Oak Hill SH PDF
Oak Hill SH PDF
Oak Hill SH PDF
Student Handbook
2018-19
www.isd742.org
Welcome to Oak Hill Community School!
Thank you for choosing St. Cloud Area School District 742 and Oak Hill. We are proud of our outstanding
staff and high academic standards, and we look forward to working with you to provide your child with an
exceptional educational experience.
We believe each student's potential is best realized within a safe, supportive, and positive learning
environment. We recognize that the rights of all students must be respected. We believe that along with
these rights, there is a corresponding responsibility for students to follow school behavioral expectations.
We acknowledge the right of parents/guardians to be responsible for their children – to guide and
encourage them so they will conduct themselves in a respectful and appropriate manner at school. We
invite parents/guardians to become active members of our school community.
This handbook is designed to provide important information to you and your student and provide standards
for our students and school community. Items are listed in alphabetical order for your convenience.
Student Day
The Oak Hill student day begins at 7:35. The dismissal process begins at 2:05 with buses departures
beginning at approximately 2:10. Our school will open Door 1 starting at 7:00 for those wishing to
drop their child off early. Students will go to the lunchroom and will be supervised by adults. Students
are then welcomed to their classrooms at 7:20 a.m.
If students are to go home with another child, please send a note to the teacher. If change for your child
occurs during the day, please communicate all changes of end of the day routine to the office by 1:00. We
will then get the information to your child’s teacher.
Classroom teachers will teach these school rules & expand on them to meet the individual needs of their
classrooms. Copies of these rules/expectations will be sent home to parents early in the school year.
In order to support a safe setting, the following will occur for minor rule violations. Minor rule violations are
behaviors that do not require administrative involvement, do not significantly violate rights of others, do not
put others at risk or harm, or are not chronic. For minor rule violations, the following will occur:
For major rule violations, which are behaviors that require administrative involvement, significantly violate
rights of others, put others at risk or harm, or are chronic, the following may occur:
We are pleased that all District 742 school buildings will have a Student Support Room. This room will be
staffed by a Behavior Resource Specialist and Behavior Support Specialists. These staff members will also
be involved in working proactively with students in reteaching our behavior matrix and setting up plans for
students to be successful in the classroom.
Our Mission is to create a safe and caring climate and culture in which we prepare, engage,
educate, empower, and inspire all learners in partnership with their surrounding community to
be successful in today’s and tomorrow’s society.
We believe that…
● Everyone deserves equitable access to the highest quality of learning to maximize
individual potential.
● Multiple and differing perspectives contribute to informed decision making and learning.
● We all benefit when communities work together toward common goals.
● Lifelong learning is essential for individuals to shape and thrive in our global society.
● The greatest level of individual success is achieved through shared ownership by the
individual, families, schools and our communities.
This handbook is meant to serve as a guide for students and families. Not every circumstance
or event can be anticipated; therefore, students are subject to all district rules and policies and
the interpretation by school officials thereof.
A copy of all St. Cloud Area Schools District 742 Board Policies is available on the District’s
Website at www.isd742.org. Please see your student’s administrator if you have any questions
about the district or our policies.
GENERAL STUDENT INFORMATION
ATTENDANCE
Regular attendance is directly related to successful academic achievement and consistent
school attendance is the way a student develops responsibility and self-discipline. For this
reason, student absence from school should be limited to those instances in which absence is
genuinely unavoidable. Please make every attempt to make medical and dental appointments
after school hours or during vacation days. If it is necessary to take a child out of school,
parents will be required to sign an early release in the office. The State of Minnesota requires
that every child entering Kindergarten this school year must graduate from high school or
remain in high school or in an alternative program until age 18. Only those who have been
accepted into the military or at an institution of higher learning can leave school before they are
18 years old.
Because attendance records are an important part of your child’s permanent school file,
St. Cloud Area School District 742 Policy requires parents/guardians to call the school office
when their student will be absent or arrive late AND to state the reason for the absence or late
arrival. Students who arrive late should report to the office before going to their classrooms.
Families must also contact the school principal prior to a student leaving on extended family
trips or vacations during days in which school is in session.
Students will be dismissed only from the designated area during the school day. If you must
take your child out of school, a written request should be sent to the building principal with the
date and time of dismissal. Please come to the office to meet your child. Children will not be
released to waiting cars or to anyone who cannot identify themselves to the satisfaction of
school personnel.
Absences – Excused
An excused absence is a legal absence from school and requires parent/guardian verification
and permission from school staff. The following are situations that constitute an excused
absence:
● Student illness
● Serious illness or death in the student’s family
● A death or funeral in the student’s immediate family
● Medical, dental or orthodontic treatment, or counseling appointments
● Court appearances
● Recognized religious holiday observance
● Religious instruction (not to exceed 3 hours/week)
● Vacation with prior school approval
● Impassable roads/inclement weather
● Dismissal of a student pursuant to a suspension. Suspensions are to be handled as
excused absences and students will be permitted to complete make up work
● Family emergencies
● Tournament play when the school is involved
● A student’s condition that requires ongoing treatment for a mental health diagnosis
● In the case of special circumstances, the Administration may approve additional excused
absences
After 15 days of excused absences, a physician’s note may be required for subsequent
absences. Failure to provide a doctor’s note will result in the absence marked as
unexcused.
Absences - Reporting
Parents are expected to call before 9:00 a.m. on the day of their child’s absence. Attendance
line or voicemail is available 24 hours a day.
Absences - Truancy
The State of Minnesota requires all students under the age of 18 to attend school. Excessive
truancies (more than seven) will be reported to the County Attorney who will refer the case to
Court Services for possible legal action.
Minnesota Statute allows the courts to utilize the following consequences for students referred
for truancy: monetary fines, community service hours, and/or placement outside the home.
Other consequences may be applied as deemed appropriate by an administrator and detailed in
the Code of Conduct.
Absences – Unexcused
Unexcused absences are recorded when:
the school has not been notified of an absence, or an absence could have been avoided or
delayed, or prior arrangements and/or approval have not been made through the Principal’s
Office.
Minnesota State Law concerning educational neglect states that parents or guardians of a child
under 12 years of age are held accountable for any unexcused absences. Every student,
regardless of age enrolled in school, must follow the Compulsory Attendance law.
Consequences of unexcused absences are as follows:
● After 3 unexcused absences – parents notified by letter.
● After 5 unexcused absences – second letter sent to parents and County Attorney’s
Office notified.
● After 7 unexcused absences – school administration requests to file a
truancy/educational neglect petition with the County Attorney.
Talent Development: St. Cloud Area School District 742 provides Talent Development
programming in fulfillment of our District Mission and core belief that everyone deserves
equitable access to the highest quality of learning to maximize individual potential. Talent
Development programming is an equitable access, needs-oriented program for students who
have demonstrated high achievement or the potential for high achievement.
ACCIDENTS
All accidents, no matter how minor, must be reported to Health Services or to the Main Office.
An Accident Report form should be completed at that time. This information is required for
insurance claims.
ALARMS/SAFETY PROTOCOLS
Our schools teach students safety protocols and how to respond when alarms sound. We
practice responses throughout the year. Failure to follow protocols may result in disciplinary
action.
Active Threat
Students and staff follow active threat procedures as taught and practiced. Responses include
evacuation, lockdown or counter measures.
Containment/Shelter in Place
Normal delivery of instruction occurs and all students remain in the classrooms. Those needing
to leave the classroom for emergency purposes and all visitors are provided with escorts
throughout the building.
Fire
Everyone is to leave the building when an alarm is sounded; persons failing to do so will face
disciplinary and/or legal action. Any student tampering with a fire detection device will be
suspended and will be subject to prosecution by the proper authorities.
Severe Weather
Students and staff follow the evacuation route posted and follow take cover procedures.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
A concerted attempt will be made to make announcements in multiple formats which may
include oral or printed and may be provided through multiple electronic formats in order to help
students and families to be advised of all school related opportunities. Announcements include
items of interest and importance to students.
State Testing
The State testing for the 2018-2019 school year will be held during the following time frames:
January 28 - March 8: ACCESS for English Learners, Grades K-12
April 2 - May 3: Testing for MTAS (MN Test of Academic Skills), individually administered to
students who qualify
April 2 - May 3: Testing for MCA Reading & Math, Grades 3-11a
May 7 - May 10: Testing for MCA Science, Grades 5, 8
April 30 - May 10: Testing for MCA Science: High Schoolb
aThis testing window may change to end one week later depending on the results of a
St. Cloud Area School District 742 endeavors to maintain learning and working environments
that are free of bullying. Bullying is prohibited on school grounds, at school-sponsored
activities, on school busses and school bus stops.
Bullying Defined
Bullying includes intimidating, threatening, abusing, or harming conduct that is objectively
offensive and: (1) there is an actual or perceived imbalance of power between the student
engaging in prohibited conduct and the target of the behavior and the conduct is repeated or
forms a pattern; or (2) materially and substantially interferes with a student's educational
opportunities or performance or ability to participate in school functions or activities or receive
school benefits, services, or privileges.
Reporting Procedures
Victims: All students who believe they have been the victims of bullying shall promptly report
the bullying to a school staff member. Apparent permission or consent by a student being
bullied does not lessen the prohibitions contained in this policy.
Families: All parents who become aware of any bullying are encouraged to report the bullying
to a building administrator or designee. This would include parents of victims, perpetrators or
bystanders.
Witnesses: All students who witness bullying shall immediately report the bullying to a school
staff member. Any school staff who witness bullying shall immediately intervene and take
appropriate action to stop the bullying.
Staff: A teacher, volunteer, educational contractor, or other school employee shall be
particularly alert to possible situations, circumstances, or events that might include bullying.
Any such person who receives a report of, observes, or has other knowledge or belief of
conduct that may constitute bullying shall inform the building principal or designee immediately
for appropriate action.
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Administrators: A principal or designee who observes bullying or receives a verbal report of
bullying shall document and promptly investigate the matter. When possible administrators
shall seek to discuss bullying with the victim in a place where the victim feels secure. The initial
discussion with the victim shall not take place in the presence of the offending student(s). If
more than one student is involved in perpetrating the bullying, the administrator shall talk to
each of the offending student(s) separately. After the investigation has been completed, the
building principal shall take appropriate action consistent with the bullying policy.
Data Privacy Act: Reports of bullying are classified as private educational and/or personnel
data and/or confidential investigative data and will not be disclosed except as permitted by law.
BUS RIDERSHIP
Elementary students who live more than one mile from school are eligible for regular
transportation service to and from school. School bus transportation may also be provided for
students who may have to cross heavily traveled roads or encounter other hazardous
boundaries as determined by the Transportation Advisory Committee.
For the safety of all children, bus drivers cannot honor student/family requests for students to
ride buses other than their assigned buses. If your child does not arrive home on the bus as
expected, please call the Transportation Department immediately at (320) 253-9370.
Riding the bus is a privilege not a right. Students who jeopardize the safety of themselves or
other passengers may lose their riding privileges. All students in grades Pre K-10 are provided
with the ridership rules and a comprehensive school bus safety training curriculum during the
first few weeks of school. A copy of these rules and expectations are also sent home with
students in the fall of each year in the bus ridership booklet.
Please contact the Transportation Department at (320) 253-9370 with your questions and
concerns about your child’s transportation services.
C.A.A.P.
A Community Accountability And Prevention Intervention may be available to students in grades
5-10 as an alternative to suspension. Principals/Assistant Principals may assign a student to
CAAP for 1-3 days. The CAAP program is operated by St. Cloud Area School District 742 staff.
CAFETERIA
Your cooperation and your thoughtful consideration for other students are expected and
appreciated.
● All lunches must be eaten in the cafeteria/commons unless special permission is given.
● Students are to conduct themselves in a manner that meets school wide expectations in
the lunch lines and while eating.
● Students are responsible for the cleanliness of the table where they eat and for the
surrounding area.
● Trays, silverware and other eating items should be returned to the dishwashing area
after use. Garbage and recycling should be brought to the designated bins.
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CAMERAS
Use of any photographic device that infringes upon the rights of others is strictly prohibited.
Misuse of any such device in a school locker room, bathroom, bus or other school property in a
way that violates the personal privacy of the individual may result in school discipline.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
School district personnel are responsible for reporting communicable diseases to the County
Health Department. Pupils who are suspected of having a communicable disease may be sent
home after the families have been notified. If a child becomes ill or is seriously injured at
school, the school will notify parents or legal guardians by telephone. If the school is unable to
reach the parents or legal guardians, the person listed as the emergency contact may be called
and requested to pick up the child. In cases when the school is unable to contact the parents,
legal guardians, or alternate contact person, and the situation appears to be one in which the
child requires emergency medical attention, 911 will be called.
COMMUNICATION - SKYWARD
St. Cloud Area School District 742 uses Skyward, a student information management system for
communication and reporting of grades and attendance. Parents can access this site by going
to www.isd742.org and clicking on “Families” then “Skyward Family Access.” The site requires
a user name (the first 5 letters of the last name, followed by the first 3 letters of the first name,
followed by 3 zeros). An individually identified password will then be required. You can also get
access to Skyward by contacting your school’s secretary.
CONCUSSIONS
If you have suffered a concussion, you must remember to report this to your school nurse to
ensure concussion protocol is being followed. The school nurse will notify appropriate staff to
ensure appropriate accommodations are made.
COUNSELING
The school counselors provide support to students experiencing academic, safety and socio-
emotional concerns. Students and families are invited to request appointments to visit with the
school counselor as needed.
CYBERBULLYING
Cyberbullying is strictly prohibited. The school staff does not monitor the activities of students
outside of school hours and must rely on family supervision to eliminate all incidents of
cyberbullying. However, those incidents that impact the school environment will be addressed.
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DATA PRIVACY ACT
The school district recognizes its responsibility in regard to the collection, maintenance and
dissemination of student records and the protection of the privacy rights of students as provided
in federal law and state statutes.
DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS
School Board Policy 505 governs the distribution of non-school-sponsored materials on school
premises. Requests for distribution of non-school-sponsored materials will be reviewed by the
administration on a case-by-case basis. Electronic distribution of materials is the preferred
method of distribution. Materials that may create a material or substantial disruption of school
business will not be distributed.
In addition:
● Students must wear non-marking rubber-soled shoes in the gym. Flip-flops are NOT
appropriate footwear for Physical Education classes. Shoes with wheels in the soles
(known as Heelies) are considered unsafe for wear in the school buildings and will not
be allowed.
● Parents, staff and visitors are also expected to follow the St. Cloud Area School District
742 expectations for appropriate school dress and appearance.
DUE PROCESS
Students who are currently identified as having a disability, under IDEA will be subject to the
provisions of IDEA.
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Screening is required for entrance in a Minnesota Public School and is offered
throughout the year by our district. For further information, contact the Welcome Center.
If school is going to start late, close early, or close due to bad weather, notification will be made
through the following communication outlets: www.isd742.org, WJON/WWJO, KNSI/KCLD,
KISS-FM, KKSR, WVAL/WHMH, KASM, KCCO-TV, KRWC, Charter Cable Channel 179,
WCCO, and KARE11 radio.
In addition to these radio and television outlets, weather alerts are announced on the St. Cloud
Times website at www.sctimes.com. You may also tune into the area’s cable education access,
Channel 187, District 742’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/isd742.org, or the St. Cloud
Area School District 742 website at www.isd742.org for up-to-the-minute closing and/or late
start reports. Skylert (School Messenger System) will also be used to send messages to all
families, to announce school closings and late starts due to inclement weather conditions.
FIELD TRIPS
On occasion students will attend educational field trips with his/her classroom. All field trips will
be properly supervised and the classroom teacher will notify parents/guardians prior to any field
trips that students will attend. If you DO NOT want your child to participate in the field trip,
please contact your child’s teacher. All chaperones must have a completed background check.
Volunteer Packets are available at your child’s school or St. Cloud Area School District 742’s
Community Education office.
FOOD
Students may not bring homemade food for distribution nor bring commercial food into the
building during the school day. Any exception must be approved by an administrator.
FOOD ALLERGIES
It is the policy of St. Cloud Area School District 742 to continually work to make all its facilities
clean, healthy environments which are safe, secure and allow students, staff, and visitors to
work and learn.
St. Cloud Area School District 742 hereby adopts and supports a School Food Allergy Policy for
all its facilities. This policy includes all after-school functions.
FREEDOM OF SPEECH
Each student has the right to form, hold, and express opinions and beliefs as long as the
expression does not disrupt the normal operation of the school. Profane, vulgar, racist, or
harassing words by their nature disrupt the educational environment and may not be used.
GRADE REPORTING
Report cards will be sent home with students after the conclusion of each trimester.
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GUM
Gum is not allowed in our buildings. Any exception must be approved by an administrator.
HARASSMENT
Harassment can take many forms and is unwanted behavior that significantly interferes with a
student’s educational life and targets protected class status. Everyone has the right to feel safe.
The district supports all staff and students’ rights to work, learn and grow in a safe, positive
school environment.
Verbal Harassment – Verbal harassment is unwanted verbal comments that make a person
feel embarrassed, threatened or unsafe.
Physical Harassment – Physical harassment is unwanted behavior of a physical nature.
Physical harassment in some cases is against the law and is defined as battery, assault or
disorderly conduct.
The harassment policy is posted in your child’s school or is available from your school’s
principal.
In addition, your school’s principal can also provide you with the following resources:
● Guidelines for Policy Implementation, and
● A Basic Guide for Minnesota St. Cloud Area School District 742 Parents and Students.
(This document is also available in Spanish, Somali, and Vietnamese languages.)
HAZING
“Hazing” means to subject someone to abusive or humiliating tricks or ridicule. Pursuant to MN
Statute 121A.69 and Board Policy 526, “Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the
education goals of St. Cloud Area School District 742 and are prohibited at all times.”
HEALTH RECORDS
Health records are kept for each student according to Minnesota law. Examples of information
include:
● History of past illnesses and operations.
● Dates of immunizations.
● Results of vision and hearing screening.
● Results of professional examinations.
Emergency information for each student must be on file with the school nurse.
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HELP ME GROW PROGRAM
Is there a new baby or a child in your life that you have concerns about? Your concerns may be
related to how a child is walking, talking, acting, playing, growing or behaving. Help Me Grow is
a community resource providing information to families about child development, developmental
delays and community resources for children birth to age seven. There is no cost for the
assistance. For more information contact Quarryview Education Center.
HOMEWORK
Homework assignments will vary, depending on the grade level of students. Families can
encourage good study habits and practices by providing a quiet study area and establishing a
consistent time each night for homework/reading.
ILLNESS/INJURY AT SCHOOL
Many parents are frequently concerned about when students should stay home. The following
recommendations are intended to help with this decision:
● If your child has had a fever (elevated temperature above 99.8), your child should stay
home for 24 hours after the temperature returns to normal
● If your child has vomited or had diarrhea, your child should stay home until 24 hours
after the last episode
● If your child has any rash that may be disease related or you do not know the cause,
check with your family physician before sending your child to school. A physician’s note
should accompany your child upon their return
● If your child shows signs of an eye infection (pink or reddened eyes), keep them home
and please check with your family physician. If medication is prescribed, your child
should stay home for 24 hours after medication is started
● Children placed on antibiotics (strep throat, for instance) should stay home for 24 hours
after medication is started
If you have any questions regarding your child's health, please contact the school nurse.
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Human Bites/Exposure to Body Fluids:
On occasion, episodes of biting occur in the school setting. Because of the potential of
exposure to contagious illnesses, the school plan is to notify the parents of the students
involved. When a biting incident occurs, the school may recommend contacting your child's
physician for his/her input. The potential exists for exposure to blood and body fluids by all
students, and particularly those in contact sports. The school nurse may recommend parents
contact their physician for follow-up care in the event of such exposure.
Fifth Disease:
Fifth Disease is a very common childhood viral illness. Symptoms are a low grade fever and a
very characteristic rash on the cheeks. It looks as if someone slapped the child’s cheeks. A fine,
lacy rash may appear on the arms and legs also. The illness is most contagious before the
onset of the symptoms, and is unlikely to be contagious after the rash appears. If the child does
not have a fever and feels OK, the student may stay in school.
KINDERGARTEN
St. Cloud Area School District 742 provides all-day, every day Kindergarten to each family in
each elementary school. Register your child for Kindergarten at the District Welcome Center. All
registration forms and attendance boundary maps may be found at isd742.org → Families →
For more information about these programs, call the principal of the school where the program
is located or the District School Link Welcome Center.
Chinese Immersion Madison Elementary 320-252-4665
Spanish Immersion Clearview Elementary 320-743-2241
LATEX
St. Cloud Area School District 742 schools are latex safe. Latex balloons, gloves or other items
containing latex are not allowed on St. Cloud Area School District 742 property.
LOCKERS
All students are assigned a locker. A student’s school locker is the property of the St. Cloud
School District 742 and must be used for the following intended purposes: a storage area for
books, school supplies, and outdoor clothing. The cost of repairing any damage to lockers will
be charged to the student. All items must be removed from lockers at the end of the school
year and any items left in lockers at the end of the year may not be returned. The use of a
locker other than the one assigned to the student is prohibited.
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School authorities may conduct periodic general inspections of lockers at any time, without
notice, without student consent and without a search warrant. Any non-school issued or
approved locks will be cut off immediately. This policy also applies to the physical education
lockers and athletic lockers.
LOST/DAMAGED PROPERTY
A fee restitution or community service will be assessed to students/families that reflects the
replacement/repair costs when students:
● damage school property (lockers, desks, chairs, etc.)
● damage/lost texts or library books
● damage personal property of other students/staff
Fees must be paid to the school before the end of the school year. This will be at the discretion
of administration.
Parental discretion is advised when allowing children to bring valuable items to school.
Expensive items such as headsets, handheld electronics, ipods, cell phones, video games, toys,
collective cards, or other valuables should not be brought to school. St. Cloud Area School
District 742 does not carry insurance for such items so please be aware of the risks involved.
MANDATED REPORTING
St. Cloud Area School District 742 school personnel are mandated by law to report suspected
abuse or neglect of children. This includes physical, sexual or emotional abuse. Abuses of
child custody arrangements are also included.
MEALS
The Breakfast/Milk/Lunch Program records are computerized. All students, with the exception of
preschool, are given a PIN number to access their account. All breakfast/milk/lunch money sent
to school is deposited into one account. It is, however, more efficient if breakfast/milk/lunches
are purchased in blocks of one week, two weeks, one month, etc. Lunch accounts must have
positive balances. When an account falls below negative $5.00, your child will be provided with
a sandwich, fruit and milk in place of the hot lunch menu served that day.
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2018-2019 Breakfast/Milk/Lunch Prices:
Meal Type Breakfast Lunch
Families are always welcome to join students for lunch. We ask that you call your child’s school
by 9:00 a.m. of that day to order your lunch.
Treats in School: Food Ordinance 857 requires that food items used in schools need to be
commercially packaged or prepared at the school. Home-prepared food is NOT allowed in
public schools. Please refer to the District’s Wellness Policy for further information.
MEDIA CENTER
Information and resources are available through school media centers.
MEDICATIONS
St. Cloud Area School District 742 employees will administer medication or provide medical
procedures and/or treatments during the instructional day according to Minnesota Statute
121A.22 and 121A.2205. Students may require prescribed medication at school in order to
benefit from their educational experience.
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NOTIFICATION OF STUDENTS WITH VIOLENT BEHAVIOR
Staff have the right to feel safe in the school in which they work. Information regarding students
that have exhibited violent behavior known to the school authorities and/or for which they have
been suspended should be shared with the adults who work with them. This information should
be shared in the following situations:
Incidents of violence means willful conduct in which a student endangers or causes physical
injury to the student, other students, a school district employee, or surrounding person(s) or
endangers or causes significant damage to school district property, regardless of whether
related to a disability or whether discipline was imposed.
School staff working with students may also be notified if a student has been charged for violent
crime committed on school property or in the community.
NUISANCE DEVICES
Because of potential danger or injury to other persons, students are subject to disciplinary
action(s) if they have harmful toys or nuisance devices in their possession while in school.
PARENTAL CUSTODY
Parents sometimes request that one parent or another not be allowed to visit school, talk to their
child/children, or pick their child/children up at school.
In order for St. Cloud Area School District 742 to honor restrictions of this nature, the custodial
parent must present a court order or other legal document to the building principal. In most
cases, such restrictions are set through legal proceedings. The information allows the principal
to respond promptly to your request and be in conformance with the law, while recognizing the
rights of both parents.
PETS
For the safety of all students, pet animals should not be allowed in school. Animals that are part
of the curriculum may be used after approval from the principal to determine if any health
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concerns exist with students in the classroom. Exceptions may be considered by your school’s
principal.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
If your child is unable to participate in physical education activities, we must have a doctor‘s
statement requesting non-participation. Excuses from physical education for religious or
temporary physical reasons are handled on an individual basis.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Purpose
The School Board recognizes the need to provide instruction in the proper etiquette, display,
and respect of the United States flag. The purpose of this policy is to provide for recitation of
the pledge of allegiance and instruction in school to help further that end.
Exceptions
Any student or teacher may decline to participate in recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the
Flag. Employees or students, who choose not to participate, will sit or stand quietly and
respectfully during the recitation. Students must be respectful of the choice to not recite the
pledge.
Instructions
Students will be instructed in the proper etiquette toward, correct display of and respect for the
flag and in patriotic exercises.
PRAYER
State and Federal law have made provisions for praying in school. When students leave an
instructional setting to pray, the prayer practice must be central to faith tradition, not personal
preference. St. Cloud Area School District 742 reserves the right to place reasonable time,
place and manner restrictions upon any request for release from an instruction or non-
instructional activity. St. Cloud Area School District 742 may require a valid note from a parent
or guardian before a student may be allowed to leave instructional time for prayer. The time limit
for prayer from an instructional setting shall not exceed fifteen minutes for each release. If there
are any concerns or problems regarding a students attendance at prayer, the school will contact
the parents to discuss the concern.
PTA/PTSA/PAW
The Parent, Teacher and Student Association provides support to academic and social
programs. PTA/PTSA membership is voluntary, and members pay a membership fee. The
Association is governed by an Executive Board and holds monthly business meetings. The
PTA/PTSA currently provides financial support for various student activities. The PTA/PTSA is
the primary source of family activities and events after school hours. Membership information
and Executive Board information are available through your child’s school.
READMISSION/ADMISSION PLAN
A school administrator may prepare and mandate an admission or readmission plan for any
student who is suspended or excluded from school. The plan may include measures to improve
student’s behavior and will require parental involvement.
RECESS
When weather permits, all students will go outside for recess. Please dress your child
appropriately for the weather. Snow boots and snow pants are required during the winter
season. If your child has health concerns that will limit him/her from going outside, contact the
school health office. The school may require a note from the doctor. Students will not go
outside if the wind chill or temperatures are below zero degrees Fahrenheit.
REPORTING
All students are expected to promptly report violations of the Rights and Responsibility Code of
Conduct to a teacher, guidance counselor, or a building administrator. Any student observing
an act that impacts safety shall report this information immediately to any school employee.
RESOURCES
Links to academic resources are available on each school’s website.
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SCHOOL BOARD OF EDUCATION
The Board of Education meets regularly twice monthly on the first Wednesday (work session)
and third Wednesday (business meeting) unless otherwise noted. A brief Board of Education
meeting (consent agenda) will be held prior to the start of the monthly work sessions, if needed.
The monthly work sessions are held at 6:30 p.m. at the St. Cloud Area School District 742
Administration Office, 1201 Second Street South, Waite Park. Monthly business meetings are
held at 6:30 p.m. at the St. Cloud City Hall Council Chambers, 400 2nd Street South, St. Cloud.
SEARCHES
An authorized school official may search a student or the student’s belongings based upon
information received from a reliable source. The following are some of the specific areas we
may search when on district property: automobiles, lockers, personal belongings, clothing or
backpacks. Schools may also collaborate with local law enforcement to conduct K-9 searches.
SECURITY PROCEDURES
At each school, a specific door is designated as an entrance for parents and visitors. All others
will remain locked. Please check the front page of this handbook to locate the appropriate door
for your child’s building. Upon entering the building, sign in at the welcome desk or school office
and obtain a visitor’s badge. Schools equipped with the Raptor Security System require guests
to present a valid form of identification prior to entry.
SOCIAL MEDIA
St. Cloud Area School District 742 recognizes that many of our students (as well as staff and
parents) are active social media users. In addition, the District values and encourages the use
of new technology tools and resources to engage and educate all learners. However, student
online interactions, both inside and outside of school, can disrupt the learning environment as
well as affect student safety. As a result, students are expected to adhere to our responsible
use policy as outlined in the Code of Conduct: Rights and Responsibilities.
SOLICITATION
All solicitation must have prior approval by administration and meet school district guidelines.
STANDARDS BASED GRADING
Students earn grades based on their progress toward or mastery of state content standards.
Students can earn between a one and a four. A one indicates little to no mastery of the
standard, a three indicates proficiency and a four indicates the student demonstrated mastery
above grade level expectations.
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STUDENT SURVEYS
Students will be asked to participate in surveys. The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment
(PPRA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232h, requires the district to notify you and obtain consent or allow you to
opt your child out of participating in certain school activities. These activities include a student
survey, analysis, or evaluation that concerns one or more of the following eight areas
(“protected information surveys”):
This requirement also applies to the collection, disclosure, or use of student information for
marketing purposes (“marketing surveys”) and certain physical examinations and screenings.
Students may make important phone calls or other communications in the classroom under the
classroom teacher’s direction.
Misuse
School staff may remove a PED if used during the school day. The device will be held in the
office until the end of the day. An administrator may require a parent or guardian to come to
school to retrieve the device.
Searches
Any PED may be searched by administration or their designee if there is a reasonable suspicion
that a school rule violation linked to the PED has taken place.
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TECHNOLOGY/RESPONSIBLE USE
St. Cloud Area School District 742 provides students access to internet resources, wireless
access systems, computers, networked printers and other peripheral devices widely available in
all district locations. Staff blends thoughtful use of these resources with the curriculum.
Guidance and instruction is provided to students in the appropriate uses of these technologies.
St. Cloud Area School District 742 is in compliance with the Federal Children’s Internet
Protection Act (CIPA) which restricts possible access to inappropriate material. All school
computers with Internet access and availability are filtered to restrict material that is obscene,
pornographic or harmful to minors. St. Cloud Area School District 742 reserves the right to
monitor the use of these technologies so as to maintain the integrity of these resources.
Complete policy details can be found in Board Policy 524 at isd742.org.
Responsibility
Students are responsible for their behavior while using district technology. All school rules
apply for behavior and communication as per district policy and student handbooks. St. Cloud
Area School District 742 is neither responsible nor liable for student actions while using these
resources. The privilege to use district technology will be provided to those students who act in
an ethical, responsible and considerate manner. Willful or intentional misuse will lead to further
disciplinary actions and/or criminal penalties under appropriate local, state and federal laws.
Student Expectations
● You will assume that all the information on the internet is private property.
● You may use only legal material and follow all copyright laws.
● You will not vandalize the network or internet resources.
● You may find material that is inappropriate; it is your responsibility to leave that site and
report it to your teacher.
● You will not attempt to buy anything using the school network.
● You will not share your password with others.
● You will not attempt to access another user’s account.
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Student Online Safety Rules
● You will not give out personal information such as telephone number, address, and
family information.
● You will not give out the name and location of the school.
● You will tell your teacher right away if you come across inappropriate information.
● You will tell your teacher immediately if someone online attempts to meet with you.
● You will follow the District Social Media Guidelines.
If you have questions or need additional information on student technology use, please contact
the school office.
TELEPHONE CALLS
To maximize learning time, only urgent telephone calls can be accepted in the classroom.
Teachers will be notified of other calls and return them as soon as possible. Students may use
the phone for emergencies with adult permission. Please assist us by making every attempt to
make arrangements for after school activities prior to the school day. Learning time is most
beneficial when students are not concerned with pre-arrangements, party invitations, or
requests to use the telephone to clarify after school plans.
TEXTBOOKS (LOST/DESTROYED)
Minnesota Statutes 120.101 provides that schools may charge for lost or destroyed textbooks,
workbooks or library books. Students may be charged an appropriate replacement fee for
textbooks, workbooks or library books lost or destroyed by students.
THEFT
Students should not bring valuables to school. The school does not carry insurance for these
items. Students are responsible for securing their valuables. Thefts should be reported to the
office as soon as possible. Investigations of thefts will be implemented at the discretion of
administration.
TITLE IX
Any student who believes that he or she has been discriminated against, denied a benefit, or
excluded from participation in any district program or activity on the basis of sex, in violation of
Title IX, may file a written complaint with an administrator.
TOBACCO PRODUCTS/SMOKING/CHEWING
St. Cloud Area School District 742 property is tobacco and smoke free.
VISITORS
St. Cloud Area School District 742 believes that involvement by parents and family members in
education is very important to the success of our students. We encourage family visits to our
schools. In order to efficiently schedule these visits, please review the following guidelines:
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● In order to make the classroom visit meaningful and rewarding for everyone, please
coordinate your school visit with the school principal. Advance notice (one day) would be
greatly appreciated. This does not apply to scheduled school events or incidental visits.
● We need to know who is in the building at all times. Before visiting your child’s
classroom, you must obtain a Visitor’s badge from the school office.
● Please try to arrive before the class period starts and remain until the class is over.
Alternate arrangements can be made with your child’s teacher if this is not possible.
● Please respect the classroom environment and refrain from conversation with your child
or other students while the teacher is instructing students.
● If you wish to photograph or tape (audio/video) your child during class, please make
arrangements with the principal before your visit.
● We are all role models for our children; please be respectful of all students and staff.
● We believe in open communication among parents, staff, teachers and principal.
Please schedule an appointment before or after school to discuss any education issue of
importance to you. Respectful behavior considering all circumstances is expected. The building
administration retains the right to develop specific requirements and guidelines, as needed.
VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers are an important part of our school programs. Volunteers assist us with classroom
activities, playground supervision, computer lab supervision, office duties, special events, and
MUCH more! Volunteers sign in at the school office and receive an identification badge before
assuming their duties. We invite you to consider volunteering in St. Cloud Area School District
742 schools. Please contact your child’s school for further information.
WEAPONS POLICY
Our school has a responsibility to provide a safe environment for all. All weapons are prohibited
on school grounds. If students observe a weapon of any kind in school or on school grounds, it
should be reported to a school staff member immediately. The complete weapons policy is
available from your building principal or on the St. Cloud Area School District 742 web page.
WELLNESS
St. Cloud Area School District 742 attempts to ensure a school environment that promotes and
protects students health, well-being and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating and
physical activity. Parents are asked to help the district promote wellness by providing healthy
lunches and snacks and refraining from including beverages and food without nutritional value.
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