingly received stolen school property or private property. 

(m) Possessed an imitation firearm. As used in this section, “imitation firearm” means a  replica of a firearm that is so substantially similar in physical properties to an existing  firearm as to lead a reasonable person to conclude that the replica is a firearm. 

(n) Committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault as defined in Section 261, 266c,  286, 288, 288a, or 289 of the Penal Code or committed a sexual battery as defined in  Section 243.4 of the Penal Code.

(o) Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a pupil who is a complaining witness or a  witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for purposes of either preventing that  pupil from being a witness or retaliating against that pupil for being a witness, or both.

(p) Unlawfully offered, arranged to sell, negotiated to sell, or sold the prescription drug  Soma.

(q) Engaged in, or attempted to engage in, hazing. For purposes of this subdivision,  “hazing” means a method of initiation or preinitiation into a pupil organization or  body, whether or not the organization or body is officially recognized by an  educational institution, which is likely to cause serious bodily injury or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm to a former, current, or  prospective pupil. For purposes of this subdivision, “hazing” does not include athletic  events or school-sanctioned events.

(r) Engaged in an act of bullying. For purposes of this subdivision, the following terms  have the following meanings:

(1) “Bullying” means any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct,  including communications made in writing or by means of an electronic act,  and including one or more acts committed by a pupil or group of pupils as  defined in Section 48900.2, 48900.3, or 48900.4, directed toward one or more  pupils that has or can be reasonably predicted to have the effect of one or  more of the following:

(A) Placing a reasonable pupil or pupils in fear of harm to that pupil’s or  those pupils’ person or property.

(B) Causing a reasonable pupil to experience a substantially detrimental  effect on his or her physical or mental health.

(C) Causing a reasonable pupil to experience substantial interference with  his or her academic performance.

(D) Causing a reasonable pupil to experience substantial interference with  his or her ability to participate in or benefit from the services,  

activities, or privileges provided by a school.

(2) (A) “Electronic act” means the creation and transmission originated on or off the  schoolsite, by means of an electronic device, including, but not limited to, a telephone, wireless telephone, or other wireless communication device,  computer, or pager, of a communication, including, but not limited to, any of  the following:

(i) A message, text, sound, video, or image.

(ii) A post on a social network Internet Web site, including, but not  limited to:

(I) Posting to or creating a burn page. “Burn page” means an Internet Web site created for the purpose of having one or more of the effects listed in paragraph (1).

(II) Creating a credible impersonation of another actual pupil for the purpose of having one or more of the effects listed in paragraph (1). “Credible impersonation” means to knowingly  

and without consent impersonate a pupil for the purpose of bullying the pupil and such that another pupil would reasonably believe, or has reasonably believed, that the pupil was or is the pupil who was impersonated.

(III) Creating a false profile for the purpose of having one or more of the effects listed in paragraph (1). “False profile” means a profile of a fictitious pupil or a profile using the likeness or attributes of an actual pupil other than the pupil who created  the false profile.

(iii) An act of cyber sexual bullying.

(I) For purposes of this clause, “cyber sexual bullying” means the dissemination of, or the solicitation or incitement to disseminate, a photograph or other visual recording by a pupil to another pupil or to school personnel by means of an electronic act that has or can be reasonably predicted to have one or more of the effects described in subparagraphs (A) to  

(D), inclusive, of paragraph (1). A photograph or other visual recording, as described above, shall include the depiction of a nude, semi-nude, or sexually explicit photograph or other visual recording of a minor where the minor is identifiable from the photograph, visual recording, or other electronic act.

(II) For purposes of this clause, “cyber sexual bullying” does not include a depiction, portrayal, or image that has any serious literary, artistic, educational, political, or scientific value or that involves athletic events or school-sanctioned activities.

(2) (B) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) and subparagraph (A), an electronic act shall  not constitute pervasive conduct solely on the basis that it has been transmitted on the Internet or is currently posted on the Internet.

(3) “Reasonable pupil” means a pupil, including, but not limited to, an exceptional  needs pupil, who exercises average care, skill, and judgment in conduct for a  person of his or her age, or for a person of his or her age with his or her  exceptional needs.

(s) A pupil shall not be suspended or expelled for any of the acts enumerated in this section  unless the act is related to a school activity or school attendance occurring within a  school under the jurisdiction of the superintendent of the school district or principal  or occurring within any other school district. A pupil may be suspended or expelled  for acts that are enumerated in this section and related to a school activity or school  attendance that occur at any time, including, but not limited to, any of the following:

(1) While on school grounds.

(2) While going to or coming from school.

(3) During the lunch period whether on or off the campus.

(4) During, or while going to or coming from, a school-sponsored activity. (t) A pupil who aids or abets, as defined in Section 31 of the Penal Code, the infliction or  attempted infliction of physical injury to another person may be subject to suspension,  but not expulsion, pursuant to this section, except that a pupil who has been adjudged  by a juvenile court to have committed, as an aider and abettor, a crime of physical  violence in which the victim suffered great bodily injury or serious bodily injury shall  be subject to discipline pursuant to subdivision (a).

(u) As used in this section, “school property” includes, but is not limited to, electronic files  and databases.

(v) For a pupil subject to discipline under this section, a superintendent of the school  district or principal may use his or her discretion to provide alternatives to  suspension or expulsion that are age appropriate and designed to address and correct  the pupil’s specific misbehavior as specified in Section 48900.5.

EC 48915: Expulsions 

(a) (1) Except as provided in subdivisions (c) and (e), the principal or the superintendent of  schools shall recommend the expulsion of a pupil for any of the following acts  committed at school or at a school activity off school grounds, unless the principal or  superintendent determines that expulsion should not be recommended under the  circumstances or that an alternative means of correction would address the conduct: 

(A) Causing serious physical injury to another person, except in self-defense. 

(B) Possession of any knife or other dangerous object of no reasonable use to  the pupil.

(C) Unlawful possession of any controlled substance listed in Chapter 2  (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety  Code, except for either of the following:

(i) The first offense for the possession of not more than one  

avoirdupois ounce of marijuana, other than concentrated cannabis.

(ii) The possession of over-the-counter medication for use by the pupil  for medical purposes or medication prescribed for the pupil by a  

physician.

(D) Robbery or extortion.

(E) Assault or battery, as defined in Sections 240 and 242 of the Penal Code,  upon any school employee.

(a) (2) If the principal or the superintendent of schools makes a determination as described  in paragraph (1), he or she is encouraged to do so as quickly as possible to ensure  that the pupil does not lose instructional time.  

(b) Upon recommendation by the principal or the superintendent of schools, or by a  hearing officer or administrative panel appointed pursuant to subdivision (d) of  Section 48918, the governing board of a school district may order a pupil expelled  upon finding that the pupil committed an act listed in paragraph (1) of subdivision  (a) or in subdivision (a), (b), (c), (d), or (e) of Section 48900. A decision to expel a  pupil for any of those acts shall be based on a finding of one or both of the following:

(1) Other means of correction are not feasible or have repeatedly failed to bring  about proper conduct.

(2) Due to the nature of the act, the presence of the pupil causes a continuing  danger to the physical safety of the pupil or others.

(c) The principal or superintendent of schools shall immediately suspend, pursuant to  Section 48911, and shall recommend expulsion of a pupil that he or she determines  has committed any of the following acts at school or at a school activity off school  grounds:

(1) Possessing, selling, or otherwise furnishing a firearm. This subdivision  does not apply to an act of possessing a firearm if the pupil had obtained  prior written permission to possess the firearm from a certificated school  employee, which is concurred in by the principal or the designee of the  principal. This subdivision applies to an act of possessing a firearm only if  the possession is verified by an employee of a school district. The act of  possessing an imitation firearm, as defined in subdivision (m) of Section  48900, is not an offense for which suspension or expulsion is mandatory  pursuant to this subdivision and subdivision (d), but it is an offense for  which suspension, or expulsion pursuant to subdivision (e), may be  imposed.

(2) Brandishing a knife at another person.

(3) Unlawfully selling a controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing  with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code.

(4) Committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault as defined in  subdivision (n) of Section 48900 or committing a sexual battery as defined  in subdivision (n) of Section 48900.

(5) Possession of an explosive.

(d) The governing board of a school district shall order a pupil expelled upon finding that  the pupil committed an act listed in subdivision (c), and shall refer that pupil to a  program of study that meets all of the following conditions:

(1) Is appropriately prepared to accommodate pupils who exhibit discipline  problems.

(2) Is not provided at a comprehensive middle, junior, or senior high school, or  at any elementary school.

(3) Is not housed at the schoolsite attended by the pupil at the time of  suspension.

(e) Upon recommendation by the principal or the superintendent of schools, or by a  hearing officer or administrative panel appointed pursuant to subdivision (d) of  Section 48918, the governing board of a school district may order a pupil expelled  upon finding that the pupil, at school or at a school activity off of school grounds  violated subdivision (f), (g), (h), (i), (j), (k), (l), or (m) of Section 48900, or Section  48900.2, 48900.3, or 48900.4, and either of the following:

(1) That other means of correction are not feasible or have repeatedly failed to  bring about proper conduct.

(2) That due to the nature of the violation, the presence of the pupil causes a  continuing danger to the physical safety of the pupil or others.

Local Procedures: Involuntary Transfers

Students involved in a serious dangerous activity on a school campus, or students showing chronic patterns of inappropriate behavior, may be referred to a Disciplinary Hearing Panel  for consideration of an involuntary transfer to another program within the District.  

Serious dangerous activities include:

• Possession of drugs or alcohol while under the jurisdiction of the school or District.

• Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol while under the jurisdiction of the school or District.

• Possession of a weapon while under the jurisdiction of the school or District.

• Involvement in a serious physical altercation while under the jurisdiction of the  school or District.

• Other incidents on a case-by-case basis (school must demonstrate the serious dangerous nature of the incident).

Chronic patterns of inappropriate behavior include:

• Multiple suspensions for a similar type of behavior

• Accumulating 10 or more days of suspension within a single school year

EC 48980: Schedule of Minimum and Student Free Days

Click here to view or download the 2025-2026 school year calendar:

https://do.bonita.k12.ca.us/documents/Calendars/School-Academic-Calendar-2025-2026.pdf 

EC 48980: Information on Existing Attendance Options

Residency 

A minor between the ages of 6 and 18 is subject to compulsory education and, unless  exempted, must enroll in the school district in which the parents/guardians reside. This  includes a student placed in a foster home or licensed care institution, a student living in the home of a caregiver, or a student residing in a hospital located within the boundaries of  the District. 

School of Origin

A student in foster care, or a student identified as homeless, may remain in their school of origin within the District if placement is changed to another district and the Bonita Unified believes that continuing in the school of origin is in the best educational interest of the child.

Transfer Permit: Intra-District 

Students currently residing within the Bonita Unified School District boundaries and  wishing to apply for an Intra-District permit for the first time may submit permits any time.  An Intra-District permit application may be picked up from the student’s current school of  attendance/residence. Intra-District Permits are reviewed by school administration at the requested school and may be denied or revoked if the student is not in good standing with respect to the criteria of: academics, disciplinary, or attendance.  An Intra-District permit may also be denied in cases where a grade level or program has reached capacity.

Transfer Permit: Inter-District 

Students currently residing outside the Bonita Unified School District boundaries and wishing to apply for an Inter-District permit for the first time may submit permits any time.  A new request for an Inter-District permit must first be submitted to the student’s current  district of residence for release from that district. Inter-District Permits are reviewed by  school administration at the requested school and may be denied or revoked if the student has an unacceptable academic record, disciplinary history, or attendance pattern. 

Transfer Using an Employment Address (Allen Bill)

Families can enroll their children in a BUSD school if one or both parents/guardians are employed in within the boundaries of the Bonita Unified School District for 10 or more hours per week. Families can enroll their children in the school in the same neighborhood as their employer and use the employer's address to establish residency. No permit is required to enroll, and students do not need to be released from their district of residence. Per California Education Code 48204(b)(4), the district may deny enrollment under the Allen Bill if the district determines that the additional cost of educating the student will exceed the amount of additional state aid received as a result of the transfer.  Enrollment under the Allen Bill may also be denied in cases where a grade level or program has reached capacity.

Open Enrollment: Intra-District 

Students currently residing within the Bonita Unified School District boundaries may apply for permanent school residency at any Bonita Unified school. An Intra-District Open Enrollment application can be printed from the district website or picked up from the Office of Student Services during the application window each spring. Applications are accepted during a designated window each year, which will be published on the district website.

Information on all options for new student enrollment can be found at: https://do.bonita.k12.ca.us/District/Educational-Services/Student-Services/Enrollment-and-Registration/ 

EC 48980: State Funds to Defray Costs of Advanced Placement Exams 

If funds are available, the Bonita Unified School District participates in the Advanced Placement Exam Fee Reimbursement Program through the California Department of Education. Through the program, low income students wishing to take Advanced Placement exams are eligible to have some of the cost of the exam subsidized. Please contact the school site for more information on how to access these funds.

EC 48980: Diploma Requirements and Career Technical Education Courses 

Bonita Unified School District high school graduation requirements include completion of a minimum of 220 semester credits and successful completion of all courses listed below.  In addition to the subject area requirements, all students must complete a Senior Project/Experience.  

ENGLISH/LANGUAGE ARTS - 40 credits (English 9 - 10 credits, English 10 - 10 credits, English 11 - 10 credits, English 12 - 10 credits)

HISTORY/SOCIAL SCIENCE - 30 credits (World History - 10 credits, United States History - 10 credits, Government - 5 credits, Economics - 5 credits)

MATHEMATICS - 20 credits (Algebra I or equivalent - 10 credits, Other Math Course - 10 credits)

SCIENCE - 20 credits (Physical Science - 10 credits, Life Science - 10 credits)

PHYSICAL EDUCATION - 20 credits 

VISUAL/PERFORMING ARTS - 10 credits 

CAREER/TECHNICAL EDUCATION - 10 credits 

ADDITIONAL ELECTIVE COURSES - 70 credits 

TOTAL CREDITS NEEDED: 220

Alternative Graduation Requirements for Eligible Students per CA Education Code

California Education Code allows for students in designated categories who change schools following the completion of their second year of high school, and who do not have sufficient time to complete all Bonita Unified graduation requirements by the end of their fourth year, to be offered two options for earning a high school diploma. The first option would allow the  student to complete the minimum California state requirements for a high school diploma, which are listed below, by the end of their fourth year (note that students completing their diploma using this option are not required to complete a senior project/experience). The second option would  allow the student to remain for a fifth year of high school in order to complete all of the Bonita Unified requirements. Entering students are reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine available options. Under California law, this process is currently available to a student in foster care, a student who is a homeless child or youth, a former juvenile court school student, a student who is a child of a military family, or a student who is a migratory child, who transfers between schools any time after the completion of the student’s second year of high school, or is a newcomer student, as defined in Section 51225.2.

ENGLISH/LANGUAGE ARTS - 30 credits (English 9/10 - 20 credits,  English 11/12 - 10 credits)

HISTORY/SOCIAL SCIENCE - 30 credits (World History - 10 credits United States History - 10 credits, Government - 5 credits, Economics - 5 credits)

MATHEMATICS - 20 credits (Algebra I or equivalent - 10 credits, Other Math Course - 10 credits)

SCIENCE - 20 credits (Physical Science - 10 credits, Life Science - 10 credits)

PHYSICAL EDUCATION - 20 credits 

VISUAL/PERFORMING ARTS or CAREER/TECHNICAL EDUCATION or FOREIGN LANGUAGE - 10 credits 

TOTAL CREDITS NEEDED: 130

Career/Technical Education Courses

A list of career technical education courses that fulfill the elective, “G”, requirement for  entrance to the University of California or the California State University can be found on  the District website in the High School Handbook at this link:

https://do.bonita.k12.ca.us/District/Educational-Services/Curriculum-and-Instruction/High-School-Handbook/index.html 

EC 48980.4: California Public Policy on HPV Immunization

Pupils in the state are advised to adhere to current immunization guidelines, as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Academy of Family Physicians, regarding full human papillomavirus (HPV) immunization before admission or advancement to the eighth grade level of any private or public elementary or secondary school. According to the California Education Code, “HPV vaccination can prevent over 90 percent of cancers caused by HPV. HPV vaccines are very safe, and scientific research shows that the benefits of HPV vaccination far outweigh the potential risks.”

EC 48985.5: Dangers of Synthetic Drugs

Synthetic drugs not prescribed by a physician, such as fentanyl or similar drugs, are extremely dangerous, with no safe mechanism to take these kinds of drugs apart from administration by a physician. Also please be aware that synthetic drugs such as fentanyl can come in the form of counterfeit pills, which may closely resemble prescription medication or candy.

More information on fentanyl can be found on the California Department of Public Health website at https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/sapb/pages/fentanyl.aspx#:~:text=Fentanyl%20is%20a%20synthetic%20opioid,manufactured%20fentanyl%20(illicit%20fentanyl).

EC 48986: California Child Access to Guns Prevention Laws

From California Penal Code 25100

(a) Except as provided in Section 25105, a person commits the crime of “criminal storage of a firearm in the first degree” if all of the following conditions are satisfied:

(1) The person keeps any firearm within any premises that are under the person’s custody or control.

(2) The person knows or reasonably should know that a child is likely to gain access to the firearm without the permission of the child’s parent or legal guardian, or that a person prohibited from possessing a firearm or deadly weapon pursuant to state or federal law is likely to gain access to the firearm.

(3) The child obtains access to the firearm and thereby causes death or great bodily injury to the child or any other person, or the person prohibited from possessing a firearm or deadly weapon pursuant to state or federal law obtains access to the firearm and thereby causes death or great bodily injury to themselves or any other person.

(b) Except as provided in Section 25105, a person commits the crime of “criminal storage of a firearm in the second degree” if all of the following conditions are satisfied:

(1) The person keeps any firearm within any premises that are under the person’s custody or control.

(2) The person knows or reasonably should know that a child is likely to gain access to the firearm without the permission of the child’s parent or legal guardian, or that a person prohibited from possessing a firearm or deadly weapon pursuant to state or federal law is likely to gain access to the firearm.

(3) The child obtains access to the firearm and thereby causes injury, other than great bodily injury, to the child or any other person, or carries the firearm either to a public place or in violation of Section 417, or the person prohibited from possessing a firearm or deadly weapon pursuant to state or federal law obtains access to the firearm and thereby causes injury, other than great bodily injury, to themselves or any other person, or carries the firearm either to a public place or in violation of Section 417.

(c) Except as provided in Section 25105, a person commits the crime of “criminal storage of a firearm in the third degree” if the person keeps any firearm within any premises that are under the person’s custody or control and negligently stores or leaves a firearm in a location where the person knows, or reasonably should know, that a child is likely to gain access to the firearm without the permission of the child’s parent or legal guardian, unless reasonable action is taken by the person to secure the firearm against access by the child.

EC 48987: Parent Guidelines for Child Abuse Reporting  

Parents and guardians of pupils have the right to file a complaint against a school employee  or other person that they suspect has engaged in abuse of a child at a school site. To file a  complaint, the parent or guardian must file a formal report with an appropriate local law enforcement agency. An appropriate law enforcement agency may be one of the following:

• Police or Sheriff’s Department (not including a school district police department or  school security department)

• County Probation Department if designated by the county to receive child abuse  reports, or  

• County Welfare Department/County Child Protective Services  

The complaint may be filed over the telephone, in person, or in writing. A complaint may also  be filed at the same time with your school district or county office of education. School  districts and county offices of education, however, do not investigate child abuse allegations.

For more information on child abuse and child abuse reporting, visit the California  Department of Education web site: http://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/ss/ap/

EC 49006: Restraint and Seclusion Data 

California Department of Education website

Data Collection

The CDE collected restraint and seclusion data for the first time from local educational agencies (LEAs) as part of the 2019-20 CALPADS End-of-Year (EOY) 3 annual data submission.  In preparation for this data collection, the CDE directed LEAs to start collecting these data locally beginning in fall 2019 for submission to CALPADS from May to September 2020.  To accommodate the collection of these data, the CALPADS student discipline data files were modified to include the collection of the following behavior restraint and seclusion data, which are defined in EC section 49005.1:

• Mechanical Restraint:  Use of a device or equipment to restrict a pupil's freedom of movement (with exceptions).

• Physical Restraint:  A personal restriction that immobilizes or reduces the ability of a pupil to move his or her torso, arms, legs, or head freely (with exceptions).

• Seclusion:  the involuntary confinement of a pupil alone in a room or area from which the pupil is physically prevented from leaving.

For information regarding the 2024-2025 school year, click here

EC 49063: Pupil Records 

A cumulative record, whether recorded by handwriting, print, tapes, film, microfilm or other means, must be maintained on the history of a pupil’s development and educational  progress. The District will protect the privacy of such records. Parents/guardians have the right to 1) inspect and review the student’s educational record maintained by the school, 2)  request that a school correct records which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading, and 3) have some control over the disclosure of information from educational records. School officials with legitimate educational interests may access student records without parental consent as long as the official needs to review the records in order to fulfill their professional responsibility.

Upon request from officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, the District shall disclose educational records without parental consent.  

Student records are maintained in print format at the student's school of attendance in a cumulative folder and in a health folder for each student. Electronic records for each student are also maintained in the Aeries student information database. 

For students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) additional print records are maintained in the Department of Special Education at the District Office, and electronic records are maintained in the SEIS electronic database. For students with a 504 Plan, paper records may be maintained in the Department of Student Services at the District Office in addition to electronic records in the Aeries electronic database.  Report Cards for Transitional Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and first grade students are generated in Illuminate and stored as pdf files in a shared Google folder with access restricted to authorized District staff. 

A parent/guardian request to access student educational records must be submitted in a written form to the school Principal or to the District Office, and the school/district will have five (5) business days from the day of receipt of the request to provide access to the records.  

Any challenge to school records must be submitted in writing to the Director of Student Services. A parent challenging school records must submit evidence to show that the records are 1) inaccurate, 2) an unsubstantiated personal conclusion or inference, 3) a conclusion or inference outside  the observer’s area of competence, 4) not based on the personal observation of a named person with the time and place of the observation noted, 5) misleading, or 6) in violation of  the privacy or other rights of the student. In the case of a grade issued on a report card, in the absence of clerical or mechanical error, fraud, bad faith, or incompetency, a student's grade as determined by the teacher shall be final. 

Parents have the right to file a complaint with the United States Department of Education concerning an alleged failure by the District to comply with the provisions of the United States Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) by writing to: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400  Maryland Ave., SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-4605.

EC 49073: Directory Information 

“Directory Information” includes one or more of the following items: student’s name,  address, telephone number, e-mail address, date of birth, major field of study, participation  in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent public or private  school attended by the student.  

No information may be released to private profit making entity other than employers, prospective employers and representatives of the news media, including, but not limited to, newspapers, magazines, and radio and television stations. Directory information may be disclosed without prior consent from the parent or legal guardian unless the parent or legal guardian submits a written notice to the school to deny access to his/her pupil’s directory information.  

Directory information regarding a pupil identified as a homeless child or youth shall not be  released unless a parent, or pupil given parental rights, has provided written consent that  directory information may be released.

EC 49076.7: Pupil Records: Social Security Numbers 

A school district, county office of education, or charter school shall not collect or solicit social security numbers or the last four digits of social security numbers from pupils or their  parents or guardians unless otherwise required to do so by state or federal law.

EC 49091.14: Curriculum Prospectus 

If requested, the Bonita Unified School District will provide a prospectus of the curriculum  for any of the schools within the District, which includes titles, descriptions and instructional goals for each course offered by the school.  

For a copy of the prospectus, please contact:

Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services

115 W Allen Ave, San Dimas, CA 91773

909-971-8200, ext. 5301

EC 49390: California Safe Storage of Firearms Laws

From the State of California Department of Justice Firearm Safety Recommendations

Store your gun safely and securely to prevent unauthorized use. Guns and ammunition should be stored separately. When the gun is not in your hands, you must still think of safety. Use a California-approved firearms safety device on the gun, such as a trigger lock or cable lock, so it cannot be fired. Store it unloaded in a locked container, such as a California-approved lock box or a gun safe. Store your gun in a different location than the ammunition. For maximum safety you should use both a locking device and a storage container.

EC 49403: Prevention and Control of Communicable Disease 

(a) Notwithstanding any other law, the governing board of a school district shall cooperate  with the local health officer in measures necessary for the prevention and control of  communicable diseases in school age children. For that purpose, the board may use any funds, property, and personnel of the district, and may permit a licensed physician and  surgeon, or a health care practitioner listed in subdivision (b) who is acting under the  direction of a supervising physician and surgeon, to administer an immunizing agent to a  pupil whose parent or guardian has consented in writing to the administration of the  immunizing agent.

(b) (1) The following health care practitioners, acting under the direction of a supervising physician and surgeon, may administer an immunizing agent within the course of a school  immunization program:

(A) A physician assistant.

(B) A nurse practitioner.  

(C) A registered nurse.

(D) A licensed vocational nurse.

(E) A nursing student who is acting under the supervision of a registered nurse, in  accordance with applicable provisions of law.

(b) (2) A health care practitioner's authority to administer an immunizing agent pursuant to this subdivision is subject to the following conditions:

(A) The administration of an immunizing agent is upon the standing orders of a  supervising physician and surgeon and in accordance with any written regulations that the State Department of Public Health may adopt.

(B) The school nurse is notified and he or she maintains control, as necessary, as  supervisor of health in accordance with Sections 44871, 44877, 49422, and subdivision (a) of Section 49426.

(C) The health care practitioner may only administer immunizations for the prevention  and control of any of the following:

(i) Annual seasonal influenza.

(ii) Influenza pandemic episodes.

(iii) Other diseases that represent a current or potential outbreak as declared by a

federal, state, or local public health officer.

(c) As used in this section, "supervising physician and surgeon" means the physician and  surgeon of the local health department or school district that is directing the school immunization program.

(d) While nothing in this section shall be construed to require the physical presence of the  supervising physician and surgeon, the supervising physician and surgeon shall require a health care practitioner under his or her direction to do both of the following:

(A) Satisfactorily demonstrate competence in the administration of the immunizing  agent, including knowledge of all indications and contraindications for the administration of the agent, and the recognition and treatment of emergency reactions to the agent that  constitute a danger to the health or life of the person receiving the immunization.

(B) Possess the medications and equipment that are required, in the medical judgment of the supervising physician and surgeon, to treat any emergency conditions and reactions  caused by the immunizing agents that constitute a danger to the health or life of the person  receiving the immunization, and to demonstrate the ability to administer the medications  and use the equipment as necessary.

EC 49414: Emergency Treatment for Anaphylaxis 

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur after  encountering an allergic trigger, such as food, medicine, an insect bite, latex or exercise.  Symptoms include narrowing of the airways, rashes or hives, nausea or vomiting, a weak  pulse and dizziness. It is estimated that approximately 25% of the anaphylactic reactions  occur during school hours to students who had not previously been diagnosed with a food or other allergy. Without immediate administration of epinephrine followed by calling  emergency medical services, death can occur. Being able to recognize and treat it quickly can  save lives. Recent changes to EC 49414 now require school districts to provide epinephrine  auto-injectors to school nurses and trained personnel and authorizes them to use  epinephrine auto-injectors for any student who may be experiencing anaphylaxis, regardless of known history.

EC 49414.3: Emergency Administration of an Opioid Antagonist 

The district makes emergency naloxone hydrochloride or another opioid antagonist available at schools for the purpose of providing emergency medical aid to persons suffering, or reasonably believed to be suffering, from an opioid overdose. When available at the school site, the school nurse shall provide emergency naloxone hydrochloride or another opioid antagonist for emergency medical aid to any person exhibiting potentially life-threatening symptoms of an opioid overdose at school or a school activity. Other designated personnel who have volunteered and have received training may also administer such medication when a school nurse or physician is unavailable, and shall only administer the medication by nasal spray or auto-injector.

EC 49423: Pupil Assistance With Prescribed Medication 

Any pupil who is required to take, during the regular school day, medication prescribed for  him or her by a physician and surgeon or ordered for him or her by a physician assistant  practicing in compliance with Chapter 7.7 (commencing with Section 3500) of Division 2 of  the Business and Professions Code, may be assisted by the school nurse or other designated  school personnel or may carry and self-administer prescription auto-injectable epinephrine.  (b1) In order for a pupil to be assisted by a school nurse or other designated school  personnel pursuant to subdivision (a), the school district shall obtain both a written  statement from the physician and surgeon or physician assistant detailing the name of the  medication, method, amount, and time schedules by which the medication is to be taken and  a written statement from the parent, foster parent, or guardian of the pupil indicating the  desire that the school district assist the pupil in the matters set forth in the statement of the physician and surgeon or physician assistant.

(b2) In order for a pupil to carry and self-administer prescription auto-injectable  epinephrine pursuant to subdivision (a), the school district shall obtain both a written statement from the physician and surgeon or physician assistant detailing the name of the  medication, method, amount, and time schedules by which the medication is to be taken,  and confirming that the pupil is able to self-administer auto-injectable epinephrine, and a  written statement from the parent, foster parent, or guardian of the pupil consenting to the self-administration, providing a release for the school nurse or other designated school  personnel to consult with the health care provider of the pupil regarding any questions that  may arise with regard to the medication, and releasing the school district and school  personnel from civil liability if the self-administering pupil suffers an adverse reaction as a  result of self-administering medication pursuant to this paragraph.

(A) The written statements specified in this subdivision shall be provided at least  annually and more frequently if the medication, dosage, frequency of administration, or reason for administration changes.

(B) A pupil may be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to Section 48900 if that pupil  uses auto-injectable epinephrine in a manner other than as prescribed.

Students With Exceptional Needs

 (a) Notwithstanding Section 49422, an individual with exceptional needs who requires specialized physical health care services, during the regular school day, may be assisted by any of the following individuals:

(1) Qualified persons who possess an appropriate credential issued pursuant to Section 44267 or 44267.5, or hold a valid certificate of public health nursing issued by the Board of Registered Nursing.

(2) Qualified designated school personnel trained in the administration of specialized physical health care if they perform those services under the supervision, as defined by Section 3051.12 of Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations, of a credentialed school nurse, public health nurse, or licensed physician and surgeon and the services are determined by the credentialed school nurse or licensed physician and surgeon, in consultation with the physician treating the pupil, to be all of the following:

(A) Routine for the pupil.

(B) Pose little potential harm for the pupil.

(C) Performed with predictable outcomes, as defined in the  

individualized education program of the pupil.

(D) Do not require a nursing assessment, interpretation, or decision making by the designated school personnel.

 (b) Specialized health care or other services that require medically related training shall  be provided pursuant to the procedures prescribed by Section 49423.

 (c) Persons providing specialized physical health care services shall also demonstrate  competence in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation and shall be knowledgeable of  the emergency medical resources available in the community in which the services are  performed.

 (d) "Specialized physical health care services," as used in this section, includes  catheterization, gastric tube feeding, suctioning, or other services that require medically related training.

Any pupil who is required to take, during the regular schoolday, medication prescribed by a  physician may be assisted by the school nurse or other designated school personnel if the  school district receives both a written statement of instructions from the physician detailing  the method, amount and time schedules by which such medication is to be taken requesting  the school nurse to assist the pupil with prescribed medication as set forth in the physician  statement. Student may carry and self-administer auto-injectable epinephrine or inhaled  asthma medication if the school district receives both a written statement of instructions  from the physician detailing the method, amount and time schedules by which such  medication is to be taken and a written statement from the parent or guardian requesting that the student self-administer. All requests are to be approved by school nurse prior to  use.

EC 49428: Mental Health Support 

The District offers counseling and mental health support at all schools. To get more information, or to request support, please contact the counseling department at your school or contact the Office of  Student Services at 909-971-8330, ext. 5321. Click here for more information on the district’s counseling services: https://sites.google.com/bonita.k12.ca.us/bonitausd-studentservices/counseling-services 

Community Mental Health organizations also operate in the cities of La Verne and San Dimas. To get more information on the services they offer, or on how to access support, please call:

• La Verne, Tri-City Mental Health Services, (909) 623-6131

• San Dimas, McKinley Mental Health Services, (909) 599-1227

The district also partners with Care Solace to assist students and families with accessing local mental health resources and addiction recovery programs. For more information, click here: https://www.caresolace.com/site/bonitausd/ 

These resources are also available to all students, families, staff, and community members:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255

Crisis Text Line, which can be accessed by texting HOME to 741741

Los Angeles County Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 854-7771 

EC 49451: Right to Not Consent to a Pupil Physical Examination 

A parent or guardian having control or charge of any child enrolled in the public schools  may file annually with the principal of the school in which he is enrolled a statement in  writing, signed by the parent or guardian, stating that he will not consent to a physical  examination of his child. Thereupon the child shall be exempt from any physical  examination, but whenever there is a good reason to believe that the child is suffering from  a recognized contagious or infectious disease, he shall be sent home and shall not be  permitted to return until the school authorities are satisfied that any contagious or  infectious disease does not exist.

EC 49452.6: Type 1 Diabetes Information

Type 1 diabetes usually develops in children and young adults but can occur at any age

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of type 1 diabetes in youth increased nationally from 187,000 in 2018 to 244,000 in 2019, representing an increase of 25 per 10,000 youths to 35 per 10,000 youths, respectively.

The peak age of diagnosis of type 1 diabetes is 13-14 years, but diagnosis can also occur much earlier or later in life.

Risk Factors Associated with Type 1 Diabetes

It is recommended that students displaying warning signs associated with type 1 diabetes, which are described below, should be screened (tested) for the disease by their health care provider.

Researchers do not completely understand why some people develop type 1 diabetes and others do not; however, having a family history of type 1 diabetes can increase the likelihood of developing type 1 diabetes. Other factors may play a role in developing type 1 diabetes, including environmental triggers such as viruses. Type 1 diabetes is not caused by diet or lifestyle choices.

Warning Signs and Symptoms Associated with Type 1 Diabetes and Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Warning signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes in children develop quickly, in a few weeks or months, and can be severe. If your child displays the warning signs below, contact your child’s primary health care provider or pediatrician for a consultation to determine if screening your child for type 1 diabetes is appropriate:

• Increased thirst

• Increased urination, including bed-wetting after toilet training

• Increased hunger, even after eating

• Unexplained weight loss

• Feeling very tired

• Blurred vision

• Very dry skin

• Slow healing of sores or cuts

• Moodiness, restlessness, irritability, or behavior changes

Types of Diabetes Screening Tests That Are Available

Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test. A blood test measures the average blood sugar level over two to three months. An A1C level of 6.5 percent or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.

Random (non-fasting) blood sugar test. A blood sample is taken any time without fasting. A random blood sugar level of 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or higher suggests diabetes.

Fasting blood sugar test. A blood sample is taken after an overnight fast. A level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.

Oral glucose tolerance test. A test measuring the fasting blood sugar level after an overnight fast with periodic testing for the next several hours after drinking a sugary liquid. A reading of more than 200 mg/dL after two hours indicates diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes Treatments

There are no known ways to prevent type 1 diabetes. Once type 1 diabetes develops, medication is the only treatment. If your child is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, their health care provider will be able to help develop a treatment plan. Your child’s health care provider may refer your child to an endocrinologist, a doctor specializing in the endocrine system and its disorders, such as diabetes.

Contact your student's school nurse, school administrator, or health care provider if you have questions.

EC 49452.7: Type 2 Diabetes Information

Description

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in adults.

Until a few years ago, type 2 diabetes was rare in children, but it is becoming more common, especially for overweight teens.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in three American children born after 2000 will develop type 2 diabetes in his or her lifetime.

Type 2 diabetes affects the way the body is able to use sugar (glucose) for energy.

The body turns the carbohydrates in food into glucose, the basic fuel for the body’s cells.

The pancreas makes insulin, a hormone that moves glucose from the blood to the cells.

In type 2 diabetes, the body’s cells resist the effects of insulin, and blood glucose levels rise.

Over time, glucose reaches dangerously high levels in the blood, which is called hyperglycemia.

Hyperglycemia can lead to health problems like heart disease, blindness, and kidney failure.

Risk Factors Associated with Type 2 Diabetes

It is recommended that students displaying or possibly experiencing the risk factors and warning signs associated with type 2 diabetes be screened (tested) for the disease.

Risk Factors

Researchers do not completely understand why some people develop type 2 diabetes and others do not; however, the following risk factors are associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in children:

Being overweight. The single greatest risk factor for type 2 diabetes in children is excess weight. In the U.S., almost one out of every five children is overweight. The chances are more than double that an overweight child will develop diabetes.

Family history of diabetes. Many affected children and youth have at least one parent with diabetes or have a significant family history of the disease.

Inactivity. Being inactive further reduces the body's ability to respond to insulin.

Specific racial/ethnic groups. Native Americans, African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, or Asian/Pacific Islanders are more prone than other ethnic groups to develop type 2 diabetes.

Puberty. Young people in puberty are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than younger children, probably because of normal rises in hormone levels that can cause insulin resistance

Types of Diabetes Screening Tests That Are Available

Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test. A blood test measures the average blood sugar level over two to three months. An A1C level of 6.5 percent or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.

Random (non-fasting) blood sugar test. A blood sample is taken at a random time. A random blood sugar level of 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or higher suggests diabetes. This test must be confirmed with a fasting blood glucose test.

Fasting blood sugar test. A blood sample is taken after an overnight fast. A fasting blood sugar level less than 100 mg/dL is normal. A level of 100 to 125 mg/dL is considered pre-diabetes. A level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.

Oral glucose tolerance test. A test measuring the fasting blood sugar level after an overnight fast with periodic testing for the next several hours after drinking a sugary liquid. A reading of more than 200 mg/dL after two hours indicates diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes in children is a preventable/treatable disease and the guidance provided in this information sheet is intended to raise awareness about this disease. Contact your student's school nurse, school administrator, or health care provider if you have questions.

For more information on type 2 diabetes click here: https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/he/hn/type2diabetes.asp 

EC 49452.9: Health Care Coverage 

Your child and family may be eligible for free or low-cost health coverage. For information about health care coverage options and enrollment assistance, go to www.CoveredCA.com 

EC 49472: Availability of Pupil Accident Insurance 

Bonita Unified School District health staff can assist parents with the process of enrolling  their children into free or low cost health insurance programs such as Medi-Cal, Healthy  Families, Healthy Kids and Kaiser Child Health Plan.

Additionally, parents of a student participating in interscholastic athletic teams may wish to acquire additional accident insurance for the student.

For more information on low cost health or accident insurance, contact the Health Office or the Athletics Department at the school site.

Medical or Hospital Services Not Provided

The School District does not provide or make available medical and hospital services for pupils who are injured in accidents related to school activity or attendance.

EC 49475: Concussions and Head Injuries 

A concussion is a brain injury that can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a  blow to another part of the body with the force transmitted to the head. Even though most  concussions are mild, all concussions are potentially serious and may result in complications  including prolonged brain damage and death if not recognized and managed properly. A  school district, charter school, or private school that elects to offer an athletic program must  immediately remove from a school-sponsored athletic activity for the remainder of the day  an athlete who is suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury during that activity. The  athlete may not return to that activity until he or she is evaluated by, and receives written  clearance from, a licensed health care provider. If the licensed health care provider  determines the athlete has a concussion or head injury, the athlete shall also complete a  graduated return-to-play protocol of no less than 7 days in duration under the supervision of  a licensed health care provider. On a yearly basis, a concussion and head injury information  sheet must be signed and returned by the athlete and the athlete’s parent or guardian before  the athlete initiates practice or competition. This requirement does not apply to an athlete  engaging in an athletic activity during the regular school day or as part of a physical  education course.

EC 49480: Medication Regimen 

The parent or legal guardian of any pupil taking medication on a regular basis must inform the school nurse or [other contact person] of the medication being taken, the current dosage,  and the name of the supervising physician. With the consent of the parent or legal guardian,  the school nurse may communicate with the physician and may counsel with the school  personnel regarding the possible effects of the medication on the pupil.

EC 49510: Nutrition Program, Free & Reduced-Price Meals 

The State Department of Education has established a statewide program to provide  nutritious meals and milk at school for pupils, and to provide free meals to the neediest  children. In some instances, nominal cash payments may be required.

Free or reduced-price lunches are available at school for pupils whose parents or legal  guardians qualify, based on annual household income, and complete the required application  form. Pupils participating in the program will not be identified, and the information on the  application will be kept confidential. Applications may be submitted at any time during  school hours. For more information or to apply, visit the district website at https://bonita-nutrition.com/ 

Beginning in 2022–2023, Education Code (EC) 49501.5 requires public school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools serving students in grades TK–12 to provide two meals free of charge (breakfast and lunch) during each school day to students requesting a meal, regardless of their free or reduced-price meal eligibility. Charter Schools and Districts will still require eligible parents to submit an application in order to remain in compliance for accounting purposes only.

EC 49557.5: Child Hunger Prevention and Fair Treatment Act 

Per the United States Department of Agriculture memorandum SP 46-2016, the school  district must notify parents, students and staff of the Meal Charge Policy on how students  who pay the full or reduced price cost of a reimbursable meal are impacted by having insufficient funds on hand or in their accounts to purchase a meal.

The Bonita Unified School District has a Meal Charge Policy about how students who pay the  full or reduced cost of a school meal are impacted by not having enough cash on hand or in  their account to purchase a meal. The meal charge policy may be found in the student  handbook for the student’s school of attendance.

EC 51225.1: Children of Military Families 

If you are a military family, your child may qualify to be exempted from local graduation coursework requirements that are beyond the California state requirements. Please make  an appointment with the school counselor to review your child’s options for graduation. All  coursework that was completed an accredited school outside of the Bonita Unified School District will be issued full or partial credit.  

EC 51225.2: Migrant and Newly Arrived Immigrant Pupils 

Migrant and newly arrived immigrant families may be eligible for alternative graduation  requirements under California Education Code 54441. For more information, please contact  the counseling department at your child’s school or the Office of Student Services at 909- 971-8330, ext. 5321.

EC 51129: Information on College Admission 

Students earning a high school diploma may choose to pursue higher education in one of three kinds of institutions: Community College, State University, or Private College/University. Guidance on how to access admissions information for each is found below.

Community College 

The California Community College system is available to all students with a valid high school Diploma. For more information on admissions and local campuses, visit the California Community Colleges web site at http://www.cccco.edu/ 

State University 

In order for a student to be eligible to attend any of the campuses of the University of  California, the student must meet minimum requirements for completed coursework and grades. For information on all aspects of admission to the University of California, visit the admissions web site at: http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/ 

In order for a student to be eligible to attend any of the campuses of the California State University, the student must meet minimum requirements for completed coursework and grades.. For information on all aspects of admission to the California State University, visit the admissions web site at: https://www.calstate.edu/apply/Pages/default.aspx 

Private College or University 

Admission requirements and standards vary for private colleges and universities. To obtain more information, contact the private college or university of interest.

EC 51129: Information on Career Technical Education 

The Bonita Unified School District offers more than 50 courses in the Career/Technical Education field. For more information on specific offerings at each school site, contact the counseling department or check the High School Handbook on the school website.

For more information on the goals and objectives of the Career/Technical Education initiative, visit the California Department of Education web site at http://www.cde.ca.gov/ci/ct/ 

EC 51129: Availability of On-Campus Counseling 

All schools in the Bonita Unified School District employ counselors to assist students with a range of needs, including personal/social issues, academic issues, and career and post-secondary education planning. For more  information on the services provided, and how to access these services, contact the Counseling Office at the school site or visit the district counseling services page at https://sites.google.com/bonita.k12.ca.us/bonitausd-studentservices/counseling-services 

EC 51512: Electronic Listening Devices 

The use by any person, including a student, of any electronic listening or recording device in  any classroom without the prior consent of the teacher and the principal is prohibited as it disrupts and impairs the teaching process and discipline in the schools. Any person, other than the student, willfully in violation shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Any student in violation shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Each school may institute additional restrictions to the use of electronic devices while on school campus or while participating in school-sponsored activities.

EC 51513: Surveys 

Anonymous, voluntary and confidential research and evaluation tools to measure student’s health behaviors and risks, including tests, questionnaires, and surveys containing age appropriate questions about the student’s attitudes and practices relating to sex, family life,  morality, and religion may be administered to students if the parent is notified in writing that 1) this test, questionnaire, or survey is to be administered, 2) the student’s parent is  given the opportunity to review the test, questionnaire, or survey, and 3) the parent consents in writing.  

EC 51930-51939: California Healthy Youth Act 

The California Healthy Youth Act requires school districts to provide pupils with integrated,  comprehensive, accurate, and unbiased sexual health and HIV prevention education at least  once in middle school and once in high school. It is intended to ensure that pupils in grades  7-12 are provided with the knowledge and skills necessary to: 1) protect their sexual and  

reproductive health from HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, and unintended  pregnancy; 2) develop healthy attitudes concerning adolescent growth and development,  body image, gender, sexual orientation, relationships, marriage, and family; and 3) have  healthy, positive, and safe relationships and behaviors. It also promotes understanding of  sexuality as a normal part of human development.

Parents or legal guardians have the right to:  

• Inspect the written and audiovisual educational materials used in the comprehensive sexual health and HIV prevention education.

• Request in writing that their child not receive comprehensive sexual health or HIV  prevention education.

• Request a copy of Education Codes 51930 through 51939, the California Healthy Youth  Act.

• Be informed whether the comprehensive sexual health or HIV prevention education  will be taught by district personnel or outside consultants.

• Receive notice by mail or another commonly used method of notification no fewer than 14 days before the instruction is delivered if arrangements for the instruction are  made after the beginning of the school year.

• When the district chooses to use outside consultants or to hold an assembly with guest  speakers to teach comprehensive sexual health or HIV prevention education, be  informed of:

  • • The date of the instruction  

    • The name of the organization or affiliation of each guest speaker

EC 51938: Right to Excuse Pupils From Sexual Health Education 

A parent or guardian of a pupil has the right to excuse their child from all or part of  comprehensive sexual health education, HIV/AIDS prevention education, and assessments  related to that education. For more information on the content and schedule for sexual health education, as well as  procedures for excusing students from participation, please contact the school site.

Anonymous, voluntary, and confidential research and evaluation tools to measure pupils' health behaviors and risks, including tests, questionnaires, and surveys containing age appropriate questions about the pupil's attitudes concerning or practices relating to sex  may be administered to any pupil in grades 7 to 12, inclusive, if the parent or guardian is  notified in writing that this test, questionnaire, or survey is to be administered and the  pupil's parent or guardian is given the opportunity to review the test, questionnaire, or  survey and to request in writing that his or her child not participate.

EC 58500: Information on Alternative Schools

In addition to comprehensive programs in grades TK-12, the Bonita Unified School District offers alternative programs for students in grades 9-12, including an Opportunity classroom for grades 9-10 at Vista School, and a continuation high school program for students in grades 11-12 at Chaparral High School.

To get more information about available alternative programs, to schedule a meeting with a school administrator or counselor, or to arrange a site visit, please see the Chaparral/Vista Schools website at https://ej.bonita.k12.ca.us, or call 909-971-8240.

EC 66251: Educational Equity 

The Equity in Higher Education Act, states that all persons, regardless of their disability,  gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual  orientation, or any other specified characteristic such as hairstyle, equal rights and opportunities and adds this opportunity to apply for financial aid for higher education to also be equitable, and an application may not be denied of a student based on their immigration status. This does not guarantee any final eligibility, but simply an ability to apply for financial aid just like any other student, without discrimination.

EC 69432.6: Cal Grant Program 

A Cal Grant is money for college that does not have to be paid back. To qualify, a student  must meet the eligibility and financial requirements as well as any minimum grade point  average (GPA) requirements. Cal Grants can be used at any University of California, California State University or California Community College. Some independent and career colleges or technical schools in California also take Cal Grants.

In order to assist students apply for financial aid, all students in grade 12 are automatically  considered a Cal Grant applicant and each grade 12 student’s GPA will be submitted to the  California Student Aid Commission (CASC) electronically by a school or school district  official. A student, or the parent/guardian of a student under 18 years of age, may complete a  form to indicate that he/she does not wish for the school to electronically send CASC the  student’s GPA. Until a student turns 18 years of age, only the parent/guardian may opt out  the student. Once a student turns 18 years of age, only the student may opt himself/herself  out, and can opt in if the parent/guardian had previously decided to opt out the student.

HSC 104495: Tobacco-Free Campus 

HSC 104495 prohibits smoking a cigarette, cigar, or other tobacco-related product and  disposal of cigarette butts, cigar butts, or any other tobacco-related waste within 25 feet of  any playground or tot lot sandbox area. Any person who violates this section is guilty of an  infraction and shall be punished by a fine of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) for each violation of this section. The prohibitions do not apply to private property or a public  sidewalk located within 25 feet of a playground or a tot lot sandbox area.

BP 4119.21: Adult-Student Professional Boundaries

The Governing Board expects adults to maintain the highest professional, moral and ethical standards in their interaction with students. Adults are required to maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning, through consistently and appropriately applied discipline and establishing and maintaining professional boundaries.

The interactions and relationships between adults and students should be based upon mutual respect and trust, and an understanding of the appropriate boundaries between adults and students in and outside of the educational setting. Relationships between adults and students should also be consistent with the educational mission of the schools.

Adults will not intrude on a students’ physical and emotional boundaries unless the intrusion is necessary to serve a legitimate educational purpose. For purposes of this policy, the term “legitimate educational purpose” includes matters or communications related to teaching, counseling, athletics, extracurricular activities, treatment of a student’s physical injury or other medical needs, school administration, or other purposes within the scope of the adult’s employment duties.

For more information on Board policies and regulations, visit this site: https://do.bonita.k12.ca.us/Board-of-Education/Board-Policies/index.html 

To submit a complaint or concern about employee conduct, contact the principal of the school or the Human Resources Department:

Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources

115 W. Allen Ave, San Dimas, CA

909-971-8200, x. 5400

BP 5145.12: Search and Seizure 

School officials may search any individual student’s property, or district property under the student’s control, when there is a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover evidence that the student is violating the law, violating District Board policy or Administrative Regulations, or violating other rules of the district or the school. Reasonable suspicion shall be based on specific and objective facts that the search will produce evidence related to the alleged violation. The types of student property that may be searched by school officials include, but are not limited to, lockers, desks, purses, backpacks, or student vehicles parked on district property. A student's personal electronic device may be searched only if, in addition to the reasonable suspicion described above, a school official, in good faith, believes that an emergency involving danger of death or serious physical injury to the student or others requires access to the electronic device information.

A search may be conducted when reasonable suspicion exists for acts related to school activity or school attendance, which occur at any time, including, but not limited to, while on school grounds, while going to or coming from school, during a lunch period whether on or off campus, or during or while going to or coming from a school sponsored activity.

Any search of a student, the student’s property, or district property under his/her control shall be  limited in scope and designed to produce evidence related to the alleged violation. Factors to  be considered by school officials when determining the scope of the search shall include the  danger to the health or safety of students or staff, such as the possession of weapons, drugs, or other dangerous instruments, and whether the item(s) to be searched by school officials  are reasonably related to the contraband to be found. In addition, school officials shall consider the intrusiveness of the search in light of the student's age, gender, and the nature of the alleged violation.

Employees shall not conduct strip searches or body cavity searches of any student. (Education Code 49050)

Searches of individual students shall be conducted in the presence of at least two District employees or one District employee and the School Resource Officer or other on-duty law enforcement officer.

AR 5145.12: Canine Detection Program 

The use of drug detecting canines shall be preventative, will be conducted on a random basis,  and will not be used in response to a specific suspicion of drug use or possession.

Guidelines for the canine detection visits to school sites: program include the following:

• Drug-detection canines shall not be used in rooms occupied by persons except with the  handler present.  

• The dog canine shall be separated from the students and not allowed to sniff any  individual.

• While the canine and handler are in the classroom, the students shall be permitted to  observe their belongings at all times.

• Students shall not be required to pass by the dog canine while moving within the  classroom or while the canine, with its handler, is entering or exiting the classroom. 

• Canines may be used to sniff general areas such as lockers, locker rooms, a student  parking lot without students present, or around student vehicles in the student  parking lot.

At no time will the canine be allowed to sniff the person of a student, employee, visitor, or  any individual while on District property. The canines may sniff the air around lockers and items not in possession of the owner or vehicles on district property or at a district-sponsored event. Only well-trained, non-aggressive, and reliable dogs with all accompanying certifications and records will be used. Canines will be under the control of their handler at all times, and a District or site administrator or designee will also be present for all canine detection visits.   Only the canine’s official handler will determine what constitutes an alert by the canine. If the canine alerts on an object, the administrator present shall determine whether a further search is justified.

Notification of Right to Request 504 Eligibility Determination and Procedural Safeguards 

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects students with disabilities from  discrimination based on their disabilities. The Section 504 regulations require a school  district to provide a "free appropriate public education" (FAPE) to each qualified student  with a disability who is in the school district's jurisdiction, regardless of the nature or  severity of the disability.

Your child may be eligible for services under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.  You have the right to request a Section 504 eligibility determination meeting by  contacting your School’s designated Section 504 Chairperson or the District’s Section 504  Coordinator. Parents of children diagnosed with or suspected of having any type of anxiety disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, i.e. impulsive, attentive or hyperactive, or other disabilities, who, in the past, were determined to be ineligible under Section 504 or the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), are not precluded from requesting a Section 504 meeting or individualized education program (IEP) meeting to discuss current eligibility.

Parents and/or Students have the following rights and procedural safeguards under Section 504:

1. Application. Section 504 protections apply to preschool, elementary, secondary and  adult school programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance and to the  recipients of said federal financial assistance for the operation of such programs and  activities.

2. Parents’ Rights. You have a right to be informed by the District of your rights under Section 504, including notification of the applicable procedure when a parent or  guardian disagrees with a decision regarding the identification, evaluation, or placement or wishes to submit a complaint alleging discrimination or harassment of a student  based on his or her actual or perceived disability.

3. FAPE. If eligible under Section 504, your child has the right to a free appropriate  public education designed to meet his/her individual educational needs as adequately as the needs of non-disabled students are met.

4. Free Education. If eligible under Section 504, your child has the right to free  educational services except for those fees that are imposed on non-disabled students or their parents. If the District refers your child for aide, benefits or services by an  entity not operated by the District it may be required to incur the cost of said aide,  benefit or service, including the cost of transportation. Insurers and similar third  

parties are not relieved of an otherwise valid obligation to provide or pay for services  provided to a disabled student.

5. Academic Setting. Your child has a right t o be educated with non-disabled students  and have an opportunity to participate in school and school-related activities to the  maximum extent appropriate. 34 C.F.R. Section 104.34  

6. Comparable Facilities. If eligible under Section 504, your child has a right to  facilities, services, and activities that are comparable to those provided for non disabled students.

7. Evaluations. Your child has a right to an evaluation prior to an initial Section 504  placement and prior to any subsequent significant change in placement. 8. Evaluation Procedures. Testing and other evaluation procedures must conform to  the requirements of 34 C.F.R. Section 104.35 as to validation and administration, to  ensure that they assess specific areas of educational need and are administered by  trained and knowledgeable personnel.  

9. Placement. Placement decisions must be made by a group of persons, including  persons knowledgeable about your child, drawing upon evaluation data from a variety of sources, which is documented and reviewed to consider the placement  options and the legal requirements in conformity with the FAPE, least restrictive  environment and comparable facilities requirements.

10. Re-evaluations. If eligible under Section 504, your child has a right to periodic re evaluations prior to any significant change in placement.

11. Notice. You have the right to receive notice as to yours and your child’s rights as they pertain to the right to examine records, the right to an impartial hearing, the right to  be represented by counsel, and the right to a review procedure concerning any  decisions made on behalf of your child.

12 Nonacademic Services. Your child has the right to an equal opportunity to participate  in extracurricular activities such as, counseling, athletics, recreation, and special interest groups or clubs. 34 C.F.R. Section 104.39.

13. Records. You have the right to examine relevant educational records of your child. 14. Due Process Procedures. You have the right to request an impartial due process hearing with respect to the District's action regarding your child's identification, evaluation, or educational placement, with opportunity for parental participation in the hearing and representation by an attorney.

15. Periodic Review. If eligible under Section 504, your child has a right to a periodic  review of his or her Section 504 plan. Such meetings generally occur one time per year. However, if you, a teacher, or the Section 504 team believes that changes may be necessary to effectuate your child’s educational program, you or these  persons may request a Section 504 Plan meeting. The meeting shall be held within a reasonable period of time after receiving the request.

16. Pre-disciplinary Considerations. If eligible under Section 504, you child has the right  to a pre-disciplinary determination as to whether any misconduct was a manifestation of his or her disability.

Title I: Parent Notification 

Allen Avenue Elementary, Gladstone Elementary, Ekstrand Elementary, Grace Miller Elementary, Roynon Elementary, Lone Hill Middle School, San Dimas High School, Chaparral High School, and Vista School will receive Title I funds during the 2025-2026 school year.  Parents/guardians of a student attending one of these schools has the right to request  information regarding the professional qualifications of the student’s classroom teacher(s) and paraprofessional(s).

5 CCR 852: California State Testing Notification

Each year, California students take several statewide standardized tests. When combined with other measures such as grades, class work, and teacher observations, these tests give families and teachers a more complete picture of their child’s learning. You can use the results to identify where your child is doing well and where they might need more support.

Your child may be taking one or more of the following California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP), English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC), and Physical Fitness Test assessments. Pursuant to California Education Code Section 60615, parents/guardians may annually submit to the school a written request to excuse their child from any or all of the CAASPP assessments. This exemption does not exist for the ELPAC or Physical Fitness Test.

For more information on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress system of testing, visit https://www.caaspp.org/administration/about/testing/index.html 

For more information on the English Language Proficiency Assessments for California visit https://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/tg/ep/ 

5 CCR 4600: Uniform Complaint Procedures 

The Uniform Complaint Procedures (UCP) complaint is a written and signed statement by a complainant alleging a violation of federal or state laws or regulations, which may include an allegation of unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, bullying, or charging  pupil fees for participation in an educational activity or non-compliance. The person who receives the complaint shall respond to the parent in writing within 60 days. The parent  may appeal to CDE within 15 days if not in agreement with the final report.  

Please contact the Office of Student Services if you would like more information on how to file a complaint with the school or district, prior to appealing to the CDE. More information  can also be found on the district website at https://sites.google.com/bonita.k12.ca.us/bonitausd-studentservices/complaint-procedures 

For more information you may also visit the California Department of Education website at  https://www.cde.ca.gov/re/cp/uc/ucpmonitoring.asp

16 CFR 312.5: Student Use of Technological Resources 

The Bonita Unified School District offers individualized instruction to students through a  variety of technological resources. In some instances, the District will offer educational  websites or applications that utilize personal information of students, such as name, screen  name, user name, etc., in order to provide the individualized instruction. This includes Google applications, including email accounts, plus a number of other websites, examples of  which can be found at this link: https://bit.ly/BUSDEdTech 

40 CFR 763.93: Asbestos Management Plan 

The Bonita Unified School District maintains and annually updates its management plan for  asbestos-containing material in school buildings.  

For a copy of the asbestos management plan, please contact:

Assistant Superintendent, Business Services

115 W Allen Ave, San Dimas, CA 91773

909-971-8200, ext. 5200

HSC 120325: Immunizations 

Students must be immunized against certain communicable diseases. Students are  prohibited from attending school unless immunization requirements are met for age and  grade. The school district shall cooperate with local health officials in measures necessary  for the prevention and control of communicable diseases in school age children. The district may use any funds, property, or personnel and may permit any person licensed as a  physician or registered nurse to administer an immunizing agent to any student whose parents have consented in writing.

Beginning January 1, 2016, parents of students in any school, will no longer be allowed to  submit a personal beliefs exemption to a currently required vaccine. A personal beliefs  exemption on file at school prior to January 1, 2016 will continue to be valid until the  student enters the next grade span at kindergarten (including transitional kindergarten) or 7th grade.  

Students are not required to have immunizations if they attend a home-based private school  or an independent study program and do not receive classroom-based instruction. However,  parents must continue to provide immunizations records for these students to their schools.  The immunization requirements do not prohibit students from accessing special education and related services required by their individualized education programs.  

A student not fully immunized may be temporarily excluded from a school or other  institution when that child has been exposed to a specified disease and whose documentary  proof of immunization status does not show proof of immunization against one of the communicable diseases described above.

HSC 124241: Licensed Medical Professional for Football Games 

A minimum of one certified emergency medical technician, state-licensed paramedic, or higher-level licensed medical professional shall be present during all preseason, regular season, and postseason games. The certified emergency medical technician, state-licensed paramedic, or higher-level licensed medical professional shall have the authority to provide prehospital emergency medical care or rescue services consistent with their certification or license, and remove any youth tackle football participant from the game who exhibits an injury, including, but not necessarily limited to, symptoms of a concussion or other head injury.

20 USC 7912: Victim of a Violent Crime 

A student who becomes a victim of a violent criminal offense while in or on the grounds of a school that the student attends, has the right to transfer to another school within the district.  The District has 14 calendar days to offer students the option to transfer.  

For more information, please contact:

Senior Director Student Services

115 W Allen Ave, San Dimas, CA 91773

909-971-8200, ext. 5320

42 USC 11431: McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act 

If your family lives in any of the following situations, your school-age children may qualify for certain rights and protections under the federal McKinney-Vento Act.

• In a shelter

• In a motel or campground due to the lack of an alternative adequate accommodation

• In a car, park, abandoned building, or bus or train station

• Doubled up with other people due to loss of housing or economic hardship

Your McKinney-Vento eligible children have the right to:

• Receive a free, appropriate public education.

• Enroll in school immediately, even if lacking documents normally required for enrollment, and attend classes while the school gathers needed documents.

• Enroll in the local school; or continue attending a school of origin if that is preference of the educational rights holder and is feasible.

• Receive transportation to and from the school of origin, if you request this.

• Receive educational services comparable to those provided to other students, according to your children's needs.

• Be considered for graduation under alternative requirements if certain conditions are met.

• Be issued partial credits on a transcript if a high-school age youth changes schools before the end of a semester

• Receive free or reduced-cost meals at school

• Receive assistance with accessing medical support or insurance, including immunizations

• Receive assistance with arranging transportation to school, including free or reduced-cost transportation on a school bus

Additional information can be found at: https://sites.google.com/bonita.k12.ca.us/bonitausd-studentservices/mckinney-vento-information 

If you need further assistance with your children's educational needs, or to contact a Homeless Liaison for the district, please contact:

Senior Director Student Services

115 W Allen Ave, San Dimas, CA 91773

909-971-8330, ext. 5321

RTC 19854: Earned Income Tax Credit

Based on your annual earnings, you may be eligible to receive the earned income tax credit from the federal government (federal EITC). The federal EITC is a refundable federal income tax credit for low-income working individuals and families. The federal EITC has no effect on certain welfare benefits. In most cases, federal EITC payments will not be used to determine eligibility for medicaid, supplemental security income, food stamps, low-income housing, or most temporary assistance for needy families payments. even if you do not owe federal taxes, you must file a federal tax return to receive the federal EITC. Be sure to fill out the federal EITC form in the federal income tax return booklet. For information regarding your eligibility to receive the federal EITC, including information on how to obtain the irs notice 797 or any other necessary forms and instructions, contact the Internal Revenue Service by calling 1-800-829-3676 or through its web site at www.irs.gov 

You also may be eligible to receive the California earned income tax credit (California EITC) starting with the calendar year 2015 tax year. The California EITC is a refundable state income tax credit for low-income working individuals and families. The California EITC is treated in the same manner as the federal EITC and generally will not be used to determine eligibility for welfare benefits under california law. To claim the California EITC, even if you do not owe California taxes, you must file a California income tax return and complete and attach the California EITC form (ftb 3514). For information on the availability of the credit, eligibility requirements, and how to obtain the necessary California forms and get help filing, contact the Franchise Tax Board at 1-800-852-5711 or through its web site at www.ftb.ca.gov 

Guidance: Know Your Educational Rights 

Your Child has the Right to a Free Public Education 

All children in the United States have a Constitutional right to equal access to free  public education, regardless of immigration status and regardless of the immigration  status of the students’ parents or guardians.

Information Required for School Enrollment 

When enrolling a child, schools must accept a variety of documents from the student’s parent or guardian to demonstrate proof of child’s age or residency.

You never have to provide information about citizenship/immigration status to have your child enrolled in school. Also, you never have to provide a Social Security number to have your child enrolled in school.

Confidentiality of Personal Information 

Federal and state laws protect student education records and personal information.  These laws generally require that schools get written consent from parents or  guardians before releasing student information, unless the release of information is for  educational purposes, is already public, or is in response to a court order or subpoena. Schools may collect and provide publicly basic student “directory information.” If they do, then each year, your child’s school district must provide parents/guardians with written notice of the school’s directory information policy, and let you know of your option to refuse release of your child’s information in the directory.

Family Safety Plans if You Are Detained or Deported 

You have the option to provide your child’s school with emergency contact information, including the information of secondary contacts, to identify a trusted adult  guardian who can care for your child in the event you are detained or deported. You have the option to complete a Caregiver’s Authorization Affidavit or a Petition for Appointment of Temporary Guardian of the Person, which may enable a trusted adult  the authority to make educational and medical decisions for your child.