Continual Learning Plans (CLP):
Each student at WALC is required to have a CLP. The CLP contains each student’s current status regarding their educational progress, the student’s goals in education, the steps that the student will take to reach those goals, and the assessments that will be used to measure the student’s progress.
The CLP is learner-centered and is individually designed for each student. It is a continual evaluation of a student’s educational progress and will be evaluated throughout the school year.
Students who fail to make progress will meet with the coordinator to assess the situation and make a plan for better academic success.
Students must earn 72 trimester credits to graduate from the Waseca Area Learning Center.
The following is an outline of required credits:
English/Language Arts
12 Credits
Mathematics (encompassing at least high school Algebra II, Geometry)
9 Credits
Science (3 credits of Biology and Chemistry/Physics)
9 Credits
Social Studies (encompassing US history, geography, world history, government and citizenship; and economics/business)
12 Credits
Electives (at least 3 credit in the arts—media arts, music, theater, dance or visual arts), and 3.5 in Physical Education and 1 Health)
30 Credits
Earning Credit:
In order to earn full credit in each class, students must:
* Meet the standards for the course as indicated by the instructor.
* Complete all assessments and hand in all assignments according to the instructor’s directions and timeline.
* Students must meet attendance requirements.
Note: If students do not meet the criteria established by the teacher, partial or no credit may be earned.
Waseca Area Learning Center 7-12 Programs
Alpha Jays
Ability to have an altered schedule/independent study
Must follow attendance requirements set by the ALC
Can participate in work experience programs with excused absences
Must display positive behavior/attitude
May have access to open lunch with prior approval
Is able to earn IS credit
Can be a TA (teacher’s assistant)
Part of the Student Advisory Committee and gives feedback to staff
Can use cell phone throughout the day unless instructed otherwise by staff
Beta Jays
16+ years old
All sophomores, juniors, seniors start here- can earn Alpha status or get moved down to gamma.
Can do Work experience, but not allowed to leave early
Cell phone use with teacher permission throughout the day
Access to additional privileges with staff approval
Gamma Jays
15+ years old, all 9th graders
No independent study or altered schedules
Must have teacher/admin permission to go on field trips
No cell phones during class, but can use during lunch, free time
Omega Jays
7th and 8th Graders
No cell phones during class
Phone time earned (lunch, free time)
Some Friday symposiums earned
Siberian Jays (Independent Study)
17+ years old (seniors)
1 day a week until completion
20% seat time required for credit
Stellar Jays (Special Programming)
Lateral Learners
Web-Based Learners (17+)
Alternative Schedule
Distance Learning
Night Jays
Credit recovery students
Summer and night programs
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY/PLAGIARISM
Students found cheating on a test, or assignment or take or acquire or use test materials in any form without faculty permission will receive a zero. If there is a question of the assignment’s integrity the teacher may request the student to complete a similar test or assignment. Parents will be notified. (Refer to cell phone policy related to cheating.) The MSHSL Principal’s Code of Conduct could be implemented for offenses related to major tests, papers, projects, or repeated incidents of cheating.
Academic dishonesty includes but is not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, misrepresentation of student status and tampering with the school’s data-base (Campus). Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, the use of paraphrase or direct quotation, the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear acknowledgement; unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in selling or otherwise providing papers, products, or other academic materials turned in under the student’s own name. Violation may result in a consequence(s) determined by collaboration between the classroom teacher and building administration.
ATTENDANCE
(see Waseca School District Policy 503)
Regular school attendance is directly related to success in academic work, benefits students socially, provides opportunities for important communications between teachers and students, and establishes regular habits of dependability important to the future of the student. The purpose of this policy is to encourage regular school attendance. It is intended to be positive and not punitive.
Something of educational value is taught in every class each period of every school day. Each student can learn something of educational value in each class every day. If a student misses a class he/she will miss a learning experience, which cannot be made without being part of the entire class.
There is also educational value in extra-curricular activities and it is up to parents, teachers, coaches, and advisors to help students limit the number of school-related absences. While school-related absences are not included in the five-day absence rule, we strongly recommend that the total school-related and non-school-related absences together should not exceed 10 class periods.
Truancy
Continuing truant. "Continuing truant" means a child who is subject to the compulsory instruction requirements of section 120A.22 and is absent from instruction in a school, as defined in section 120A.05, without valid excuse within a single school year for:
(1) three days if the child is in elementary school; or
(2) three or more class periods on three days if the child is in middle school, junior high school, or high school.
Students and parents may need to appear before the Truancy Review Board, which is made up of representatives from Human Services, Court Services and the school, if the student misses 3 or more days or parts of days of school without a valid excuse. Students who have excessive excused absences may also be brought before this board.
If after the meeting of the Truancy Review Board the student’s attendance does not improve, WALC can request that a petition is made to the courts for a Child in Need of Protection.
Responsibilities
Student’s Responsibility
It is the student’s right to be in school. It is also the student’s responsibility to attend all assigned classes and study halls every day that school is in session and to be aware of and follow the correct procedures when absent from an assigned class or study hall. Finally, it is the student’s responsibility to request any missed assignments due to an absence.
Parent or Guardian’s Responsibility
It is the responsibility of the student’s parent or guardian to ensure the student is attending school, to inform the school in the event of a student absence, and to work cooperatively with the school and the student to solve any attendance problems that may arise.
Teacher’s Responsibility
It is the teacher’s responsibility to take daily attendance and to maintain accurate attendance records in each assigned class and study hall. It is also the teacher’s responsibility to be familiar with all procedures governing attendance and to apply these procedures uniformly. It is also the teacher’s responsibility to provide any student who has been absent with any missed assignments upon request. Finally, it is the teacher’s responsibility to work cooperatively with the student’s parent or guardian and the student to solve any attendance problems that may arise.
Administrator’s Responsibility
It is the administrator’s responsibility to require students to attend all assigned classes and study halls. It is also the administrator’s responsibility to be familiar with all procedures governing attendance and to apply these procedures uniformly to all students, to maintain accurate records on student attendance and to prepare a list of the previous day’s absences stating the status of each. It is the responsibility of the administrator to determine if an absence is excused or unexcused. Finally, it is the administrator’s responsibility to inform the student’s parent or guardian of the student’s attendance and to work cooperatively with them and the student to solve attendance problems.
In accordance with the Minnesota Compulsory Instruction Law, Minn. Stat. § 120A.22, the students of the school district are REQUIRED to attend all assigned classes and/or study halls every day school is in session, unless the student has been excused by school administration from attendance because the student has already completed state and school district standards required to graduate from high school, has withdrawn, or has a valid excuse for absence.
Attendance Procedures
According to Minn. Stat. § 120A.22, Subd. 12, school administration makes the determination if an absence is considered excused or unexcused. Parents must call the ALC office office at (507) 835-5588 by 10 A.M. on the day a student is absent to offer a legitimate reason for the absence; a voice message can also be left 24 hours a day/7 days a week concerning attendance. Written notes will not be accepted.
Any absence not called in will be marked unexcused; if a parent does not call to offer a valid reason for the absence within 48 hours, the absence will not be changed.
Excused and Unexcused Absences
Excused Absences
To be considered an excused absence, the student’s parent or legal guardian may be asked to verify, in writing or by phone, the reason for the student’s absence from school.
The following reasons shall be sufficient to constitute excused absences:
Illness.
Serious illness in the student’s immediate family.
A death in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative.
Medical, dental or orthodontic treatment, or counseling appointment.
Court appearances occasioned by family or personal action.
Religious instruction not to exceed three hours in any week.
Physical emergency conditions such as fire, flood, storm, etc.
Official school field trip or other school-sponsored outing.
Removal of a student pursuant to a suspension. Suspensions are to be handled as excused absences and students will be permitted to complete make-up work.
Family emergencies.
Active duty in any military branch of the United States.
Family Vacation when the student is in good academic standing and the student has prior permission from the principal.
Personal trips to schools or colleges with prior permission from the principal.
Spectator at a school-sponsored activity (e.g. MSHSL tournament competitions). This activity needs approval from district or school leadership, and is up to the discretion of building administration.
Student Obligations for Excused Absences
Students whose absences are excused are required to make up all assignments missed or to complete alternative assignments as deemed appropriate by the classroom teacher.
Unexcused Absences
The following are examples of absences which will not be excused:
Skipping classes, including study hall, or leaving the building at any time without verbal permission from a principal or principal’s designee. Teachers will not give permission for students to leave the building.
Truancy: an absence by a student which was not approved by the parent and/or the school district.
Any absence in which the student/parent failed to comply with any reporting requirements of the school district’s attendance procedures.
Work at home.
Work at a business, except under a school-sponsored work release program.
Vacations with family that have not been given prior approval from the principal.
Any other absence not included under the attendance procedures set out in this policy.
Consequences of Absences
Placed in the appropriate ALC group and follow all rules associated with that group.
Tardiness
Definition: Students are expected to be in their assigned area at designated times. Failure to do so constitutes tardiness. A student is tardy if he or she arrives less than 5 minutes after class has started. Teachers may include trips back to the locker and to the bathroom as tardies.
Procedures for Reporting Tardiness
Students tardy at the start of school must report to the school office to sign in.
Tardiness between periods will be handled by the teacher.
Participation in Extracurricular Activities and School-Sponsored On-the-Job Training Programs
This policy applies to all students involved in any extracurricular activity scheduled either during or outside the school day and any school-sponsored on-the-job training programs.
School-initiated absences will be accepted and participation permitted.
A student must be in attendance for a half day of school to participate in an activity or program that day. A student may participate if prior approval is granted by the principal.
A student may not participate in any activity or program if he or she has an unexcused absence from any class during the day.
If a student is suspended from any class, they may not participate in any activity or program that day.
If a student is absent from school due to medical reasons, they must present a physician’s statement or a statement from the student’s parent or guardian clearing the student for participation that day. The note must be presented to the coach or advisor before the student is allowed to participate.
GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY
The school board recognizes that individual responsibility and mutual respect are essential components of the educational process. The school board further recognizes that nurturing the maturity of each student is of primary importance and is closely linked with the balance that must be maintained between authority and self-discipline as the individual progresses from a child’s dependence on authority to the more mature behavior of self-control.
All students are entitled to learn and develop in a setting which promotes respect of self, others, and property. Proper positive discipline can only result from an environment which provides options and stresses student self-direction, decision-making, and responsibility. Schools can function effectively only with internal discipline based on mutual understanding of rights and responsibilities. Students must conduct themselves in an appropriate manner that maintains a climate in which learning can take place. Overall decorum affects student attitudes and influences student behavior. Proper student conduct is necessary to facilitate the education process and to create an atmosphere conducive to high student achievement.
Although this policy emphasizes the development of self-discipline, it is recognized that there are instances when it will be necessary to administer disciplinary measures. The position of the school district is that a fair and equitable district-wide student discipline policy will contribute to the quality of the student’s educational experience. This discipline policy is adopted in accordance with and subject to the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56.
In view of the foregoing and in accordance with Minn. Stat. § 121A.55, the school board, with the participation of school district administrators, teachers, employees, students, parents, community members, and such other individuals and organizations as appropriate, has developed this policy which 506-2 governs student conduct and applies to all students of the school district.
AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
The School Board. The school board holds all school personnel responsible for the maintenance of order within the school district and supports all personnel acting within the framework of this discipline policy.
Superintendent. The superintendent shall establish guidelines and directives to carry out this policy, hold all school personnel, students, and parents responsible for conforming to this policy, and support all school personnel performing their duties within the framework of this policy. The superintendent shall also establish guidelines and directives for using the services of appropriate agencies for assisting students and parents. Any guidelines or directives established to implement this policy shall be submitted to the school board for approval and shall be attached as an addendum to this policy.
Principal. The school principal is given the responsibility and authority to formulate building rules and regulations necessary to enforce this policy, subject to final school board approval. The principal shall give direction and support to all school personnel performing their duties within the framework of this policy. The principal shall consult with parents of students conducting themselves in a manner contrary to the policy. The principal shall also involve other professional employees in the disposition of behavior referrals and shall make use of those agencies appropriate for assisting students and parents. A principal, in exercising his or her lawful authority, may use reasonable force when it is necessary under the circumstances to correct or restrain a student or prevent bodily harm or death to another.
Teachers. All teachers shall be responsible for providing a well-planned teaching/learning environment and shall have primary responsibility for student conduct, with appropriate assistance from the administration. All teachers shall enforce the Code of Student Conduct. In exercising the teacher’s lawful authority, a teacher may use reasonable force when it is necessary under the circumstances to correct or restrain a student or prevent bodily harm or death to another.
Other School District Personnel. All school district personnel shall be responsible for contributing to the atmosphere of mutual respect within the school. Their responsibilities relating to student behavior shall be as authorized and directed by the superintendent. A school employee, school bus driver, or other agent of a school district, in exercising his or her lawful authority, may use reasonable force when it is necessary under the circumstances to restrain a student or prevent bodily harm or death to another.
Parents or Legal Guardians. Parents and guardians shall be held responsible for the behavior of their children as determined by law and community practice. They are expected to cooperate with school authorities and to participate regarding the behavior of their children.
Students. All students shall be held individually responsible for their behavior and for knowing and obeying the Code of Student Conduct and this policy.All students have the right to an education and the right to learn.
All students have the responsibility:
For their behavior and for knowing and obeying all school rules, regulations, policies, and procedures;
To attend school daily, except when excused, and to be on time to all classes and other school functions;
To pursue and attempt to complete the courses of study prescribed by the state and local school authorities;
To make necessary arrangements for making up work when absent from school;
To assist the school staff in maintaining a safe school for all students;
To be aware of all school rules, regulations, policies, and procedures, including those in this policy, and to conduct themselves in accord with them;
To assume that until a rule or policy is waived, altered, or repealed, it is in full force and effect;
To be aware of and comply with federal, state, and local laws;
To volunteer information in disciplinary cases should they have any knowledge relating to such cases and to cooperate with school staff as appropriate;
To respect and maintain the school’s property and the property of others;
To dress and groom in a manner which meets standards of safety and health and common standards of decency and which is consistent with applicable school district policy;
To avoid inaccuracies in student newspapers or publications and refrain from indecent or obscene language;
To conduct themselves in an appropriate physical or verbal manner; and
To recognize and respect the rights of others.
CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT
The following are examples of unacceptable behavior subject to disciplinary action by the school district. These examples are not intended to be an exclusive list. Any student who engages in any of these activities shall be disciplined in accordance with this policy. This policy applies to all school buildings, school grounds, and school property or property immediately adjacent to school grounds; school-sponsored activities or trips; school bus stops; school buses, school vehicles, school contracted vehicles, or any other vehicles approved for school district purposes; the area of entrance or departure from school premises or events; and all school-related functions, school-sponsored activities, events, or trips. School district property also may mean a student’s walking route to or from school for purposes of attending school or school-related functions, activities, or events. While prohibiting unacceptable behavior subject to disciplinary action at these locations and events, the school district does not represent that it will provide supervision or assume liability at these locations and events. This policy also applies to any student whose conduct at any time or in any place interferes with or obstructs the mission or operations of the school district or the safety or welfare of the student, other students, or employees.
Violations against property including, but not limited to, damage to or destruction of school property or the property of others, failure to compensate for damage or destruction of such property, arson, breaking and entering, theft, robbery, possession of stolen property, extortion, trespassing, unauthorized usage, or vandalism.
The use of profanity or obscene language, or the possession of obscene materials.
Gambling, including, but not limited to, playing a game of chance for stakes.
Violation of the school district’s Hazing Prohibition Policy.
Attendance problems including, but not limited to, truancy, absenteeism, tardiness, skipping classes, or leaving school grounds without permission.
Opposition to authority using physical force or violence.
Using, possessing, or distributing tobacco, tobacco-related devices, electronic cigarettes, or tobacco paraphernalia, in violation of the school district’s Tobacco-Free Environment Policy.
Using, possessing, distributing, intending to distribute, making a request to another person for (solicitation), or being under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances or look-alike substances.
Using, possessing, distributing, intending to distribute, making a request to another person for (solicitation), or being under the influence of narcotics, drugs, or other controlled substances, or look-alike substances, except as prescribed by a physician, including one student sharing prescription medication with another student.
Using, possessing, or distributing items or articles that are illegal or harmful to persons or property including, but not limited to, drug paraphernalia.
Using, possessing, or distributing weapons, or look-alike weapons or other dangerous objects.
Possession of ammunition including, but not limited to, bullets or other projectiles designed to be used in or as a weapon.
Possession, use, or distribution of explosives or any compound or mixture, the primary or common purpose or intended use of which is to function as an explosive.
Possession, use, or distribution of fireworks or any substance or combination of substances or articles prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or an audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration or detonation.
Using an ignition device, including a butane or disposable lighter or matches, inside an educational building and under circumstances where there is a risk of fire, except where the device is used in a manner authorized by the school.
Violation of any local, state, or federal law as appropriate.
Acts disruptive of the educational process, including, but not limited to, disobedience, disruptive or disrespectful behavior, defiance of authority, cheating, insolence, insubordination, failure to identify oneself, improper activation of fire alarms, or bomb threats.
Violation of the school district’s Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy.
Unauthorized use of nuisance devices or objects which cause distractions and may facilitate cheating including, but not limited to, pagers, radios, and phones, including picture phones.
Violation of school bus or transportation rules or the school district’s Student Transportation Safety Policy.
Violation of parking or school traffic rules and regulations, including, but not limited to, driving on school property in such a manner as to endanger persons or property.
Violation of directives or guidelines relating to lockers or improperly gaining access to a school locker.
Possession or distribution of slanderous, libelous, or pornographic materials.
Violation of the school district’ Bullying Prohibition Policy.
Student attire or personal grooming which creates a danger to health or safety or creates a disruption to the educational process, including clothing which bears a message which is lewd, vulgar, or obscene, apparel promoting products or activities that are illegal for use by minors, or clothing containing objectionable emblems, signs, words, objects, or pictures communicating a message that is racist, sexist, or otherwise derogatory to a protected minority group or which connotes gang membership.
Criminal activity
Falsification of any records, documents, notes, or signatures.
Tampering with, changing, or altering records or documents of the school district by any method including, but not limited to, computer access or other electronic means.
Scholastic dishonesty which includes, but is not limited to, cheating on a school assignment or test, plagiarism, or collusion, including the use of phone pictures or other technology to accomplish this end.
Impertinent or disrespectful words, symbols, acronyms, or language, whether oral or written, related to teachers or other school district personnel.
Actions, including fighting or any other assaultive behavior, which causes or could cause injury to the student or other persons or which otherwise endangers the health, safety, or welfare of teachers, students, other school district personnel, or other persons.
Committing an act which inflicts great bodily harm upon another person, even though accidental or a result of poor judgment.
Violations against persons, including, but not limited to, assault or threatened assault, fighting, harassment, interference or obstruction, attack with a weapon, or look-alike weapon, sexual assault, illegal or inappropriate sexual conduct, or indecent exposure.
Verbal assaults or verbally abusive behavior including, but not limited to: use of words, symbols, acronyms, or language, whether oral or written, that are discriminatory, abusive, obscene, threatening, intimidating, degrading to other people or threatening to school property.
Physical or verbal threats including, but not limited to, the staging or reporting of dangerous or hazardous situations that do not exist.
Inappropriate, abusive, threatening, or demeaning actions based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, national origin, or sexual orientation.
Violation of the school district’s one-to-one device rules and regulations.
Other acts, as determined by the school district, which are disruptive of the educational process or dangerous or detrimental to the student or other students, school district personnel or surrounding persons, or which violate the rights of others or which damage or endanger the property of the school, or which otherwise interferes with or obstruct the mission or operations of the school district or the safety or welfare of students or employees.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION OPTIONS (CONSEQUENCES)
The general policy of the school district is to utilize progressive discipline to the extent reasonable and appropriate based upon the specific facts and circumstances of student misconduct. The specific form of discipline chosen in a particular case is solely within the discretion of the school district. At a minimum, violation of school district rules, regulations, policies, or procedures will result in discussion of the violation and a verbal warning. The school district shall, however, impose more severe disciplinary sanctions for any violation, including exclusion or expulsion, if warranted by the student’s misconduct, as determined by the school district. Disciplinary action may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following:
Student conference with teacher, principal, counselor, or other school district personnel, and verbal warning;
Confiscation by school district personnel and/or by law enforcement of any item, article, object, or thing, prohibited by, or used in the violation of, any school district policy, rule, regulation, procedure, or state or federal law. If confiscated by the school district, the confiscated item, article, object, or thing will be released only to the parent/guardian following the completion of any investigation or disciplinary action instituted or taken related to the violation.
Parent contact;
Parent conference;
Removal from class;
In-school suspension;
Suspension from extracurricular activities;
Detention or restriction of privileges;
Loss of school privileges;
In-school monitoring or revised class schedule;
Referral to in-school support services;
Referral to community resources or outside agency services;
Financial restitution;
Referral to police, other law enforcement agencies, or other appropriate authorities;
A request for a petition to be filed in district court for juvenile delinquency adjudication;
Out-of-school suspension under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act;
Preparation of an admission or readmission plan;
Expulsion under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act;
Exclusion under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act; and/or
Other disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the school district.
REMOVAL OF STUDENTS FROM CLASS
Teachers have the responsibility of attempting to modify disruptive student behavior by such means as conferring with the student, using positive reinforcement, assigning detention or other consequences, or contacting the student’s parents. When such measures fail, or when the teacher determines it is otherwise appropriate based upon the student’s conduct, the teacher shall have the authority to remove the student from class pursuant to the procedures established by this discipline policy. “Removal from class” and “removal” mean any actions taken by a teacher, principal, or other school district employee to prohibit a student from attending a class or activity for a period of time not to exceed five (5) days, pursuant to this discipline policy.
Grounds for removal from class shall include any of the following:
Willful conduct that significantly disrupts the rights of others to an education, including conduct that interferes with a teacher’s ability to teach or communicate effectively with students in a class or with the ability of other students to learn;
Willful conduct that endangers surrounding persons, including school district employees, the student or other students, or the property of the school;
Willful violation of any school rules, regulations, policies or procedures, including the Code of Student Conduct in this policy; or
Other conduct, which is at the discretion of the teacher or administration, requires removal of the student from class. Such removal shall be for at least one (1) activity period or class period of instruction for a given course of study and shall not exceed five (5) such periods.
If a student is removed from class more than ten (10) times in a school year, the school district shall notify the parent or guardian of the student’s tenth removal from class and make reasonable attempts to convene a meeting with the student’s parent or guardian to discuss the problem that is causing the student to be removed from class.
SUSPENSION/DISMISSAL
“Dismissal” means the denial of the current educational program to any student, including exclusion, expulsion and suspension. Dismissal does not include removal from class. The school district shall not deny due process or equal protection of the law to any student involved in a dismissal proceeding which may result in suspension, exclusion or expulsion. The school district shall not dismiss any student without attempting to provide alternative educational services before dismissal proceedings, except where it appears that the student will create an immediate and substantial danger to oneself or to surrounding persons or property.
Violations leading to suspension, based upon severity, may also be grounds for actions leading to expulsion, and/or exclusion. A student may be dismissed on any of the following grounds:
Willful violation of any reasonable school board regulation, including those found in this policy;
Willful conduct that significantly disrupts the rights of others to an education, or the ability of school personnel to perform their duties, or school sponsored extracurricular activities; or
Willful conduct that endangers the student or other students, or surrounding persons,
including school district employees, or property of the school.
Suspension Procedures
“Suspension” means an action by the school administration, under rules promulgated by the School Board, prohibiting a student from attending school for a period of no more than ten (10) school days.
If a student’s total days of removal from school exceed ten (10) cumulative days in a school year, the school district shall make reasonable attempts to convene a meeting with the student and the student’s parent or guardian before subsequently removing the student from school and, with the permission of the parent or guardian, arrange for a mental health screening for the student at the parent or guardian’s expense.
Each suspension action may include a readmission plan. The plan shall include, where appropriate, a provision for implementing alternative educational services upon readmission which must not be used to extend the current suspension. The school administration may not impose consecutive suspensions against the same student for the same course of conduct, or incident of misconduct, except where the student will create an immediate and substantial danger to self or to surrounding persons or property or where the school district is in the process of initiating an expulsion, in which case the school administration may extend the suspension to a total of fifteen (15) days.
A child with a disability may be suspended. When a child with a disability has been suspended for more than five (5) consecutive days or ten (10) cumulative school days in the same year, and that suspension does not involve a recommendation for expulsion or exclusion or other change in placement under federal law, relevant members of the child’s IEP team, including at least one of the child’s teachers, shall meet and determine the extent to which the child needs services in order to continue to participate in the general education curriculum, although in another setting, and to progress toward meeting the goals in the child’s IEP. That meeting must occur as soon as possible, but no more than ten (10) days after the sixth (6th) consecutive day of suspension or the tenth (10th) cumulative day of suspension has elapsed.
The school administration shall implement alternative educational services when the suspension exceeds five (5) days. Alternative educational services may include, but are not limited to, special tutoring, modified curriculum, modified instruction, other modifications or adaptations, instruction through electronic media, special education services as indicated by appropriate assessments, homebound instruction, supervised homework, or enrollment in another district or in an alternative learning center under Minn. Stat. § 123A.05 selected to allow the pupil to progress toward meeting graduation standards under Minn. Stat. § 120B.02, although in a different setting.
The school administration shall not suspend a student from school without an informal administrative conference with the student. The informal administrative conference shall take place before the suspension, except where it appears that the student will create an immediate and substantial danger to oneself or to surrounding persons or property, in which case the conference shall take place as soon as practicable following the suspension. At the informal administrative conference, a school administrator shall notify the student of the grounds for the suspension, provide an explanation of the evidence the authorities have, and the student may present the student’s version of the facts. A separate administrative conference is required for each period of suspension.
After school administration notifies a student of the grounds for suspension, school administration may, instead of imposing the suspension, do one or more of the following:
strongly encourage a parent or guardian of the student to attend school with the student for one day;
petition the juvenile court that the student is in need of services under Minn. Stat. Ch. 260C.
A written notice containing the grounds for suspension, a brief statement of the facts, a description of the testimony, a readmission plan, and a copy of the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56, shall be personally served upon the student at or before the time the suspension is to take effect, and upon the student’s parent or guardian by mail within forty-eight (48) hours of the conference.
The school administration shall make reasonable efforts to notify the student’s parent or guardian of the suspension by telephone as soon as possible following suspension.
In the event a student is suspended without an informal administrative conference on the grounds that the student will create an immediate and substantial danger to surrounding persons or property, the written notice shall be served upon the student and the student’s parent or guardian within forty-eight (48) hours of the suspension. Service by mail shall be complete upon mailing.
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, the student may be suspended pending the school board’s decision in an expulsion or exclusion proceeding, provided that alternative educational services are implemented to the extent that suspension exceeds five (5) days.
For the complete policy, which includes information about Expulsion and Exclusion Procedures, please see Waseca School Policy 506.
Procedural Code for Dealing with Suspensions
Suspension -- prohibiting a student from attending a school for a period no longer than ten days.
In-School Suspension – prohibiting a student from attending classes and keeping the student in school under supervision of school personnel.
Expulsion – prohibiting a student from attending school for a period no longer than the current school year.
Exclusion – prohibiting the enrollment or re-enrollment of a student for no longer than the school year.
Removal from Class
Removal from class is the short-term exclusion of a student from class during which the school retains custody of the student. Students removed from class shall be the responsibility of the principal or his lawful designee. The removal from class shall not exceed three class periods. Students shall be removed from class only upon agreement of the appropriate teacher and principal after an informal administrative conference with the pupil. The decision on removal shall ultimately be up to the principal.
In-School Suspensions (ISS)
Any student in ISS is not allowed to practice or participate in a school sponsored activity occurring on that date. Students may earn full credit for work assigned that day.
Out-of-School Suspensions (OSS)
Students may earn up to ½ credit for work completed while on OSS. Students may not enter the school buildings or grounds while suspended without permission from the acting building supervisor.
SCHOOL JURISDICTION
For the purpose of this handbook, school jurisdiction shall include the school, surrounding athletic facilities including the tennis courts, hockey arena, and the parking lots surrounding the school and its facilities. All off-site school faculties are included, as well as away events. It shall also include transportation to and from school, including the student’s bus stop, school activities and any event with nexus to the school.
BULLYING PROHIBITION/ HARASSMENT & NON-DISCRIMINATION
A safe and civil environment is needed for students to learn and attain high academic standards and to promote healthy human relationships. Bullying, like other violent or disruptive behavior, is conduct that interferes with a student’s ability to learn and/or a teacher’s ability to educate students in a safe environment. The Bullying Prohibition policy protects students against bullying and retaliation by other students.
“Bullying” means intimidating, threatening, abusive, or harming conduct that is objectively offensive and:
an actual or perceived imbalance of power exists between the student engaging in the prohibited conduct and the target of the prohibited conduct, and the conduct is repeated or forms a pattern; or
materially and substantially interferes with a student’s educational opportunities or performance or ability to participate in school functions or activities or receive school benefits, services, or privileges.
In other words, BULLYING is a behavior that is unfair and one-sided (imbalance of power). It happens when someone keeps (repeated over time) hurting, frightening, threatening or leaving someone out on purpose (intended to harm).
It is also important to understand what bullying IS NOT:
Someone is being RUDE when they say or do something that hurts someone else, but it is not on purpose.
Someone is being MEAN when he/she PURPOSELY says or does something to hurt someone else, but it is not repeated.
“Cyberbullying” means bullying using technology or other electronic communication, including, but not limited to, a transfer of a sign, signal, writing, image, sound, or data, including a post on a social network Internet website or forum, transmitted through a computer, cell phone, or other electronic device. The term applies to prohibited conduct which occurs on school premises, on school district property, at school functions or activities, on school transportation, or on school computers, networks, forums, and mailing lists, or off school premises to the extent that it substantially and materially disrupts student learning or the school environment.
Bullying behavior is prohibited:
on all school property, school grounds, or property immediately adjacent to school grounds
in the area of entrance or departure from school grounds, premises, or events
at/on school bus stops, school buses, school vehicles, school contracted vehicles, or any other vehicles approved for school district purposes,
during all school-related functions, school sponsored activities, events, or trips
on a student’s walking route to or from school for purposes of attending school or school-related functions, activities, or events
off school premises to the extent that it substantially and materially disrupts student learning or the school environment (cyberbullying)
While prohibiting bullying at these locations and events, the school district does not represent that it will provide supervision or assume liability at these locations and events.
Intimidating, threatening, abusive, or harming conduct may involve, but is not limited to conduct that:
causes physical harm to a student or a student’s property
causes a student to be in reasonable fear of harm to person or property
violates a student’s reasonable expectation of privacy,
defames a student or constitutes intentional infliction of emotional distress against student,
is directed at any student or students including those based on a person’s actual or perceived race, ethnicity, color, creed, religion, national appearance, sexual orientation, including gender identity and expression, academic status related to student performance, disability or status with regard to public assistance.
It is important to REPORT bullying!
Any student who believes he or she has been the target or victim of bullying, or any student with knowledge or belief of conduct that may constitute bullying or prohibited conduct under this policy should report the alleged acts immediately to a school administrator.
An investigation will be done by an administrator or administrative designee within three days of the report. If the report occurs on a day before a weekend or school break, it may have to wait until the next day that school is in session. Parents will be notified within one day after the investigation is completed.
Through investigation, the school district may take into account the following factors:
The developmental ages and maturity levels of the parties involved;
The levels of harm, surrounding circumstances, and nature of the behavior;
Past incidences or past or continuing patterns of behavior;
The relationship between the parties involved; and
The context in which the alleged incidents occurred.
Retaliation is prohibited by any student. Filing a false accusation of bullying is also prohibited.
Bystanders who are present at an event or incident and do not take part, but encourage hostile bodily contact in or on school property or any activity under sponsorship, will receive consequences. This includes any filming of the incident.
Consequences for students who commit prohibited acts of bullying include but are not limited to:
First Offense: warning and anti-bullying education
Second Offense: one to three days In-School Suspension and continuation of anti-bullying education
Third Offense: 1-3 days of Out-of-School Suspension and referred to law enforcement
Continued Offenses will be referred to law enforcement and will result in a change of placement or expulsion.
Consequences may be bypassed based on the nature of the offense.
Harassment Of Sexual Orientation, Disabilities, Religious, Racial, National Origin, Sexual Harassment And Violence
School District #829 is committed to providing a safe, positive learning and working environment for everyone. “Every person has the right to a safe learning/working environment. Every person has the right to be treated with respect. Every person has the right to attend a school that is free of discrimination." Therefore, we prohibit sexual, religious, racial harassment, intimidation and/or violence. We will not tolerate it in any form.
Information concerning any complaint shall be treated with the district's legal obligations, the need to investigate, and the need to take disciplinary action if it is found that harassment has occurred.
Any person who believes that he or she has been a victim of harassment by a student or employee of this district should report the conduct to the principal, assistant principal, counselor, or nurse.
Any third person with knowledge or belief of conduct which may constitute harassment should also report the conduct to one of the above named persons. If the report is made verbally, the above named person shall document it in writing within 24 hours. An investigation shall begin immediately and appropriate action shall be instituted.
Anyone who retaliates against any individual who reports harassment will be disciplined. Anyone who retaliates against an individual who testifies, assists, or participates in an investigation or hearing relating to a complaint or harassment will be disciplined.
Confidentiality of all persons involved will be respected to the fullest possible extent.
The school may resolve the incident by requiring the offender to apologize, participate in peer mediation, seek counseling or training, be suspended, transfer employment or school, be dismissed, lose privileges or face other appropriate discipline.
This is a summary of the Waseca Public School Sexual, Religious, Racial Harassment, Intimidation and/or Violence Policy. A complete policy is available on the district website.
CARE OF BUILDING/ PERSONAL PROPERTY
It is an expectation that all students treat the property of other students, staff, and the school with respect during the school day and during any school event whether at home or away. All students should do their best to keep this building safe and clean. In addition, students are expected to take care of their books, Chromebooks, and any other materials or equipment issued to them in the best manner possible.
Theft (Level 2) is the unlawful taking of the property of another person or receiving or possessing such property. Restitution and attendance at Offensive Behavior Class and/or referral to police will occur as appropriate.
Arson (Level 3) is the willful burning or attempted burning of any part of any building or property of the school, its staff or its students. Referral will occur to police and fire departments.
Students are allowed to bring cell phones/electronic devices into the building. It is the responsibility of the student to be aware of the teacher’s expectations for electronic devices in each classroom. All students will be expected to park their cell phone & ear buds when entering the classroom. Wearable technology could be included if it interferes with learning and/or academic integrity.
Violation 1--Phone kept in the office until the end of the day
Violation 2—Every violation after will result in parents picking up the cell phone.
*Refusal to give up a cell phone to a staff member will result in suspension.
*Students suspected of any inappropriate use (cheating, pictures, social media, etc) of any cell phone in his or her possession may be asked to show the contents of the phone. Refusal to show the contents may result in the student not being allowed to bring the phone to school for the rest of the year.
The use of electronic devices or other objects, which cause distractions to the educational environment; making, distributing or posting recordings, either audio or video, of any school activities, classroom, or school employee without prior approval of a building administrator; and the use of electronic devices in locker rooms, as well as, classrooms or other areas requiring a private, secure, or distraction-free setting are examples of unacceptable behavior subject to disciplinary action by the school. These examples are not intended to be an exclusive list. Any student who engages in any of these activities shall be disciplined in accordance with this policy. This policy applies to all school buildings; school grounds and school property; school-sponsored activities or trips; school bus stops; school buses; school vehicles; school contracted vehicles, or any other vehicles approved for school district purposes; the area of entrance or departure from school premises or events; and all school-related functions. This policy also applies to any student whose conduct at any time or in any place interferes with, or obstructs, the mission or operations of the school or the safety or welfare of the student, other students, or employees.
TECHNOLOGY: (see Waseca School District Policy 524 )
Waseca Public School District provides the technology utilized within the WALC program. Each qualifying WALC student will be provided with computer privileges and will need to agree to the Waseca Public School District’s Student Acceptable Use Policy (which can be found on the Waseca School District’s website or copies will be available upon enrollment).
In addition to the acceptable use policy, WALC students agree to the following:
Students will save all of their information on their school google drive.
Students will be given individual passwords to log on to the system. These are confidential—DO NOT SHARE your password with anyone as you are responsible for your sign-on.
Students will have access to information through the internet for classroom curriculum only.
Students are asked to comply immediately with any staff direction given regarding stopping an action closing a site, removing themselves from the lab, etc. Students who do not comply or misuse technological equipment will be subject to disciplinary action regarding its use.
Students who do not follow these rules along with the additional rules of the Student Acceptable Use policy may be subject to loss of computer privileges.
DATA PRIVACY:
All school information regarding a student is considered private and confidential except "Directory Information". The Waseca Board of Education has classified the following as Directory Information: The student's name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student is public data. Students may opt out of the directory information classification by providing written notice to the office of the ALC principal.
Use and possession of alcohol, tobacco products, or any other mood altering substances vaping or paraphernalia, or any other mood altering substances is prohibited any time and any place during the school day or on school property or while involved in a school sponsored activity. Students who use/possess any of the above may receive a 3 day Out-of-School Suspension. Students will be referred to the Police Liaison Officer.
Appropriate Dress and Attire
Clothing judged by school officials to be offensive or in bad taste will not be allowed. This would include clothing displaying words/visuals which are abusive, obscene or discriminatory, or advertise alcohol, tobacco or any other mood altering substances. Such clothing must be removed or covered.
Headwear will be allowed as long as the student’s face is visible. Teachers and other staff reserve the right at any time to ask students to remove headwear. In addition, staff can require students to remove headwear for safety purposes, such as science labs and tech ed classes. Exceptions will still be made for religious, ethnic, and medical reasons.
The principal will have the final say on all inappropriate attire.
It is the school district’s policy to provide equal educational opportunities for all students. The school district does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, marital status, parental status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, sexual orientation, or age. The school district also makes reasonable accommodations for disabled students. The compliance officer for equal educational opportunities is the superintendent of schools, 501 East Elm Ave, Waseca, 507-835-2500.
School lockers are the property of the school district. At no time does the school district relinquish its exclusive control of lockers provided for the convenience of students. Inspection of the interior of lockers may be conducted by school authorities for any reason at any time, without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant. The personal possessions of students within a school locker may be searched only when school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover evidence of a violation of law or school rules.
Lockers are provided to students for their individual use. The locker shall be vacated by the student on their last day of attendance in the same condition as when they took possession. Fines for repair or replacement of locker parts could be assessed, including a clean-up fee for writing on the locker. Students should not leave any valuable, personal items in lockers at any time.
ALL students who leave, without permission, from a classroom, the ALC program floor (3rd floor), or school building will be considered truant. Students who leave without permission are not allowed to return to any school property for the remainder of that day. Any student who returns to the building may be searched (person, bag, purse, vehicle, etc.) and may be charged with trespassing.
Lunch Rules and Expectations
All students must report to the cafeteria during their lunch period unless they have prior permission from staff to go to another supervised area.
Open lunch may be assigned to certain groups. Those are the only students permitted to leave school grounds during lunch period.
Students may not order food to be delivered to the school from local businesses.
All students must follow the direction of the lunchroom supervisors.
Students are not permitted to cut or push in the lunch line.
Absolutely no throwing of food or other objects will be tolerated.
No one is permitted to go outside during lunch unless approved by a lunch supervisor.
Students are responsible for keeping their table clean.
Students who fail to observe the above rules will be assigned any combination of the following:
lunch room clean up;
assigned seating;
loss of lunchroom privileges.
Additional days of clean-up will be assigned to those students who fail to report for duty. Refusal to clean up or follow the directions of the supervisors may result in additional school consequences.
NURSES OFFICE/MEDICATION POLICY
WALC has a nurse’s office that is available to students on a limited basis. There is not a nurse present in our building on a daily basis. Students who do not feel well need to ask a teacher for permission to leave their classroom to go to the office.
Students will be provided with 15 minutes of which to rest and address any health concerns. If a student has a temperature of 100 degrees or more, they will be excused for the remainder of the day and sent home. Students who feel better can return to class. Students who do not feel better after 15 minutes may choose to rest for additional time but it will be counted as an absence from the class.
WALC staff reserve the right to deny use of the nurse’s office if it is believed the student is using it for the purpose of sleeping, avoiding class, or has previous behavior issues while in the nurse’s office.
The WALC acknowledges that some students may require prescribed medication during the school day to function as near their potential as possible. In this regard, the Nurse Technician at the WALC will administer the prescribed medication providing the following conditions are met:
Prescription and nonprescription (including Tylenol and Ibuprofen) medication requires a completed signed authorization form from the student’s parent/guardian AND the doctor.
Any medication that is to be given will be supplied by the parents. Prescription medications must be in a pharmacy labeled container that matches the physician's order. Over-the-counter medications must be supplied in their original container.
Medication will be administered by a school nurse or other staff as designated by the school nurse. If medication is not properly labeled, it will not be given.
Students may not take or use photographs, video, or audio recordings of other students or staff without their permission.
SAFETY
Any student who commits an act that endangers the safety of any person in the school building or on school grounds will be subject to severe disciplinary action, including expulsion or exclusion. This includes, but is not limited to, such acts as setting fires, use and/or possession of hazardous items (i.e. firecrackers, smoke or stink bombs, etc.), bringing weapons to school (i.e. chains, guns, knives, etc.). In addition, law enforcement authorities will be informed and charges brought. Safety is important, especially in areas with complex, dangerous equipment. The Agriculture, Industrial Technology, FACS, Science, and Visual Arts classes have special safety rules published by the individual teachers. Abuse of these rules by students would endanger themselves and others. Chronic or blatant abuse by a student could result in removal from the class and loss of credit.
Unless you are receiving special education services it is you/your parents responsibility to contact your local/home district bus company and school administration to line up transportation to and from the ALC.
All ALC students are expected to ride the bus/school vans on field trips regardless of age/ability to drive themselves unless given prior permission by the ALC principal.
SCHOOL CLOSING INFORMATION
When it becomes necessary to close schools or change bus schedules due to stormy weather or other emergencies, such announcements will be made using our Code Ed System. If you are not receiving the calls related to school closings, please contact our office at 507 835-5588. The closings will also be available via local news providers.
There is limited supervision of students after the school day. Students should leave the building at 2:55 unless they are working with a staff member or have an after-school activity.
All ALC visitors must be buzzed in at Door 11. No ALC visitors will be allowed in from any other doors. All visitors must stop in the WALC office first. Parents/guardians are welcome to visit the Area Learning Center to meet with administration, teachers, and staff. In order to minimize disruptions to the learning setting and to ensure availability, we request that parents/guardians call the school office at (507) 835-5588 before they plan to visit. The staff at the ALC reserves the right to deny people access to the building who do not have an approved/official reason for the visit.
These guidelines are a statement of current expectations that pertain to student communication, behavior towards others, performances, publications, posters, speeches, or any public production of Waseca ALC.
One of the objectives of education is to uphold the dignity of each individual and as a result the following guidelines will be used to determine the appropriateness of any situation.
Vulgar or profane language in any form is not permitted.
Sexually suggestive language, graphics, gestures, or behaviors are not permitted.
Any language, gesture or graphic that intimidates, ridicules, or embarrasses a person because of ethnic background, nationality, religion, race, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental condition, or age is not permitted.
Obscene or profane language or gestures directed toward teacher, staff member, or administrator is prohibited.
Language, symbols or behaviors that promote or imply approval of the illegal use of drugs, alcohol or tobacco are not permitted.
Language, symbols, or behaviors that have the appearance of promoting gang activities, violence, or vandalism are not permitted.
Posters and print materials shall be approved by the appropriate advisor, prior to being released to the public.
Student speeches should reflect appropriate preparation and be approved by the appropriate advisor prior to presentation.
Anyone who does not wish to participate in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance for any personal reason may elect not to do so. Students must respect another person’s right to make that choice.
All public performances, posters, and publications shall reflect respect for others.
The consequences for violation of these guidelines shall be disciplinary action.
No student or nonstudent, including adults and visitors, shall possess, use or distribute a weapon when in a school location except as provided in this policy. The school district will act to enforce this policy and to discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, school employee, volunteer, or member of the public who violates this policy.
A student who finds a weapon on the way to school or in a school location, or a student who discovers that he or she accidentally has a weapon in his or her possession, and takes the weapon immediately to the principal’s office shall not be considered to possess a weapon. If it would be impractical or dangerous to take the weapon to the principal’s office, a student shall not be considered to possess a weapon if he or she immediately turns the weapon over to an administrator, teacher or head coach or immediately notifies an administrator, teacher or head coach of the weapon’s location.
It shall not be a violation of this policy if a nonstudent (or student where specified) falls within one of the following categories:
active licensed peace officers;
military personnel, or students or nonstudents participating in military training, who are on duty performing official duties;
persons authorized to carry a pistol under Minn. Stat. § 624.714 while in a motor vehicle or outside of a motor vehicle for the purpose of directly placing a firearm in, or retrieving it from, the trunk or rear area of the vehicle;
persons who keep or store in a motor vehicle pistols in accordance with Minn. Stat. §§ 624.714 or 624.715 or other firearms in accordance with § 97B.045;
Section 624.714 specifies procedures and standards for obtaining pistol permits and penalties for the failure to do so. Section 624.715 defines an exception to the pistol permit requirements for “antique firearms which are carried or possessed as curiosities or for their historical significance or value.”
Section 97B.045 generally provides that a firearm may not be transported in a motor vehicle unless it is (1) unloaded and in a gun case without any portion of the firearm exposed; (2) unloaded and in the closed trunk; or (3) a handgun carried in compliance with §§624.714 and 624.715.
firearm safety or marksmanship courses or activities for students or nonstudents conducted on school property;
possession of dangerous weapons, BB guns, or replica firearms by a ceremonial color guard;
a gun or knife show held on school property;
possession of dangerous weapons, BB guns, or replica firearms with written permission of the principal or other person having general control and supervision of the school or the director of a child care center; or
persons who are on unimproved property owned or leased by a child care center, school or school district unless the person knows that a student is currently present on the land for a school-related activity.
See Waseca School District Policy 521 for the complete version.