Investigation Procedures

Chapter 7 - Investigation Procedures

7.1 Investigation Checklist

1. School Administrator receives information that a student has allegedly violated a MSHSL bylaw.

2. Determination is made where information is:

   1. Credible

   2. Valid 

   3. Reliable 

   4. If yes, then an investigation is opened.

7.2 Investigation Process

1. All information received is reviewed.

2. All parties will be interviewed, including students.

   1. No automatic violations based on police reports - student interviews will be conducted.

   2. If a student confirms the violation, investigation proceeds to a determination of eligibility.

   3. If a student denies the allegations, the investigation will continue.

      1. Assume both versions of the story are true.

      2. Credible, reliable, valid.

      3. Preponderance of evidence.

   4. Evidence is such that a reasonable person could draw the same conclusion then it becomes the burden for the student or family to present rebuttal information. For example, a picture of a student carrying a case of beer or is the student picking up litter? The student or family must provide information to their claim that the student is not in violation. 

   5. Investigations must conclude within 10 days.

3. Conclude investigation and determine the eligibility of the student:

   1. If the conclusion is that no violation has occurred, the student will be informed.

   2. If the conclusion is that a violation has occurred:

      1. The student will be informed verbally and in writing.

      2. The student’s parents will be informed verbally and in writing.

      3. Written copy sent to parents will include a copy of the Fair Hearing Procedure.