Rights & Responsibilities Handbook

• a student's name;
• Photograph;
• participation in officially recognized activities and sports;
• height and/or weight, if a member of an athletic team;
• date of graduation;
• degrees and awards received;

• Whether the teacher has met the state qualifications and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.
• Whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency or other provisional status through which the state licensing criteria has been waived.
• The teacher’s baccalaureate degree major and a list of any other graduate degree or certification, and the field of studies for those degrees or certifications.

• Parents/adult students have the right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the appropriate school official receives a request for access. Parents/adult students should submit to the school principal or to the Student Services Department, 9333 W. Lincoln Ave., West Allis, WI 53227, a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal or representative from the Student Services Department will make arrangements for access and notify the parent/adult student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
• Parents/adult students may request copies of records, and by providing written consent, have records released to other individuals or entities. A fee of 15 cents per page will be charged for copies of requested records. Requests for copies should be made at the student’s school or through the Student Services Department.
• Parents/adult students have the right to request amendment of the student’s education records that the parent/adult student believes are inaccurate or misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA or state pupil records law. The request should be addressed to:

• Students subject to suspension: The parent of a suspended minor must be given prompt notice of the suspension and the reason for the suspension. The student's suspension from school shall be entered in the student's record as required by the rules adopted by the Board concerning the content of student records. The suspended student or the student's parent may, within five (5) school days following the commencement of the suspension, have a conference with the Superintendent or designee, who shall be someone other than a principal, administrator, or teacher in the suspended student's school, to discuss reference to the suspension from the student's records. Reference to the suspension on the student's school record shall be removed if the designated administrator finds that the student was suspended unfairly or unjustly; the suspension was inappropriate, given the nature of the alleged offense; or the student suffered undue consequences or penalties as a result of the suspension. The Superintendent or designee shall make a finding within fifteen (15) calendar days of the conference. The decision made by the Superintendent or designee on the suspension appeal shall be final. (Board Policy 5610 – Suspension and Expulsion)
• Students subject to expulsion: Prior to expelling a student, the Board shall provide the student with a hearing. Prior written notice of the hearing must be sent separately to both the student and if the student is a minor, to the student's parent(s). The notice must be sent at least five (5) days prior to the date of hearing, not counting the date notice is sent. The notice must also satisfy the requirements of 120.13(1) (c)4, Wis. Stats. An expelled student or, if the student is a minor, the student's parent(s) may appeal the Board's expulsion decision to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. An appeal from the decision of the Department may be taken within thirty (30) days to the circuit court for the county in which the school is located.

1. Go to wawmsd.org and click the Skyward tab on the right hand side of the screen.
2. Enter > LOGIN ID (Your login ID is your first and last name (lowercase, no comma). Example: janedoe) If your last name is hyphenated, do not use the hyphen. Example:  janedoesmith
3. Enter > PASSWORD  (For parents with students new to our District as of July 1, 2018, the password is wawm6300! For parents with students already enrolled in our District prior to July 1, 2018, please call the school's main office for your password.)
4. Once you access Skyward, you will be prompted to change your password. Skyward will require you to change your password. It must be 8 characters in length and include at least 1 uppercase letter, 1 lowercase letter, and 1 number.

• Trevor Leopold, Athletic Director at Nathan Hale High School, at [email protected]
• Katie Rucka, Athletic Director at West Allis Central High School, at [email protected]

• Compulsory Attendance: Under Wisconsin Statute 118.15, any person having control of a child between the ages of 6 and 18 shall see to it that the child attends school regularly until the end of the school term of the school year in which the child becomes 18.

• Parent Excused Absences: Our District does not encourage parent excused absences because of lost instructional time.  It is the responsibility of the student to overcome the loss of instruction and parents should not expect the school to alter its instructional program for such an absence.
  • District policy and Wisconsin State Statutes allow parents to request that a student be absent from school up to ten days in a school year.  Excessive excused absences may require a medical note for future absences to be excused.  A request for a planned absence (not to exceed ten days) should be made in writing to the school principal prior to the absence.

• The following are excusable absences:
• • Personal illness 
  • Funerals (absences for this reason are limited to three days unless reasonable cause can be demonstrated) 
  • Medical or dental appointments 
  • Required legal appearances 
  • Religious holiday observances 
  • Inclement weather (when school is in session) 
  • Family emergencies 
  • Driver license examinations 
  • Approved District-sponsored activities 
  • Individual and unique absences the principal finds reasonable 

Our District provides transportation to and from school according to the state statutes. The following students are eligible for transportation:

• Students in grades 4K-12 residing in Our District who live two or more miles from their neighborhood public school to which they are assigned in our District.
• Students residing in areas within our District which have been designated as hazardous by the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department. Designated hazardous areas. 
• Students with special education needs in accordance with state and federal law requirements who are eligible for transportation through the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Call the Student Services Department at 414-604-3079 with questions regarding transportation for students with special needs.
• Students in grades K-12 residing in our District who are attending a private or parochial school may be eligible for transportation or transportation reimbursement. To be eligible the family must live within our District and two miles from their private or parochial school, the private or parochial school must be within five miles of our District and the private or parochial school must have an attendance area designation and enrollment records on file with our District by May 15th of the prior school year. 
• Students listed on the specific bus routes are authorized to ride the school bus.  Students not listed on the specific bus route are not authorized to ride the school bus.

Students that receive bus transportation must ride their assigned bus. They will be picked up and dropped off at their assigned stop.  Generally, school buses depart from school 10 to 20 minutes after school ends. All students will be supervised until their buses depart.  Parents are not allowed to board the bus without permission from the school principal. Parents cannot ask bus drivers to change stops or routes. 

Bus Transportation Safety: Good conduct is important to bus safety. The school will notify you if your child does not behave on the bus. All students must follow these rules: 

• Remain orderly when getting on and off the bus. 
• Do not use profanity on the bus. 
• Obey the bus driver at all times. 
• Keep noise at a safe level.
• Go directly to your seat and remain seated. 
• Keep aisles clear.
• Keep all objects inside the bus.
• Use the emergency door only in emergency situations. 
• Be thoughtful of others on the bus. 
• Do not eat, drink or smoke on the bus. 
• Never throw objects out of bus windows. 
• Never tamper with the bus or its equipment. 
• No horseplay on the bus.
• Remember - all school rules apply when on the bus.

If the school must be closed or the opening delayed because of inclement weather or other conditions, the school will notify families via email and telephone message. Additionally, the information will be posted on our website, our social media accounts, and through local media outlets. Parents and students are responsible for knowing about emergency closings and delays. (Board Policy 8220 – School Day/School Closure)

In the event of school closure or early dismissal, schools and facilities are also closed for all activities beyond the school day.  This includes Recreation programs, before/after school programs, and school activities (e.g., clubs, practices, and sporting events).

It is important to recognize that all eventualities cannot be planned for in emergency weather situations.  However, anticipating these events, helps lessen their impact and inconvenience.  

• All telephone numbers and email addresses should be accurate on Skyward Family Access.  Parents are responsible for this information.  For assistance, contact the School Main Office.
• In the event of early dismissal, determine where your child should report if you are not at home.  All emergency contact information should be listed on Skyward Family Access.  For assistance, contact the School Main Office.
• Be reminded that parents make personal decisions regarding those few winter days when school is in session and they feel it is in the best interest and safety of their child to remain at home.  To report an absence, contact the School Main Office.  

• Elementary: 8:30am-3:30pm
• Intermediate: 7:45am-3:00pm
• High School: 7:47am-3:00pm.

Our District relies on School Messenger (a messaging system) that can provide email messages, voicemail messages and text messages to parents.  Additionally, we use school email accounts as a primary method of communication. It is crucial that parents maintain accurate contact information in Skyward (this includes phone numbers and email addresses).  For assistance updating contact information, please contact the Main Office of your child’s school. 

In addition to School Messenger and school email accounts, the following are District-approved communication platforms:

• CampDoc
• Edlio Conversations
• RecTrac
• SeeSaw
• Skyward
• SportsYou
• TeamSnap

Our District utilizes the following social media platforms: 

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Normally, a student will complete graduation requirements in four (4) years.  In order to receive a diploma and graduate, a student will need to meet the School District’s requirements for basic course work and earn the total number of required credits. (Board Policy 5460 – Graduation Requirements)

Specific course requirements are:

In recognizing its responsibility to uphold the minimum educational standards of the State of Wisconsin, the Board has established a policy and criteria regarding the acceptance of credits for students transferring to the high school from nonpublic schools, whether they are private schools, as defined by law, or other types of schools. For credit or course-work to be accepted for courses taken in such schools, assurance of compliance with minimum requirements established by the State must be provided. Accepted credits from nonpublic schools will be entered on the student's transcript with a notation of the school at which the credits were earned.

The School District may grant a high school diploma to a student who has not satisfied the requirements under policy if the student was enrolled in an alternative education program and the School District determines that the student has demonstrated a level of proficiency in the subjects required under this policy.

Graduation must be earned by passing all mandated subjects and earning the total units required for the specific diploma sought.

Depending upon the disability profile, students in special education shall either receive a diploma or a certificate of completion if certified they have properly completed the requirements of their IEP,  or received the recommendation of the IEP Team, as related to completion of credit requirements through regular, special, or alternative education. They may participate in all graduation activities.

A student may be denied participation in graduation activities for disciplinary reasons and/or for nonpayment of fees. (Board Policy 5460 – Graduation Requirements)

Our District does not tolerate harassment, intimidation, or bullying in any form and will take all necessary and appropriate action to eliminate it. For the purpose of this policy, harassment includes striking, shoving, kicking, throwing objects at, or otherwise subjecting another person to physical contact or attempting or threatening to do the same; name-calling; or engaging in a course of conduct or repeatedly committing acts which intimidate, cause discomfort, or humiliate another person, or which interferes with the victim’s academic or work performance. Harassment includes verbal comments or other expressions that insult, degrade, or stereotype any person or group because of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion/creed, pregnancy, parental/marital status, disability, or age. Harassment also includes sexual harassment, which for the purpose of this policy, refers to behaviors that are not welcome, that are personally offensive, that debilitate morale, and that interfere with the academic performance of its victims or their peers. 

Sexual harassment may also include, but is not limited to, actions such as sexually-oriented verbal “kidding” or abuse, pressure for sexual activity, sexual contact and unwelcome touching, display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures, demands for sexual favors accompanied by implied or overt promises of preferential treatment or threats concerning an individual’s employment or academic status, any job or academic-related action that is based upon an individual’s acceptance of, resistance to, or refusal of sexual overtures. Intimidation is defined as an individual intentionally behaving in such a way as to make another feel timid or fearful. This includes overt or implied threats and/or physical gestures. 

Bullying is defined as a form of aggression in which there is an imbalance of power between the bully and the victim. Bullying can be physical, verbal, or psychological and is of a repetitive nature. It can be direct (face to face) or indirect (behind someone’s back). Indirect bullying includes exclusion and gossip. Harassment, intimidation, and bullying are prohibited in all academic and nonacademic settings. This includes, but is not limited to, school classrooms and hallways, school buses, cafeteria, athletic competitions, field trips, locker rooms, online classrooms and activities and cooperative work programs. It shall be a violation of District policy for any student to harass, intimidate, and/or bully anyone through conduct regarding race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion/creed, pregnancy, parental/marital status, disability, or age. 

This policy also prohibits harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying from third parties not directly subject to District control (i.e., persons who are not students or employees) when such persons are engaged in District/Recreation Department-sponsored activities. Examples of third parties include audiences and competitors at inter-district athletic competitions, service contractors, school visitors, and employees of businesses or organizations participating in cooperative work programs with our District. Sexual harassment by staff toward any student shall be presumed unwelcomed. Individuals who experience sexual harassment from a peer (e.g., adult to adult, student to student) should be encouraged to make it clear that such behavior is offensive to them.

Students who instigate any type of harassment, intimidation, or bullying are subject to disciplinary action. Individuals who experience any type of harassment, intimidation, or bullying may process a complaint pursuant to this policy. Students reporting incidents of harassment will be protected from retaliation. Students who engage in retaliatory conduct against a complainant will be subject to discipline under this policy. Our District will act promptly to investigate all complaints, either formal or informal, verbal or written, of harassment, intimidation, or bullying because of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion/creed, pregnancy, parental/marital status, disability, or age; to promptly take appropriate action to protect individuals from further harassment, intimidation, or bullying; and, if it determines that unlawful harassment occurred, to promptly and appropriately discipline any student who is found to have violated this policy, and/or take appropriate action reasonably calculated to end the harassment. (Board Policy 5517.01 - Bullying)

Any person who believes that a school or any staff person has discriminated against them in violation of the Board Policy 2260.01 – Section 504/ADA Prohibition Against Discrimination Based on Disability may file a complaint.  A formal complaint can be made in writing to a District Compliance Officer listed below:

Theresa Morateck

Director of Student Services

414-604-4905

9333 West Lincoln Avenue, West Allis, WI 53227

[email protected]

Ann Locke

Manager of Inclusionary Practices

414-604-3079

9333 West Lincoln Avenue, West Allis, WI 53227

[email protected]

The complaint procedure is described in Administrative Guidelines 2260.01A and 2260.01B and are available in the School office and on the School District’s website.

Title IX Coordinator(s)

The Board designates and authorizes the following individual(s) to oversee and coordinate its efforts to comply with Title IX and its implementing regulations:

Theresa Morateck, Director of Student Services 

9333 W. Lincoln Ave.

West Allis, WI 53227

(414) 604-4905

[email protected]

Director of Talent Acquisition & Employee Engagement

9333 W. Lincoln Ave.

West Allis, WI 53227

Report of Sexual Discrimination / Harassment

Any person may report sex discrimination, including sexual harassment (whether or not the person reporting is the person alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute sex discrimination or sexual harassment), in person, by mail, by telephone, or by electronic mail, using the Title IX Coordinator’s(s’) contact information listed above, or by any other means that results in the Title IX Coordinator receiving the person’s oral or written report.  Reports may be made at any time (including during non-business hours), by using the telephone number(s) or electronic mail address(es), or by mail to the office address(es), listed for the Title IX Coordinator(s).

District employees are required, and other members of the School District community and Third Parties are encouraged, to report allegations of sex discrimination or sexual harassment promptly to the/a Title IX Coordinator or to any District employee, who will, in turn, notify the/a Title IX Coordinator.  Reports can be made orally or in writing and should be as specific as possible. The person making the report should, to the extent known, identify the alleged victim(s), perpetrator(s), and witness(es), and describe in detail what occurred, including date(s), time(s), and location(s).

If a report involves allegations of sexual harassment by or involving the Title IX Coordinator, the person making the report should submit it to the Superintendent, or another District employee who, in turn, will notify the Superintendent of the report.  The Superintendent will then serve in place of the Title IX Coordinator for purposes of addressing that report of sexual harassment.

Any allegations of sexual misconduct/sexual activity not involving sexual harassment will be addressed through the procedures outlined in Board policies and/or administrative guidelines, the applicable Student Code of Conduct, or Employee Handbook(s).

Because the Board is considered to have actual knowledge of sexual harassment or allegations of sexual harassment if any District employee has such knowledge, and because the Board must take specific actions when it has notice of sexual harassment or allegations of sexual harassment, a District employee who has independent knowledge of or receives a report involving allegations of sex discrimination and/or sexual harassment must notify the/a Title IX Coordinator within two (2) days of learning the information or receiving the report.  The District employee must also comply with mandatory reporting responsibilities pursuant to Wis. Stat. 48.981 and Policy 8462 – Student Abuse and Neglect, if applicable.  If the District employee’s knowledge is based on another individual bringing the information to the District employee’s attention and the reporting individual submitted a written complaint to the District employee, the District employee must provide the written complaint to the Title IX Coordinator.

If a District employee fails to report an incident of sexual harassment of which the District employee is aware, the District employee may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

When a report of sexual harassment is made, the Title IX Coordinator shall promptly (i.e., within two (2) days) of the Title IX Coordinator’s receipt of the report of Sexual Harassment) contact the Complainant (including the parent if the Complainant is under eighteen (18) years of age or under guardianship) to discuss the availability of supportive measures, consider the Complainant’s wishes with respect to supportive measures, inform the Complainant of the availability of supportive measures with or without the filing of a formal complaint, and explain to the Complainant the process for filing a formal complaint.  The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the effective implementation of supportive measures.  Any supportive measures provided to the Complainant or Respondent shall be maintained as confidential, to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality will not impair the ability of the District to provide the supportive measures.

Formal Complaint of Sexual Harassment

A formal complaint may be filed with the Title IX Coordinator in person, by mail, or by electronic mail, by using the contact information set forth above.  If a formal complaint involves allegations of sexual harassment by or involving the Title IX Coordinator, the Complainant should submit the formal complaint to the Superintendent, who will designate another person to serve in place of the Title IX Coordinator for the limited purpose of implementing the grievance process with respect to that formal complaint.

The Complainant's wishes with respect to whether a formal complaint is filed will be respected unless the Title IX Coordinator determines that signing a formal complaint to initiate an investigation over the wishes of the complainant is not clearly unreasonable in light of the known circumstances.

When the Title IX Coordinator receives a formal complaint or signs a formal complaint, the District will follow its grievance process, as set forth herein.  Specifically, the District will undertake an objective evaluation of all relevant evidence – including both inculpatory and exculpatory evidence – and provide that credibility determinations will not be based on a person’s status as a Complainant, Respondent, or witness.

It is a violation of this policy for a Complainant(s), Respondent(s), and/or witness(es) to knowingly making false statements or knowingly submitting false information during the grievance process, including intentionally making a false report of sexual harassment or submitting a false formal complaint.  The Board will not tolerate such conduct, which is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and the Employee Handbook.

The Respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct until a determination regarding responsibility is made at the conclusion of the grievance process.

Timeline

The District will seek to conclude the grievance process within ninety (90) calendar days of receipt of the formal complaint, followed by the appeal process which shall be processed in a timely manner.

If the Title IX Coordinator offers informal resolution processes, the informal resolution processes may not be used by the Complainant or Respondent to unduly delay the investigation and determination of responsibility.  The timeline, however, may be subject to a temporary delay of the grievance process or a limited extension for good cause with written notice to the Complainant and the Respondent of the delay or extension and the reasons for the action, except that any complaint covered by Policy 5517 - Student Anti-Harassment as well must comply with the timelines in that Policy, however, an investigation may still proceed as required under this Policy. Good causes may include considerations such as the absence of a party, a party’s advisor, or a witness; concurrent law enforcement activity; and the need for language assistance or an accommodation of disabilities.  The Title IX Coordinator will provide the parties with reasonable updates on the status of the grievance process.

Upon receipt of a formal complaint, the Title IX Coordinator will provide written notice of the following to the parties who are known:

Notice of the Board’s grievance process, including any informal resolution processes;

Notice of the allegations of misconduct that potentially constitutes sexual harassment as defined in this policy, including sufficient details known at the time and with sufficient time to prepare a response before any initial interview.  Sufficient details include the identities of the parties involved in the incident if known, the conduct allegedly constituting sexual harassment, and the date and location of the alleged incident, if known. The written notice must:

1. include a statement that the Respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct and that a determination regarding responsibility will be made at the conclusion of the grievance process;
2. inform the parties that they may have an advisor of their choice, who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney, and may inspect and review evidence.
3. inform the parties of any provision in the Student Code of Conduct, this policy, and/or Employee Handbook that prohibits knowingly making false statements or knowingly submitting false information during the grievance process.

If during the course of the investigation, the investigator becomes aware of allegations about the Complainant or Respondent that are not included in the original notice provided to the parties, the investigator will notify the Title IX Coordinator and the Title IX Coordinator will decide whether the investigator should investigate the additional allegations; if the Title IX Coordinator decides to include the new allegations as part of the investigation, the Title IX Coordinator will provide notice of the additional allegations to the parties whose identities are known.

Dismissal of a Formal Complaint

The District shall investigate the allegations in a formal complaint unless the conduct alleged in the formal complaint: 

1.       would not constitute sexual harassment (as defined in this policy) even if proved;
2.       did not occur in the District’s education program or activity; or
3.       did not occur against a person in the United States.

Informal Resolution Process

Under no circumstances shall a Complainant be required as a condition of enrollment or continuing enrollment, or employment or continuing employment, or enjoyment of any other right, to waive any right to an investigation and adjudication of a formal complaint of sexual harassment.  Similarly, no party shall be required to participate in an informal resolution process.

If a formal complaint is filed, the Title IX Coordinator may offer to the parties an informal resolution process.  If the parties mutually agree to participate in the informal resolution process, the Title IX Coordinator shall designate a trained individual to facilitate an informal resolution process, such as mediation, that does not involve a full investigation and adjudication.  The informal resolution process may be used at any time prior to the decision-maker(s) reaching a determination regarding responsibility.

If the Title IX Coordinator is going to propose an informal resolution process, the Title IX Coordinator shall provide to the parties a written notice disclosing:

1. the allegations;
2. the requirements of the informal resolution process including the circumstances under which it precludes the parties from resuming a formal complaint arising from the same allegations; and
3. any consequences resulting from participating in the informal resolution process, including the records that will be maintained or could be shared.

Any time prior to agreeing to a resolution, any party has the right to withdraw from the informal resolution process and resume the grievance process with respect to the Formal Complaint.

Before commencing the informal resolution process, the Title IX Coordinator shall obtain from the parties their voluntary, written consent to the informal resolution process.

During the pendency of the informal resolution process, the investigation and adjudication processes that would otherwise occur are stayed and all related deadlines are suspended.

The informal resolution process is not available to resolve allegations that a District employee or another adult member of the School District community or Third Party sexually harassed a student.

The informal resolution process is not available to resolve allegations involving a sexual assault involving a student Complainant and a student Respondent.

Investigation of a Formal Complaint of Sexual Harassment

In conducting the investigation of a formal complaint and throughout the grievance process, the burden of proof and the burden of gathering evidence sufficient to reach a determination regarding responsibility is on the District, not the parties.

In making the determination of responsibility, the decision-maker(s) is (are) directed to use the preponderance of the evidence standard.  The decision-maker(s) is charged with considering the totality of all available evidence, from all relevant sources.

The District is not permitted to access, consider, disclose, or otherwise use a party’s records that are made or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized professional or paraprofessional acting in the professional’s or paraprofessional’s capacity or assisting in that capacity, and which are made and maintained in connection with the provision of treatment to the party, unless the party provides the District with voluntary, written consent to do so; if a student party is not an eligible student, the District must obtain the voluntary, written consent of a parent.

Similarly, the investigator(s) and decision-maker(s) may not require, allow, rely upon or otherwise use questions or evidence that constitute, or seek disclosure of, information protected under a legally recognized privilege, unless the person holding such privilege has waived the privilege in writing.

As part of the investigation, the parties have the right to:

1. present witnesses, including fact and expert witnesses, and other inculpatory and exculpatory evidence; and
2. have others present during any grievance proceeding, including the opportunity to be accompanied to any related meeting or proceeding by the advisor of their choice, who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney.  The District may not limit the choice or presence of an advisor for either the Complainant or Respondent in any meeting or grievance proceeding.
3. Whether a person is allowed to audio record or video record any meeting or grievance proceeding will be consistent with the procedures established in Board Policy 2461 – Recording of IEP Team Meetings.

Neither party shall be restricted in their ability to discuss the allegations under investigation or to gather and present relevant evidence.

The District will provide to a party whose participation is invited or expected written notice of the date, time, location, participants, and purpose of all investigative interviews, or other meetings, with sufficient time for the party to prepare to participate.  The investigator(s) and decision-maker(s) must provide a minimum of one (1) days’ notice with respect to investigative interviews and other meetings.

Both parties shall have an equal opportunity to inspect and review any evidence obtained as part of the investigation that is directly related to the allegations raised in the formal complaint, including the evidence upon which the District does not intend to rely in reaching a determination regarding responsibility and inculpatory or exculpatory evidence whether obtained from a party or other source so that each party can meaningfully respond to the evidence prior to the conclusion of the investigation.

Prior to completion of the investigative report, the investigator will send to each party and the party’s advisor, if any, the evidence subject to inspection and review in an electronic format or a hard copy, and the parties will have at least ten (10) calendar days to submit a written response, which the investigator will consider prior to completion of the investigative report.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the investigator shall create an investigative report that fairly summarizes relevant evidence and send the report to each party and the party’s advisor, if any, for their review and written response.  The investigator will send the investigative report in an electronic format or a hard copy, at least ten (10) calendar days prior to the decision-maker(s) issuing a determination regarding responsibility.

Determination of Responsibility

The Title IX Coordinator shall appoint a decision-maker(s) to issue a determination of responsibility.  The decision-maker(s) cannot be the same person(s) as the Title IX Coordinator(s) or the investigator(s).

After the investigator sends the investigative report to the parties and the decision-maker(s), and before the decision-maker(s) reaches a determination regarding responsibility, the decision-maker(s) will afford each party the opportunity to submit written, relevant questions that a party wants asked of any party or witness, provide each party with the answers, and allow for additional, limited follow-up questions from each party. The decision-maker(s) must explain to the party proposing the question of any decision to exclude a question as not relevant.

Questions and evidence about the Complainant’s sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior are not relevant, unless such questions and evidence about the Complainant’s prior sexual behavior are offered to prove that someone other than the Respondent committed the conduct alleged by the Complainant, or if the questions and evidence concern specific incidents of the Complainant’s prior sexual behavior with respect to the Respondent and are offered to prove consent.

Determination regarding responsibility:  The decision-maker(s) will issue a written determination regarding responsibility. To reach this determination, the decision-maker(s) must apply the preponderance of the evidence standard.

The written determination will include the following content:

1. Identification of the allegations potentially constituting sexual harassment pursuant to this policy;
2. A description of the procedural steps taken from the receipt of the formal complaint through the determination, including any notifications to the parties, interviews with parties and witnesses, site visits, and methods used to gather other evidence; 
3. Findings of fact supporting the determination;
4. Conclusions regarding the application of the applicable code of conduct to the facts;
5. A statement of, and rationale for, the result as to each allegation, including a determination regarding responsibility, any disciplinary sanctions the decision-maker(s) is recommending that the District impose on the Respondent(s) and whether remedies designed to restore or preserve equal access to the District’s education program or activity should be provided by the District to the Complainant(s); and
6. The procedures and permissible bases for the Complainant(s) and Respondent(s) to appeal.

Appeal

Both parties have the right to file an appeal from a determination regarding responsibility or from the Title IX Coordinator’s dismissal of a formal complaint or any allegations therein, on the following bases:

Procedural irregularity that affected the outcome of the matter (e.g., material deviation from established procedures);

New evidence that was not reasonably available at the time the determination regarding responsibility or dismissal was made, that could affect the outcome of the matter; and

The Title IX Coordinator, investigator(s), or decision-maker(s) had a conflict of interest or bias for or against Complainants or Respondents generally or the individual Complainant(s) or Respondent(s) that affected the outcome of the matter.

The Complainant(s) may not challenge the ultimate disciplinary sanction/consequence that is imposed.

Any party wishing to appeal the decision-maker(s)’s determination of responsibility, or the Title IX Coordinator’s dismissal of a formal complaint or any allegations therein, must submit a written appeal to the Title IX Coordinator within five (5) days after receipt of the decision-maker(s)’s determination of responsibility or the Title IX Coordinator’s dismissal of a formal complaint or any allegations therein.

Nothing herein shall prevent the Superintendent (or the Board when the Superintendent is the Respondent) from imposing any remedy, including disciplinary sanction, while the appeal is pending.

As to all appeals, the Title IX Coordinator will notify the other party in writing when an appeal is filed and implement appeal procedures equally for both parties.

The decision-maker(s) for the appeal shall not be the same person(s) as the decision-maker(s) that reached the determination regarding responsibility or dismissal, the investigator(s), or the Title IX Coordinator(s).  The decision-maker(s) for the appeal shall not have a conflict of interest or bias for or against Complainants or Respondents generally or an individual Complainant(s) or Respondent(s) and shall receive the same training as required of other decision-makers.

Both parties shall have a reasonable, equal opportunity to submit a written statement in support of, or challenging, the outcome.

Specifically, the appealing party must submit with the notice of appeal a written statement challenging the determination of responsibility.  The nonappealing party shall have up to five (5) days after receipt of the appealing party’s written statement to submit his/her written statement in support of the determination of responsibility.

The decision-maker(s) for the appeal shall issue a written decision describing the result of the appeal and the rationale for the result.  The original decision-maker’s(s’) determination of responsibility will stand if the appeal request is not filed in a timely manner or the appealing party fails to show clear error and/or a compelling rationale for overturning or modifying the original determination.  The written decision will be provided to the Title IX Coordinator who will provide it simultaneously to both parties.  The written decision will be issued within five (5) days of when the parties’ written statements were submitted.

The determination of responsibility associated with a formal complaint, including any recommendations for remedies/disciplinary sanctions, becomes final when the time for filing an appeal has passed or, if an appeal is filed, at the point when the decision-maker(s) for the appeal’s decision is delivered to the Complainant and the Respondent.  No further review beyond the appeal is permitted.

A student who is “homeless” or “in transition” lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence. A student in transition is:

• Whose family has lost housing due to economic hardship and is sharing housing with other people.
• Who is living in a hotel, motel, campground, temporary trailer park or shelter due to the lack of other adequate accommodations. 
• Who has been abandoned at a hospital. 
• Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar places; and/or 
• Living in one of the above circumstances and who are migratory

Students who are "homeless" or "in transition" have the right to the same free, appropriate public education that is provided to other students, including preschool programs. The parents of children and youth who are "homeless" or "in transition" have the same right to participate in their child’s education as other parents. Children who are "homeless" or "in transition" have many rights and are eligible for many services under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. These include the following:  

• The right to stay in the school they attended prior to becoming homeless 
• Transportation from their temporary residence to the school of origin, if requested (if eligible per WAWM policy)   
• Free lunch meals.
• Waiving of school fees
• Participation in all school-related activities
• Access to educational materials/school supplies

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act provide that no individual will be discriminated against on the basis of a disability (Board Policy 2260.01 – Section 504/ADA Prohibition Against Discrimination Based on Disability). This protection applies not just to the student, but to all individuals who have access to the School District’s programs and facilities.

A student can access Special Education services through the proper evaluation and placement procedure. Parent involvement in this procedure is generally required. More importantly, the school encourages parents to be active participants. To inquire about Special Education programs and services, a parent should contact Anne Locke, Manager of Inclusionary Practices, at 414-604-3079 or [email protected]. (Board Policy 2460 – Programs for Students with Disabilities)

The School District is committed to identifying, evaluating, and providing a free appropriate public education ("FAPE") to students within its jurisdiction who are disabled within the definition of Section 504, regardless of the nature or severity of their disabilities.

No corporal punishment may be administered to students in our District. School officials are not, however, prohibited from using reasonable and necessary force under the following conditions: To quell a disturbance or prevent an act that threatens physical injury to any person; to obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object within a student's control; for the purpose of self-defense or the defense of others, or for the protection of property in accordance with state statutes; to remove a disruptive student from school premises, a motor vehicle or a school-sponsored activity; to prevent a student from inflicting harm on him/herself; or to protect the safety of others. School officials are also not prohibited from using incidental, minor or reasonable physical contact designed to maintain order and control.

We have a responsibility to ensure that students are treated with respect and dignity in an environment that provides for the physical safety and security of all students and staff. In instances when a student's behavior poses a threat to the safety of him/herself or others, seclusion and/or restraint may be required. It is recognized that in certain situations, emergency safety interventions must be utilized to keep an individual or others safe. Seclusion is defined in the law as the involuntary confinement of a pupil, apart from other pupils in a room or area from which the pupil is physically prevented from leaving. Seclusion provides for continuous adult supervision of the student in a safe area/room due to out of control/unsafe behavior for no longer than is necessary for the student to regain emotional/behavior control. Physical

Restraint is defined as a restriction that immobilizes or reduces the ability of a pupil to freely move his or her torso, arms, legs, or head. It does not include briefly touching or holding a student’s hand, arm, shoulder, or back to calm, comfort, or redirect the student. Whenever possible, restraint should be conducted with a minimum of two staff members present and/or in the line of sight. Seclusion and restraint for behavior management is used only as an emergency measure and is reserved for those occasions when severely aggressive, combative or destructive behavior places the student or others in imminent danger. Students with a demonstrated need for seclusion and or restraint should have a goal to promote self-control. Seclusion and restraint are to be used by trained school staff only as a last resort when a student's behavior presents an immediate danger to the student and/or others, when other positively based interventions have been unsuccessful, and for the shortest time possible. Verbal threats or noncompliance alone must not result in seclusion or restraint. Seclusion and restraint are not to be used for disciplinary purposes.

Use of Seclusion

Seclusion may be used for a student at school only if all of the following conditions are satisfied:

1. The student’s behavior presents a clear, present, and imminent risk to the physical safety of the pupil or others, and seclusion is the least restrictive intervention feasible;
2. The staff member maintains constant supervision of the student, either by remaining in the room or area with the student or by observing the student through a window that allows the staff member to see the student at all times;
3. The room or area in which the student is secluded is free of objects or fixtures that may injure the student;
4. The student has adequate access to bathroom facilities, drinking water, necessary medication, and regularly scheduled meals;
5. The duration of the seclusion is only as long as necessary to resolve the clear, present, and imminent risk to the physical safety of the student or others; and
6. No door connecting the room or area in which the pupil is secluded to other rooms or areas has a lock on it or is capable of being locked.

Use of Physical Restraint

Physical restraint may be used on a student at school only if the following conditions are satisfied:

1. The student’s behavior presents a clear, present, and imminent risk to the physical safety of the student or others, and physical restraint is the least restrictive intervention feasible;
2. There are no medical contraindications to its use;
3. The degree of force used and the duration of the physical restraint do not exceed the degree and duration that are reasonable and necessary to resolve the clear, present, and imminent risk to the physical safety of the student or others;
4. None of the following maneuvers or techniques are used:
1. Those that do not give adequate attention and care to protecting the student’s head;
2. Those that cause chest compression by placing pressure on the student’s chest, lungs, sternum, diaphragm, back, or abdomen;
3. Those that place pressure or weight on the student’s neck or throat, on an artery, or on the back of the student’s head or neck, or that otherwise obstruct the student’s circulation or breathing;
4. Those that place the student in a prone position;
5. It does not constitute corporal punishment as defined in Section 118.31(1) of the Wisconsin Statutes;
6.  The covered individual does not use a mechanical or chemical restraint on the pupil. None of the following constitutes the use of a mechanical restraint:
1. The use of supportive equipment to properly align a pupil's body, assist a pupil to maintain balance, or assist a pupil's mobility, under the direction and oversight of appropriate medical or therapeutic staff.
2. The use of vehicle safety restraints when used as intended during the transport of a pupil in a moving vehicle.
7. Mechanical or chemical restraints are not used on the student.
8. The individual restraining the student has either received the required training on the use of physical restraint, or has not received the required training but is responding to an emergency situation where an employee who has received training on the use of physical restraint is not immediately available due to the unforeseen nature of the emergency.

Students are responsible for the care of their own personal property.  The school will not be responsible for the loss of personal property.  Valuables such as jewelry or irreplaceable items should not be brought to school.  The school may confiscate such items and return them to the student's parents.

The Board authorizes the imposition of fines for the loss, damage, or destruction of School District-owned, borrowed or leased equipment, computing devices, school records, apparatus, musical instruments, library materials, textbooks, and for damage to School District buildings or facilities.  Therefore, if a student damages or loses school property, the student or their parents will be required to pay for the replacement or damage.  If the damage or loss was intentional, the student will also be subject to discipline according to the Code of Conduct, and may be referred to law enforcement. (Board Policy 5513 – Care of District Property)

A major component of the educational program is to prepare students to become responsible workers and citizens by learning how to conduct themselves properly and in accordance with established standards. Our District works cooperatively with parents to ensure that all students reach their full potential. To do so, it is essential that schools be free of disruption. The safety of all students, teachers, and staff in all schools and at school activities is of utmost importance to us. Discipline procedures are put in place to ensure a safe, respectful environment in and around all schools.

Our District is implementing a Multi-level System of Supports (MLSS) designed to improve safety, decrease challenging behaviors, increase student learning, and establish a positive school culture.  

Mindfulness: The practice of Mindfulness is designed to help students pay attention in a particular way – on purpose, in the present moment and without judgment. The strategies help them create space between their emotions and the actions they use to respond to them. By doing this, students develop more self-awareness, emotional balance, and impulse control. They learn to deal with positive and negative experiences more calmly and by making better decisions.

Restorative Practices: The fundamental premise of restorative practices is that people are happier, more cooperative and productive, and more likely to make positive changes when those in positions of authority do things with them, rather than to them or for them. This means working with students, parents, and staff in response to behavioral issues. Restorative practice involves a process that encourages reflection on behavior, consideration of how it affected others and a plan for repairing relationships. Restorative practice helps those involved in a conflict learn how to  take responsibility for their actions and move on with a positive resolution.

Interventions: Managing student behavior means identifying and applying interventions that will engage students in making positive choices. From a simple seat change to a comprehensive behavior plan, teachers use a variety of tools to help students interact with others in a positive, productive way.

Threat Assessment: It has been determined that school violence is often preventable. A threat assessment process is used to mitigate an impending issue.  Behavior involving an incident or those that occur on a continuum, may drive a concern for physical violence or indicate that a student is in need of assistance.  These behaviors would include, but are not limited to: a decline in academic performance, truancy, withdrawal/isolation, sudden change in behavior, substance abuse, or displaying evidence of a mental health crisis.  While a threat assessment is being completed, the team may discover additional statements or actions that are not addressed in the Code of Conduct, but will nonetheless assist in determining if the student of concern poses a threat to themselves or others.

Notification: State statutes require that parents be notified if their child is removed from class. In addition, all out-of-school suspensions require written notice at the time of suspension.

All students must follow the West Allis-West Milwaukee School District Code of School/Classroom Conduct whenever:

• In or on School District Property.
• At any School District activity, regardless of location.
• Using school sponsored transportation.

Students with disabilities will be entitled to the rights and procedures afforded by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (I.D.E.A.) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.).

Progressive Levels of Corrective Action

The goal of school discipline is to have all students function successfully in their educational and social environments as well as to protect the school community and public property. School discipline should begin with the lowest level of corrective action that is designed to remediate the behavior and maximize the time spent in instruction.  Outlined below are the five levels of progressive corrective action recommended for use when considering a first time violation or offense.  Administrators may, at times, consider higher levels of corrective action on a first offense based on the individual circumstances of the offense.  Issues of repeated violations of the Code of Conduct can be immediately considered for a higher level of corrective action.  

Board Policy 5610 – Suspension and Expulsion authorizes the use of suspension and/or expulsion. 

Suspension: Students may be suspended for up to five school days for the reasons outlined in the Code of Conduct. If notice of an expulsion hearing has been sent, a student may be suspended for up to 15 consecutive school days. Students with exceptional educational needs may not be suspended from school for longer than 10 school days, except as specifically authorized by law. Prior to any suspension, the student shall be advised of the reason for the proposed suspension. All students with absences due to suspension from school will be given the opportunity to make up any work missed that is used to determine a student’s course grade, including quarterly, semester and grading period exams. The student has up to three days to make arrangements for and complete work missed during the time of the suspension. If a student fails to complete the work within the prescribed period of time, no credit shall be awarded for the class work or exam(s) missed.

Suspension Appeal Process: If you, as a parent, are dissatisfied with a suspension decision, you may appeal to the principal. If still dissatisfied, you may appeal to Theresa Morateck, Director of Student Services, at [email protected] or (414) 604-4905.

Expulsion: A student may be expelled for the reasons outlined in the Code of Conduct.  A student with special educational needs may not be expelled from school if the reason for the expulsion is related to his/her/their disability. Therefore, before a special education student is considered for expulsion, he/she/they shall be screened and/or evaluated by an IEP Team to determine whether the student's misconduct relates to his/her/their handicapping condition or to a possible inappropriate placement.  Prior to any expulsion, the Board shall hold a hearing. A written notice of the expulsion hearing shall be sent to the student and, if the student is a minor, to his/her/their parent(s) at least five days prior to the scheduled hearing. 

Students Expelled from Other Districts: By law (120.13(1)(f)), no school district is required to enroll a student who has been expelled from another district, state or independent charter school (if the charter or contract of the independent charter school contains the grounds for expulsion and procedural requirements in state law) during the time the expulsion is in effect. Our District will review requests from the parents of students living in our District who have been expelled from other districts and wish to enroll in a District school. For more information call the Manager of School Services (414) 604-3031.

Pre-Expulsion Contracts: A pre-expulsion contract is an agreement between the student, the parent, the school, and our District that identifies the behavior exhibited by the student and puts stipulations on continued participation in school. A student who has repeated incidents of level one or two offenses will be considered for a pre-expulsion contract.  A student who commits a single level three offense will be considered for a pre-expulsion contract.  A student who commits a single level four offense will be required to have a pre-expulsion contract.  A violation of a pre-expulsion contract will likely result in a disciplinary change of placement and/or a recommendation for expulsion. 

The Board recognizes that each student's mode of dress and appearance is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The Board will not interfere with the right of students and their parents to make decisions regarding their appearance, except when their choices interfere with the educational program of the schools.

Accordingly, the Superintendent shall establish such dress and appearance guidelines as are necessary to promote discipline, maintain order, secure the safety of students, and provide a healthy environment conducive to academic purposes. Such guidelines shall prohibit student dress or appearance practices that:

• present a hazard to the health or safety of the individual student or to others in the school, including by way of communicating threats of harm or depictions of harmful conduct directed at others;
• interfere with school work, create disorder, or disrupt the educational program, including dress that promotes or depicts illegal activity, such as illegal drug use, underage alcohol consumption, or similar activities;
• cause excessive wear or damage to school property;
• prevent the student from achieving educational objectives because of blocked vision or restricted movement.

Such guidelines shall also apply to the dress requirements for members of the athletic teams, bands, and other school groups when representing the District at a public event. Where appropriate, a uniform or specific dress requirement shall be used for students when representing the District as described.

In enforcing the dress code, the following procedures shall be used:

• the principal shall serve as the initial arbiter of student dress and appearance within the building or at school-sponsored events or activities;
• before taking action to enforce dress code requirements, including by requiring that a student remove, cover, or otherwise conceal the item or depiction at issue, the principal shall determine whether the item constitutes protected speech insofar as the item independently makes a statement of a discernable nature to the observer by depiction, words, or combination of the two that does not require separate explanation.

Expressive dress may not be protected speech if it involves:

• obscenity;
• language or depictions intended to incite violence or foment hatred of others.

Dress that is protected speech may still be prohibited if it is likely to cause a substantial disruption to the educational environment. This may include dress that includes the use of vulgarity, discriminatory language including racial or ethnic slurs, negative stereotypes, violence, or other communication when the clear intent is to invoke strong reactions in observers so as to impair the ability of teachers and/or students to engage in educational pursuit.

No protected speech may be prohibited on the basis of disagreement by District officials with the specific point of view expressed if the topic is otherwise permitted (e.g. permitting depictions of support for one political party, but prohibiting depictions of support for the other).

Students who violate the foregoing rules will not be admitted to class and may be subject to additional consequences.

If the clothing cannot be removed or concealed, the student may be sent home after contact is made with the student's parent.

(Board Policy 5511 - Dress and Appearance)

• cellular/mobile telephone;
• tablet computer;
• laptop computer;
• gaming device;
• smartphone;
• e-reader;
• smartwatch;
• wearable technology;
• auditory devices (e.g., headphones, earbuds);
• any other web-enabled devices of any type. 

Except as authorized by a teacher, administrator or IEP team, students are prohibited from using PCDs during the school day, including while off-campus on a field trip, to capture, record and/or transmit the words or sounds (i.e., audio) and/or images (i.e., pictures/video) of any student, staff member or other person. Using a PCD to capture, record, and/or transmit audio and/or pictures/video of an individual without proper consent is considered an invasion of privacy and is not permitted. Students who violate this provision and/or use a PCD to violate the privacy rights of another person may have their PCD confiscated and held until the end of the school day and/or a parent picks it up, and may be directed to delete the audio and/or picture/video file while the parent is present. If the violation involves potentially illegal activity, the confiscated-PCD may be turned over to law enforcement.

• Emergency or Threat: Student use of a PCD is allowed in the event of an emergency or a perceived threat to address the safety and security of students and staff.
• Health Care Management: Student use is authorized as necessary to manage or support a specific student’s health care needs as defined in the individual student health plan.
• Individualized Education Plans: Student use is authorized consistent with a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a plan developed under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
• Educational Purposes: Student use is authorized by a teacher for legitimate educational purposes during instructional time as described above.
• Duty to Report: A person who discovers a student using a PCD in violation of this policy is required to report the violation to the building principal.
• Students Responsible for Their PCDs: Students are personally and solely responsible for the care and security of their PCDs. The Board assumes no responsibility for theft, loss, or damage to, or misuse or unauthorized use of PCDs brought onto its property.

All students must follow the Personal Communication Device (PCD) Expectations outlined here:

Elementary PCD Expectations (Grades 4K-5)

It is recommended that all PCDs (i.e. cell phones, apple watches, etc.) remain at home. If technology is brought, it is to remain turned off, in students’ backpacks or they can check it in with their teacher and/or office. The school is not responsible for any lost, damaged or stolen property.

• If a student is found with a PCD, they will need to give it to their teacher or the office until the end of the day, at which time they can come and pick it up.
• If a student is found with a PCD for a second time, they will need to give it to the office and an adult will need to come in to pick it up.

Intermediate PCD Expectations (Grade 6-8)

PCDs are not permitted during the regular school day (from when students enter the building to when students exit the building for the day) based on each school’s implementation plan.

• 1st time - take it (set person)
• 2nd time - take it, phone call home
• 3rd time - take it, phone call home, parent comes get it
• Student will be placed on a technology plan

High School Cell Phone Expectations (Grades 9-12)

PCDs are not permitted during the regular school day with the exception of lunch period (in the designated lunch location) based on each school’s implementation plan.

• 1st time - take it (set person)
• 2nd time - take it, phone call home
• 3rd time - take it, phone call home, parent comes get it
• Student will be placed on a technology plan

The administration and staff recognize that the misuse of drugs is a serious problem with legal, physical, and social implications for the entire school community. As the educational institution of this community, our school strives to prevent drug abuse and help drug abusers by educational, rather than punitive, means.

For purposes of this policy, "drugs" shall mean:

• all dangerous controlled substances as so designated and prohibited by Wisconsin statute;
• all derivatives of hemp, including Delta-8-THC, Delta-9-THC, Delta-10-THC, Delta-11-THC, THC-O, and all other forms that cause psychosis; in all forms of delivery (i.e. inhalation, ingestion, injection, etc.) ( ) except those permitted by the school in accordance with Board Policy 5330 – Administration of Medications/Emergency Care;
• all chemicals which release toxic vapors;
• all alcoholic beverages;
• any prescription or patent drug, except those for which permission to use in school has been granted pursuant to Board policy;
• "Look-alikes;"
• essential oils and oil like products that may be mistaken for a drug; 
• anabolic steroids;
• misuse of over-the-counter drugs or medications;
• any other illegal substances so designated and prohibited by law.
• any substance, no matter its chemical composition, that is represented as or packaged in such a manner so as to give the appearance that the substance is a drug

The use, possession, concealment, or distribution of any drug, drug look-alike, and any drug-paraphernalia at any time on school property or at any school-related event is prohibited.  Disciplinary sanctions, up to and including expulsion and referral for prosecution, will be imposed on students who violate the school's drug abuse guidelines. (Board Policy 5530 – Student Use or Possession of Intoxicants, Drugs, or Paraphernalia)

During significant emergencies, the number one priority for our District staff and the community emergency responders is protecting lives. All those involved in an emergency situation occurring at a school have a role to play.

Parents are asked not to call the school office and not to rush to the school.  This may be difficult but necessary to insure the continued safety of all students and staff. In many situations, children will be safer in a school building, even during an emergency, than outside the building or in a car, especially in severe weather.  Emergency responders need the area around the school building to be clear in order to have room to do their jobs.  School telephones will be needed to manage the situation. School staff will be concentrating on protecting and accounting for all students, staff, and visitors.  If an emergency does happen at your child’s school, every effort will be made to keep you informed of what is happening.  If parents receive a text message or a telephone call from their child, please reassure them and ask them to listen to and comply with staff directions.   

• Updated emergency information will be released through telephone and School Messenger.
• Once the situation is resolved, parents will receive a more detailed explanation of the situation and the actions taken to protect their child(ren).

Because emergency situations can arise at any time, proper planning and preparedness is critically important. One area of preparedness is family reunification.  Student/Parent reunification is the process of ensuring a safe and orderly reunion of students and families in an emergency situation. There are many reasons the reunification plan may be activated, including if a school is evacuated or closed due to fire, natural gas leak, localized flooding, bomb threat, school violence, school intruders, or hazardous material transportation accidents. Emergency responders, along with school and District administrators, will determine when it is safe to release students to their families.

• The parent check in area and the student/parent reunification location information will be communicated as soon as possible.

• Bring proof of identity; parents must be listed on the Emergency Form and will be required to show a driver’s license or other photo identification in order to pick up their child.

Our commitment to school safety for staff and students involves a comprehensive plan that addresses a variety of scenarios. Much of what we plan for, we hope we never need. We strive to increase safety with secured entrances at all the buildings, safety drills that exceed statutory requirements, reinforcing Speak Up Speak Out (speeakup.wisdoj.gov), teachers and administrators dedicated to restorative practices, and a robust relationship with our police and fire and rescue departments. 

The purpose of the school safety overview is to identify and provide a coordinated response to emergency related incidents. The goal is to minimize the disruption to the academic mission and activities of the school during times of crisis.

We take an all-hazards approach, including the five preparedness phases of prevention, mitigation, protection, response and recovery which covers the time frame of before, during and after an incident. Please go to our website to view the complete School Safety Overview (wawmsd.org < District < School Safety).

Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational process and may in some circumstances be a violation of State law. The Board prohibits all such activities at any time in school facilities, on school property, and at any School District-sponsored activity or event.

Hazing is defined as performing any act or coercing another, including the victim, to perform any act of initiation into any class, group, or organization that causes or creates a risk of causing mental, emotional, or physical harm.  Permission, consent, or assumption of risk by an individual subjected to hazing shall not lessen the prohibitions contained in this policy.

If hazing or planned hazing is discovered, the students involved shall be informed by the discoverer of the prohibitions contained in this policy and shall be ordered to end all hazing activities or planned activities immediately. All hazing incidents shall be reported immediately to the Principal or to the District Administrator. 

Students who fail to abide by this policy may be subject to disciplinary action and may be held personally liable for civil or criminal penalties. Disciplinary action for students may include, but is not limited to, suspension and/or expulsion. (Policy 5516 – Student Hazing)

The Board prohibits students from possessing, storing, making, or using a weapon in any setting that is under the control and supervision of the District for the purpose of school activities approved and authorized by the District including, but not limited to, property leased, owned, or contracted for by the District, a school-sponsored event, or in a District vehicle, to the extent permitted by law.

The term "weapon" means any object which, in the manner in which it is used, is intended to be used, or is represented, is capable of inflicting serious bodily harm or property damage, as well as endangering the health and safety of persons. Weapons include, but are not limited to, firearms (including, but not limited to, firearms as defined in 18 U.S.C. 921(a)(3)), guns of any type whatsoever, including air and gas-powered guns (whether loaded or unloaded), knives (subject to the exceptions below), razors with unguarded blades, clubs, electric weapons (as defined in 941.295(1c)(a), Wis. Stats.), metallic knuckles, martial arts weapons, chemical agents, ammunition, and explosives.

The Superintendent will refer any student who violates this policy to the student’s parents and may also make a referral to law enforcement for being in unauthorized possession of a weapon that is a threat to the health and safety of others while on District property or at a District-related event. The student may also be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion.

 Policy exceptions include:

• weapons under the control of law enforcement personnel while on duty, or qualified former law enforcement officers, off duty law enforcement officers, or out-of-state law enforcement officers;
• items pre-approved by a principal, as part of a class or individual presentation under adult supervision, including, but not limited to Hunters' Education courses, if used for the purpose and in the manner approved (working firearms and live ammunition will never be approved);
• theatrical props used in appropriate settings; and
• a knife lawfully used for food consumption or preparation, or a knife used for a lawful purpose within the scope of the student’s class work.

Any student who has reason to believe that a person has or will violate this policy shall report to the Superintendent or the supervisor of the activity immediately. The report should include as much detail as possible concerning the person(s) involved, the weapon, the location of the person(s), and how this information was obtained.

No student is to confront the person possessing the weapon, but a staff member has the option of confronting the person if the staff member believes the risk of injury to self or others is minimal or if immediate action is necessary to prevent injury to any person.

This policy will be published annually in all District student and staff handbooks. Publication is not a precondition to enforcement of this policy. (Policy 5772 – Weapons Prohibited for Students)

It is best to give your child any prescription medicine at home. However, there are times when a child may need to be given a prescription medication during school hours. School personnel may not administer medication that should have been given to the child at home prior to starting the school day unless it has been determined to be essential to be given at school. The school personnel will only provide administration of medication at the designated time as directed by the medical provider and the parent. 

Our District authorized personnel may administer prescription medications or child can be given a non-prescription medication, such as cough syrup or over-the-counter medication,only if you have given written permission. All medications are to be turned in to the school office.  Medication Administration forms obtained from the school office and on our website.

These forms include clear instructions from the doctor, including but not limited to the type of medication to be given, the dosage required, the doctor’s signature, and your written consent. These forms are in effect from the date of the doctor and parent’s signature to the end of the current school year including summer school. Similarly, students who need procedures at school also need a completed form. Also note that: 

• If changes are made, such as the dose or time the dose is given, a new form must be completed and signed by the parent and child’s medical provider. 
• If the prescribed medication is to be discontinued, the parent must bring in a discontinuation order written by the child’s medical provider or parent. 
• The parent is responsible for ensuring the medication is delivered to the school safely and that there is enough medication to follow the medical provider’s orders. Medications classified as “controlled substances” must be delivered by an adult. 
• All prescription medications must be in the original pharmacy container identifying the pharmacy, date the prescription was filled, the child’s name, medication name, dosage, time of day the medication is to be taken, and medical provider’s name. 
• If your child appears to be having a severe allergic reaction, epinephrine can be administered by the school nurse or trained school personnel. 

The school has the right to refuse the administration of prescribed medications for your child or to stop providing your child with prescription medication if you do not follow the regulation and policy of our District. 

If your child needs to self-carry an inhaler or injectable epinephrine, it must be indicated by the health-care provided on the form and parents must sign off on a Parental Consent for Self-Administration.

Students must show they are properly trained and understand the importance of proper handling/use of the inhaler and epinephrine auto-injector. If a child does not properly manage his/her/their own inhaler or epinephrine auto injector, regardless of his/her/their age, the inhaler and epinephrine will be taken from the student and stored in the school office.  The child’s parents will be notified of the change. If your child needs any non-oral medication(s) during the school day, contact the school office (who will alert our District Nursing staff).

The head lice attendance protocol in the WAWM School District aligns with the evidence based practices and recommendations from the Center for Disease Control, American Academy of Pediatrics, and the National Association of School Nurses. Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Association of Nurses advocate that “no-nit” policies should be discontinued and believe a child should not miss school because of head lice.

If a student is found to have live lice:

• Parents will be notified and treatment will be recommended.  
• The student may be excused from school early for treatment, however the student can remain in school for the remainder of the day if the parent is not available for an early dismissal.
• The student will need to be treated and screened by parents for live lice before returning to school.  If found to have live lice, the student will need to be picked up again. 

(Board Policy 8451 – Pediculosis)

The law requires that students receive a minimum number of immunizations prior to entering school. The law is meant to prevent illnesses such as mumps, pertussis (whooping cough) and other vaccine preventable diseases from returning and harming our children. To obtain proper immunizations, call your doctor, health center, or the Southwest Suburban Health Department at (414) 302-8600. When your child is immunized, provide the records to your child’s school. 

Required immunizations* are as follows: 

*There are a handful of limited exceptions to the requirements. For details about exceptions, for free immunizations or to check your family’s immunization records, contact your health care provider or the Southwest Suburban Health Department at (414) 302-8600. Any questions about immunizations or waivers should be directed to Katharine Rock, District Lead Nurse, at [email protected] or 414-604-1107. (Board Policy 5320 - Immunization)

The School District believes that school personnel have certain responsibilities in case of accidents, illness, concussions, or sudden cardiac arrest that occur in school.  Said responsibilities extend to the administration of first aid by persons trained to do so, summoning of medical assistance, notification of administration personnel, notification of parents, and the filing of accident reports. (Board Policy 5340 – Student Accidents/Illness/Concussion & Sudden Cardiac Arrest)

Student safety is a responsibility of the staff. All staff members are familiar with emergency procedures such as fire, tornado, and emergency intruder drills and accident reporting procedures.  Should a student be aware of any dangerous situation or accident, the student must notify a staff person immediately. All students must have emergency medical information completed in Skyward.  A student may be excluded from school until this requirement has been fulfilled. Students with specific health care needs should submit those needs, in writing and with proper documentation by a physician, to the school office.

In accordance with Board Policy 5330 – Administration of Medication/Emergency Care, students and parents are reminded of the following regulation regarding CBD product use, possession, and distribution on School District property or at school activities.

No CBD products will be permitted for use at school.