Notices

The district ensures that each program, service or activity, when reviewed in its entirety, is readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Some of our schools or programs are not accessible. Therefore, persons needing special accommodations should contact the school principal or call 360-676-6400 for assistance.

State assessments occur in the spring for students in grades 3–8 and 10. English language arts (ELA) and math are measured with Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBA). Science is measured with the Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science (WCAS) in grades 5, 8 and 11. The results from the state assessments help us improve instructional practices and give families information about how their student is doing and where additional help might be needed. For students in grade 10, the Smarter Balanced tests can also be used as a graduation pathway. For information on Washington state assessments, visit the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) website.

Daily, on-time attendance is essential for success in school and is required by state law and district policy. Please read and sign the required attendance form electronically in Skyward Family Access.

Students should attend all scheduled classes unless officially excused. Absences, unless waived by the principal, require either a written/signed excuse, a phone call, an email, or a ParentSquare attendance note from a parent/guardian within 48 hours. Please follow your school check out procedures. Parents/guardians are notified by the school of any unexcused absences via ParentSquare.

State law requires the district to file a petition with the juvenile court for students who accumulate seven unexcused absences in a month or 15 in one year. The court will stay the petition and refer the student to our Community Engagement Board. The family will make a plan with the board to improve attendance. If attendance does not improve, the court will order the student to attend school. A student who does not comply with a court order to attend school may be found in contempt of court.

Students are responsible for being on time to all classes. If tardiness becomes chronic or disruptive, school staff will try to correct the situation fairly and reasonably. Students and families share the responsibility for attendance and punctuality.

Federal law under FERPA allows school districts to release student directory information. Bellingham Public Schools defines this directory information as the student’s name, photograph, address, telephone number, date of birth, grade, school, parent/guardian name, parent/guardian email, dates of attendance, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, diplomas and awards received and the most recent previous school attended.

The district allows families who do not want directory information released to complete the Opt-Out of Student Publicity/Release of information form found in Skyward Family Access. This needs to be filled out every year. If there is no opt-out on record, we assume that you have no objection to the release of directory information.

Demographic information and academic achievement for the district and each school is available online at the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction's Washington State Report Card webpage.

The health and safety of students and staff are paramount. We use “Green Seal” custodial products and all paints have low or zero VOC – volatile organic compounds. We manage vegetation and pests using a minimum of herbicides and pesticides. The district uses physical, mechanical, cultural, biological and educational tactics as primary controls. Chemical controls are a last resort and the least toxic alternative is used. When herbicides or pesticides are used, notification signs are posted at buildings 48 hours prior to pesticide use and for 24 hours after. Individuals wishing advance notification of herbicide or pesticide use at any site may contact Facilities. (See contact information below.)

The district maintains a Phase II municipal stormwater permit for western Washington and a national pollutant discharge elimination system and state waste discharge general permit for discharge from small municipal separate storm sewers in western Washington.

The asbestos notification requirement is in response to the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). The district has developed and maintains an asbestos management plan, including records of surveillance, training and abatement activities.

Detailed reports of both pesticide use and asbestos records are available at Facilities, 4060 Bakerview Valley Road, or by calling (360) 676-6548. More information about Facilities and Sustainability is available at bellinghamschools.org/facilities.

In Washington, all students have the right to be treated consistent with their gender identity at school. Our school will:

• Address students by their requested name and pronouns, with or without a legal name change
• Change a student’s gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records
• Allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity
• Allow students to participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips in accordance with their gender identity
• Keep health and education information confidential and private
• Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and apply dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender
• Protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity

To review the district’s Gender-Inclusive Schools Policy (3211) and Procedure (3211P), visit bellinghamschools.org/ policies/3211-policy-gender-inclusiveschools/. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Janis Velasquez Farmer, 360-676-6532, janis.velasquezfarmer@bellinghamschools.org.

Our Schools Protect Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)

Schools are meant to be safe and inclusive environments where all students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities. This section defines HIB, explains what to do when you see or experience it, and our school’s process for responding to it.

What is HIB?

State law defines HIB in RCW 28A.600.477(5)(b)(i) as “any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act including, but not limited to, one shown to be motivated by any characteristic in RCW 28A.640.010 and 28A.642.010 (discrimination based on a protected class) or other distinguishing characteristics, when the intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act:

(A) Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property;

(B) Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education;

(C) Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or

(D) Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school”

HIB may involve an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated. HIB is not allowed, by law, in our schools.

How can I make a report or complaint about HIB?

Talk to any school staff member (consider starting with whoever you are most comfortable with!). You may use our district’s reporting form to share concerns about HIB but reports about HIB can be made in writing or verbally. Your report can be made anonymously, if you are uncomfortable revealing your identity, or confidentially if you prefer it not be shared with other students involved with the report. No disciplinary action will be taken against another student based solely on an anonymous or confidential report.

If a staff member is notified of, observes, overhears, or otherwise witnesses HIB, they must take prompt and appropriate action to stop the HIB behavior and to prevent it from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer (Kurt Harvill, Assistant Superintendent) that supports prevention and response to HIB.

What happens after I make a report about HIB?

If you report HIB, school staff must attempt to resolve the concerns. If the concerns are resolved, then no further action may be necessary. However, if you feel that you or someone you know is the victim of unresolved, severe, or persistent HIB that requires further investigation and action, then you should request an official HIB investigation.

Also, the school must take actions to ensure that those who report HIB don’t experience retaliation.

What is the investigation process?

When you report a complaint, the HIB Compliance Officer or staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved with the complaint and must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 5 school days, unless you agree on a different timeline. If your complaint involves circumstances that require a longer investigation, the district will notify you with the anticipated date for their response.

When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must provide you with the outcomes of the investigation within 2 school days. This response should include:

• A summary of the results of the investigation
• A determination of whether the HIB is substantiated
• Any corrective measures or remedies needed
• Clear information about how you can appeal the decision

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

For the student designated as the “targeted student” in a complaint:

If you do not agree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal the decision and include any additional information regarding the complaint to the superintendent, or the person assigned to lead the appeal, and then to the school board.

For the student designated as the “aggressor” in a complaint:

A student found to be an “aggressor” in a HIB complaint may not appeal the decision of a HIB investigation. They can, however, appeal corrective actions that result from the findings of the HIB investigation.

For more information about the HIB complaint process, including important timelines, please see the district’s HIB webpage or the district’s HIB Policy 3207 and Procedure 3207P.

Sexual Health Education
By law, all public schools are required to provide comprehensive sexual health education (CSHE) to all students. Students in grades K-3 receive social emotional learning (SEL). Students in grades 4-12 learn about human growth and development, consent, bystander intervention, healthy relationships and HIV/AIDS prevention. The curriculum and informational videos are available for review online. After reviewing the information, videos and curriculum online, families may wish to not have a child take part in the sexual health lessons at their school. If so, please contact your principal to opt out of sexual health education.

Health Services is a team of nurses, health services assistants, and administrative staff working together to promote health, prevent disease and foster a healthy school environment for all students.

Each school nurse supports two to four schools and serves as a bridge between healthcare and education. They implement individual health plans and reduce barriers to learning so students can be at school safe, healthy and ready to learn. The Health Services team supports students with preventive care such as hearing and vision screening and immunizations, provides acute care and daily management of chronic health conditions, and coordinates care by communicating with families, students, staff, and community providers.

School nurse contact information can be found on school websites and at bellinghamschools.org/health-services. To prevent the spread of illness, we encourage staying up to date on vaccinations, good ventilation, handwashing and respiratory etiquette, cleaning and disinfection, and staying home when ill. For the protection of all, students and staff with new symptoms of illness should stay home. Please visit our website above for recommendations of when to keep your child home and when they can return.

If a child becomes ill at school, the school must know how to reach parents/guardians during the day. Please update your personal information in Skyward or notify your child’s school.

Medication at School
If a student requires medication at school, either prescription or over-the-counter, parents/guardians must return a completed Authorization for Medication at School form and the medication, properly labeled and in its original container, to their child’s school. Forms and more information are available at schools and on our district website.

Life-Threatening Health Conditions
Prior to the first day of school and annually thereafter, parents/guardians of a child with a life-threatening health condition must provide the school nurse a copy of medication or treatment orders, and any necessary medication or equipment. The school nurse and the parent/guardian will develop an Emergency/Individual Health Plan (EHP/IHP). Forms and more information are available at schools and on school websites.

Immunizations
Before children can attend school, if immunizations are not already complete in Washington’s Immunization Information System, parents/guardians must provide medically-verified proof of required immunizations, a certificate of exemption, or be in the process of completing required immunizations. You can view your child’s immunization records by registering at myirmobile.com. Please contact health services if you have any questions. For more information about immunization requirements, please see the Department of Health’s website — doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/schools/immunization/families.

Schools in Washington must make information available on Meningococcal and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) disease to parents/guardians of all students entering grades 6 to 12. Visit bellinghamschools.org/immunizations. Contact Health Services if you would like a printed copy of this information.

Mental Health/Counseling
Please contact your school counselor for mental health support. We coordinate with community agencies to serve a wide variety of student needs. A mobile response team supports students and staff during times of crisis.

The district provides free interpretation and translation services and follows the Language Access Plan with policy and procedure 4218. This is our annual notification of that plan. Staff are provided written guidance on how and when interpretation and translation services should be accessed. This written guidance will be updated as needed to reflect available services.

For assistance in Español, please call (360) 676-6456. For all other languages, please call (360) 647-6816 and press 2 for русский - Russian, press 3 for tính từ - Vietnamese, or press 4 for Punjabi. For any other language, press 5 and leave a message.

Families can also contact their school office directly if they need interpretation or translation services.

Parents’ Rights: Interpretation and Translation Services English | Amharic | Arabic | Cambodian | Chinese | French | Hindi | Japanese | Korean | Marshallese | Punjabi | Romanian | Russian | Samoan | Somali | Spanish | Tagalog | Telugu | Tigrinya | Ukrainian | Urdu | Vietnamese

A parent who intends to have their child or children receive home-based instruction in lieu of attendance or enrollment in a public school or approved private school must file an annual declaration of intent to do so. The appropriate form may be obtained from the District Office or downloaded from our forms webpage. The form must be filed by Sept. 15 or within two weeks of the beginning of any public school quarter, trimester or semester.

School meals are available at all school sites.

No-Cost Meals and other Benefits

We encourage families to complete the Child Nutrition Eligibility & Education Benefit Application (CNEEB) to determine eligibility for no-cost meals and/or other non-meal benefits.

Some district schools are approved as Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) or HB 1238 schools which means all students in those identified schools will automatically qualify for one breakfast and one lunch daily at no cost regardless of household income and without completing an application. Please see bellinghamschools.org/food-services for more information and a list of schools. Even though all students at these schools receive no-cost meals, all families are encouraged to fill out the Child Nutrition Eligibility & Education Benefit Application for non-meal benefits such as reduced activity fees and summer EBT dollars.

USDA Non-Discrimination

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 7202600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at: https:// www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ ad-3027.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by:

1. Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or

2. Fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or

3. Email: Program.Intake@usda.gov

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

The Multilingual Learners (ML) program of Bellingham Public Schools empowers educators at the district, school and classroom level to ensure that students learning English as an additional language develop academic language proficiency, critical thinking skills and content knowledge in a culturally-responsive and inclusive learning environment. For more information, please call (360) 676-6502.

How are students identified for multilingual services?
All families fill out the home language survey when they enroll their children. This asks what language the student first learned. If it is not English, staff assesses the student’s English skills. Based on the results, the student may qualify for multilingual learner services. Learn more about the multilingual education program on OSPI’s website, https://www.k12.wa.us/student-success/access-opportunity-education/migrant-and-multilingual-education/multilingual-education-program.

Parents/guardians have the right to inspect any core district instructional matierlas. Requests to review materials should be made in writing to the Department of Teaching and Learning, Bellingham Public Schools, 1985 Barkley Blvd., Bellingham, WA 98226 or by calling 360-676-6545. Curriculum information is also available online at our curriculum webpage.

Bellingham Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, homelessness, immigration or citizenship status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, neurodivergence, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination:

Laura Cardinal, Title IX Coordinator, Laura.Cardinal@bellinghamschools.org, (360) 676-6455;

Mike Copland, Deputy Superintendent, Michael.Copland@bellinghamschools.org, (360) 676-6512;

Katie Jones, Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Katie.Jones@bellinghamschools.org, (360) 676-6532;

Janis Velazquez Farmer, Gender Inclusive Coordinator, Janis.VelasquezFarmer@bellinghamschools.org, (360) 676-6532;

Janis Velazquez Farmer, Civil Rights Coordinator, Janis.VelasquezFarmer@bellinghamschools.org, (360) 676-6532.

The mailing address for each coordinator is: Bellingham Public Schools, 1985 Barkley Blvd., Bellingham, WA 98226.

You can report discrimination and discriminatory harassment to any school staff member or to the district’s coordinators, listed above. You also have the right to file a complaint (see below). For a copy of your district’s nondiscrimination policy and procedure, contact your school or district office or view Policy and Procedure 3210 online.

Please visit our nondiscrimination webpage for more information.

Student records are confidential to protect the rights and privacy of both students and families. In most cases, parents/guardians have the right to refuse to permit a school to release information about their children. Federal law requires permission from a parent/guardian or student (if 18 or older), before disclosing information, other than directory information, from student educational records. Further details can be found in district policy 3231/3231P.

Parents/guardians or student (if 18 or older) have the right to review any or all student records with the principal or designee within 45 days of submitting the request, according to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Please schedule an appointment with your child’s principal if you wish to do so. To learn more about FERPA, go online to the U.S. Department of Education's Protecting Student Privacy webpage.

The district’s annual FERPA Notice appears below:

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the district receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the district records custodian a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The records custodian will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected or provided electronically.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the district to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the district decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. Exceptions which permit disclosure without consent include: disclosure deemed by the district as necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals, and disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, hearing officer, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing their tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill their professional responsibility. Upon request, the district discloses educational records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue S.W., Washington, D.C. 20202.

Students bringing personal property on district property and on school buses do so at their own risk. The district does not assume responsibility for lost, damaged or stolen property. Parking on district property is at the owner’s/driver’s own risk. The district does not assume responsibility for damage to or loss of privately owned vehicles or property in vehicles.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires schools to provide the parents/guardians of a student who is eligible for or referred for special education with a notice containing a full explanation of the rights available to them.

School districts must provide parents a copy of the Notice of Special Education Procedural Safeguards:

• At least once every school year.
• When you or others, including the district, request that your student be evaluated to determine eligibility for special education services. This process is called a referral.
• The first time you file a citizen complaint in a school year.
• The first time you request a due process hearing in a school year.
• When a decision is made to remove a student for more than ten school days in a year as part of a disciplinary action, and that removal constitutes a change of placement.
• Upon request.
• More Information

Notice of Special Education Procedural Safeguards

• English
• Arabic
• Chinese
• Punjabi
• Russian
• Spanish
• Ukrainian
• Vietnamese

Any application and any required policies, procedures, evaluations, plans and reports are readily available to parents and other members of the public through the district’s special education office and the office of the superintendent. A notice regarding the availability of such documents will be placed on the district’s webpage and in the district’s newsletter. Please call 360.676-6400 if you have questions or requests about this information.

Full access to information concerning the administration and operations of the district will be afforded to the public as provided by the Public Disclosure Law. At the same time, the district recognizes the right of individuals to privacy and of the desirability of efficient administration of the district. Public access to district records will be afforded according to the procedures developed by the superintendent.

Please see our Public Records Requests webpage for more information and instructions on submitting a records request.

Our Schools Stand Against Discrimination

Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because they are part of a protected class, including their race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, creed, disability, use of a service animal, or veteran or military status.

What is discriminatory harassment?

Discriminatory harassment can include teasing and name-calling; graphic and written statements; or other conduct that may be physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Discriminatory harassment happens when the conduct is based on a student’s protected class and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when conduct is so severe, pervasive, or persistent that it limits a student’s ability to participate in, or benefit from, the school’s services, activities, or opportunities.

To review the district’s Nondiscrimination Policy (3210) and Procedure (3210P), visit bellinghamschools.org/hib.

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct or communication that is sexual in nature and substantially interferes with a student’s educational performance or creates an intimidating or hostile environment. Sexual harassment can also occur when a student is led to believe they must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or communication to gain something in return, such as a grade or a place on a sports team.

Examples of sexual harassment can include pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors; unwelcome touching of a sexual nature; graphic or written statements of a sexual nature; distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures; making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks; and physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.

Our schools do not discriminate based on sex and prohibit sex discrimination in all of our education programs and employment, as required by Title IX and state law.

To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy (3205) and Procedure (3205P), visit bellinghamschools.org/titleix.

What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?

When a school becomes aware of possible discriminatory or sexual harassment, it must investigate and stop the harassment. The school must address any effects the harassment had on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and make sure that the harassment does not happen again.

What can I do if I’m concerned about discrimination or harassment?

Talk to a Coordinator or submit a written complaint. You may contact the following school district staff members to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns.

Concerns about discrimination:

Civil Rights Coordinator: Matthew Whitten, Matthew.Whitten@bellinghamschools.org, 360-647-6811.

Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment:

Title IX Coordinator: Laura Cardinal, 360-676-6455 x6532, laura.cardinal@bellinghamschools.org

Concerns about disability discrimination:

Section 504 Coordinator: Katie Jones, 360-676-6532, Katie.Jones@bellinghamschools.org

Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity:

Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Janis Velasquez Farmer, 360-676-6532, janis.velasquezfarmer@bellinghamschools.org

Concerns about harassment, intimidation and bullying(HIB):

Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB) Compliance Officer: Marty Atkins, Martin.Atkins@bellinghamschools.org, 360-676-532.

To submit a written complaint, describe the conduct or incident that may be discriminatory and send it by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery to the school principal, district superintendent, or civil rights coordinator. Submit the complaint as soon as possible for a prompt investigation, and within one year of the conduct or incident.

What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?

The Civil Rights Coordinator will give you a copy of the school district’s discrimination complaint procedure. The Civil Rights Coordinator must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that require a longer investigation, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing with the anticipated date for their response.

When the investigation is complete, the school district superintendent or the staff member leading the investigation will send you a written response. This response will include:

• A summary of the results of the investigation
• A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws
• Any corrective measures or remedies needed
• Notice about how you can appeal the decision

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

If you do not agree with the outcome of your complaint, you may appeal the decision to the superintendent or designee and then to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). More information about this process, including important timelines, is included in the district’s Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and Sexual Harassment Procedure (3205P).

I already submitted an HIB complaint - what will my school do?

Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) can also be discrimination if it’s related to a protected class. If you give your school a written report of HIB that involves discrimination or sexual harassment, your school will notify the Civil Rights Coordinator. The school district will investigate the complaint using both the Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and the HIB Procedure (3207P) to fully resolve your complaint.

Who else can help with HIB or discrimination concerns?

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)

All reports must start locally at the school or district level. However, OSPI can assist students, families, communities, and school staff with questions about state law, the HIB complaint process, and the discrimination and sexual harassment complaint processes.

OSPI School Safety Center (For questions about harassment, intimidation, and bullying)

Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/health-safety/school-safety-center

Email: schoolsafety@k12.wa.us

Phone: 360-725-6068

OSPI Equity and Civil Rights Office (For questions about discrimination and sexual harassment)

Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/policy-funding/equity-and-civil-rights

Email: equity@k12.wa.us

Phone: 360-725-6162

Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO)

The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds works with families, communities, and schools to address problems together so every student can fully participate and thrive in Washington’s K- 12 public schools. OEO provides informal conflict resolution tools, coaching, facilitation, and training about family, community engagement, and systems advocacy.

Website: www.oeo.wa.gov

Email: oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov

Phone: 1-866-297-2597

U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR)

The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces federal nondiscrimination laws in public schools, including those that prohibit discrimination based on sex, race, color, national origin, disability, and age. OCR also has a discrimination complaint process.

Website: ed.gov/about/ed-offices/ocr

Email: orc@ed.gov

Phone: 800-421-3481

Federal Public Law, Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) requires that disabled children in the Bellingham School District, ages birth to 21, be identified, located and evaluated.

The district participates in Child Find activities to locate, evaluate, identify and support children ages birth through 21 who reside within district boundaries and are not currently receiving Special Education or related services. Families who are concerned that their child may be delayed in any area for which they may need Special Education services should call the principal at their neighborhood school or Special Education at (360) 676-6458.

The district provides a full continuum of program options at no charge for eligible students in its jurisdiction, regardless of the nature or severity of the child's disability. students receiving Special Education services are educated with students in the general education curriculum to the fullest extent possible or feasible.

Section 504:

Students who have a disability or a suspected disability within the definition of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 are identified, evaluated and provided with appropriate services. Students may be disabled under this section even though they do not require services pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Please call student services at (360) 676-2787 for more information.

Notification of Student Rights and Responsibilities

Please see the online policy and procedure 3241/3241P related to students rights and responsibilities at bellinghamschools.org/policies-and-procedures. Printed copies available upon request.

Student Rights

Students are entitled to express their opinions verbally, symbolically and in writing. Student expression may not contain language or ideas that one could reasonably assume will create hostility, violence or unlawful behavior; be libelous, slanderous, profane, vulgar or obscene; or materially or substantially interfere with the educational process. Student organizations are limited to students enrolled at school and are encouraged if they are consistent with the district’s instructional program and have the principal’s approval.

School administrators determine the time and place of peaceful assembly on school grounds. Demonstrations that interfere with school or classroom operations are prohibited. Class attendance takes precedence over freedom to assemble.

Commercial solicitation is not allowed unless authorized by the deputy superintendent or a principal. Distribution of unlawful materials on school property is prohibited.

Students may be subject to discipline, suspension or expulsion/emergency expulsion for violating district/school policies and rules. Procedures for appealing these actions are in policy and procedure 3241/3241P and Washington Administrative Code 392-400-205 through 315. Student discipline will be administered fairly and equitably, and aligned with due process rights.

Student Privacy

Students are free from searches of clothing and personal property by school officials unless there are reasonable grounds to believe that the search is necessary to maintain a safe and orderly school and school discipline. Student lockers, desks and other storage areas, both physical and digital, are district property and school officials retain the right to inspect these areas assigned to students. No right or expectation of privacy exists for any student concerning these areas, which may be inspected or searched by school authorities at any time without prior notice and without reasonable suspicion that the search will yield evidence of a student’s violation of the law or a school rule.

Any container(s) found as a result may be searched if there is reasonable suspicion that they contain evidence of a student’s violation of the law or school rules. Such searches should take place in the presence of the student. The methods used must be reasonably related to the objectives of the search and not be excessively intrusive for the age and gender of the student, and the nature of the suspected infraction. School authorities may seize illegal items or possessions reasonably determined as a safety threat. Items that are used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process may be temporarily removed from student possession. These procedures are in accordance with state laws RCW 28A.600.230 and RCW 9.41.280.

At times, students may be asked to complete surveys or questionnaires to improve the operation or effectiveness of our district. All such surveys are anonymous and/or confidential. Parents/guardians will be notified if surveys contain sensitive questions or when a personal interview is included. In such cases, parents/guardians or student (if 18 or older) may decline participation.

All Bellingham students are provided access to computer systems, email, and filtered internet for educational purposes. Supported by technology levies, middle and high school students will receive an individual computer for their use as part of a 1:1 student technology program. These resources are essential tools for student learning, research and curriculum access. To use these resources, all students must:

• Follow school rules for behavior online;
• Comply with policy 2022/2022P;
• Follow rules in your school handbook;
• Obtain parent permission for access;
• Participate in periodic internet safety and digital citizenship trainings.

Computer, local and cloud file storage, email resources, networks and activity logs are district property and carry no expectation of privacy. District staff audit and maintain these resources to ensure system integrity and confirm resources are used legally, ethically and responsibly.

Internet filtering ensures that devices are filtered appropriately for students on any network. For details on specific categories of internet filtering, please visit bellinghamschools.org/educational-technology.

Middle and high school teachers may use a program called ClassPolicy to monitor student laptop use in class and to launch or restrict specific programs and websites. Parents have access to a similar program called apParent online which allows for screen locking, accessing web history, or viewing a time-lapse video of student laptop use outside of school hours. For more information please visit www.apparent.online/bellinghamsd.

Student email: Students in grades 3-12 are provided a district email address. Students in grades 3-7 are only allowed to receive or send emails to students or staff with district accounts. Students in grades 8-12 may use this email account outside the district unless parent/guardians opt them out.

Parents/guardians may choose to restrict their children’s use of network resources by signing an opt-out form available at your school.

For more information about our educational technology programs, and to access frequently asked questions about the 1:1 program, please visit bellinghamschools.org/educational-technology.

Title I, Part A is a federal program designed “To provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education, and to close educational achievement gaps.”

Trained teachers, instructional assistants and professional development materials are provided by Title I funds to qualifying schools. Based on their needs, children receive instruction to accelerate their learning. Families at Title I schools are invited to participate in the planning and evaluation of the program. Schools that receive Title I funds are Alderwood, Birchwood, Cordata and Roosevelt elementary schools, Shuksan Middle School and Options High School. Parents/guardians may request the qualification of their child’s teacher.

Learn more at our Title I program webpage.

In compliance with state law, Bellingham Public Schools policy prohibits smoking or any other use of tobacco products and delivery services on all school property. The public is asked to remember that the tobacco products and delivery services ban includes all buildings and grounds and is 24 hours a day. Also in compliance with state law and district policy, all school buildings, grounds and buses are drug-free and gun-free zones. Vaping and e-cigarettes are also prohibited on school grounds.

We provide transportation to and from school to eligible riders. Bus stop locations and times are maintained on our transportation webpage and available to families in August. Specialized transportation is communicated directly with families.

We follow our school and district discipline processes if a student's behavior affects anyone's safety on the bus. Video/audio monitoring systems are sometimes used to assist drivers with behavior management, allowing them to focus on their primary task of safe driving.

Washington state law prohibits the transport of items in the passenger bus area that may be hazardous in the event of an accident or emergency stop. Visit the transportation webpage to see what can be brought on a bus.

Families whose addresses are inside the walk area for their school can find information about walk and bike routes at their school website.

Please contact transportation at 360-676-6546 with any questions.

We request that all visitors check in at school offices and follow procedures. Guidelines for visits to schools are available at our schools and are listed in policy 4200/4200P.

Volunteers provide key support to our schools and students. All volunteers must complete an application which includes a disclosure statement, review of policies and procedures, and picture identification. This information is used to perform a background check through Washington State Patrol, a requirement for district volunteers.

Volunteer applications are available online at bellinghamschools.org/volunteer. Once approved, volunteer status is valid for two academic years. If you have questions or require assistance, please contact bps.volunteers@bellinghamschools.org.

The Washington State Office of Education Ombuds (OEO) listens, shares information and referrals, and works with families, communities, and schools to address concerns so that every student can fully participate and thrive in our state’s public schools. OEO provides support in multiple languages and has telephone interpretation available. To get help or learn more about what OEO does, please visit our website: https://www.oeo.wa.gov/en; email oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov, or call:  1-866-297-2597 (interpretation available).

The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO) is an independent state agency that helps to reduce educational opportunity gaps by supporting families, students, educators, and other stakeholders in communities across WA in understanding the K-12 school system and resolving concerns collaboratively. OEO services are free and confidential. Anyone can contact OEO with a question or concern about K-12 public schools.