DORA R-III SCHOOL DISTRICT

WELCOME TO DORA R-III SCHOOL DISTRICT

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Welcome you to the Dora R-III School District.  At Dora, the faculty is committed to providing students with the best education possible. The staff is dedicated, hardworking and focused on the task of educating students. The success of the Dora School educational program comes from the collaboration between faculty, parents, community and students. By continuing to work together to achieve our common goals, we can continually improve upon the educational program at Dora Schools and produce the best-educated students.

The education of children is a difficult job. At Dora, we realize this cannot be accomplished without the assistance of parents and the community. I encourage parents and concerned community members to be active participants in the education of our students.

It is our desire that you and your child have a successful school year.  Please join with us in this effort.

Sincerely,

Dan Chappell

Superintendent

Rick Luna

High School Principal

Sherry L. Anstine

Elementary Principal

INTRODUCTION

This book is prepared for the parents and students in grades K-12 who are enrolled in the Dora R-III School District. Its purpose is to provide the information necessary for each and every student to be fully informed about the procedures and policies that enable a school to function properly. If both the student and his/her parents or guardians read this book in its entirety at the beginning of the school year and make a pledge to follow any and all of the guidelines contained herein, the educational purpose of the school will be accomplished much earlier. All students and parents are expected to be familiar with the policies in the student handbook. Having no knowledge of a policy discussed in this handbook is not an excuse for failure to follow school policies.

DORA R-III SCHOOL DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Dora R-III School District, as the primary educational resource of the community, is to guarantee all its members, pre-school through grade twelve, the skills and knowledge necessary for their fullest participation in our changing society through a school and community based educational program designed to meet the needs of each student.

ACTIVITIES (EXTRA-CURRICULAR)

All students who wish to participate in extra-curricular activities should realize that these activities are just that, EXTRA. These activities are not part of the school curriculum; thus they are secondary to the main objective of the Dora R-III School which is to provide an academic education to its students. Consequently, all students participating in the extra activities must maintain satisfactory academic grades.

Each four and one half (4 1/2) weeks during the school year progress reports are issued to all students. Participants’ grades will be checked at the end of each grading period (either 4 ½ weeks or at the end of the quarter). Any deficient grades (below 60%) will result in the student becoming ineligible to compete.  One time during the school year, a student may have the opportunity to improve deficient grades and become eligible again.  For this to occur the deficient grade must be corrected within two weeks of the time the grade card or progress report is released. If the deficiency has been corrected, the student will become eligible to compete at the end of the two-week period. Otherwise, the student will remain ineligible until the next grading period. A student who has a failing semester grade will become ineligible for the first two competitive weeks of the next semester. That student shall have two weeks to bring all grades to passing in order to be eligible again. It will be the responsibility of the student to correct the deficient grades and show proof of that to the coach or sponsor. A form will be available in the office for the student and the teachers to sign.  

In addition to the above Dora R-III policy, all students participating in extra-curricular athletics must comply with the regulations set forth by the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) of which the Dora R-III School is a participating member. The academic requirements set forth by MSHSAA are as follows: By-law 213.0 Academic Standards-Statement of Philosophy-Participation in high school activities is a valuable experience and should not be looked upon as a reward for academic success. Students with low academic ability need the educational development provided through participation in activities as much as students with average or above average ability. Activity participation should be for all students making appropriate progress toward graduation and otherwise in good standing.

ACTIVITIES (EXTRA-CURRICULAR) CONTINUED

Eligibility requirements: The Dora School District is a member of the Missouri High School Activities association (MSHSAA). All students who participate in extra curricular activities in behalf of Dora Schools must meet all eligibility requirements established by MSHSAA. Students and parents should take special note of these requirements so that they may maintain their ability to participate in interscholastic activities. All students and parents must review the booklet entitled “How to Maintain & Protect Your School Eligibility” distributed by MSHSAA prior to participation in interscholastic activities. Brief Summary of MSHSAA Eligibility requirements:

1.       Citizenship:  You must be a creditable citizen. Creditable citizens are those who conduct, both in school and out of school, will not reflect discredit upon themselves or their school.

2.       Academics:  Grades 9-12: You must have earned, the preceding semester of attendance, a minimum of 2.50 units of credit or have earned in 70% of the maximum allowable classes in which any student can be enrolled in the semester, whichever is greater. Currently, you must be enrolled in, and regularly attending, courses that offer 2.50 units of credit or 70% of the maximum allowable credits which may be earned, whichever is greater. Credits earned or completed after the close of the semester or in summer school will not fulfill this requirement. If you are a beginning ninth grade student, you must have been promoted at the close of the previous year. You must be making satisfactory progress toward graduation as determined by your local school policies. Do not drop courses without first consulting your school principal, athletic administrator, or counselor to determine whether it will affect your eligibility. Grades 7-8: You must be enrolled in a normal course load for your grade at the member school. You must have been promoted to a higher grade at the end of the previous year. However, even though you may have been promoted, you will be ineligible if you failed more than two courses the previous semester.

3.       Age limits: Grades 9-12: If you reach age 19 years of age prior to July 1, you will be ineligible the next school year. Over aged eighth graders may move up to the senior high team to have eight semesters of eligibility. Grades 7-8: In order to Participate on or against teams made up of only seventh graders, you must not have reached 14 years of age prior to July 1 preceding the opening of school. In order to participate on or against teams made up of only eighth graders, you must not have reached 15 years of age prior to July 1 preceding the opening of school. In order to participate on or against teams made up of only ninth graders, you must not have reached 16 years of age prior to July 1 preceding the opening of school. However, you may participate with the next higher grade when you no longer meet the age limit for your grade. Note:  Check with your principal for options available to you if you are ineligible for your grade level because of your age.

4.       Sportsmanship:  If you should commit an unsportsmanlike act while participating in an event, you could become ineligible. If your conduct as a spectator is found to be unsportsmanlike, you could be barred from attending any further high school athletic contests. The unsportsmanlike conduct of any spectator, regardless of age, could cause that spectator to be barred from attending school athletic contests. 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Announcements are made in four ways:

1.       Daily bulletins are read to students during first block.

2.       Posters around the school.

3.       Notice of special events sent home to parents.

4.       Posted on the Internet.

ASSEMBLIES

Several times through the year, our school has the opportunity to present special people with unique talents for your education and enjoyment. The individuals conducting these programs are our guests and should always be treated with respect. All students are expected to be attentive, courteous, and on their best behavior during assemblies. Students that are disruptive and/or demonstrate bad manners may face disciplinary action including the loss of the privilege of attending assemblies.

 ATTENDANCE POLICY-- HIGH SCHOOL

GRADES 9 - 12

Full time students in grades 9-12 are allowed to miss 15 blocks of excused absences per semester and 15 blocks of unexcused absences per semester for a total of 30 blocks a semester without penalty. When a student has been absent, he/she must bring a note from his/her parent or guardian explaining the absence. Students without a note will be considered truant and unexcused. (Part time students will be prorated according to the amount of periods that the student is enrolled in. Example-a 4/5 student will receive a total of 12 excused and 12 unexcused blocks.) These notes must state the student was ill and be signed and dated by the parent or guardian.  When a student exceeds 15 blocks (three full days) of excused (parent notes) and 15 blocks of unexcused absences, no credit will be granted for that semester. The grade entered on the grade card and on the permanent record for that semester will be “VA” (Violation of Attendance Policy) unless the student was already failing, in which case the actual grade will be entered. If a student acquires more than 15 blocks (three full days) of unexcused absences, the parent/guardian may arrange a meeting through the principal’s office with the school administration to appeal the denial of academic credit. Suspended hours are unexcused and will be treated as other unexcused hours, except that they cannot cause a student to go over the maximum number of hours.

EXCUSED ABSENCES WILL BE GRANTED FOR:

Doctor or dentist appointment-A student must bring a note from the doctor or dentist’s office within 7 days of visit stating the date and time of the visit. Excused absences will only be granted for the student’s personal visit.

Funeral-Student must bring a note from parent/guardian.

Driver’s test-A student shall be excused for one full day only to take the driver’s test, or two half days (half day for permit, half-day for driver’s test).

College or career day-Seniors can take one full day to apply for a job or make an application to a college, university, or technical school. Juniors will be excused for one full day to apply to a college, university, or technical school.

Sick note-Note must state that the student was ill and be signed and dated by parent/guardian. (If parent notes exceed the limit of the allowed blocks (15) per semester they will be counted as unexcused absences.)

Students may be excused for 15 blocks per semester on sick notes. Anytime a students leaves school during the day because of illness, unless sent home by the nurse, the absence will be applied to the 15 blocks. After a student is excused for 15 blocks on sick notes, any further absences will be unexcused. In the case that the school nurse sends a student home, those blocks for the remainder of that day will be considered excused will not count against them.

Tardy:  If a student signs in after 8:23 a.m. but before 8:40 they will be charged with a tardy.

Anyone signing in later than 8:40 will be counted as block/blocks of absences. 

Leaving Early:  If a student signs out last block before 3:00 p.m. they will be counted absent for 1 block.  If they sign out before last block they will be counted absent for the block/blocks that they have missed.

Students may be referred to outside agencies for failure to attend school regularly.

STUDENTS HAVE 7 DAYS AFTER AN ABSENCE TO PRESENT A NOTE TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE. 

ELEMENTARY ATTENDANCE POLICY

Promptness and regular attendance is one of the student’s most important responsibilities. Poor attendance and poor achievement usually go hand in hand. It is important that the student attends school on a consistent basis to receive full benefits of the school program. Even though it is possible to catch up on missed assignments, it is almost impossible to make up the instruction given by the teacher when a concept is first introduced. We appreciate your cooperation in making sure that your child attends on a daily basis.

Students should be prompt in their arrival to school.  Tardiness is not only disruptive to the individual student but to his/her classmates and teacher as well.  In the same sense, leaving school early also denies your child full classroom opportunities.  Students who fail to attend school on a regular basis, or are absent three days in a row, will be contacted to find out the reason for the student’s absence. Students may be referred to outside agencies for failure to attend school regularly. When a student has been absent, he or she must bring a note from his or her parents or guardian explaining the absence.  A sick note-must include the date absent, state that a student was ill, and must be signed and dated by the parent. All students will be expected to complete all make-up work. STUDENTS ARE ALLOWED TO MISS 9 DAYS PER SEMESTER. PARTIAL ABSENCES WILL BE ACCUMULATED TO EQUAL FULL DAYS. If a student exceeds the allowable absences, they may be retained for the following school year.

EXCUSED absences will be granted for: 

1. Doctor or Dentists appointments-students must bring a note with date and time from the doctor’s office within 7 days to their teacher or office.
2. Funerals-student must bring a note from parent/guardian.
3. Nurse referral-a student sent home for the remainder of the day.

Excused absences will not count toward the nine days per semester.

Sick notes from parents or guardian will count against your accumulated nine days.

Any student arriving late or leaving early from school must sign in or out in the office.

Tardy: Students are counted tardy if they arrive after 8:20 and before 8:40.  If student is signed in after 8:40 a.m. they are counted absent for the portion of the day they miss.  

Leaving Early:  If signed out before 3:00 p.m. they will be counted absent for the portion of the days they miss.

STUDENTS HAVE 7 DAYS AFTER AN ABSENCE TO PRESENT A NOTE TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE.

7^th & 8^th GRADE ATTENDANCE POLICY

Promptness and regular attendance is one of the student’s most important responsibilities. Poor attendance and poor achievement usually go hand in hand. It is important that the student attends school on a consistent basis to receive full benefits of the school program. Even though it is possible to catch up on missed assignments, it is almost impossible to make up the instruction given by the teacher when a concept is first introduced. We appreciate your cooperation in making sure that your child attends on a daily basis.

Students should be prompt in their arrival to school.  Tardiness is not only disruptive to the individual student but to his/her classmates and teacher as well.  In the same sense, leaving school early also denies your child full classroom opportunities. 

Students who fail to attend school on a regular basis, or are absent three days in a row, will be contacted to find out the reason for the student’s absence. Students may be referred to outside agencies for failure to attend school regularly. When a student has been absent, he or she must bring a note from his or her parents or guardian explaining the absence.  A sick note-must include the date absent, state that a student was ill, and must be signed and dated by the parent. All students will be expected to complete all make-up work. STUDENTS ARE ALLOWED TO MISS 6 DAYS PER SEMESTER. PARTIAL ABSENCES WILL BE ACCUMULATED TO EQUAL FULL DAYS. If a student exceeds the allowable absences, they may be retained for the following school year.

7^th & 8^th GRADE ATTENDANCE POLICY CONTINUED

EXCUSED absences will be granted for: 

4. Doctor or Dentists appointments-students must bring a note with date and time from the doctor’s office within 7 days to their teacher or office.
5. Funerals-student must bring a note from parent/guardian.
6. Nurse referral-a student sent home for the remainder of the day.

Excused absences will not count toward the six days per semester.

Sick notes from parents or guardians will count against your accumulated six days.

Any student arriving late or leaving early from school must sign in or out in the office.

Tardy:  If a student signs in after 8:23 a.m. but before 8:40 a.m. they will be charged with a tardy. Anyone signing in later than 8:40 will be counted as block/blocks of absences. 

Leaving Early:  If a student signs out last block before 3:00 p.m. they will be counted absent for 1 block.  If they sign out before last block they will be counted absent for the block/blocks that they have missed.

STUDENTS HAVE 7 DAYS AFTER AN ABSENCE TO PRESENT A NOTE TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE.

AWARDS/AWARDS DAY

Students are recognized throughout the year. Some of the ways, but not limited to: Student of the Month and Awards Day at the end of the school year.

DORA R-III SCHOOL DISTRICT BELIEFS

We believe that all children/people can learn. We believe that all people have equal, inherent worth. We believe that all people have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. We believe that each person is responsible for self and to others. We believe that the support of a family is necessary for the optimal development of the individual. We believe that low self-esteem creates problems; high self-esteem is a necessary condition for solutions. We believe that all people have the right to pursue success. We believe that the quality of learning directly affects the quality of life. We believe that optimal achievement requires risk-taking. We believe that there is dignity and value in work. We believe that the degree of satisfaction in personal accomplishment is directly related to the investments made. We believe that communication is the most powerful means of influencing people. We believe that honesty is the essential factor in all-human relationships. We believe competition is inevitable, but cooperation produces greater results. We believe that any compromise in a commitment to excellence is an injustice.

BELL SCHEDULE

BIBLE STORIES

            Students in grades PK-6 have the option of attending Bible Story session. Only those students who have a signed permission slip on file will be allowed to attend.  Sessions are held monthly when school is in session.

DORA R-III SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION

BUILDING HOURS

The instructional school day begins at 8:20 a.m. and ends at 3:15 p.m.  We encourage children not to arrive before 7:50 a.m.  It is not possible to provide supervision for students before or after this time.

                                               BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS

Students should take pride in their school and surrounding campus by keeping it clean and free from unsightly trash and/or other debris. We can all make a difference by doing our own fair share. It is the responsibility of each individual to take care of the building, equipment, textbooks, and other school property. Any person caught vandalizing or defacing school property will be held responsible for the cost of repairs and may be subject to punishment according to the discipline code.

BUS DRIVERS/ BUS REGULATIONS

All of our drivers are very dedicated to their daily bus route, and many of the have driven several years for the school district. Bus drivers are in complete control of their respective buses. When they make a discipline decision to correct the behavior of a student, the decision will be supported by the school administration. Students are under the authority of each bus driver while on the bus! Our goal is to transport our students to and from school safely. Our buses have strict rules of student behavior while on the bus, which will be strictly enforced. Students who violate the rules and continue to violate the rules will be disciplined:

 Discipline while on the bus: 

1. Oral warning with name and state of offense recorded.
2. First offense is conference with principal.
3. Second offense conference with principal and parents.
4. Third offense is a 3-day bus suspension/school suspension.
5. Fourth offense is a 5-10 day bus suspension/ school suspension or, depending on the offense, a student may lose the privilege of riding the bus on a permanent basis! Riding the bus is a privilege that may be taken away!

Bus Rules and Safety Regulations for Students Riding Buses:

1. The bus driver is in charge of the students and the bus.  Students must obey the driver promptly.
2. Students must remain seated at all times! The driver may assign a seat to each student; each student must be provided a seat. All younger students will be seated near the front of the bus.
3. Students must be on time. The bus cannot wait beyond its regular schedule for those who are late/tardy.
4. Students must walk on the far-left side of the road facing traffic when the bus is going to stop.
5. Students who must cross a roadway when boarding or leaving a bus must go to the front of the bus and wait for a signal from the driver before crossing the road.
6. Students must never stand in the roadway while waiting for the bus. All students must wait for the bus off the traveled portion of the road.
7. Students should wait in an orderly manner and never push a fellow student.
8. Unnecessary conversation with the driver is prohibited. Do not talk too loudly or distract the drivers’ attention. Remember that your safety is in his hands!
9. Outside of ordinary conversation, classroom conduct is to be observed. Proper conduct and dress are to be observed while riding the bus.
10. Profane language and gestures are prohibited.
11. The possession of any controlled substance or tobacco is prohibited and will result in confiscation and suspension.
12. Students must not throw things on the bus.
13. Students must not throw waste paper or other rubbish on the floor or out the window of the bus. Help keep your bus clean and sanitary at all times.
14. Fighting will result in suspension from the bus and will require a meeting with the principal.

Bus Rules and Safety Regulations for Students Riding Buses: CONTINUED

15. Students must not at any time extend hands, arms or head out the windows of the bus.
16. No cameras allowed on any bus.
17. Any damage to a bus should be reported at once to the driver. If a student destroys or does any damage to the bus, one of the following consequences will apply. (1) Pay for damage, (2) off the bus for 10 days and pay for the damage, (3) suspension from the bus and pay for damages.
18. No open beverage containers on school buses at any time.

Please try to contact the bus driver if your child will not be riding the bus in the morning. If a student fails to ride the bus three days in a row, the bus will not stop at the house until contacted.

BUS ROUTE OR STOP CHANGES

Bus students may ride only the bus to which they are assigned.  If a bus student must ride a different bus or get off at a different location, a note from the parent or guardian must be sent to the teacher and shown to the bus driver.  A student without written or verbal permission from the office or a written note from their parent/guardian for changes will not be let off at any stop.  They will be sent home as usual.

CAFETERIA

Participation of students in both the lunch and breakfast programs is encouraged. Students’ behavior in the cafeteria should be based on courtesy and cleanliness. Unless authorized by school official, all students are required to eat lunch in the cafeteria, including lunches brought from home. To be fair to others, breaking line, sharing food, and giving lunch tickets away is not allowed. No food or drink is to be taken out of the cafeteria. Also, food items such as soda pop, candy, and chips from the snack machines are not to be taken to the cafeteria during breakfast or lunch times. NO LUNCH CHARGES ARE ALLOWED FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS.

Students in grades 5-8 may purchase juice during lunch. Elementary students may not purchase snacks or soda.  Students in pre-school through first grade will be served a snack. The charge for snacks is 25 cents a day. Qualification in the free lunch program does not include snacks. ELEMENTARY STUDENTS WILL ONLY BE ALLOWED TO CHARGE UP TO $10.

CHEATING

All students are expected to do their own work and to conduct themselves in an honorable manner. If a student is found to be guilty of cheating, the teacher shall collect the student’s paper, mark a zero for the work in the grade book, and immediately notify the parent/guardian and office about the action taken. The parent/guardian shall be notified that a second offense will bring about punishment according to the discipline code.

CHILD CUSTODY ISSUES

According to Board Policy (JO-R), both natural parents of a student shall have access to the student’s records if the student is under 18 years old regardless of the parents’ martial status unless a court or divorce decree specifically removes one parent’s right to have knowledge of and/or participate in the child’s education.

In cases where a student is not living with both natural parents, the school will recognize the custodial parent as the person with whom official school contact is made.  If there are parental controversies or disputes, the school office must have legal documentation to enforce the wishes of the legal guardian or primary custodial parent.

The school will try, upon request, to provide the non-custodial parent with educational information they need in order to stay informed and involved with their child’s progress.  However, it is not always possible to keep the non-custodial parent informed of all school activities and programs.  Therefore, the non-custodial parent has the responsibility to communicate with the school to obtain the information needed.

CHILD CUSTODY ISSUES CONTINUED

Occasionally the school has been asked by the primary custodial parent not to allow their child to leave the school premises with the non-custodial parent.  WITHOUT LEGAL DOCUMENTATION ON FILE, EITHER NATURAL PARENT WILL BE ABLE TO TAKE A CHILD FROM SCHOOL. 

School is not to be used as a location for visitation for non-custodial parents.  We ask that any custody disputed between parents and/or other parties take place away from the school grounds.

CLASSIFICATION OF STUDENTS

Freshmen must have completed the eighth grade. Sophomores must have completed a minimum of 9 credits. Juniors must have completed a minimum of 18 credits. Seniors must have completed a minimum of 27 credits. To graduate a student must have 38 credits. Students who do not have enough credits to graduate may come back as a senior the following year. Students will remain a member of the class the entire school year for which they qualify at the beginning of the year. Second year seniors will be considered a member of the senior class. Seniors that fail to meet graduation requirements will not be permitted to take part in graduation exercises, senior trips, or other special privileges granted to graduating seniors.

COLLEGE PREPARATORY STUDIES CERTIFICATE

The Missouri State Board of Education awards the College Preparatory Studies Certificate (CPSC) to Missouri students who successfully complete a rigorous academic program in high school. This certificate is awarded in addition to the regular high school diploma granted by the local school districts. Created by the Board in 1985, the certificate is designed to provide incentive and recognition for public and non-public school students who exceed the state’s minimum graduation requirements.

COMPLAINTS

From time to time, parents will have a problem resulting from a classroom problem concerning a student’s lesson, homework, playground dispute, discipline practice, or some other school infraction.

The correct complaint procedure is as follows; please follow the chain of command.

1. Contact your child’s teacher during school hours.
2. Arrange for a conference with the teacher or teacher and principal if necessary.
3. Contact the principal at 261-2337 or 261-2263.
4. ONLY contact the superintendent of schools if all the above procedures have failed. Many times it takes unnecessary time for the superintendent to retrace events of the problem, as he may not be aware of the particular situation.
5. If the superintendent cannot take care of the situation, parents may submit a written request to appear before the Board of Education. Unless required by law, a hearing will be at the discretion of the Board. The decision of the Board shall be final.

Any parent or guardian, surrogate parent, teacher, administrator, or school board member or other person directly involved with an activity, program, or project operated under the general supervision of the Department of Education may file a complaint. A complaint is a formal allegation that a specific federal or state law or regulation has been violated, misapplied, or misinterpreted by school district personnel or by Department of Education personnel. The written signed complaint must be filed and the resolution pursed in accordance with the above district policy. If the issue cannot be resolved at the local level, the complainant may file a complaint with the Missouri Department of Education. If there is no evidence that the parties have attempted in good faith to resolve the complaint at the local level, the Department may require the parties to do so and may provide technical assistance to facilitate such resolution. Any persons directly affected by the actions of the Department may file a similarly written complaint if they believe state of federal laws or regulations have been violated, misapplied, or misinterpreted by the Department itself. Anyone wishing more information about this procedure or how complaints are resolved may contact local district or Department personnel.

CONTACTS AT DORA SCHOOL

PHONE NUMBERS

CORRESPONDENCE

Students are requested to make sure that their parents or guardians receive all school messages. Notes from teachers, school bulletins, testing/placement information and all other relevant correspondence are extremely important to parents/guardians. Close cooperative relationships with the community patrons cannot be achieved without an understanding of school functions, policy, and programs.

CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

Students may take up to two credits by correspondence toward graduation requirements. These courses must be taken from an approved educational agency. Courses taken by correspondence will be designated as such on the high school official transcript, and will not be counted in high school grade point average computations. Courses taken by correspondence will count toward the total units required for graduation as elective credit only. They will not be counted toward meeting the specific departmental requirements.  

COUNSELOR

The counselor strives to be available to students, parents, and teachers. The counselor spends most of her time meeting with individual students and small groups. The role of the counselor includes conferences and consultations with parents/guardians and teachers, educational information, referrals to social agencies, student record keeping, class scheduling, problem solving, and study skills.

DANCES

Dances are held periodically during the school year. Once the student and his/her date enter the dance, they must stay until the dance is over. If they leave they may not reenter. Out- side guests may attend Dora dances with the approval of the administration.

DISASTER DRILLS

Fire and disaster drills are regularly scheduled so that everyone will know what to do in case of an emergency. When an alarm sounds, everyone must evacuate the building in case of fire of go directly to a safe area in case of a storm. Walk, don’t run. During a disaster drill, fire marshals or teachers will give directions. At the close of the drills students are to return directly to the same class they came from, unless otherwise instructed. Alarm bells:  Tornado-one is a siren, Earthquake is a European Siren, Fire-three short bells, and the all clear is one long bell.

DISMISSAL OF SCHOOL

½ Days, Early Dismissals, Dismissals

Arrangements should be made with baby-sitters or neighbors to provide supervision for students on the days school is in session for only ½ day.  Attendance is important on half-days as regular instruction continues to take place.

Occasionally school must be dismissed early or entirely due to inclement weather (ice, snow, or high water) or possible mechanical failure.  When weather is bad, please listen to the radio stations in West Plains, the Springfield television stations: Channel 3 KY3, Channel 10 KOLR or the school website at www.dora.org  for school dismissal information.  If the information comes over the radio or television, consider the information factual.  Do not call the school unless you have pressing needs because our phone lines become tied up and we cannot call out or people cannot call in with needed information.  It is essential for parents to provide children with an “emergency plan” for days when students are dismissed early and parents are not at home.

**In the event of high water at Hodgson’s Mill, Bus #7 will go through Gainesville. These students will be dismissed early for their bus ride home so that they will arrive home at the normal time.

DRESS CODE

The Dora R-III School Board feels that parents have the responsibility to determine that their children arrive at school dressed both appropriately and modestly. It becomes very difficult for teachers and principals to check each student every day. Thus, parents should instruct their children in regards to proper dress and their expectations for them. With the above statement in mind, the following general standards have been established by the board to guide the student dress at school.

The minimum standards are:

1. Shirts and tops must cover all sections of the mid-riff.
2. Tops must cover the shoulder to the edge.
3. Undergarments should not be visible.
4. No muscle shirts should be worn during the normal school day.
5. Clothing apparel and accessories should not have any reference to drugs, alcohol, or writings of a suggestive nature.
6. Shorts and dresses should be worn at a length that reflects good taste and common decency and should be no shorter than mid-thigh.
7. Modest sweat pants may be worn.
8. Tight fitting clothes such as cycling shorts cannot be worn.
9. No hats or bandanas are to be worn inside the school buildings during, or immediately before or after school.
10. No pajamas or house shoes are to be worn at school.  
11. Parents should be sure that their children are warmly dressed during the winter months to help prevent illness.

Final decision on what constitutes acceptable dress and grooming will be left to the discretion of the administration.

            Students who fail to comply with the school’s standards will be subject to detention or being sent home for a change of clothes. Consistent non-compliance may result in out-of-school suspension.

ENTRANCE AGE

Preschool:  To be admitted into pre-school, a child must be three or four years old before  the first day of August shall be deemed to have attained the age of five years at the commencement of the school year beginning in that calendar year.

ENTRANCE AGE CONTINUED

Kindergarten:  According to section 160.051 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri (RSMo), "[a]ny child whose fifth birthday occurs before the first day of August shall be deemed to have attained the age of five years at the commencement of the school year beginning in that calendar year for the purpose of apportioning state school funds and for all other purposes." Under section 160.053, RSMo "a child is eligible for admission to kindergarten if the child reaches the age of five (5) before the first day of August of the school year beginning in that calendar year." A child who reaches the age of five prior to the cut-off date is also eligible for admission to the summer school session immediately preceding kindergarten.

First Grade:  According to section 160.053, RSMo "[a] child is eligible for admission to first grade if the child reaches the age of six (6) before the first day of August of the school year beginning in that calendar year." Section 160.053, RSMo provides that "any child who completes the kindergarten year shall not be required to meet the age requirements of a district for entrance into grade one."

FACULTY AND STAFF

FEES

Organizations or classes may assess a fee to cover various approved student expenses. Students are expected to pay these fees to the teacher or sponsor by a reasonable date. No student will be denied activities or services and no penalties will be imposed because his/her parent is unable to pay a fee. If unable to pay a fee, the parent must contact the principal who will provide an application for waiver of payment of fees and the definition of eligibility for waiver. Failure to pay a fee will be excused only if the application for waiver is granted.

FINALS

All students, grades 9-12, will be required to take a final at the end of each semester for each class they are enrolled in. The purpose of the final is to expose students to a test of greater magnitude and give teachers a tool to measure learning in their classroom. Finals will be given during the last week of each semester and will be designated by the Principal. A student may be exempt from the finals if they only miss a total of 10 blocks or less during the given semester. This is not on a class by class basis, but based on total blocks of absences. The student may also be exempt if they only miss a total of 11-15 blocks in the given semester and has an “A-” or better in every class for the semester. However, for any student to be exempt from a semester test the student must have a “C-” or better in every class for the semester. If the student does not meet this requirement the student must take all finals.

FUND RAISING

Students may participate in school sponsored fund raising activities on a volunteer basis. All fund raisers must be approved by the administration, and will be posted on the school calendar. Students who participate will be responsible for the security of fundraiser items and money that is collected. No student or school personnel may participate in private or non-school fund raising on school property.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

High School

1. Length of Attendance:  Students must complete eight semesters of attendance to be eligible for graduation. Exception to the four-year attendance requirement may be made by the Board of Education upon recommendation of the high school principal and the superintendent of schools. Those applying for early graduation must have completed all course work requirements and be enrolled in a post-secondary trade or college program.
2. Credits Needed for Graduating:  Seniors must have successfully completed 38 units of credit in the following areas of study.
   • Language Arts---3 units which include English I, English II, and English III or Communication Arts III are required.
   • Social Studies---4 units which include United States History, World History, and American Government are required.
   • Each Student must receive instruction and pass an assessment over the elements of the United States Constitution and the Missouri State Constitution.
   • Mathematics---3 units are required.
   • Science---3 units which include Physical Sciences, Biology, and/or ABC Biology are required.
   • Practical Arts---3 units are required.
   • Fine Arts---2 units are required.
   • Computer Technology--- 1 unit is required.
   • Health---1 unit is required.
   • Physical Education---2 units are required.
   • Electives---16 units are required.

Beginning with the graduating class of 2002, no student shall graduate without having attained the equivalent of a “level two” in all areas on the MAP Test during grades nine and above. 

3.  Special Credit:  Students may be granted credit for approved correspondence courses which shall count toward graduation credits. A student shall be granted up to two units of credit towards graduation from correspondence courses. Correspondence courses may not be used to achieve credits toward early graduation.

Students receiving early outs forfeit all rights to Valedictorian and Salutatorian honors. At the time an individual receives an early out, he or she is no longer considered a student and forfeits participation and membership in all curricular and extra-curricular activities.

Grade 7-8 Promotion Standards:  Students promotion shall be made annually at the close of the school year. Each teacher will recommend to the principal the pupils to be promoted. Students considered eligible for promotion must receive a minimum of 2.5 academic classes, 2.0 mathematics credits, 2.0 communication arts credits and 2.0 credits in practical and fine arts curriculum. Students not meeting these minimum requirements shall be retained.

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING

Guidance and Counseling is an integral part of each school’s total educational program. It is developmental by design and includes sequential activities organized and implemented by a certified school counselor with support of teachers, administrators, students, and parents. The Guidance Program includes a guidance curriculum, individual planning, responsive service, and support system.

The program is designed to address the needs of all students by helping them to acquire competencies in career planning and exploration knowledge of self and others, and educational and vocational development.

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING CONTINUED

The Dora R-III Guidance and Counseling program will involve three areas of learner outcomes. These are Career Planning and Exploration, Knowledge of Self and Others, and Educational and Vocational Development. This program will be delivered through classroom activities, group activities, and individual activities.

HEAD LICE

From time to time it may be necessary to check for head lice. Either checking a whole class or checking individual heads will do this. Students found with live nits will be removed from class. Parents will be notified by phone to pick up their child. We will enforce a NO NIT policy. We encourage parents to be sure and read all directions on medications before usage. Should you have any questions concerning head lice treatment, please call the school nurse. We can provide you with professional guidelines to follow. We realize this is a sensitive issue and we will at all times deal directly with individual parents. There is one remedy to treat head lice effectively and we strongly and highly discourage the use kerosene in any treatment! This is an extremely dangerous practice!

For your child to be readmitted to the Dora R-III School:

1. Parent/Guardian must bring the student and school-age brothers and sisters to school to be checked in by the school nurse.
2. Proof of treatment must be provided.
3. The student must be nit-free.  (Dora R-III Schools District has a “no-nit” policy.)

HOMECOMING

Dora High School annually has a Homecoming for the alumni of the school. This event is usually held during the high school basketball season. There is always a homecoming queen and attendants who are elected by various high school groups. The candidates for homecoming queen will be selected from the senior class by the boy’s basketball team. The homecoming queen will then be selected by popular vote of the students in grades 9-12. The boy’s basketball team will also select one attendant each from the 9th, 10th, and 11th grade classes. These attendants will participate in the homecoming events along with the queen.

HOMEWORK POLICY

Homework is a valuable part of the educational process and often makes up a significant portion of a student’s grade. Completing homework assignments in a timely fashion is the responsibility of every student. Obtaining and completing homework assignments missed due to excused absences are the responsibility of each student. Teachers are not required to remind students to make up missed work. A student will be given two calendar days to obtain and complete missed work.  (For example, if a student has an excused absence on Monday, the student will have Tuesday and Wednesday to obtain and complete missed homework. In this example, no credit will be given for homework turned in after 3:15 p.m. on Wednesday.) Under special circumstances, a teacher may grant an extended period of time to complete missed homework. If a teacher chooses to grant an extended time to complete the assignments, that permission will be written on the assignment when given to the student.

Each teacher will be responsible for their own classroom homework policy.  These policies will be approved by the administration.  Students are expected to honor the individual teacher’s policy.

If a parent wants their child’s homework to be sent home, please call the office before 10:00 a.m. requesting this.

HONOR ROLL

Honor rolls are published four times a year, at the end of each quarter. Students whose grades at the end of each quarter meet the qualifications listed below will be named to the Honor Roll.

1. All A’s will be on the straight A list.
2. All A’s and B’s will be on the Honor Roll. All A’s or B’s and one C will be an Honorable Mention.
3. If a student has an “incomplete” or “I” in any class at the time of publication of the Honor Roll, he/she will not be recognized as being on the Honor Roll.

INSURANCE

A medical insurance program will be offered to students at the beginning of the school year. All students participating in athletics must be covered by medical insurance. It is recommended that all students in agriculture, science, and PE be covered by some type of insurance.

INTERNET USAGE

Students will have access to the internet only with teacher supervision. All students and parents/guardians must sign a permission form prior to using the Internet. These forms must be submitted to the office each year before they will have access for computer usage.  All e-mail accounts and chat room access will not be permitted at school.  If any part of the signed permission form is violated, students will lose all internet privileges.

ITEMS FROM HOME

Students are not allowed to bring items from home to school without their classroom teacher’s permission. This includes footballs, basketball, toys, electronic games, CD’s, etc. Students are responsible for any item brought to school. The school will not be responsible for lost, traded, or misplaced items. Items brought to school without prior permission may be confiscated until parents come to pick them up. Cell phone usage and laser pens are prohibited at school.

LATE TO SCHOOL OR LEAVING EARLY

Any student arriving late or leaving early from school must sign in or out at the office.

After arrival upon school grounds, students must have permission from the office to leave during the school day. Under no conditions may the student leave without approval of the office. Students should provide the office with advance written notice from parent or guardian whenever it is necessary to leave school. Parents that are picking up students during the day must report to the office. Students leaving the school grounds without following these procedures will be considered truant and will be subject to punishment according to the discipline code.

Elementary: Tardy: Students are counted tardy if they arrive after 8:20 and before 8:40.  If student is signed in after 8:40 a.m. they are counted absent for the portion of the day they miss. 

Leaving Early:  If signed out before 3:00 p.m. they will be counted absent for the portion of the days they miss.

Grades 7-12:  Tardy:  If a student signs in after 8:23 a.m. but before 8:40 they will be charged with a tardy.

Anyone signing in later than 8:40 will be counted as block/blocks of absences. 

Leaving Early:  If a student signs out last block before 3:00 p.m. they will be counted absent for 1 block.  If they sign out before last block they will be counted absent for the block/blocks that they have missed.

LETTER GRADES

LIBRARY

The school library provides a variety of fiction and non-fiction books for our students to check out to read for pleasure or use for class assignments. In addition to these books, we subscribe to eight elementary magazines that the students may read while in the library. In the elementary, each grade level is scheduled two twenty five-minute sessions in the library each week. During these sessions the classes have time to check out books, read magazines, and work on library skills which are appropriate for each grade level. When a student has completed the fourth grade year, he/she will know how to care for books, have an appreciation of literature, and be comfortable with the card catalog, and other basic research tools found in the library. The Accelerated Reader Program has been part of the library since the fall of 1989. This computerized reading program is a powerful tool to motivate students to read and develop higher-order thinking skills. Students select books to read from popular non-fiction, children’s classics, and award winning contemporary books. After the book is read, knowledge and comprehension of the book is tested by answering multiple choice questions on the computer. The computer handles all scoring and record keeping automatically and informs the student immediately of his/her test score. The Accelerated Reader frees the teacher from reading and grading book reports and keeping records. A wide variety of class and individual reports can be generated with this program which allows the teacher to access and motivate student reading. The Dora School Library is also open to the patrons of the community with hours from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each weekday throughout the school year. Books can be checked out for a two-week period after a simple information card has been completed. Our goal is to instill in everyone an appreciation for reading and the desire to learn where to find information. If you have these skills, there is no end to the knowledge you can achieve. We encourage our patrons to use our library.

LOCKERS

The school counselor will assign all students a locker. Students are expected to keep their locker neat and orderly. Every attempt will be made to limit lockers to one per student, but in some cases students may have to share a locker. Students should never switch lockers without the counselor’s permission. Locks are not permitted on student lockers! A student’s locker is the property of the school and must be used for the purposes intended, a storage area for all books and school supplies. If school officials have a reasonable suspicion that the student has placed illegal or dangerous materials or substances in his/her locker or vehicle, school officials may then search the locker, with or without the student’s knowledge or consent. Law enforcement officials can obtain search warrants if it is necessary to search a locker or vehicle.

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

The Dora R-III School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or physical handicap.

STATEMENT OF OBJECTIVES

In accordance with our philosophy, we strive to provide an educational climate in which each individual may:  (1) be inspired to achieve to the level of their ability; (2) develop pride in work and a feeling of self worth; (3) develop effective oral and written communication skills; (4) develop thinking and reasoning skills; (5) learn to respect and cooperate with others; (6) acquire information and develop skills related to job and career selection; (7) become aware of acceptable behaviors in a variety of social situations; (8)  develop understanding, knowledge. and responsibility of citizenship in a democratic government and society; (9) develop a respect for the family and home as preparation for wholesome family life; (10)  develop habits that promote good mental health; (11)  appreciate the differences in individuals and cultures without being judgmental; and (12)  learn to enjoy leisure time and appreciate beauty in art, music, literature, and nature.

PARENT/GUARDIAN COMMUNICATIONS

Communication with parents/guardians of students is very important to the staff of Dora School. If for any reason parent/guardians want to confer with a member of the faculty, the counselor, or the principal; they may call the office at 261-2337 to schedule a conference.

PARENTS RIGHT TO KNOW

Upon request, our district is required to provide to you in a timely manner, the following information, according to The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (PL 107-110):

*           Whether the teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and which subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.

*           Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which state qualification or licensing criteria have been waived.

*           Whether your child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.

*           What baccalaureate degree major the teacher has and any other graduate certification of degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification.

In addition to the information that parents may request, the district must provide to each individual parent:

*           Information on the achievement levels of the parent’s child in each of the academic assessments as required under this part: and

*           Timely notice that the parent’s child has been assigned, or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who is not highly qualified.

PARTIES AND ACTIVITIES

School/class parties are defined as an activity that is part of the school calendar, approved by the school administration and supervised by school personnel. The principal should approve all activities of this nature before being placed on the school calendar. Rules such as the use of tobacco, school dress, language, and student conduct, etc. shall be the same on or off the school grounds. Outside guests may not attend school activities unless approved by sponsors and administration. Elementary will have room parties for Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Easter. There are no gift exchanges at any grade level.

PHILOSOPHY

The administration and staff of the Dora R-III School feel that education should be a continuous process beginning with basic skills. We are willing to adapt our policies and curriculum toward academic and vocational goals as student interest and needs arise. We are aware that capabilities of the individuals differ. However, we are interested in each individual student achieving to the best of their potential. We strive to instill in each a sense of responsibility to home, community, and country. Each student is encouraged to develop a sense of individual responsibility and to develop respect for the rights and worth of all people. One of our greatest desires is that each student graduating from the Dora be encouraged to set goals and develop relevant values for their role in a changing society. The staff is aware of its role as support personnel to expose every student to this philosophy and its objectives.

PHILOSOPHY CONTINUED

Dora R-III Schools will provide a positive environment for students, staff, and parents where learning is an enjoyable activity. This environment will: promote academic excellence, promote mutual supporting and caring relationships, enhance commitment and involvement, challenge each individual with appropriate expectations, and promote life long learning skills. By promoting such an environment, we will help the students acquire the skills needed to function effectively in our rapidly changing world.

PICTURES

Student pictures will be taken early in the school year for the files and yearbook. All students will have their picture taken, but purchasing of pictures is up to the student and their parents. Seniors will have their picture taken by the photographer who takes all the school pictures, but it may be a different day. This picture will be used in the yearbook and for the senior composite. Purchase is optional.

PLAYGROUND SAFETY

Students are required to follow safety rules and obey all teachers while on the playground.  

1.       Students are expected to stay within sight and voice of their supervising teacher.

2.       Students are not allowed to climb poles or trees, or to play with or throw sticks, rocks, or any other sharp objects that may cause harm to fellow students.

3.       Scuffling, wrestling, fighting, talking back, using profanity, or participating in any act that may cause harm or danger to fellow students is strictly prohibited.

4.       Students are not allowed to leave the playground without permission from the supervising teacher.

5.       Good judgment and common sense are keys to avoiding situations that might result in injury or disciplinary action.

POP AND VENDING MACHINES

If pop and/or vending machines are made available to the students the following rules will apply: Purchases shall only be made during the time before school, noon, and after school. Students may not purchase items between classes. Proper disposal of cans and wrappers will be strictly adhered to. Pop, candy, chips; etc. will never be taken into the gym or into any classroom at any time without permission from the teacher. Violating these rules will result in the vending machines being unplugged for an indefinite period of time. Repeated violations will result in the removal of the machines.

POSTING/DISTRIBUTION OF LITERATURE

Anyone wishing to post or distribute unofficial written material must first submit for approval a copy of the material to the principal or secretary 24 hours in advance of the desired distribution time.  Posted material must be removed the day after scheduled event.

PROGRESS AND REPORT CARDS

Progress reports are issued to the students approximately four and one half (4 1/2) weeks into each quarter (four times a year). These progress reports are to be reviewed and signed by parents and then the student must return them to their respective teachers. Report cards are issued to the students at the end of each quarter (9 weeks). The report card is to be sent to parents and does not need to be returned to school.

PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION

At Dora School we have a very active PTO which works very hard on projects that benefit our students in many ways. The PTO provides playground equipment, furniture, and various other items. We encourage all parents to become involved on our PTO! Just call the school office for more information.

PUBLICATIONS

School sponsored publications are part of the educational process, either curriculum or co-curriculum. The teacher/sponsor is ultimately responsible for its quality, content, and distribution. The teacher/sponsor must ensure that the language, topics, and methods of dissemination are appropriate; however, the students are encouraged to set high standards for themselves and deal with sensitive topics in a fair and reasonable manner. Education, not censorship, is the goal of these publication activities. Students wishing to write and distribute their own publication are encouraged, but not coerced, to seek a teacher/sponsor to work with them. Students wishing to distribute their publication will submit it to the principal at least two days prior to distribution. The principal will specify the place, time, and manner of distribution. If the principal deems that distribution of the publication will be disruptive to the educational process, then such objections will be stated in a meeting with the superintendent and editor of the publication. The administration will take all steps possible to ensure that the students’ rights of expression will be protected. Nothing in this policy will hinder the rights of due process for the student.

RENAISSANCE DAYS  

THE STUDENT MUST BRING THEIR RENAISSANCE DAY CARD AND MUST GIVE 1 DAY PRIOR NOTICE TO THE ATTENDANCE CLERK before a student takes their Renaissance day.  (Students will not call the attendance clerk at home the night before!)  If a student fails to do this and takes their renaissance day it will be counted as an unexcused absence. After taking a Renaissance day, the student must get an absence slip and have their Renaissance card punched and signed.

RETENTION POLICY

It is desired that retention be used only as a last resort. Prior to retention, parents will be notified and a resource team will assist the classroom teacher on intervention strategies to help the student. All special education concerns will be addressed. In grades K-2, retention is based on the teacher’s recommendation for future success. In grades 3-8, students will be retained if they fail a total of four core subjects per semester. Summer school may remove one F from the total.

Reading Retention Policy

State law now required identification of students reading more than one year below grade level.  You will be notified by the end of the first quarter if your child falls into this category and will be asked to come to school for a conference to develop a Reading Improvement Plan (RIP).  The RIP will identify strategies for school and home to assist your child with improving his/her reading skills.  Options include but are not limited to before or after school tutoring, summer school, home reading, etc.

Fourth grade students having a Reading Improvement Plan will be required to have additional hours of reading instruction or practice outside the regular school day during their fourth grade year.  If fourth grade students are still more than one year behind in reading at the end of the school year, reading instruction or practice will be required during summer school.

At the end of the school year, fourth grade students continuing to read at least one year below grade level may be candidates for retention.  Attendance at summer school may be required as a condition of promotion.

SAFETY

Safety is a major concern at our school. The Principal and faculty reserve the right to make and enforce any rules and regulations deemed necessary to protect the safety and general welfare of students. Students are required to obey safety rules related to the buildings and playgrounds, and to follow procedures dealing with fire, tornado, and earthquake drills. Students may be denied participation in school related activities if a teacher or coach observes factors that could endanger the student’s health and/or safety.

SATURDAY SCHOOL

Students may be assigned to Saturday school for some violations of school rules. Saturday school will begin at 8:30 and will run until 12:30. Students must bring something educational to work on during their time in Saturday school. Students will not be allowed to talk or sleep. Students will be given 2 five-minute breaks during this time. Students showing up late will be considered absent from Saturday school. Students failing to show up will be suspended from school for 3 days. Saturday school may not be rescheduled.

SCHOOL CONDUCT

Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly fashion, showing respect for school and classroom rules, all employees, and the rights and property of other students. While in the hall, students should remain as quiet as possible to avoid disturbing the other classrooms. While in the cafeteria, students are to keep the noise at a level so that the supervising teachers can be heard with out having to raise their voices.

Students should understand that special classes (art, music, library, and P.E.) are a continuation of the regular classroom. The teachers of these special classes are to be treated with the same respect and attention afforded the homeroom teacher. Positive conduct and behavior is an expectation made of all students. It is the student’s responsibility to adhere to the standards set by the school relating to proper conduct and behavior.

SCHOOL SPIRIT

All students, faculty, and parents of the Dora School District are expected to demonstrate courtesy, pride, and sportsmanship at all school activities. School spirit may be divided into three categories.

1.       Courtesy toward teachers, school staff, and fellow students.

2.       Pride in everything our school endeavors to accomplish and has accomplished in the past.

3.       Sportsmanship is the ability to win and lose gracefully.

School spirit means loyalty to all functions of the school. A loyal student supports their school and does everything possible to keep their scholastic and activity standards at the highest possible level. A loyal student takes pride in the building and does everything possible to keep the facilities clean. All fans are encouraged to support their team at school events, that support, however, should always be positive in nature. All persons failing to demonstrate courtesy, pride, or sportsmanship will be asked to leave the school event by school personnel. Students failing to follow this policy will also be disciplined under school policies.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

Students have a right to be secure in his/her persons, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Students have a right to privacy in regard to his/her personal possessions. Students will be subject to search and seizure if there is a reasonable suspicion that the student is concealing materials prohibited by school rules or criminal law.

SICKNESS/INJURY POLICY

A student that becomes ill at school should first notify their teacher. The teacher will then determine if further attention is necessary. If the determination is made that further attention is necessary, the student will then be sent or escorted to the nurse’s office. The nurse or principal will make the final determination as to whether or not further medical attention is necessary. Parents are to be called if the student should go home. If a student needs to take medication at school, the prescription bottle of medication must be brought in by the parent/guardian in order for the student to receive this medication during school hours. This note will be kept on file in the nurse’s office and the dispensing of the medication will be done in the nurse’s office. Students should not have any other medication at school at any time.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Elementary students take part in a limited number of student activities such as spelling bees, math bees, Young Author’s competition, and track and field day. Notices will be sent home if any of these activities are available to your child. Please call the office, or speak to your child’s teacher if you have any questions.

STUDENT DRIVING PERMIT

The following violations will result in the revoking of your privileges to drive to school: 

1.       Careless and reckless driving.

2.       Skipping school in a car.

3.       Failure to get permission from the principal to enter your vehicle during school hours.

4.       Failure to park in the student parking area.

5.       Failures to remain in the student parking area until all buses have left the school grounds.

6.       Students will not be allowed to remain in their cars or parking area prior to school.

This control has been put into operation in the Dora R-III School System with the approval of the board of education and the administration of the Dora School.

TARDY PROCEDURE

A student who is not in their seat when the tardy bell rings will be considered tardy and it will be recorded by their teacher. A tardy is considered excused only if the student has a note from another teacher regarding the tardy or a note explaining circumstances as determined by the office. There will be no penalty for the first two unexcused tardies. Upon receiving the third unexcused and for each unexcused tardy thereafter, the student will have to attend after school detention from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Tardies will accumulate for the entire school year. The count will not start over at the beginning of the second semester.  This pertains to AOE students also.

TECHNOLOGY USAGE

The Dora R-III School District recognizes the educational and professional value of electronics-based information technology, both as a means of access to enriching information and as a tool to develop skills that students need.

The district's technology exists for the purpose of maximizing the educational opportunities and achievement of district students.  The professional enrichment of the staff and Board and increased engagement of the students' families and other patrons of the district are assisted by technology, but are secondary to the ultimate goal of student achievement.

Use of technology resources in a disruptive, manifestly inappropriate or illegal manner impairs the district’s mission, squanders resources and shall not be tolerated.  Therefore, a consistently high level of personal responsibility is expected of all users granted access to the district’s technology resources.  Development of students' personal responsibility is itself an expected benefit of the district technology program. 

Definitions

For the purposes of this policy and related regulation, procedures and forms, the following terms are defined:

User -- any person who is permitted by the district to utilize any portion of the district’s technology resources including, but not limited to, students, employees, school Board members and agents of the school district.

User Identification (ID) -- any identifier that would allow a user access to the district’s technology resources or to any program including, but not limited to, e-mail and Internet access.

Password -- a unique word, phrase or combination of alphabetic, numeric and non-alphanumeric characters used to authenticate a user ID as belonging to a user.

TECHNOLOGY USAGE CONTINUED

Technology Administration

The Board directs the superintendent or designee to create rules and procedures governing technology usage in the district to support the district’s policy, as needed.

The Board directs the superintendent or designee to assign trained personnel to maintain the district’s technology in a manner that will protect the district from liability and will protect confidential student and employee information retained or accessible through district technology resources.  Trained personnel shall establish a retention schedule for the regular archiving or deletion of data stored on district technology resources in accordance with the Public School District Retention Manual published by the Missouri Secretary of State.  Administrators of computer resources may suspend access to and/or availability of the district’s technology resources to diagnose and investigate network problems or potential violations of the law or district policies, regulations and procedures.

User Identification and Network Security

The district technology resources may be used by authorized students, employees, school Board members and other persons such as consultants, legal counsel and independent contractors.

Use of the district’s technology resources is a privilege, not a right.  No student, employee or other potential user will be given an ID, password or other access to district technology if he or she is considered a security risk by the superintendent or designee.

Users must adhere to district policies, regulations, procedures and other district guidelines.  All users shall immediately report any security problems or misuse of the district’s technology resources to an administrator or teacher.

User Agreement and Privacy

Unless authorized by the superintendent or designee, all users must have an appropriately signed User Agreement on file with the district before they are allowed access to district technology resources.  All users must agree to follow the district’s policies, regulations and procedures. 

In addition, all users must recognize that they do not have a legal expectation of privacy in any electronic communications or other activities involving the district’s technology.  A user ID with e-mail access, if granted, is provided to users of this district's network and technology resources only on condition that the user consents in his or her User Agreement to interception of or access to all communications accessed, sent, received or stored using district technology.

Content Filtering and Monitoring

The district will monitor the online activities of minors and operate a technology protection measure (“filtering/blocking device”) on the network and/or all computers with Internet access, as required by law.  The filtering/blocking device will be used to protect against access to visual depictions that are obscene, harmful to minors and child pornography, as required by law.  Because the district’s technology is a shared resource, the filtering/blocking device will apply to all computers with Internet access in the district.  Filtering/Blocking devices are not foolproof, and the district cannot guarantee that users will never be able to access offensive materials using district equipment.  Evasion or disabling, or attempting to evade or disable, a filtering/blocking device installed by the district is prohibited.

The superintendent, designee or the district's technology administrator may disable the district's filtering/blocking device to enable an adult user access for bona fide research or for other lawful purposes.  In making decisions to disable the district's filtering/blocking device, the administrator shall consider whether the use will serve a legitimate educational purpose or otherwise benefit the district.

TECHNOLOGY USAGE CONTINUED

Closed Forum

The district’s technology resources are not a public forum for expression of any kind and are to be considered a closed forum to the extent allowed by law.

The district’s webpage will provide information about the school district, but will not be used as an open forum.  The district's webpage may include the district’s address, telephone number and an e-mail address where members of the public may easily communicate concerns to the administration and the Board.

All expressive activities involving district technology resources that students, parents and members of the public might reasonably perceive to bear the imprimatur of the school and that are designed to impart particular knowledge or skills to student participants and audiences are considered curricular publications.  All curricular publications are subject to reasonable prior restraint, editing and deletion on behalf of the school district for legitimate pedagogical reasons.

All other expressive activities involving the district’s technology are subject to reasonable prior restraint and subject matter restrictions as allowed by law and Board policies.

TELEPHONE USAGE and MESSAGES

The school telephones are for school business only. Students may only make calls on these phones with permission from the office staff. Students must give the name of the person being called and the purpose of the call before permission is given. Students should make every attempt to communicate with their parents while they are at home rather that waiting until they come to school. Teachers will not let students out of class to use the phone anytime! Students will be allowed to receive incoming calls only in case of an emergency.

If a message needs to be left for a child, please call the school before 2:30 p.m.  If a parent wants their child’s homework to be sent home, please call the office before 10:00 a.m. requesting this.

TEXT BOOKS AND LIBRARY BOOKS

The school furnishes textbooks and library books. Books are loaned to the student and become the student’s responsibility. If a book is lost, the student must pay for the book. Likewise, if a book is damaged, the student must pay for the damage to the book. Textbooks are to be turned in at the close of the school year. If the books are returned in good condition, no charge will be assessed for the use of the books. All grade records will be held and not released until full payment has been received at the office for the lost or damaged book.

TOBACCO USE OR POSSESSION

Students are not permitted to use or process tobacco in any form on school grounds or premises. This means during the school day or while attending school activities. A student caught with tobacco in their possession at school will turn it over to the school authorities upon request. Punishment for violation of the rule will be according to the school discipline policy. Students will also be reported to the juvenile authorities. 

TRANSFERS AND WITHDRAWALS

Students transferring during the school year to another school must obtain from the school counselor a transfer checkout sheet. Books should be returned to the teacher. After each teacher has signed the checkout sheet, the student will return the signed form to the counselor. Students desiring to withdrawal or drop from school are required to have a parent of guardian attend a conference with the principal and counselor, participate in a drop out prevention program directed by the counselor, and follow the procedures listed above for transfer students in checking out of school. Failure to follow these procedures may result in the student’s name being referred to juvenile authorities or other law enforcement agencies for collection of money or property owed to the school.

TRIPS

The school-sponsored trips carry the same regulations as on the school grounds. Rules such as use of tobacco, school dress, language, and student conduct shall be the same for school sponsored trips as during school hours. Students must have their parent/guardian’s approval before they can go with their class on a school-sponsored field trip that will be returning after school has been dismissed. Their classroom teacher will give permission forms to the students. School trips are a privilege and not a right.

TRUANCY

Students who are absent from school without the knowledge and consent of their parents/guardians and the administration, or students who leave school during any session without the consent of the principal, shall be considered truant. Students may also be considered truant if they have accumulated excessive unjustifiable absences, even with the consent of parent/guardians.

School administration and teachers are responsible for keeping records of student attendance. Also, the designated attendance officer for the district shall assist the administration when a student attendance problem warrants additional investigation or assistance.

VISITORS

We welcome and encourage visits from parents and patrons. We do request, however, that students do not bring other visitors to school unless they have approval from the school administration. All visitors, including parents, must check in at the office.

If you need to visit with your child’s teacher, please do so at their planning time to avoid interrupting the instructional process.

VOLUNTEERS

Dora R-III has developed a parent volunteer program designed to provide special attention to individual students who need a little help or extra push on a one-on-one basis. If you would be interested in working as a parent volunteer at any time during the school year, please feel free to contact the school at 261-2337.

FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT        

The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 was passed by Congress to protect the privacy of parents and students in an educational setting. This Act applies to all educational agencies that receive funds from any program administered by the Secretary of Education of the United States, which includes the Dora R-III school District. The Dora School District shall annually notify parents of students currently in attendance and eligible students currently in attendance at Dora School of their rights under the Act and this part. The parents of eligible students have a right to 1) Inspect and review the student’s education records. 2) Request the amendment of the student’s education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights. 3) Consent to disclose of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the Act and the regulations in this part authorize disclosure without consent; 4) File with the U.S. Department of Education a complaint under 99.64 concerning alleged failures by the Dora R-III School to comply with the requirements of the Act and this part; and 5) Obtain a copy of the policy adopted under 99.64. Copies of this policy are available in the Superintendent’s office at Dora R-III School. This Act allows the Dora School District to release “directory information” without the consent of the parent or eligible student. Directory information is information that is contained in an educational record that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. This may include, but not limited to, the student’s name, address, telephone number, photograph or dates of attendance. Parents or eligible students may chose to withhold directory information, however, that request must be made in writing to the Principal. This notification will be made in the student handbook distributed to all students. In addition, copies of this policy will be made available in other languages upon request.

FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT CONTINUED

Procedures for Amending Education Records

A) If a parent or eligible student believes the education records relating to the student contain information that is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student’s rights of privacy or other rights, he or she may ask the Dora School to amend the record. B) Dora School shall decide whether to amend the record as requested within a reasonable time after they receive the request. C) If Dora School decides not to amend the record as requested; it shall inform the parent or eligible student of its decision and of his or her right to as a hearing under 99.21 of this Act.

PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA)

PPRA affords parents and students who are 18 or emancipated minors certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to:

·         Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education –

                  1)         Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;

                  2)         Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;

                  3)         Sex behavior or attitudes;

                  4)         Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;

5)         Critical appraisals of others whom respondents have close family relationships;

6)         Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;

                  7)         Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or

                  8)         Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.       

·         Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –

1)         Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;

2)         Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of admittance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and

3)         Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

·         Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –

1)         Protected information surveys of students;

2)         Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and

3)         Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

NOTICE

The Dora R-III School District does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to its programs, services, or activities, in access to them, in treatment of individuals with disabilities, or in any aspect of their operations. The Dora R-III School District also does not discriminate on the disability in its hiring or employment practices. This notice is provided as required by Title II of the American’s with Disabilities Act of 1990 and section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Questions, complaints, or requests for additional information regarding the ADA and section 504 may be forwarded to the designed ADA and section 504 compliance coordinator: Mr. Chris Berger, Superintendent This notice is available from the ADA and section 504 compliance in large print and on audio tape.

NOTICE, Dora R-III School District Homeless Coordinator

It is the policy of the Dora R-III School District to seek, identify, and provide appropriate service to all homeless children who wish to enroll in the school district. The Board of Education annually appoints the district superintendent, Mr. Chris Berger, as homeless coordinator. The coordinator’s job is to ensure that:

1.   Homeless children and youth enroll and succeed in school.
2. Homeless families, children, and youth receive educational services for which they are eligible.
3. Records of homeless children and youth are transferred in a timely fashion.
4. Homeless children are not isolated or stigmatized because of their homelessness.
5. Disputes regarding the placement or education of homeless children and youth are resolved in a timely manner.

For more information contact: Mr. Chris Berger, Superintendent, Dora R-III School District,

P.O. Box 14, Dora, MO 65637 or call (417) 261-2346.

An equal opportunity affirmative action employer.

DORA R-III SCHOOL DISCIPLINE POLICIES

ANY DISCIPLINE ITEMS ADDRESSED IN THE JUNIOR HIGH/HIGH SCHOOL DISCIPLINE POLICY THAT IS NOT ADDRESSED SPECIFICALLY IN THE ELEMENTARY WILL ALSO PERTAIN TO ELEMENTARY STUDENTS.

Each classroom teacher will maintain a structured discipline program in their room.  The consequences for those discipline infractions will be dealt with by the classroom teacher.  After a predetermined number of discipline infractions in the classroom, the student will be sent to the office for discipline.  Also, certain major discipline infractions or repeated discipline infractions will be sent directly to the office to be dealt with by the Principal. Severity Clause: If at any time a student causes a severe problem in the opinion of the supervising teacher or principal, the lesser consequences may be by-passed, and the greater consequences imposed.

ELEMENTARY DISCIPLINE POLICY

Jr. High/ High School

Student Discipline

Dora R-III School District

Adopted August 1998

The student code of conduct is designed to foster student responsibility, respect for the rights of others, and to ensure the orderly operation of district schools.  No code can be expected to list each and every offense which may result in the use of disciplinary action.  It is, however, the purpose of this code to list certain offenses which, if committed by a student, will result in the imposition of a certain disciplinary action.  Any conduct not included herein, or an aggravated circumstance of any offense or an action involving a combination of offenses may result in disciplinary consequences that extend beyond this code of conduct as determined by the Principal, Superintendent and/or the Board of Education of Dora, Missouri.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT                                       FILE:   JGA  Critical

            Corporal punishment, as a measure of correction or of maintaining discipline and order in schools, is permitted. However, it shall be used in reasonable form and upon the recommendation of the principal. If found necessary, it should be administered by the principal, in the presence of the teacher. It should never be inflicted in the presence of other pupils, nor without a witness. Corporal punishment shall be administered only by swatting the buttocks with a paddle. When it becomes necessary to use corporal punishment, it shall be administered that there can be no chance of bodily injury or harm. Striking a student on the head or face is not permitted. The teacher or principal shall submit a report to the superintendent, explaining the reason for the use of corporal punishment as well as the details of the administration of the same. A staff member may, however, use reasonable physical force against a student without advance notice to the principal if it is necessary for self-defense, the preservation of order, or for the protection of other persons or the property of the school district.

DETENTION AND/OR IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION OF STUDENTS           FILE:     JGB Critical

            This provision of the discipline policy shall provide the principals with an alternative method of dealing with disciplinary problems which occur in schools. Detention is held on Fridays, at 3:30 P.M. during the school year. The principal will determine when it is to be used and the amount of time to be served. In no case will the detention extend past 5:30 P.M. Failure to serve assigned detention could result in either serving double or out of school suspension.

STUDENT SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION                 FILE:       JGD Critical

            In Missouri, a principal may suspend a student for up to ten days. A superintendent may suspend up to 180 school days. Procedures for suspending a student:  1. Before suspending a student, a principal or superintendent must (A) tell the student, either orally or in writing, what misconduct he or she is accused of; (B) if the student denies the accusation, explain either orally or in writing the facts that form the basis of the proposed suspension; and give the student an opportunity to present his or her version of the incident. 2.  If the principal or superintendent concludes that the student has engaged in misconduct punishable by suspension, the procedures described below apply unless the student is disabled. 3.  The principal or superintendent should determine whether the student should be suspended or whether less drastic alternative measures would be appropriate. In many cases, the principal or superintendent may decide not to suspend a student unless conferences have been held and have failed to change the student’s behavior. 4.  If suspension is imposed, the student’s parents or guardians must be promptly notified of the suspension and the reasons for his action. 5.  Any suspension by a principal must be reported, immediately and in writing, to the superintendent, who may revoke the suspension, either in part or in full, at any time. 6.  If a student is suspended for more than ten days, the following rules also apply: A. The student, his or her parents, guardians, or others having custodial care have a right to appeal the superintendent’s decision to the board or a committee of the board appointed by the board president. B.  If the student gives notice that he or she wishes to appeal the suspension to the board the suspension shall be stayed until the board renders its decision, unless in the superintendent’s judgment, the student’s presence posses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process. C.  All notices of appeal shall be transmitted, either by the appealing party or by the superintendent, to the secretary of the board. D.  The superintendent, when notified of an appeal, shall promptly transmit to the board a full report of the facts relating to the suspension, the action taken by the superintendent, and the reasons for the access. E.  Upon receipt of a notice of appeal, the board will schedule a hearing and within a reasonable time in advance of the scheduled date, will notify, by certified mail, the appealing party of the date, time and place of the hearing, and of the right to counsel, to call and witness, and to present evidence at the hearing. F.  Hearings of appealed suspensions will be conducted as described in the section of this policy dealing with student disciplinary hearings.

SUSPENSIONS OF MORE THAN 180 DAYS AND EXPULSIONS

            Only the board may expel a student or suspend a student for more that 180 days. The applicable procedures are:  1. Before recommending to the board that a student be expelled or suspended for more than 180 days, the superintendent must (A) tell the student, either orally or in writing, what misconduct he or she is accused of; (B) if the student denies the accusation, explain, either orally or in writing, the facts that form a basis of the proposed suspension/expulsion; and give the student an opportunity to present his or her version of the incident. 2.  If the superintendent concludes that the student has engaged in misconduct and should be expelled or suspended for more that 180 days,  the procedures described below apply unless the student is disabled. A.  The superintendent will recommend to the board that the student be expelled or suspended for more that 180 days. The superintendent may also immediately suspend the student for up to 180 days. B.  Upon receipt of the superintendent’s recommendation, the board will follow the procedures described in the section of this policy dealing with students disciplinary hearings. 3.  If the student is expelled, he or she may later apply to the board for re-admission. Only the board can re-admit an expelled student.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE HEARINGS

            The board of education may originate student discipline hearings upon recommendation of the superintendent. In such cases, the board of education will review the superintendent’s report and determine whether to conduct a discipline hearing. In addition, student discipline hearings also will be held upon request of the student’s parents, to consider appeals from students suspension in excess of ten school days. A discipline hearing will always be held in cases of suspensions in excess of 180 days or expulsions, unless after meeting with the superintendent or design, he parent or guardian waives, in writing, the right to an expulsion hearing. In all hearings, whether initiated by the board of education or by appeal, the following procedures will be adhered to:

 1. The student and the parent/guardian will be advised of the charges against the student; their right to a board hearing; the date, time, and place of the hearing; their right to counsel; and their procedural rights to call witnesses, enter exhibits and cross examine adverse witnesses. All such notifications will be made by certified mail, addressed to the student’s parents/guardians. The board shall make a good faith effort to have the parents or guardians present at the hearing. 2.  Prior to the board hearing, the student, and the student’s parents/guardians will be advised of the nature of their testimony. In addition, the student and the student’s parents/guardians will be provided with copies of he documents to be introduced at the hearing by the administration. 3.  The hearing will be closed unless the board decides otherwise. The hearing will only be open with parental consent. At the hearing, the administration or their counsel will present the charges and such testimony and evidence to support such charges. The student, his or her parents/guardians or their counsel shall have the right to present witnesses, introduce exhibits, and to cross examine witnesses called in support of the charges. A licensed court reporter may record the hearing and prepare a written transcript. 4.  At the conclusion of the hearing, the board of education shall deliberate in executive session and shall render a decision to dismiss the charges, to suspend the student for a specified period of time, or to expel the student from the schools of the district. The administration or its counsel, by direction of the board of education, shall promptly prepare and transmit to the parents/guardians written notice of the decision. This shall include findings of fact and conclusions of law.

REMEDIAL CONFERENCE

            Prior to the re-admission or enrollment of any student who has been suspended out of school or expelled in accordance with this policy, a conference must be held to review the students conduct that has resulted in the suspension or expulsion and any remedial actions needed to prevent future occurrences of such conduct or related conduct. The conference shall include the appropriated school officials including any teacher directly involved with the conduct that resulted in the suspension or expulsion, the student, and the parent or guardian of the student or any agency having legal jurisdiction, care, custody or control of the student. The board of education shall notify, in writing, the parents or guardians and all other parties of the time, place and agenda of any such conference. Failure of any party to attend this conference shall not preclude holding the conference.

DISCIPLINE OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES            FILE:     JGE Critical

            A student with a disability is a student identified as a “child with a disability” under the eligibility criteria of state regulations implementing the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) as amended, or as a person with qualifying for the purpose of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

            The district does not believe in a double standard for the intentional misbehavior and the welfare and safety of all persons in the district in the highest regard. Students with disabilities who violate the school district’s discipline code will be disciplined in accordance with the district’s normal discipline code, subject to the modifications of the normal discipline implementation process mandated by law. It is expressly this district’s policy that it will use the full scope of authority available under the law in applying its regular disciplinary code to all students. All students, including those with disabilities, may be referred for law enforcement action when their conduct warrants the referral.

Due Process

            Due process procedures, applicable to suspension, removal or expulsion of students from public schools under state law, shall be afforded in accordance with policy JGD, Student Suspension and Expulsion. Regular pre-discipline “due process” should not be confused with the “due process hearing” appeal process under the IDEA. When an incident of behavior is found to be unrelated to a disability by an IEP or Section 504 team, that question will be taken as settled for the purpose of the normal disciplinary hearing process.

Discipline of a “Child with a Disability” Receiving Special Educational Services

            The term “child with a disability” means a student eligible for special education and related services under Part B of the IDEA as implemented under state law. Special extra procedures are required by law in order to implement the district’s disciplinary policies as fully as possible for a “child with a disability” and these summarized below. Note these summaries are for informational purposes only. The district’s official policy on IDEA discipline procedures is to use whatever lawful special methods best serve the ultimate purpose of implementing the general discipline code as fully and equally as possible. Consult the IDEA, IDEA regulations, and State and Local Plans for IDEA for details of the following procedures:

1.       Discipline Code calls for short term suspensions, placement in an appropriate interim alternative educational setting, or placement in another setting, for ten (10) school days or less per occurrence.

Such removals may be applied in the same manner such removals are applied to all students under the discipline policy. When such absences aggregate to 11 or more days, the child with a disability is provided some educational services ever if regular education students would not be provided educational services during such a removal. If such a short-term removal or suspension would cause a “change of placement” to occur under the factors outlined by law, the removal should be handled as a “long-term suspension.”

2.   Discipline Code calls for a long-term suspension or expulsion. If a child’s IEP team              

      determines that conduct in violation of the regular discipline code is unrelated to the

      disability, the district may implement suspensions in excess of ten (10) consecutive   

      school days, a suspension of shorter length where a pattern of suspension     

      constituting a “change of placement” is thereby created, and even an expulsion.  The

      law calls for the continuation of some service during the long-term suspension or

      expulsion.  If doing so would not itself create a “change of placement” a short-term

      suspension may be implemented to give the IEP team time to complete duties.

3.   Special Rule: 45 calendar day removals. For possession of weapons defined in

      U.S.C. 930,  or use, possession, sale, or solicitation of a sale of certain drugs

      Identified under schedules I, II, III, IV or V in section 202(c) of a Controlled

      Substances Act, a removal of up to 45 Calendar days in an appropriate

      interim alternative educational setting may be ordered. This may be used in

     conjunction with the short and long term suspension or expulsion.  The district

     may seek a removal of a dangerous or violent student to a 45 calendar day

     alternative educational placement through a hearing officer appointed by the

     Department  of Elementary and Secondary Education. Pursuit of this option

     does not replace or prevent the implementation of short and/or long term

     suspensions or expulsion when the discipline policy calls for that consequence and,

     if a change of placement would occur as a result, the behavior is not a manifestation

     of the disability.

4.       Court Injunction. The district may seek a court injunction ordering removal or a changed placement of a dangerous or violent student.

STUDENTS NOT YET IDENTIFIED AS DISABLED              FILE:  JGE Critical

            A student who qualifies as a child with a disability but has not been identified as a child with a disability may be subjected to the same disciplinary measures applied to students without disabilities if the district did not have knowledge of the disability. Students will Disabilities Not under IDEA.

            This section summarizes the procedural rules for students who have disabilities under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, but do not require special educational services as a “child with a disability” under Part B of the IDEA.

            The expulsion of such a student, the exclusion of the student for an indefinite period, or the exclusion of the student for more than ten (10) consecutive school days constitutes a “significant change of placement.” A series of suspensions each of which is ten (10) or fewer days in duration, but that creates a pattern of exclusions, may also constitute a “significant change of placement.”

            Before implementing a suspension or expulsion that constitutes a significant change in the placement of a student with a disability, a school district must conduct a re-evaluation of the student to determine whether the misconduct in question is caused by the student’s disability and, if so, whether the student’s current educational placement is appropriate. If it is determined that the misconduct is not caused by the child’s disability, the child may be excluded from school in the same manner as are similarly situated children who do not have disabilities.  

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION

Applications for admissions and employment, students and parents of elementary, middle school, and secondary school students, employees, sources of referral of application for admission and employment, and all unions or professional organizations holding collective bargaining or professional agreements with Dora R-III schools are hereby notified that this institution does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or handicap in admission or access to, or treatment of employment in the programs and activities.

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which involves unwelcome behavior of a sexual or gender directed nature (either verbal, nonverbal, visual, or physical) that interferes with the ability to study, work, or participate in activities. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitutes sexual harassment when:

1.       Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or education.

2.       Submission to or rejection of that conduct by an individual is used as a basis for employment or educational decisions affecting such individuals, or

3.       Such conduct has the purpose of effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s employment or education or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.

Sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to, verbal harassment or abuse; uninvited letters, calls, or material of a sexual nature; uninvited and deliberate touching, cornering, pinching; uninvited sexually suggestive sexual looks or gestures; uninvited pressure for sexual favors; uninvited pressure for dates; uninvited sexual teasing, jokes, remarks or questions; attempted or actual rape or sexual assault.

The Dora R-III School District will act to investigate all complaints, either formal or informal, verbal or written, of sexual harassment and to discipline any student or employee who sexually harasses any student or employee of the School District.

Any person having inquiries concerning the Dora R-III School compliance with the regulations implementing Title I, Title IX, or section 504 is directed to contact Mr. Chris Berger, Superintendent, Dora R-III School District regarding the institutions efforts to comply with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, and section 504.

Any person may also contact the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, regarding the institution’s compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504.

PUBLIC NOTICE

All public schools are required to provide a free and appropriate public education to all students with disabilities, including those attending  private/parochial schools, beginning on the child’s third birthday through age twenty (20), regardless of the child’s disability. The public school assures that to comply with the full educational opportunity goal, services for students three (3) through twenty-one (21) will be fully implemented by 1999. Disabilities include: learning disabilities, mental retardation, behavior disorders, visually impaired, hearing impaired, physically/other health impaired, multiple disabilities, deaf/blind, autism, early childhood special education, and traumatic brain injury.

The public school assures that it will provide information and referral services to assist the State in the implementation of early intervention services for infants and toddlers eligible for Missouri’s First Steps Program.

All public schools are required to provide parents the rights to inspect and review personally identifiable information collected and used or maintained by the district relating to their children. Parents have the right to request amendment of these records if they feel the information is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the privacy or other rights of the children. Parents have the right to file complaints with the U.S. Department of Education or the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education concerning alleged failures by the district to meet the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). You may contact your local district, if you wish to review the requirements provided by FERPA.

The public school has developed a Local Compliance Plan for the implementation of Special Education and this Plan is available for public viewing during regular school hours on days the school is in session in the Office of the Superintendent of Schools. The Local Compliance Plan is a written narrative which describes the district’s plan for compliance with the requirements for identifying and serving all students with disabilities. Included in this plan are the policies and procedures which the must district follow regarding storage, disclosure to third parties, retention, and destruction of personally identifiable information. The plan also describes the assurances that services are provided in compliance with the requirement of 34 CFR 76.301 o the General Education Provision Act.

Public schools in the State of Missouri are required to conduct an annual census of all children with disabilities or suspected disabilities from birth through age twenty (20) who reside in the school district or whose parent/legal guardian resides in the district. This census is complied as of May 1 of each year. This information is treated as confidential and submitted to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Information to be collected includes: name of each child, parent/legal guardian’s name/address; birth date and age of each child; and each child’s disability or suspected disability. Should the district fail to submit an annual census, the State Board of Education may withhold state aid until the census is submitted. If you have a child with a disability or know of a child with a disability who is not attending the public school, please contact your school district.

This notice can be provided in languages such as Chinese, Spanish, Arabic, and Vietnamese or any other language as may be necessary.