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.

The information below are state notices with local Bellingham Public Schools contact information and related policy and procedure for: Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB), Discriminatory Harassment, Sexual Harassment, and Gender Inclusive Schools.

For additional, Bellingham Public Schools specific information, visit bellinghamschools.org/safety.

 

---

 

Our School Protects Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)

We strive to make our school a safe and inclusive environment 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 explains what HIB is, what to do when you see or experience it, and how our school responds to it.

What is HIB?

State law (RCW 28A.600.477(5)(b)(i)) defines HIB 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 status) 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 often involves one student having, or appearing to have, more power than another student. While HIB often appears as repeated behaviors, it is important to take single serious incidents seriously. It usually happens more than once or is very likely to happen again. HIB is against the law in our schools.

HIB policy only applies to actions between students. It does not cover harassment, intimidation, or bullying of an employee, volunteer, parent/legal guardian, or community member.

How can I make a report about HIB?

Talk to any school staff member, start with whoever you feel most comfortable with, such as a teacher, counselor, coach, or other school staff. You can report HIB by telling school staff in person or in writing (written reports can be made in your home language; please ask your school or district for support with translation). You can make your report anonymously/without giving your name or confidentially (asking that your name not be shared with other students or parents/caregivers involved). No student will be disciplined based only on an anonymous or confidential report.

If a staff member learns about, sees, or hears HIB happening, they must act quickly to stop the behavior(s) and keep it or them from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer (Katie Jones, katie.jones@bellinghamschools.org, Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB) Compliance Officer) who helps prevent and respond to HIB.

What happens after I make a report about HIB?

When you report HIB, school staff must act quickly to stop the behavior and prevent it from happening again. If you and the school agree the problem is resolved, then no further action may be needed. But, if you feel that you or someone you know is facing HIB that is unresolved, severe, or keeps happening, you should ask for an official HIB investigation by completing an Incident Reporting Form.

The school must also make sure that students who report HIB are not treated badly for speaking up. This is called retaliation, and it is not allowed.

What is the investigation process?

The HIB investigation begins if you submit the HIB Incident Report Form, and the incident meets the definition of HIB toward a student. When you submit the Incident Reporting Form, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved that a complaint was received. They must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation is usually finished within five school days. If it takes longer, the school will keep you updated, generally once a week, until it is done.

When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must share the results with you within two school days.

This response should include:

• A summary of what the investigation found
• A decision about whether the HIB was substantiated (found to have happened)
• Any steps the school will take to address the problem
• Clear information about how you can appeal the decision

If HIB is confirmed, the school will address it.

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

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

If you disagree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal. To appeal, send a written request asking the superintendent (or the person they've assigned) to review the investigation. They will send you a written decision.

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

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

What information may I have about other students?

Student privacy laws limit what the school can tell you about any intervention or discipline given to another student. You will be told whether HIB was found to have happened and that steps were taken, even if the details of those steps impacting all students involved cannot be shared.

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].

How do I make a HIB complaint about a staff member?

This process is for concerns about one student harassing, intimidating, or bullying another student. If your concern is about a staff member's behavior, ask your school for information on how to report it.

 

---

 

Our School Stands Against Discrimination

Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because of a protected status, including their race, ethnicity, color, national origin, immigration or citizenship status, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, homelessness, religion, creed, disability, neurodivergence, 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 behavior that is threatening, harmful, or humiliating. It happens when the behavior is based on a student’s protected status and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when behavior 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 3210.

 

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is unwelcome behavior or communication that is sexual in nature and seriously 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 accept unwelcome sexual behavior or communication to receive something in return, such as a better grade or a place on a sports team.

Examples of sexual harassment include:

• Pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors.
• Unwelcome sexual touching.
• Written, graphic, or electronic messages that are sexual in nature.
• Sharing sexually explicit texts, emails, or pictures.
• Making sexual jokes, spreading sexual rumors, or making suggestive comments.
• Physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.

Our district does not discriminate based on sex. We prohibit sex discrimination in all education programs, activities, and employment, as required by Title IX and state law.

Review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy 3205 (students) and Procedure 3205 (students).

What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?

When a school learns about possible discriminatory harassment or sexual harassment, it must investigate and take steps to stop the unwanted behavior. The school must address any effects of the harassment on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and prevent the harassment from happening 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 to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns. If English isn’t your first language, you can request an interpreter or prepare the complaint in your language. If you have a disability and need accommodations to make a complaint, let the school know your disability needs.

Concerns about discrimination

• Janis Velasquez Farmer, Civil Rights and Gender Inclusive Coordinator, Janis.VelasquezFarmer@bellinghamschools.org

Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment:

• Laura Cardinal, Title IX Coordinator, Laura.Cardinal@bellinghamschools.org

Concerns about disability discrimination:

• Marty Atkins, Section 504/ADA Coordinator, martin.atkins@bellinghamschools.org

Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity:

• Janis Velasquez Farmer, Civil Rights and Gender Inclusive Coordinator, Janis.VelasquezFarmer@bellinghamschools.org

Concerns about Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB)

• Katie Jones, Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) Coordinator, katie.jones@bellinghamschools.org

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

To submit a written complaint, describe the behavior or incident that you believe may be discriminatory. 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 so the school district can investigate it promptly. You must submit your complaint within one year of the behavior 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 will make sure your complaint is investigated promptly and thoroughly. The investigation will be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If exceptional circumstances require more time, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing and tell you the expected date for the response.

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

• A summary of the investigation results.
• A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws.
• Any corrective actions or remedies that are needed.
• Information about how to appeal the decision.

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

If you disagree with the decision about your complaint, you may appeal the decision to Superintendent Greg Baker and then to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). You may then file a complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). For more information about this process, including important deadlines, see the school 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 be discrimination if it is based on a protected status. If you give your school a written report of HIB that involves discrimination or sexual harassment, your school will notify the Civil Rights or Title IX Coordinator. The school district will investigate the complaint using both the Nondiscrimination Procedure 3210 and the HIB Procedure 3207P to fully address your concerns.

 

---

Our School is Gender-Inclusive

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, whether or not they have legally changed their name.
• Update students’ gender designation so they accurately reflected in school records.
• Provide students with access to restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity.
• Ensure students can participate in sports, physical education classes, field trips, and overnight trips consistent with their gender identity.
• Keep students’ health and education information private and confidential.
• Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and enforce dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender.
• Create an inclusive, respectful environment and protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity.

Review the district’s Gender-Inclusive Schools Policy 3211 and Procedure 3211P. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Janis Velasquez Farmer, Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, at Janis.VelasquezFarmer@bellinghamschools.org.

For concerns about discrimination or discriminatory harassment based on gender identity or gender expression, please see the information above.

 

---

 

Our School is Committed to Students and State Law  

Students have the right to learn in schools that follow state law and protect their rights. Willful noncompliance happens when a school district leader or school board member does something—or fails to do something—that they knew, or reasonably should have known, would violate state law. Under ESHB 1296, OSPI is responsible for investigating complaints about willful noncompliance and working to find fair solutions. 

These laws include requirements related to:

• Civil rights and nondiscrimination (RCWs 28A.640 and 28A.642)
• Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (RCW 28A.600.477)
• Curriculum requirements and instructional materials policies (RCWs 28A.150.230, 28A.300.475, 28A.320.170, 28A.320.230, and 28A.320.235)
• Use of restraint or isolation (RCW 28A.600.485)
• Student discipline (chapter 28A.600 RCW)

How do I make a complaint about willful noncompliance with state law?  

You must first use available complaint processes to try to resolve your concern. This means the available complaint processes start with your school district, even if the school district superintendent or a school board member is the subject of your complaints. School personnel are not allowed to retaliate for making a formal complaint.

If no available complaint processes are available, you must check OSPI's website for other OSPI complaint procedures at How to File a Complaint, and follow any applicable processes. If none exist, or you have completed all other processes, you must send written notice to the district superintendent at least 30 calendar days before filing a complaint with OSPI.

Complaints to OSPI must be submitted within 30 calendar days after a final decision in the local complaint process, when one applies. The complaint must be in writing and include enough information to describe the concern and the actions or failures to act that may be willful noncompliance. You may send the complaint by mail, email, or hand delivery to OSPI.

When OSPI receives a complaint that meets the requirements for investigation, it will open an investigation. OSPI will send you written notice of the allegations under investigation. After the investigation is complete, OSPI will issue written findings to you and your school. These findings will state whether noncompliance occurred and may require the school to take actions to fix the issue.

Who else can help with HIB, Discrimination, or Willful Noncompliance Concerns?

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)

All reports must start locally at the school or district level, even if the complaint involves the school or school district. School personnel should not retaliate against students or families for making a formal complaint.

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, as well as complaints alleging willful noncompliance with state law under ESHB 1296. 

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

OSPI Office of Legal Affairs (For more details on the willful noncompliance complaint process)

• Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/educator-support/educator-conduct/state-law-noncompliance-complaints
• Email: OLA@k12.wa.us

 

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

The Washington State Office of the Education Ombuds works with families, communities, and schools to help solve problems so every student can fully participate and thrive in Washington’s K-12 public schools. OEO provides informal conflict resolution, coaching, facilitation, and training on family and 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: www.ed.gov/
• Email: ocr@ed.gov
• Phone: 800-421-3481

 

---

 

Our School is Committed to Safety at School Activities and Events

Washington State wants school activities and events, like athletic competitions, performances, and other extracurricular activities, to be safe for everyone who takes part in them or watches them.

What does state law say? 

Washington State law has long banned intimidation, force, and threats of violence at school events. ESB 5272 (which takes effect in 2026) made those protections stronger. It now also covers officials and volunteers at extracurricular athletic activities, and it has created new consequences for breaking the law. For non-students, if they are convicted of a crime, they may be banned from school activities for up to 18 months, receive a fine, or go to jail for no more than 6 months. For students, other school consequences, including removal from school, may also apply under RCW 28A.600.015.

How is this different from HIB? 

This is different from our school's HIB policy, which deals with conduct between students through a school process. ESB 5272 covers more people and more situations and is enforced through criminal law and school discipline procedures instead of the school's HIB process.

The expectations in this section are broader. They apply to everyone at school activities — students, parents, and community members alike — and they cover behavior toward everyone involved, not just students. This section and the HIB section work together but cover different situations.

What should I do if I experience or witness this conduct?

• Call 911 if there is an immediate safety concern
• Report to a coach, event supervisor, school administrator, or other trusted adult as soon as possible. They can connect you with the right support and make sure the right steps are taken
• If a student was the target of the conduct, you may also be able to file a report under our school’s HIB policy — see the HIB section of this handbook for more information

Who can I contact with questions?

For questions about safety at school events, contact your school principal or visit our safety web page and view contact information at bellinghamschools.org/safety.

For questions about whether conduct student-to-student may also be HIB, contact the HIB Compliance Officer: (Katie Jones, katie.jones@bellinghamschools.org,

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Statement of Student Rights

Public school students are the beneficiaries of the foundational principles of individual liberty and equality, as established in the Declaration of Independence, and are entitled to numerous rights and protections under the Constitution of the United States, the Constitution of the state of Washington, and federal and state laws and regulations.
 
These rights and protections include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. The right to access an amply funded program of basic  education, established pursuant to Article IX of the Constitution of the state of Washington, that provides an opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to meet state-established graduation requirements, which are intended to provide students with the opportunity to graduate with a meaningful diploma that prepares them for postsecondary education, gainful employment, and citizenship as established in RCW 28A.150.200; 

2. The right to learn in a safe, supportive learning environment, free from harassment, intimidation, or bullying and the right to file a complaint under RCW 28A.600.477 if they are subject to this behavior;  
3. The right to access an academic environment free of discrimination according to the provisions established in chapters 28A.640, 28A.642, and 49.60 RCW;  
4. The right to exercise constitutionally protected freedoms as established in the United States and Washington state Constitutions and as further interpreted in applicable case law including, but not limited to, the freedoms of speech, assembly, and exercise of religion;  
5. The right, in accordance with RCW 28A.300.286 and 28A.600.010, to receive copies of all school policies and procedures related to students including, but not limited to: Student conduct; rules; antiharassment, intimidation, and bullying rules; discipline rules and rules related to due process rights for disciplinary actions; and the opportunity to receive educational services;  
6. The right of students with qualifying disabilities to receive special education and related services that address their individual needs in accordance with federal law and chapter 28A.155 RCW;  
7. The right of youth to access education programs while residing in institutional education facilities, including adult correctional facilities, in accordance with RCW 28A.150.200 and chapters 28A.190 and 28A.193 RCW;  
8. The right of qualified students to use education facilities and services established under chapter 72.40 RCW and funded for the benefit of persons who are deaf, blind, or both; and   
9. The right to access academic courses and instructional materials with historically and scientifically accurate information that includes the histories, contributions, and perspectives of historically marginalized and underrepresented groups in accordance with RCW 28A.345.130.  

The rights identified in this section are not intended to be a comprehensive delineation of student rights, the manner in which they are derived, or the associated legal limits, nor is this section intended to have any application to rights established in other titles or in other provisions of state and federal law.

House Bill 1296 (2025)

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.