2026-2027 Ripley County R-IV Student Handbook

Student Policies for Grades PreK-12

This page provides an accessible HTML version of the 2026-2027 Ripley County R-IV Student Handbook.

This Student Handbook is a condensation of some of the policies of the Ripley County R-IV School. It is provided to share with interested parties, summaries of policies dealing with students’ codes of conduct and the School District’s guidelines for administering policies affecting such codes. The complete texts of policies summarized in this handbook are available for inspection by interested parties during normal school business hours. Interested parties desiring to examine school policies should make an appointment to facilitate such examination.

As the policies in this handbook are the official policies approved by Ripley County R-IV School Board, district employees are not at liberty to make exceptions to them. The School Board appreciates your cooperation in not asking them to make exceptions. The administrator is the custodian of records.

ADOPTED BY

RIPLEY COUNTY R-IV SCHOOL BOARD

July29, 2026

Table of Contents

FORWARD

FY 2026-2027

This handbook was prepared with the express purpose of giving students, teachers, and parents a better understanding of all facts of the Ripley County R-IV school system. Procedures outlined in this handbook are consistent with policies adopted by the Board of Education.

This handbook is not intended to be just a list of rules and regulations but rather a guide to effective educational planning. This is necessary to create a positive learning atmosphere for all students attending Ripley County R-IV School.

The goal of education is to develop each student into a productive citizen now and throughout life. Students have many different options upon graduation. Some may choose to attend a college or university or technical school. Some may choose to immediately enter into the work force. It is our job as parents, teachers, and administrators to prepare our students for each option.

Each student is urged to get involved and participate in extra-curricular activities and thus find things in our school, which can help him/her to develop responsibility and positive peer relationships.

We suggest each student discuss the rules and regulations in the handbook with his or her parent or guardian. The student is directly responsible for all content in this handbook, and the student and parent must sign below indicating they understand the rules and regulations contained. We sincerely hope that this will be a very enjoyable and worthwhile year for all students and their parents.

I have read and agree to abide by the rules and regulations set forth in the Ripley County R-IV Student Handbook.

Student Signature: _________________________________________________ Student Grade: ______

Parent Signature: __________________________________________________

Date: __________________________

GENERAL PROCEDURES

Activities – Extracurricular

A student will be asked to leave the activity if, in the mind of a responsible adult, he/she is causing a disruption which merits removal. Students may be suspended from attending activities for a number of games or for the remainder of the school year. Students involved in negative behaviors (fighting, vulgar language, destruction of property, throwing objects, etc.) will be removed from the activity and not allowed to attend for the remainder of the school year. Additionally, students involved in negative behaviors close to the end of the season (within 2 games) may be suspended from games for the next school year.

Activities – Fundraising

All fundraising must be approved by the principal. Unapproved fundraisers will be terminated immediately. When a fund-raising activity is undertaken, all members will participate. No “Road-Block” fundraisers.

Activities – Organizations

All school student organizations must be sanctioned by the school and will be listed and posted by the principal. Any approved student organization must meet the following criteria:

a) Board approval

1. Comply with Title IX of the Civil Rights Act regarding nondiscrimination of the basis of race, sex, religion, or ethnic

background

1. Have an approved adult sponsor
2. Have written and worthwhile goals
3. Not be secret or fraternal in nature
4. Receive and disburse all money through the school student body activity account

Arrival at School

Children should not arrive before 7:30 a.m. Supervision is provided after 7:30 a.m. Students may not enter the building until 7:45 a.m. Any student arriving before 7:45 a.m. must go directly to the cafeteria. Classes begin at 8:00 a.m. and students are expected to be in their seats at this time. Students arriving after 8:00 a.m. will not be served breakfast.

Asbestos

Some buildings on the campus of the Ripley County R-IV School contain asbestos or suspected asbestos materials. Therefore, the district is required to conduct an inspection of these materials every three years. The last inspection was conducted on October 6, 2025. During that inspection all asbestos or suspected asbestos containing materials were found to be in full compliance with all regulations for such materials. Anyone wishing to view the Ripley County R-IV Asbestos Management Plan may do so by visiting the office of the Superintendent.

Athletic Participation – Academic Requirements

• abide by all MSHSAA guidelines
• student must have been promoted to a higher grade prior to first day of classes for the new school year
• students will not be eligible if you failed more than two courses the previous semester
• must be currently enrolled in and regularly attending classes unless special circumstances exist
• obtain a physical examination given by a doctor
• The principal and coaches will develop rules and regulations to govern student/athlete conduct

Athletic Participation – Athletic Contests/Social Activities

Students who are absent from school on the day of a social activity, athletic contest, or any school sponsored activity will not be permitted to participate in that activity. Exceptions may be granted by the Principal and/or Superintendent for extenuating circumstances, i.e. doctor appointment, funeral, etc. Students need to be in attendance at least half a day. Students over their days/hours during the semester will be ineligible for the following events:

1) Field trips

2) Sports attendance

3) Sports participation

IF A STUDENT IS ABSENT FROM SCHOOL, meaning that they miss 1/2 – full day, THEY ARE NOT ALLOWED TO ATTEND ON CAMPUS EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES FOR THAT DAY. Parents will be notified and asked to remove their child from the event. Extra-curricular activities are considered to be ALL activities that happen on campus outside of regular school hours.

Attendance

Regular, consistent and expected attendance will be a concentrated educational focus this school year. It is our belief at Ripley County R-IV that children with consistent and regular attendance gain the greatest benefits from their education. Every day of attendance offers a valuable opportunity for your child to learn through classroom instruction and one-on-one teacher assistance. Students who are not in attendance miss pertinent information and instruction that cannot always be regained by completing the assignments as homework due to the absence.

Actions to be taken if more than allowable days/hours are missed

For the 2026-2027 school year, absences will be strictly monitored and enforced. Daily phone calls and attendance logs will be kept from office staff noting the specific reason for absences and documented communication between home and school will be kept in child’s academic file. When ½ of allowable attendance is used per quarter/semester (22.05 hours) a conference will be scheduled with administrator, board member and attendance committee. A child falling below 90% attendance will be required to attend ISS every Wednesday until attendance is considered in good standing, class periods with attendance below 90% attendance is corrected and in a positive standing and work accumulated is complete. Students will not participate in any extracurricular activity (sports, incentive or classroom activity) or school sponsored events such as back-to-school fun days, incentive trips, sports, field trips, incentive activities during school days, or classroom parties until attendance is at 90%.

Saturday school will be offered three times per semester on the second Saturday of September, October, December, February, March and April for those students who have not corrected and made a good faith effort to keep attendance within a positive, acceptable and allowable measurable percentage. STUDENTS WILL BE EXPECTED TO ATTEND. If students do not attend required ISS and or Saturday school requirements, parents and children must attend a meeting with administrator, board member and staff stance committee to discuss educational status of child and educational recommendations moving forward. ISS will be assigned.

Those students with chronic absenteeism will be hot lined to the Division of Family Services department so further investigation can be made. Chronic absenteeism will be defined as a student that misses more than 10% of allowable days per semester/year (1st semester 6.7 days/49.245 hours, 2nd semester 8.35 days/61.43 hours) (Year 15.05 days/ 110.675 hours).

In addition to students falling behind in attendance requirements, those with behavioral infractions, falling behind in classwork and missing assignments will also be required at attend ISS. Teachers will fill out ISS recommendation form. A scheduled conference between teacher and administrator discussing need for ISS placement, phone conference with parent(s) detailing the expected ISS event, and conference with child will take place. Then, ISS will be scheduled on Wednesdays of each week, with possible additions if needed. ISS will be a day long event. Students will not attend normal day activities but will instead stay in ISS room and fulfill expectations of disciplinary measure.

Who bears the primary responsibility of ensuring that a child within compulsory attendance age regularly attends one or a combination of schools as required by law?

Missouri State Law requires all children between 7 and 17 years of age to regularly attend a public, private, parochial, parish, home school or a combination of such schools for the duration of the entire school term.

Compulsory Attendance Law states that: Every parent, guardian or other person having custody or control of a child between the ages of seven (7) and the compulsory attendance age (17) for the district has the primary responsibility of ensuring that the child regularly attends school. A parent, guardian or custodian of a child or children who do not regularly attend school may be reported to the Department of Social Services, Children’s Division, or to the county prosecutor’s office. A violation of the compulsory attendance law is a class C misdemeanor.

Parents, guardians or other persons having legal custody of a student may obtain a court order requiring the student to attend school until the student receives a high school diploma or its equivalent or reaches the age of 21.

All staff employed at Ripley Co R-IV are recognized as mandated reporters and are required to report all instances of abuse and neglect, including educational neglect if suspected, to help protect our students. Chronic absenteeism from school is considered educational neglect and therefore punishable by law. We will make every effort to ensure that students attend school as required by law and are protected educationally.

ABSENCE DEFINED

An absence is defined as missing more than 15 minutes from any class period. Therefore, if a child arrives at school 15 or more minutes late, they will be counted absent for the entire hour. If they check in within the first 15 minutes the time missed will be counted as a tardy. Three tardies equal one full day of absence regardless of time missed. The same explanation above will also be used for students checking out early.

Absences are not allowed to be accumulated (example: child misses 2 days first semester and 10 days second semester totaling 12 days for the year) They will still be considered as being in violation of the attendance policy, will be held accountable and expected to fulfill required expectations to be in good standing with reported attendance hours.

ABSENCE EXPECTATION

Please make sure you read and understand the following information as it requires parents, guardians and students to be accountable for notifying the school regarding student absences.

1. A parent or guardian should notify the office on the day of the absence (573) 996-7118.
2. The office should be contacted prior to known doctor, dental, and family appointments. A student must be signed

out by a parent/guardian before leaving school, and check in at the office when returning to school.

1. Students will be allowed one (1) day for every day missed to complete make-up work. (example: absent on

Monday, work is due Wednesday at the beginning of the class period) Teacher discretion may be used, though not abused, depending on circumstance.

1. Students absent for authorized school activities are responsible for making up all work missed. EXCEPTION: unless

the activity is considered academic in nature (quiz bowl, Beta, HS tours, etc.)

1. An absence for an authorized school activity simply allows the student the privilege of making up the work within

a reasonable time (established by the teacher) and does not excuse the student from the make-up work. EXECEPTION: unless the activity is considered academic in nature (quiz bowl, Beta, HS tours etc.)

1. Students who attend school, but leave early for another school activity, may be required by their teacher to turn

in any assignment due that day.

1. The student shall obtain assignments from appropriate staff members. Assignments shall be obtained in advance

if absence is foreseen. IT IS THE STUDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO GET GATHER MISSED ASSIGNMENTS FROM THE

TEACHER. I WILL NOT EXPECT THE TEACHER TO HUNT DOWN AND REMIND STUDENTS.

In regard to absence and excuses, it needs to be noted that an absence is recognized as such, regardless of excuse. Turning in a doctor’s excuse, does not dismiss the absence and give the child back a day. Excuses on file are used to reference and track student’s attendance patterns. Discretion and review will be used by the Superintendent per student/case when needed. (Example: student gets strep and is out for 4 days then misses a couple more. Consideration could be given to the days missed for sickness if proper documentation is supplied and noted.)

Absences – EXCUSABLE (case by case determination, by viewing notes in students attendance record. In case of an absence, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to notify the school. If the school is not notified on the day of absence, a note from the parent/guardian will be required on the first day of the student’s return to school. The absence will be recorded as unexcused if a note or telephone call is not received. Excusable absences include, but not limited to:

1. Illness of the student (Doctor’s statement IS required to support such absences).
2. Days of religious observance.
3. Death in the family.
4. Family emergencies which necessitate absence from school. The school must be notified in advance when such

absences are foreseen. Note will be required upon return.

1. Special circumstances pre-approved by the administrator. (Not all circumstances will be considered excusable).

This will be done on a case-by-case basis.

1. Dental/Orthodontist appointments: Bring doctors note so that time absent can be documented on students’

attendance file. (Absences for appointments of this nature will be viewed regularly and taken into consideration)

Hours of Attendance 1st Semester=67 days/492.45 hours. Allowable absence 6.0 days/44.1 hours. 2nd Semester=83.5 days/614.30 hours. Allowable absence 6.0 days/44.1 hours. If students stay within the absence allotment, they will meet the district attendance requirement of 92%. *Regular school days are calculated at 7.35 hours per day.

Belief Statement

To accomplish our mission, the Ripley County R-IV School District will commit to the following: We believe…

• All people have the same inherent worth and deserve respect and dignity as human beings;
• All students can learn;
• Education begins at birth and is a lifelong process shared by school, home and community;
• Diversity enhances quality of learning experiences;
• High expectations of staff and students are necessary to maximize learning;
• Parents, guardians, and community members have the right and responsibility to support and

participate in children’s education;

• Students have the right and responsibility to be active participants in their education;
• All people are responsible for their actions;
• People are entitled to a physically safe and non-threatening environment;
• The education of children should be conducted with the highest ethical standards.

Building Use

Arrangements and approval should be made with the administrator for all activities which need to use the building after school hours. Arrangements should be made at least one week in advance. No students should be in the building unless under the direct supervision of a teacher.

Bus – Behavior Policies

1. The bus driver is in complete charge with the same responsibility as a teacher in the classroom to

maintain order and safety.

1. While the bus is in motion, all students must be seated.
2. Students who must cross the road to load or leave the bus must cross in front of the bus.
3. Parents/Guardians are to notify driver at least one day in advance when student does not plan to ride bus.
4. Students are not to extend head, arms, etc., through windows.
5. Students having not provided signed permission by parents/guardians will be discharged only at home or school.
6. All students will be assigned seating arrangements on the bus and are expected to share seats.
7. If damage is done to the bus interior, those students involved shall be held responsible for it.
8. Students will ride only their assigned bus and will exit the bus only at their assigned stop. Students wishing to visit

another household will provide the teacher and bus driver with notes from the parents/guardians of the households involved.

1. Profane language, spitting, fighting, or excessive loudness will not be permitted on the bus.
2. Radios, electronic games, tape players, water bottles, balls and bats from home, illegal, dangerous, disruptive

items, drugs, alcohol, tobacco products, matches and cigarette lighters and any other materials which the school feels are improper will not be permitted on the bus.

1. All bus drivers have been instructed to pick up students that are outside and ready. They are not to wait on

students that are not ready.

1. No animals will be permitted to ride the school bus.
2. Students who board a school bus will not be allowed to leave the bus to ride in a private automobile unless

permission is granted by the Administrator.

1. The throwing of any objects on the bus or out of the bus windows is strictly prohibited.
2. No school visitors will be allowed to ride the bus, except for school approved activities.

Students who live within one mile of school and who desire to ride and walk part of the time may do so if a permission slip has been received from the parents. This permission slip acknowledges that the parents are responsible for any accidents that result.

Video cameras will be used intermittently on R-IV school buses to help ensure the safety of students and to protect school property from vandalism. Students who violate rules on the school bus will be disciplined according to the situation.

BUS – TRIPS AND BEHAVIOR

Students must obey drivers and sponsors. Failure to do so may endanger the safety of students and may result in denial of the privilege of riding a bus or even more severe penalties. Students must ride both ways on the bus and will not be permitted to ride home with parents unless the parent signs a form provided by the sponsor. Parents may prearrange for their student to ride home with other licensed drivers by completing a form with advanced approval from the principal. Students who fail to observe district rules or fail to contribute to a safe transportation environment will be subject to disciplinary action including, but not limited to, suspension of the privilege of riding the bus. Students with disabilities will be disciplined in accordance with their IEP or applicable law. The bus driver or other authorized personnel shall report all misbehavior or dangerous situations to the principal as soon as possible.

Cafeteria

The school cafeteria is operated for the convenience of the students and teachers. Each day a well-balanced meal is planned by the supervisor of the lunch program. Breakfast will be served each day. Students are to remain orderly in the cafeteria at all times. If a student arrives after 8:00 a.m., the student will not receive a breakfast.

Students who eat in the cafeteria will obey the following rules:

1. Students are required to eat school lunches or bring their lunch.
2. No fast foods will be ordered in or brought in for lunch.
3. Students who eat school lunches must take a ½ pint of milk with the lunch.
4. Students who bring lunch from home may bring drinks to accompany the lunch. Beverages (in a container other

than glass bottles) may accompany the lunch and are to be kept in the lunch bag and consumed only at lunch.

1. Students who are eating school lunches will not be permitted to bring snack foods to the cafeteria.
2. Students may bring a snack for themselves only and that snack is to be eaten during recess.
3. Don’t throw food.
4. Put all trash in proper cans.
5. Speak in soft voices and follow directions the first time given.
6. No trading food.

Cell Phones

Students are not permitted to have cell phones at school.

1st Offense: Administrator will keep phone for 24 hours. 2nd Offense: Administrator will keep cell phone for three days or three days out-of-school suspension. 3rd Offense: Administrator will keep cell phone for five days or five days out-of-school suspension. Subsequent Offenses: Will result in longer suspensions.

Cheating

Cheating is any form of academic dishonesty. Cheating occurs when a student uses and takes credit for the work of another person, whether the material is directly copied or superficially disguised (plagiarism). File-sharing and other forms of dishonesty through the use of computers/electronics devices are considered cheating. Any student who knowingly helps another violate academic behavior standards is also in violation of the standards. All forms of cheating are prohibited.

Club Meetings

Club meetings will be arranged and held by the sponsors when necessary. Times will be announced in advance. All club meetings must be prearranged with the sponsor. Club secretaries are to keep a record of all meetings, which will be turned in to the sponsor after each meeting. Treasurers should check each month before the meeting in order to have an accurate account of their financial condition. Organization meetings will be held in the beginning of the year. All meetings must be cleared with the principal.

District Mission Statement

The Ripley County R-IV School District’s mission is to utilize its financial, personnel, educational, community and technological resources to ensure the diverse student population the opportunity to develop academically, physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially to the fullest extent in a safe environment. Through a partnership among school, home, and community, the mission of the Ripley County R-IV School District is to develop continuous lifelong learners being of good character who positively contribute to society.

The Ripley County R-IV School District’s mission is to ensure all students are capable, curious and confident learners who understand and respond to the challenges of an ever-changing world.

District Vision Statement

The Ripley County R-IV School District envisions that all students will:

Be provided with educational experiences appropriate to their learning styles to foster lifelong learning; Be self-motivated and become responsible, productive citizens to improve their community.

Dress Code – Appearance

The school board recognizes that among those rights retained by the people under our constitutional form of government is the freedom to govern one’s personal appearance. When, however, dress and grooming substantially disrupt the learning process for the individual student, other students, or the learning climate of the school, it becomes a matter subject to disciplinary action. The school recommends students dress appropriately for daily weather according to dress code. Students will not be permitted to remain indoors during recess due to improper dress for weather. Student dress, grooming, and appearance should be the responsibility of the individual and his or her parents under the following guidelines:

1. Dress grooming should be clean and in keeping with health and sanitary practices.
2. All attire shall be free from writing or advertising that is obscene or suggestive including but not limited to alcohol

and tobacco. Any clothing suggesting gang colors, behavior, or gestures is not acceptable.

1. Appropriate footwear (shoes or sandals) and undergarments must be worn.
2. Acceptable attire for all students will be casual and loose-fitting. All attire must cover the back, stomach, chest,

and shoulders and not disclose undergarments. Students are not allowed to wear pajama pants.

1. Hair must be well-groomed, neat, and clean in appearance.
2. Skirts or dresses will be no shorter than 2 inches above the center of the knee. Slits in skirts or dresses will be no

longer than 4 inches above the center of the knee. Leggings or bicycle shorts may be worn under skirts or dresses but must extend to the center of the knee. Leggings or bicycle shorts cannot be seen through.

1. Shorts can be worn in grades K-8. Short lengths are to be no shorter than 6 inches above the center of the knee.

Leggings or bicycle shorts may be worn under shorts but must extend to the center of the knee.

1. No leggings or bicycle shorts of any length will be allowed to be worn as an outer garment. Leggings or bicycle

shorts must have an outer garment that must extend past the length of the fingertips when arms are straight down at their sides. Leggings or bicycle shorts cannot be seen through. Repeated violations may result in forfeiture of right to wear shorts for the remainder of the school year.

1. Sleeveless blouses or shirts may be worn as long as the arm hole is not so large as to display under clothing or an

inappropriate viewing of the body. Shirts must cover belt loops or cover below the waist band approximately 2 inches when student stands with arms at sides. We, as a school district, realize that as children grow and mature, some clothing becomes inappropriate as school attire. As a result of this realization, no tank tops or spaghetti straps will be allowed.

1. Hats or caps and sunglasses will not be worn inside school buildings.
2. Students will not be permitted to trade or wear other students’ clothing during school hours.
3. Holes in clothes – No skin or under-garments exposed above the knees.

Habitual uncleanliness of dress and appearance that would present health and safety hazards or cause disruption to the educational process will result in the student being removed from class. Upon correction of the problem the student will be readmitted to class.

When a second violation of the dress code occurs, disciplinary action such as suspension may result.

Driving/Parking Policy

As a result of continued growth and the increasing number of students driving to school, parking has become a very serious issue. Therefore, at the June 15, 2009, board meeting the Ripley County R-IV Board of Education adopted the following policy:

In order for a student to drive to school and park on the grounds of the Ripley County R-IV school District all student drivers must adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Must be at least sixteen (16) years of age and possess a valid driver’s license.
2. Must maintain proof of vehicle registration and insurance for any vehicle to be driven.
3. Must operate the vehicle in a safe and orderly fashion while on the school campus.
4. Must park in the designated area.
5. Must file intent to drive form with the school office no later than one (1) week from the start of school.
6. Must realize that all vehicles parked on school grounds are subject to be searched at any time, without notice,

without consent and without a search warrant.

Failure to comply with these rules may result in the forfeiture of student’s rights to drive or park on the grounds of the Ripley County R-IV School District. The following guidelines have been established concerning the loss of driving/parking privileges:

First Violation: Warning from administration. Second Violation: Loss of driving/parking privileges for one week. Third Violation: Loss of driving/parking privileges for two weeks. Fourth Violation: Loss of driving/parking privileges for remainder of school year.

Upon each violation the parents will be notified by phone or in writing of the violation. Every effort will be taken to prevent the loss of student driving privileges; however, the safety of all students is vitally important to all of us. Therefore, it is imperative that these rules and regulations be enforced.

Emergency Information – Earthquake, Fire, Lock Down and Tornado Drills

Regulations concerning safety drills such as earthquake, fire, lock down and tornado will be posted in each classroom so each student may have any opportunity to acquaint themselves with correct procedures on leaving the building in emergency situations.

These are serious situations. Students are expected to use appropriate behavior during drills or in an actual emergency. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary measures.

Eligibility for Entry into Pre-Kindergarten A child must be 4 years old by August 1st in order to be eligible to attend Pre-K. Multiple criteria will be used to place students in Pre-K including, but not limited to, score on DIAL-4, age and health concerns. The child must also be toilet trained.

All students enrolling in Pre-K must have a state certified birth certificate and shot record before being assigned to a class. A social security number is desired. Pre-K students are expected to attend school on a daily basis. Excessive absences may result in the student being removed from Pre-K and replaced by another student from the waiting list. Pre-K absences will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis

Eligibility for Entry into Kindergarten

Missouri State law requires that a child be (5) years old before August 1 to be eligible for entry into Kindergarten.

All students enrolling in Kindergarten must have a state certified birth certificate and shot record before being assigned to a class. A social security number is desired.

Eligibility for Entry into Grades 1 – 8

All students enrolling in grades 1 – 8 must have a state certified birth certificate, shot record and one proof-of residency before being assigned to a class. A social security number is desired.

Equal Rights Opportunities

Each student, being limited only by individual differences, should be given the opportunity to develop and achieve to the maximum extent possible. Therefore, the Ripley County R-IV School District will foster an educational environment that provides equal educational opportunities for all students. Educational programs, services, vocational opportunities, and extracurricular activities will be designed to meet the varying needs of all students. Ripley County R-IV School does not discriminate against any individual for reason of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, age, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

All students must immediately report to the Administrator for investigation any incident or behavior that could constitute discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in accordance with this policy.

Foster Care

The administrator assistant, Fawn Knight, is the point of contact for foster care students. She has been trained in these different areas including the requirements, qualifications, rules and regulations. Mrs. Knight may be reached by calling 573-996-7118 during regular school hours.

Grading, Acceleration, Promotion, and Retention Policies: Report cards are to be issued every nine weeks of the school year. If necessary, special reports will be made to parents at more frequent intervals. Grade symbols or A-B-C-D-F will be used to indicate achievement of students.

Deficiency slips will be issued at the middle of the 9-week quarters. One copy of the deficiency slip will be signed by the parent or guardian and returned to school.

The Ripley County R-IV School District has adopted the following grading policy. For grades 1-8: (Kindergarten does not use this system.) 97-100……..A+ 87-89……….B+ 77-79……….C+ 67-69……….D+ Below 60…….F

93-96……….A 83-86……….B 73-76……….C 63-66………..D

90-92……….A- 80-82………..B- 70-72……….C- 60-62……….D-

The Ripley County R-IV School District is committed to continuous development of students enrolled in the district’s schools, and to student achievement of the skills for the current grade assignment for promotion to a higher grade. The superintendent, in cooperation with the professional staff, shall develop administrative procedures for the promotion, acceleration and retention of students.

In evaluating student achievement, each teacher will make use of all available information, including results of teacher-made test, other measures of skill and content mastery, standardized test results and teacher observation of student performance. The principal will direct and aid teachers in student evaluations and will review grade assignments in order to ensure uniformity of evaluation standards.

Decisions on whether to promote, accelerate or retain a student with disabilities will be made in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and as required by other applicable law.

The Ripley County R-IV School district may use excessive absences alone for denial of promotion or graduation, but may also consider them with other factors including, but not limited to: reason for absences, standards of achievement, social, emotional, mental, or physical development that would not allow satisfactory progress in the next higher grade. If a student misses more than 12 days of school per year, he/she will be mandatory summer school with the possibility of retention. Student attending mandatory summer school must maintain an 80% attendance rate or they will be retained.

Harassment & Sexual Harassment The Ripley R-IV School District is committed to providing an educational and work environment that is safe and free from intimidating, hostile, offensive behavior, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct or communication constituting sexual harassment. Sexual harassment by an employee, student or other person in the district should immediately be reported to a building principal, counselor or to the district superintendent.

Hazing and Bullying/Cyberbullying

All forms of hazing, bullying, cyberbullying, and student intimidation are prohibited. Students participating in or encouraging inappropriate conduct will be disciplined. Such discipline may include, but is not limited to, suspension or expulsion from school and removal from participation in activities. Students who have been subjected to hazing, bullying, or cyberbullying are instructed to promptly report such incidents to a school official.

Definitions

Hazing: Hazing is defined as any activity, on or off school grounds, that a reasonable person believes would negatively impact the mental or physical health or safety of a student or put the student in a ridiculous, humiliating, stressful or disconcerting position for the purposes of initiation, affiliation, admission, membership or maintenance of membership in any group, class, organization, club or athletic team including, but not limited to, a grade level, student organization or school-sponsored activity. Hazing may include those actions that subject a student to extreme mental stress including, but not limited to, sleep deprivation, physical confinement, forced conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment or criminal activity, or other stress-inducing activities. Hazing may also include but is not limited to: acts of physical brutality; whipping; beating; branding; exposing to the elements; forcing consumption of any food, liquor, drug or other substance; forcing inhalation or ingestion of tobacco products; or any other forced physical activity that could adversely affect the physical health or safety of an individual. Hazing may occur even when all students involved are willing participants. Hazing does not occur when a student is required to audition or try-out for an organization when the criteria are reasonable approved by the district and legitimately related to the purpose of the organization.

Bullying: Bullying is defined as intimidation or harassment of a student or multiple students perpetuated by individuals or groups. Bullying includes, but is not limited to: physical actions, including violence, gestures, theft, or damaging property; oral or written taunts, including name-calling, put-downs, extortion, or threats; or threats of retaliation for reporting such acts. Bullying may also include cyberbullying or cyber threats. Cyberbullying is sending or posting harmful or cruel text or images using the Internet or other digital communication devices. Cyber threats are online materials that threaten or raise concerns about violence against others, suicide, or self-harm.

Complaint Procedure

A student shall report a complaint of bullying or cyberbullying, orally or in writing, to a staff member. If a parent initiates the complaint, the appropriate staff member will follow-up with the student. The staff member will either gather information or seek administrative assistance to determine if the alleged bullying or cyber bullying conduct occurred. After the information is gathered, the building principal shall be notified of the complaint. The building principal will determine the need for further investigation or the appropriate intervention, which may result in administrative discipline to ensure the conduct ceases. If the behavior is found to meet the definition of bullying or cyberbullying, the building principal must complete the appropriate written documentation. Students who are found to have violated this policy will be subject to the following consequences depending on factors such as: age of student(s), degree of harm, severity of behavior, number of incidences, etc.

Head Lice Policy

Students will be examined as needed for the presence of head lice and/or nits. If they are found, the student will be sent home as soon as possible. A letter and information on treating lice infestation will be sent with the child. The student will not be allowed to return to school until all nits and/or lice are completely gone. A strict “no-nit” policy will be enforced.

The head lice policy will include the following provisions:

1. A parent may bring the child back to school as soon as the child is free of lice and/or nits.
2. When a child returns to school after being out for an infestation, the parent must bring the child to the school and

wait with the child until the child has been checked and found to be free of head lice and nits. The child cannot ride the bus to school until he/she has been rechecked by school personnel.

1. If a child is still infested after being rechecked, the child will be sent home again, until they are completely free of

nits and/or lice.

1. If the child is still infested after three exams and has missed more than three days of school, then a referral will be

made to the Division of Family Services.

1. After being readmitted to school the student will be checked again in 10 days.

HOMEWORK

Beginning the 2019-2020 school year we will be piloting a lessened nightly homework trend. If this proves successful, next year it will be adopted as a no homework policy. What does this mean for your child? Your child will receive weekly target skills each Monday, they will come home with their newsletter. These skills will be “suggested” for nightly review. Examples of such skills are: spelling words, high frequency words, phonics skills, math facts, decodable readers, etc. There will NOT be any requirements to return any completed work on Fridays from these skills or parent signature pages. The only required “homework” that will be sent home for return will be if your child has been absent. They will be responsible for all missed class work. Also, if your child comes home with “homework” it will be because they were not using their classroom time wisely and they did not get finished with daily assignments. A note explaining why homework is being sent home, should accompany homework pages (required K-4). If your child has recurring nightly homework, we will need to set up a conference and discuss the underlying issue with the child and the teacher. There are many schools in the area that have adopted a no homework policy, and it has proven to be successful. I am expecting the same success for our school.

Homeless Coordinator & ELL Coordinator The administrator assistant, Fawn Knight, is the homeless liaison coordinator and ELL coordinator. The administrator assistant has been trained in these different areas including the requirements, qualifications, rules and regulations for each. The administrator assistant may be reached by calling 573-996-7118 during regular school hours.

Honor Roll and Merit Roll Requirements Special recognition will be given to students who make the Honor Roll and Merit Roll all four quarters. To make the Honor Roll a student must have nothing below an A- in any subject except writing, physical education, art, music and conduct. To make the Merit roll a student must have nothing below a B- in any subject except writing, physical education, art, health, music, and conduct. To receive the eighth-grade top student award, the student must have attended Ripley County R-IV School all eight years (1st – 8th). Those on the honor and merit roll all eight years may receive the award ($75 honor and $50 merit) regardless of how long they have been in the district. Those students with perfect attendance all eight years (missing 2 days or less) will receive $50.

Students on the merit roll all year will receive a certificate and those on the honor roll all year will receive a trophy. A trophy will be awarded to those with perfect attendance (those missing two days or less).

Horseplay (Hands On-Horseplay)

No hands-on policy. Horseplay of any kind will not be tolerated. Students are not to have their hands on any other student, play fight, and/or rough play at recess, during class time, before or after school, and/or between classes anywhere on school property which includes but not limited to, sidewalks, playgrounds, and/or buses during any school sponsored activity/event, including being off school property in attendance with the school.

Lost & Found Found articles are to be turned in to the principal’s office. The school is not responsible for lost articles. Mark belongings with your name so they can be returned.

Meal Charge Policy The purpose of this policy is to maintain consistent meal account procedures throughout the District. Unpaid charges place a financial strain on District finances. The Food Service Department is responsible for maintaining food charge records and for notifying the District’s accounting department of outstanding balances.

1. PK – 8 students will be allowed to charge a maximum of twenty-five ($25.00) dollars for reimbursable meals.
2. PK-8 students will be allowed to charge a maximum of ten ($10.00) dollars for ala cart foods and beverages

(extra milk and juice).

1. Parents/Guardians with negative balances will be contacted electronically, by correspondence, by phone calls by

District Accounting Office, or by the Food Service Department.

1. On May 15 annually all charging will be cut off. Parents/guardians will be sent a written request for “payment in

full”. All charges not paid before the end of the school year may be carried forward into the next school year. Graduating seniors must pay all charges in full. Failure to do so may result in the delinquent student being denied participation in graduation ceremonies.

1. If financial hardship is suspected, families will be encouraged to apply for free/reduced meals at any time during

the school year.

1. Each building principal will send a letter to all parents on or before the first day of school notifying them of the

requirements of this policy. This policy will also be published on the District’s website.

Nuisance Items

Items such as water guns, cards, laser lights, deer calls, dice, matches, stink bombs, rubber balls, lotion, silly putty, silly string, cigarette lighters, yo-yos, and other nuisance items have no place at school. If such items are brought to school, they will be confiscated by the proper school authorities. Disciplinary measures will be used depending on severity and frequency.

Personal Property Personal property is the sole responsibility of the student. The school district will not be liable for or assume responsibility of personal property belonging to the students. Therefore, items such as toys should not be brought to school.

Program of Studies Requirement for Graduation from Eighth Grade Each elementary student will receive regular instruction in and receive a passing grade for reading, language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, comprehensive health (including tobacco, alcohol, and other drug prevention education), and career awareness education. In addition, each elementary student will receive regular instruction in art, music, and physical education. Students in 7th and 8th grades will receive instruction in and will receive a passing grade in the United States and Missouri Constitutions, and American History and Institutions are required by Section 170.011, RSMO. Students in 7th and 8th grades will have access to a total of four exploratory classes.

Public Display of Affection

Public display of affection is inappropriate in school. Such actions are as follows: 1) Arm in arm/Holding hands; 2) Arm(s) around each other; 3) Touching inappropriately; 4) Kissing; 5) Sitting in one’s lap. These situations will be enforced whether it is a boy/girl, girl/girl, or boy/boy situation.

Release of Student Information The Ripley County R-IV School District maintains student records necessary for the educational guidance and/or welfare of students, for orderly and efficient operation of the schools and as required by law. All information related to individual students shall be treated in a confidential and professional manner.

Most information about Ripley County R-IV School students cannot be made public without the consent of parents or guardians. Federal law prohibits schools from releasing information without permission, except for what is “directory information”. Directory information is defined as the student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, diploma or certificate and awards received, the most recent educational agency or institution attended by the student and other similar information.

Our school may be requested to provide directory information of our students to military recruiters, colleges, and other educational agencies. Should a parent or guardian of a student wish to restrict or prohibit the distribution of any part or all of this information, they must submit notification in writing to the school principal within 15 days of the receipt of this student handbook. The written notification will become part of the student’s record.

Seclusion & Restraint Seclusion, isolation and restraint are used only in response to emergency or crisis situations and should: (a) not be viewed as a behavior change or intervention strategy, (b) be implemented only under extreme situations and as a matter of last resort, (c) be implemented only by trained personnel, and (d) be accompanied by school wide pro-active positive supports to prevent the need for their use. This policy is not an endorsement of the use of seclusion and restraint. This policy applies to all students.

Further information concerning seclusion and restraint may be obtained on the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website at: http://www.dese.mo.gov/schoollaw/

Soda & Candy Food, candy, and drink (soda and energy drinks) are not to be brought to school by students for consumption during class periods, except for special projects (early morning practices, club meetings, etc.) that have been scheduled by the instructor/sponsor and approved by the principal. You may bring lunch for your noon meal and the lunch is only to be eaten during lunchtime.

Student Due Process Rights All students will be afforded due process as guaranteed by constitutional provisions. The process will be in accordance with state law and with the provisions outlined in the Board’s policies and regulations on student suspension and student expulsion.

Student Complaints & Grievances

Any alleged act of unfairness or any decision made by school personnel, which the students and/or parents believe to be unjust or in violation of pertinent policies of the Board of individual school rules, may be appealed to the school principal or a designated representative.

Student School Records

1. The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-380) states in part that “all academic and

personal records pertaining to individual students are confidential and can only be inspected by students, parents, and school officials”. The act also states that schools must provide parents/guardians of students the opportunity to inspect these records and challenge and records that maybe misleading, inaccurate, or otherwise inappropriate. Any school that wishes to release personally identifiable data from a student’s record must first obtain written permission (consent) from the parents/guardians of the student before releasing such information. Only in a specific instance is written permission not required.

1. Other school officials within the same school may request and receive a student’s records.
2. Students, parents, or guardians may request correction of educational records which they believe are

inaccurate, misleading, or inappropriate by setting up a conference with the Administrator.

1. Student records will not be released when students have outstanding financial obligations, including library and

textbooks.

Telephone Use

Students must have a phone pass from the teacher to use the phone. Use will be only during recess and at the office unless special circumstances exist. For incoming calls—Only in cases of emergency will students be called to the telephone during class period. Please, if possible, leave a number and the student will return the call at a convenient time. Disciplinary action will be taken for misuse of this privilege.

Testing

The Ripley County R-IV School District participates in statewide assessments as required (MAP, EOC, Terra Nova, & etc.)

Trauma-Informed Schools Initiative

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has established the Trauma- Informed Schools Initiative. DESE recommends The Missouri Model. The website for the Missouri Model is https://dmh.mo.gov/trauma/MO%20Model%20Working%20Document%20february%202015.pdf. For those without computer access, a copy of the Missouri Model may be obtained from the school office.

Transfer Procedures

Any student who intends to transfer from Ripley County R-IV should inform the administrator’s office of his/her intentions and, if possible, give the address of the new school he/she will attend.

1. Pick up withdrawal sheet from the administrator’s office
2. check-in all books (including library books) and settle all obligations as indicated on withdrawal sheet.
3. Bring withdrawal sheet to office for final check

Transcripts of permanent record will not be sent to another school unless obligations are cleared. A student who does not check out is still liable for all debts.

Visitors

All visitors must report to the office, sign-in and receive a visitor’s pass upon the principal’s approval. Visitors who fail to report to the office and obtain a visitor’s pass and subsequently come into contact with student(s) are violating the Safe Schools Act and may require administration to contact the police department. Visiting by minors is not permitted.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE

The Student Code of Conduct is designed to foster student responsibility, respect for others, and to provide for the orderly operation of district schools. No code can be expected to list each and every offense that may result in disciplinary action; however, it is the purpose of this code to list certain offenses which, if committed by a student, will result in the imposition of a certain disciplinary action. The more serious the offense, or the more frequent the misbehavior, the more severe the consequence. Any conduct not included herein, any aggravated circumstance of any offense, or any action involving a combination of offenses may result in disciplinary consequences that extend beyond this code of conduct as determined by the principal, superintendent and/or Board of Education. The principal, superintendent, and/or board of education reserve the right to punish behavior that adversely affects the school even though it may not be specified in the following written rules. In extraordinary circumstances where the minimum consequence is judged by the superintendent or designee to be manifestly unfair or not in the interest of the district, the superintendent or designee may reduce the consequences listed in this policy, as allowed by law. This code includes, but is not necessarily limited to, acts of students on district property, including playgrounds, parking lots and district transportation, or at a district activity, whether on or off district property. The district may also discipline students for off-campus conduct that negatively impacts the educational environment, to the extent allowed by law.

Refusal of corporal punishment will result in out-of-school suspension for the remainder of the day and one additional day. If other punishments are refused, upon the return from suspension, the student will still serve all detentions, ISS days, etc. Consequences will be the same for handicapped students unless otherwise stated in the IEP.

Levels of Discipline

1. Verbal reprimand or warning – The principal will send a letter home to the parent/guardian concerning the problem

and will warn the student that a future act will result in more severe punishment.

1. Loss of privileges – The school administrator may notify the parent/guardian of privilege suspension. These

privileges include eating in the cafeteria, parking on district property, participation in extracurricular activities, bus transportation and use of district technology. Students with recurring disciplinary actions will lose their ability to participate in extra-curricular activities, school clubs, organizations, trips, and classroom activities. Students falling into this category, will be referred to the Superintendent. Superintendent will review offenses. A conference will

be held with all parties involved, including but not limited to student, teacher, parents, and administrator. A board review of activity exclusion with then take place. The final determination of exclusion will be decided among the Superintendent and the Board of Education. This review will be for extreme disciplinary actions, including but not limited to; lying, cheating, fighting, stealing, rude and vulgar language and or behavior, bullying and any other behavior that impedes student learning.

1. Conference – A conference will be held with the student, teacher, administrator, and other appropriate staff

members to develop a plan for improving behavior. The parent/guardian may be contacted.

1. Parent/guardian involvement – The parent/guardian will be informed of the problem area. A conference with the

student, parent/guardian and appropriate staff members may be scheduled.

1. Corporal punishment – A certified teacher will witness each time corporal punishment is administered, in

accordance with policy JGA. Parents/Guardians will not witness corporal punishment. Refusal of corporal punishment will result in out-of-school suspension for the remainder of the day and additional days. Subsequent refusals will result in progressive suspension days. See policy JGA

1. Alternative discipline – Extra assignments or other appropriate schoolwork will be given by a teacher.
2. In-school suspension (ISS) – Students will promptly and directly report to the assigned area each day of in-school

suspension. Being late may result in additional ISS days. Students must complete assignments sent to the ISS room by the regular teachers, to the satisfaction of the teacher in charge. All students will need to have textbooks, paper, and pencils ready each day. Students will not be allowed to leave the ISS room to gather materials. If a student breaks ISS rules, additional assignments may be given by the teacher in charge, or the student may be sent to the principal. Refusal of ISS will result in out-of-school suspension and upon return the student will serve the original ISS.

1. Short out-of-school suspension – The student will be excluded from regular classroom participation and school-

related activities for a period of up to three (3) school days. Parents/Guardians will be notified and a conference with administration, parents/guardians and the student may be conducted. See policy JGD

1. Long out-of-school suspension – The student will be excluded from regular classroom participation and school-

related activities for a period of four (4) to ten (10) school days. Parents/guardians will be notified and a conference with administration, parents/guardians and the student will be conducted. Suspension exceeding ten (10) days will be determined by the superintendent. Suspension exceeding 180 days will be determined by the Board of Education. See policy JGD

1. Expulsion – The principal, through the superintendent, may recommend that a student be expelled. The student

is suspended pending a hearing and/or action by the Board of Education. Through this action, the student is excluded from school and all activities for the remainder of the current semester. The student and parent/guardian are notified of changes by telephone and certified letter. See policy JGD

If other punishments are refused, upon the return from suspension, the student will still serve all detentions, ISS days, etc.

Reporting to Law Enforcement

It is the policy of the Ripley County R-IV School District to report all crimes occurring on district property to law enforcement, including, but not limited to, the crimes the district is required to report in accordance with law. A list of crimes the district is required to report is included in policy JGF.

The principal shall also notify the appropriate law enforcement agency and superintendent if a student is discovered to possess a controlled substance or weapon in violation of the district’s policy.

In addition, the superintendent shall notify the appropriate division of the juvenile or family court upon suspension for more than ten (10) days or expulsion of any student who the district is aware is under the jurisdiction of the court.

Documentation in Student’s Discipline Record

The principal, designee or other administrators or school staff will maintain all discipline records as deemed necessary for the orderly operation of the schools and in accordance with law and policy JGF.

Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion and Other Disciplinary Consequences

All students who are suspended or expelled, regardless of the reason, are prohibited from participating in or attending any district-sponsored activity or being on or near district property or the location of any district activity for any reason, unless permission is granted by the superintendent or designee. In addition, the district may prohibit students from participating in activities or restrict a student’s access to district property as a disciplinary consequence even if a student is not suspended or expelled from school, if appropriate.

In accordance with law, any student who is suspended for any offenses listed in § 160.261, RSMo., or any act of violence or drug-related activity defined by policy JGF as a serious violation of school discipline shall not be allowed to be within 1,000 feet of any district property or any activity of the district, regardless of whether the activity takes place on district property, unless one (1) of the following conditions exist:

1. The student is under the direct supervision of the student’s parent, legal guardian, custodian or another adult

designated in advance, in writing, to the student’s principal by the student’s parent, legal guardian or custodian, and the superintendent or designee has authorized the student to be on district property.

1. The student is enrolled in and attending an alternative school that is located within 1,000 feet of a public school

in the district.

1. The student resides within 1,000 feet of a public school in the district and is on the property of his or her residence.

If a student violates the prohibitions in this section, he or she may be suspended or expelled in accordance with the offense, “Failure to Meet Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion or Other Disciplinary Consequences,” listed below.

Prohibited Conduct

The following are descriptions of prohibited conduct as well as potential consequences for violations. Building-level administrators are authorized to more narrowly tailor potential consequences as appropriate for the age level of students in the building. All consequences must be within the ranges established in this regulation. In addition to the consequences specified here, school officials will notify law enforcement and document violations in the student’s discipline file pursuant to law and Board policy.

Offenses

Academic Dishonesty

Cheating on tests, assignments, projects or similar activities; plagiarism; claiming credit for another person’s work; fabrication of facts, sources or other supporting material; unauthorized collaboration; facilitating academic dishonesty; and other misconduct related to academics.

First Offense: In-school suspension, corporal punishment and no credit for the work. Second Offense: In-school suspension, corporal punishment and no credit for the work. Third Offense: Out-of-school suspension, corporal punishment and no credit for work.

Arson Starting or attempting to start a fire or causing or attempting to cause an explosion.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-School suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion; notification of law enforcement officials. Restitution, if appropriate. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion. Restitution, if appropriate.

Assault

1. Hitting, striking and/or attempting to cause injury to another person; placing a person in reasonable

apprehension of imminent physical injury; physically injuring another person.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

1. Attempting to kill or cause serious physical injury to another; killing or causing serious physical injury to another.

First Offense: 1 – 180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

Bullying and Cyberbullying (see Board policy 2655)

Intimidation or harassment of a student or multiple students perpetuated by individuals or groups. Bullying includes, but is not limited to: physical actions, including violence, gestures, theft, or damaging property; oral or written taunts, including name-calling, put-downs, extortion, or threats; threats of retaliation for reporting such acts; sending or posting harmful or cruel text or images using the Internet or other digital communication devices; sending or posting materials that threaten or raise concerns about violence against others, suicide or self-harm. Students will not be disciplined for speech in situations where the speech is protected by law.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

Bus or Transportation Misconduct (see Board policy 2652)

Any offense committed by a student on transportation provided by or through the district shall be punished in the same manner as if the offense had been committed at the student’s assigned school. In addition, transportation privileges will be suspended or revoked according to the following chart.

First Offense: Verbal warning and special assignment of seats. Second Offense: Suspension from riding the bus 1-10 days. Third Offense: Suspension from riding the bus 1-30 days. Fourth Offense: Suspension from riding the bus for remainder of year or 1-180 days.

Destruction of Property – 2654

First Offense: Repair or pay for destroyed or damaged property and/or in-school suspension, corporal punishment. Second Offense: Repair or pay for destroyed or damaged property and/or in-school suspension, corporal punishment. Third Offense: Repair or pay for destroyed or damaged property and/or in-school suspension, corporal punishment.

Dishonesty

Any act of lying, whether verbal or written, including forgery.

First Offense: Nullification of forged document. Principal/Student conference, corporal punishment, or in- school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Nullification of forged document. Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.

Disrespectful, Disruptive or Disorderly Conduct or Speech (see Board policy 2130 if illegal harassment or discrimination is involved) Verbal, written, pictorial or symbolic language or gesture that is directed at any person that is in violation of district policy or is otherwise rude, vulgar, defiant, considered inappropriate in educational settings or that materially and substantially disrupts classroom work, school activities or school functions. Students will not be disciplined for speech in situations where it is protected by law.

First Offense: Violators of this policy will receive counseling with administrator and/or counselor based on the severity of offense, in addition too may receive corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension. Second Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: In-school suspension or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.

Dress Code Violation

Any violation of the student dress code described in the handbook. If the student cannot provide appropriate clothing to change into, clothing will be provided by the school.

First Offense: Clothing change required Second Offense: Clothing change required and 1 day in-school suspension. Third Offense: Clothing change required and 2 days in-school suspension. Fourth Offense: Clothing change required, 3 days in-school suspension, and parent/guardian conference.

Drugs/Alcohol (see Board policies 2640)

1. Possession, sale, purchase or distribution of any over-the-counter drug, herbal preparation or imitation drug or

herbal preparation.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

1. Possession of or attendance while under the influence of or soon after consuming any unauthorized prescription

drug, alcohol, narcotic substance, unauthorized inhalants, counterfeit drugs, imitation controlled substances, or drug-related paraphernalia, including controlled substances and illegal drugs defined as substances identified under schedules I, II, III, IV or V in section 202(c) of the Controlled Substances Act.

First Offense: Police/juvenile and parent/guardian contact; 10-day suspension; conference with student, parent/guardian, principal, and superintendent before returning to school; permanent suspension from all sports and activities for remainder of school year. Subsequent Offense: Police/juvenile and parent/guardian contact; 30-day suspension; student and parent/guardian must appear before the Board of Education to be reinstated. If parents or student refuse to do so, the administration will recommend suspension for the remainder of the school year.

1. Sale, purchase or distribution of any prescription drug, alcohol, narcotic substance, unauthorized inhalants,

counterfeit drugs, imitation controlled substances, or drug-related paraphernalia, including controlled substances and illegal drugs defined as substances identified under schedules I, II, III, IV or V in section 202(c) of the Controlled Substances Act.

First Offense: Police/juvenile and parent/guardian contact; 10-day suspension; conference with student, parent/guardian, principal and superintendent before returning to school; permanent suspension from all sports and activities for remainder of school year.

Subsequent Offense: Police/juvenile and parent/guardian contact; 30-day suspension; student and parent/guardian must appear before the Board of Education to be reinstated. If parents or student refuse to do so, the administration will recommend suspension for the remainder of the school year.

1. Possession of CBD or similar products are prohibited on district property and at any district event.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension or 1 – 180 days out of school suspension.

Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, 1 – 180 days out of school suspension or expulsion.

Extortion

Threatening or intimidating any person for the purpose of obtaining money or anything of value.

First Offense: Receive counseling with administration based on severity of offense, and in addition may receive corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

Extracurricular Activities (misconduct)

First Offense: Removal by principal or school official (1-5 game suspension) or ejection by referee/umpire (1-10 game suspension). Subsequent Offense: Suspended from all extracurricular activities for remainder of year.

Failure to Meet Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion or Other Disciplinary Consequences

Violating the conditions of a suspension, expulsion or other disciplinary consequence including, but not limited to, participating in, or attending any district-sponsored activity or being on or near district property or the location where a district activity is held. See the section of this regulation titled, “Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion and Other Disciplinary Consequences.”

As required by law, when the district considers suspending a student for an additional period of time or expelling a student for being on or within 1,000 feet of district property during a suspension, consideration shall be given to whether the student poses a threat to the safety of any child or school employee and whether the student’s presence is disruptive to the educational process or undermines the effectiveness of the district’s discipline policy.

First Offense: Verbal warning, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Report to law enforcement for trespassing if expelled. Subsequent Offense: Verbal warning, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Report to law enforcement for trespassing if expelled.

Failure to Work in Class

Sitting idly, sleeping, or otherwise failing to participate in class.

First Offense: Verbal reprimand, corporal punishment, or alternative discipline. Second Offense: Corporal punishment, alternative discipline, or 1 day in-school suspension. Third Offense: Corporal punishment, alternative discipline, or 2 days in-school suspension. Fourth Offense: 3 days in-school-suspension. Fifth Offense: 4-10 days in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

False Alarms (see also “Threats or Verbal Assault”)

Tampering with emergency equipment, setting off false alarms, making false reports; communicating a threat or false report for the purpose of frightening or disturbing people, disrupting the educational environment or causing the evacuation or closure of district property.

First Offense: Restitution. In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Subsequent Offense: Restitution. In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

Fighting/Hands On-Horseplay (see also, “Assault”) Mutual combat in which both parties have contributed to the conflict either verbally or by physical action.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension; possible notification of law enforcement. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension; possible notification of law enforcement.

Gambling

Betting on an uncertain outcome, regardless of stakes; engaging in any game of chance or activity in which something of real or symbolic value may be won or lost. Gambling includes, but is not limited to, betting on outcomes of activities, assignments, contests, and games.

First Offense: Principal/Student conference, loss of privileges, or in-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Principal/Student conference, loss of privileges, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of- school suspension.

Gangs/ Secret Organizations Offenses – 2653 Any student wearing, carrying or displaying gang paraphernalia; exhibiting behavior or gestures which symbolize gang membership; or causing and/or participating in activities which intimidate or affect the attendance of another student.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 out of school suspension, or expulsion. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 out of school suspension, or expulsion.

Graffiti

A drawing/inscription/etching made on a wall, body, or other surface. Graffiti that is vulgar or abusive in nature will be subject to “disrespectful, disruptive or disorderly conduct or speech” punishment as well. The student will report to the principal before or after-school to perform repair/cleaning duty.

First Offense: Repair/clean graffiti, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension. Second Offense: Repair/clean graffiti, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, corporal punishment. Third Offense: Repair/clean graffiti, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, corporal punishment. Fourth Offense: Repair/clean graffiti, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, corporal punishment.

Harassment, including Sexual Harassment (see Board policy 2920)

1. Use of material of a sexual nature or unwelcome verbal, written or symbolic language based on gender, race, color,

religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Examples of illegal harassment include, but are not limited to, racial jokes or comments; requests for sexual favors and other unwelcome sexual advances; graffiti; name calling; or threatening, intimidating or hostile acts based on a protected characteristic.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

1. Unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature or that is based on gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin,

ancestry, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Examples include, but are not limited to, touching or fondling of the genital areas, breasts or undergarments, regardless of whether the touching occurred through or under clothing; or pushing or fighting based on protected characteristics.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

Hazing

Any activity that a reasonable person believes would negatively impact the mental or physical health or safety of a student or put the student in a ridiculous, humiliating, stressful or disconcerting position for the purposes of initiation, affiliation, admission, membership, or maintenance of membership in any group, class, organization, club or athletic team including, but not limited to, a grade level, student organization or district-sponsored activity. Hazing may occur even when all students involved are willing participants.

First Offense: Counseling with administrator, corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out- of-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

Incendiary Devices or Fireworks Possessing, displaying or using matches, lighters or other devices used to start fires unless required as part of an educational exercise and supervised by district staff; possessing or using fireworks.

First Offense: Confiscation, warning, principal/student conference, corporal punishment or in-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation, principal/student conference, corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1- 10 days out-of-school suspension.

Indecent Exposure

Includes display of breasts, buttocks, and genitals in a public location

First Offense: Parents will be informed by phone, letter or visit, and in-school suspension, corporal punishment, out-of-school suspension.

Subsequent Offenses: Corporal punishment, 1 – 180 days of out-of-school suspension.

Language (vulgar and abusive language) First – Third Offenses: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension. Fourth Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.

Nuisance Items

Possession or use of toys, games, MP3 players and other electronic devices (other than mobile phones) that are not authorized for educational purposes.

First Offense: Confiscation. Warning, corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation. Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-10 days out-of-school suspension.

Public Display of Affection

Physical contact that is inappropriate for the school setting including, but not limited to, kissing and groping.

First Offense: Principal/Student conference, corporal punishment, in-school suspension. Second Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension. Third Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension. Fourth Offense: Corporal punishment, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.

Sexting and/or Possession of Sexually Explicit, Vulgar or Violent Material Students may not possess or display, electronically or otherwise, sexually explicit, vulgar or violent material including, but not limited to, pornography or depictions of nudity, violence or explicit death or injury. This prohibition does not apply to curricular material that has been approved by district staff for its educational value. Students will not be disciplined for speech in situations where it is protected by law.

First Offense: Confiscation. Principal/Student conference, corporal punishment, out-of-school suspension or in-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation. Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

Sexual Activity

Acts of sex or simulated acts of sex including, but not limited to, intercourse or oral or manual stimulation.

First Offense: Principal/Student conference, corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out- of-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

Tardiness

Tardies that are acquired after the start of the school day. Offenses listed below are per quarter.

First Offense (third unexcused): 1 day in-school suspension. Second Offense (fourth unexcused): 1 day in-school suspension. Third Offense (fifth unexcused): 1 day in-school suspension. Fourth Offense (sixth unexcused): 1 day in-school suspension. Fifth Offense (seventh unexcused): 1 day in-school suspension.

Technology Misconduct (See Responsible Use Policy for Electronic Resources)

1. Attempting, regardless of success, to: gain unauthorized access to a technology system or information; use district

technology to connect to other systems in evasion of the physical limitations of the remote system; copy district files without authorization; interfere with the ability of others to utilize district technology; secure a higher level of privilege without authorization; introduce computer viruses, hacking tools, or other disruptive/destructive programs onto or using district technology; or evade or disable a filtering/blocking device.

First Offense: Principal/Student conference, suspension of user privileges up to complete removal of user privileges. Second Offense: 2 weeks removal of user privileges up to complete removal of user privileges. Third Offense: Semester removal of user privileges up to complete removal of user privileges. Fourth Offense: Complete removal of user privileges.

1. Possession of (turned off) pagers, phones, personal digital assistants, personal laptops or any other electronic

communication devices during the regular school day, including instructional class time, class change time, breakfast or lunch.

First Offense: Confiscation. Second Offense: Confiscation and corporal punishment or in-school suspension. Third Offense: Confiscation and parent must pick up device, plus corporal punishment or in-school suspension. Fourth Offense: Confiscation and parent must pick up device, plus corporal punishment or in-school suspension.

1. Use of, personal digital assistants, personal laptops or any other electronic communication devices during the

regular school day, including instructional class time, class change time, breakfast or lunch.

First Offense: Confiscation, in-school suspension, and parent must pick up device. Second Offense: Confiscation, out-of-school suspension, and parent must pick up device. Third Offense: Confiscation, out-of-school suspension, and parent must pick up device.

1. Using electronic device as an instrument of disorderly conduct during the regular school day, including instructional

class time, class change time, breakfast or lunch.

First Offense: Confiscation, 3 days out-of-school suspension, and/or notification of law enforcement. Second Offense: Confiscation, 5 days out-of-school suspension, and/or notification of law enforcement. Third Offense: Confiscation, 10 days out-of-school suspension, and/or notification of law enforcement.

1. Violations of Board policy other than those listed in (1) or (2) above.

First Offense: Restitution. Principal/Student conference, corporal punishment, or in-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Restitution. Loss of user privileges, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

1. Use of audio or visual recording equipment in violation of Board policy.

First Offense: Confiscation. Principal/Student conference, corporal punishment, or in-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Confiscation. Principal/student conference, corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1- 10 days out-of-school suspension.

Theft

Theft, attempted theft or knowing possession of stolen property.

First Offense: Return of or restitution for property. Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Return of or restitution for property. Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension.

Threats or Verbal Assault

Verbal, written, pictorial or symbolic language or gestures that create a reasonable fear of physical injury or property damage.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

Tobacco – 2640

Possession, sale, transfer, or use of any tobacco products, vapor products, or substances appearing to be tobacco products on districts property, district transportation or at any district activity. This includes electronic cigarettes, vaping and similar objects used in conjunction with vaping

First – Third Offense: Confiscation of tobacco product or vape product and corporal punishment or in-school suspension. Fourth Offense: Confiscation of tobacco product or vapor product and out of school suspension, corporal punishment, or in-school suspension.

Truancy – On campus Absence from class without the knowledge and consent of parents/guardians and the school administration while remaining on school grounds.

First Offense: In-school suspension. Second Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension and notification of parent/guardian. Third Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension and notification of parent/guardian.

Truancy – Off campus Absence from school without the knowledge and consent of parents/guardians and the school administration; excessive non-justifiable absences, even with the consent of parents/guardians.

First Offense: Parent will be informed by phone, letter, or visit and a conference will be held with the student. On first offense parents may be asked to be present at conference with the student. Corporal punishment may be administered. Second Offense: In-school suspension for three (3) days will occur. The parent will be notified by letter of the action taken. A truant office may be notified. Third Offense: Student will be suspended from school. The parent will be notified by letter of the action taken. One or both parents will be required to bring the student to school before he/she is permitted to re-enter. The suspension will be no longer than 10 school days (2 weeks).

Unauthorized Entry

Entering or assisting any other person to enter a district facility, office, locker, or other area that is locked or not open to the general public; entering or assisting any other person to enter a district facility through an unauthorized entrance; assisting unauthorized persons to enter a district facility through any entrance.

First Offense: Principal/Student conference, corporal punishment, in-school suspension, or 1-180 days out- of-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

Vandalism – 5280

Willful damage or the attempt to cause damage to real or personal property belonging to the district, staff or students.

First Offense: Restitution and/or corporal punishment, in-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: Restitution, corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion.

Weapons – 1432

1. Possession or use of any weapon as defined in Board policy, other than those defined in 18 U.S.C. § 921, 18 U.S.C.

§ 930(g)(2) or § 571.010, RSMo.

First Offense: Corporal punishment, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

1. Possession or use of a firearm as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 921 or any instrument or device defined in § 571.010,

RSMo., or any instrument or device defined as a dangerous weapon in 18 U.S.C. § 930(g)(2).

First Offense: 1 calendar year suspension or expulsion, unless modified by the Board upon recommendation by the superintendent. Subsequent Offense: Expulsion.

1. Possession or use of ammunition or a component of a weapon.

First Offense: In-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Subsequent Offense: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

Behavioral Expectations – All students attending school in District schools will be expected to accept the obligation

and responsibility to attend school on a regular basis and to comply with the District’s discipline code. Those students who choose not to fulfill their responsibilities at school will be held accountable for their conduct. Consequences for individual acts of misconduct are calculated to punish the student; to deter future misconduct; and to provide a safe and positive environment in which students can maximize their learning potential.

School-Wide Discipline Rules

General School-Wide Rules 3. Keep hands, feet, & objects to self.

1. Follow directions 1st time given. 4. No swearing, rude gestures, cruel teasing, or put-downs.
2. Stay in assigned areas. 5. Follow teacher’s directions 1st time given.
3. Keep hands, feet & objects to yourself.
4. No littering or damaging the school’s or another Restrooms

person’s property. 1. Take turns and be courteous.

1. No fighting. 2. No pushing or shoving.
2. No computers before 8:00 a.m. unless classroom 3. Whisper at all times.

teacher is present. 4. Don’t deface or damage school property.

1. Must have pass when leaving room for any reason. 5. No jumping/hanging on stalls.
2. Must sign out when leaving assigned area. 6. Put paper towels in trash cans.

Lunchroom Playground

1. Follow directions 1st time given. 1. Follow directions 1st time given.
2. Don’t throw food. 2. Use equipment properly.
3. Put all trash in proper cans. 3. No fighting.
4. Speak in soft voices. 4. Stay in assigned area.
5. No trading food. 5. Stop playing & line up when bell rings.
6. K-4: No running across driveway to playground

Gym

1. Follow directions 1st time given. Consequences
2. Use equipment properly. 1. Warning/Name recorded.
3. No boots/must have socks. 2. √ = Miss one recess.
4. No running on bleachers. 3. √√ = Miss two recesses.
5. √√√ = Miss three recesses.

Hallway/Sidewalk 5. √√√√ =Miss three recesses send to principal & contact

1. Follow direction 1st time given. parent.
2. No running, pushing or shoving.
3. Walk on the right side. Exceptions to Consequences:
4. Whisper at all times. Severe behavior (fighting, cheating, stealing, lying, over 4
5. Walk in single file. checks)

Gum chewing: 1st time – warning; Classroom 2nd – loss of recess (unless it is immediately after the 1st

1. Be in assigned seat properly & ready to work. time, then it is viewed as 4 √’s);
2. Have all needed supplies each day. 3rd – ISS; 4th – Corporal Punishment or OSS.

Summary of the Safe Schools Act (HB 1301 & 1298) School Discipline Policies–This legislation outlines several policy requirements focusing on promoting safe school environments. Local boards of education of each school district are required to establish a written discipline policy, including specifying the district’s policy on corporal punishment and procedures in which punishment will be applied. Pupils and their parents or legal guardians must be provided a copy of the disciplinary policy. All employees of the district are to receive annual instruction on the content of the disciplinary policy.

Reporting Requirements–District administrators are required to report acts of school violence to teachers and other school employees who have direct responsibility for the child’s education or interact with the student on a professional basis. This section defines “acts of violence” and “violent behavior”, including a list of felonies that are required to be reported. Any portion of a child’s IEP relating to demonstrated or potentially violent behavior must be reported to any teacher or district employee who is directly responsible for the child’s education or who interacts with the student within the scope of their duties.

Report Threats against students, teachers, or schools – School Violence Hotline 1-866-748-7047

Student Suspension–Current law requires a minimum of a one-year suspension for a student bringing a weapon to school—to include playground, parking lot, and school bus. This amendment allows the suspension to be either one year or an expulsion and expands the definition of weapon. Civil war era weapons, when used for a civil war reenactment on school property, are exempted.

Discipline Records–Districts are required to compile and maintain records of any “serious violation” of district policy. Records will be made available to district personnel with the need to know based upon their assigned duties and shall also be sent to any district a student subsequently attends.

Abuse Investigations–This section outlines investigations of alleged abuse based upon the use of corporal punishment within the district. The amendment authorizes the juvenile officer to designate another law enforcement officer to investigate these allegations in conjunction with school personnel. Children with Disabilities–Section 162.680.RSMo, contains the state prohibition on denial of educational services based upon the child’s disability. This section is amended to provide that if violent behavior of a child with a disability causes a substantial likelihood of injury, the school shall initiate procedures to change the student’s educational placement. Residency Issues–Prior to registration a pupil, parent or legal guardian must establish proof of residency, or must have requested a waiver of the proof of residency. A process is defined for requesting a waiver of proof of residency, including authorizing a hearing before the local board of education. Athletic ability is prohibited as a basis for the issuance of the waiver. Submitting false information relating to residency is defined as a Class A misdemeanor. School districts are authorized to file a civil action for recovery of educational costs based upon submitting false information relating to a student’s residency. Transfer of Documents–School officials enrolling the pupil must request within forty-eight (48) hours a transfer of documents from all school districts the pupil attended within the previous twelve (12) months. Any school district receiving that request shall respond within five (5) business days of receipt of that request. The request must include the disciplinary records required under this legislation. Transfer of school records is prohibited to persons not employed by the school district or employed by another school district, or to any governmental entity other than a school district, juvenile or family court, unless written permission is granted by the parent, guardian or student, if the student is eighteen (18) years of age or older. Violation of this subsection is a Class B misdemeanor, and a civil action is authorized based upon a district’s failure to comply. The State Board of Education is authorized to establish rules relating to the enforcement of this section.

Removal of Students–Districts are authorized to immediately remove a pupil posing a threat to themselves or others. Prior disciplinary action may not be the sole basis for such removal. Removal of a pupil with a disability is subject to state and federal procedural rights. Boards are required to make a good-faith effort to have the parent or other custodian present at the suspension or expulsion hearings.

Re-admission Conference–Section 167.171. RSMo, outlines the procedural requirements relating to the suspension or expulsion of students. A new subsection requires a conference prior to re-admission of a student suspended for more than ten (10) days for an act of school violence, or where the pupil poses a threat or harm to themselves or others. Written notice of the conference shall go to the parent or guardian. The section specifically prohibits re-admission of a student convicted or indicted of specified criminal acts. An exception is provided for children with disabilities as identified under state eligibility criteria. A conference is also required if a student attempts to enroll in one district during a suspension or expulsion from a second district. The second school district may recognize the disciplinary action if it is determined that the behavior would be subject to suspension or expulsion in that district.

Communication with Juvenile Officers–Juvenile officers must notify school officials when students have committed certain specified criminal acts. The notification must include a description of the conduct and the dates when the conduct occurred but shall not include the name of the victim. This report shall be shared with teachers or other district employees with a need to know based upon the scope of their assigned duties. The superintendent is required to notify the appropriate juvenile or family court upon the suspension of any student within the jurisdiction of the court when the suspension is in excess of ten (10) days.

Notice of Violent Acts – School personnel is required to notify the superintendent and law enforcement if any person is believed to have committed first, second or third degree sexual assault or deviant sexual assault against a pupil or school employee while on school property, on a school bus, or while involved in a school activity. The principal must also report possession of a controlled substance or a weapon by people in violation of school policy. A teacher must immediately report to the principal knowledge of an assault or possession of a weapon or controlled substance. This section grants good-faith civil immunity for school employees providing information to law enforcement. Refusal by school officials relating to their reporting requirements under this section and Section 160.261. RSMo, is defined as a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500 and imprisonment in a county jail not to exceed one (1) year.

Violence Prevention Programs – The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is authorized to identify programs relating to violence prevention to be administered to the public schools. The State Board of Education is authorized to adopt rules approving such programs. Academic credit may not be offered for participation in these programs. Beginning no later than the 1998-99 school year and thereafter, districts are authorized to administer violence prevention programs for kindergarten through twelfth grade. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is authorized to fund programs relating to violence prevention.

Statement of Disciplinary History – School districts may require a parent, guardian, or other custodian to provide a statement indicating whether a student was previously expelled, violated board policy on weapons, alcohol or drugs, or willfully inflicted injury on another. Persons making a false statement would be guilty of a Class B misdemeanor. The statement would be maintained as a part of the student’s record.

Alternative Education – Suspension or expulsion is stated not to relieve the State or the suspended student’s parent or guardian from responsibility to educate the student. Districts are encouraged to provide in-school suspensions or other alternatives to suspensions or expulsions. Districts constituting the domicile for a child for whom alternative education programs are provided shall pay the per pupil cost of that education. School districts may contract with other political subdivisions, public agencies, not-for-profit organizations, or private agencies to provide alternative education.

Family Policy Compliance Office Model Notification of Rights under FERPA for Elementary & Secondary Institutions

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.

These rights are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the School receives

a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

1. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student

believes is inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the School to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the School principal (or appropriate official), clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School 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.

1. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained of the student’s

education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure of school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed the bye School 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 School has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official of performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate record of order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. (Optional) Upon request, the School disclosed education records without consent to officials of another school district of which a student seeks or intends to enroll. [NOTE: FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent or eligible student of the records request unless it states of it annual notification that it intends to forward records on request.]

1. The right to file a complaint to the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School

to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance Office 33 U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-4605

Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA)

COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

This guide explains how to file a complaint about any of the programs¹ that are administered by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Eduation (the Department) under the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA)². Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Complaint Procedures for ESSA Programs Table of Contents General Information

1. What is a complaint under ESSA?
2. Who may file a complaint?
3. How can a complaint be filed?

Complaints filed with LEA Complaints filed with the Department

1. How will a complaint filed with the 6. How can a complaint be filed with the

LEA be investigated? Department?

1. What happens if a complaint is not 7. How will a complaint filed with the

resolved at the local level (LEA)? Department be investigated?

1. How are complaints related to equitable

services to nonpublic school children handled differently? Appeals

1. How will appeals to the Department be investigated?
2. What happens if the complaint is not resolved at the state level (the Department)?
3. What is a complaint?

For these purposes, a complaint is a written allegation that a local education agency (LEA) or the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (the Department) has violated a federal statute or regulation that applies to a program under ESSA.

1. Who may file a complaint?

Any individual or organization may file a complaint.

1. How can a complaint be filed?

Complaints can be filed with the LEA or the Department.

1. How will a complaint filed with the LEA be investigated?

Complaints filed with the LEA are to be investigated and attempted to be resolved according to the locally developed and adopted procedures.

1. What happens if a complaint is not resolved at the local level (LEA)?

A complaint not resolved at the local level may be appealed to the Department. _______________________________________________________________________ Revised 4/17 ¹Programs include Title I, A, B, C, D, Title II, Title III, Title IV A, Title V ²in compliance with ESSA Title VIII-Part C Sec 8304(a)(3)(C) Local education agencies are required to disseminate free of charge, this information regarding ESSA complaint procedures to parents of students and appropriate private school officials or representatives

1. How can a complaint be filed with the Department?

A complaint filed with the Department must be a written, signed statement that includes:

1. A statement that a requirement that applies to an ESSA program has been

violated by the LEA or the Department, and

1. The facts on which the statement is based and the specific requirement

allegedly violated.

1. How will a complaint filled with the Department be investigated?

The investigation and complaint resolution proceedings will be completed within a time limit of forty-five calendar days. That time limit can be extended by the agreement of all parties.

The following activities will occur in the investigation:

1. Record. A written record of the investigation will be kept.
2. Notification of LEA. The LEA will be notified of the complaint within five days of the

complaint being filed.

1. Resolution at LEA. The LEA will then initiate its local complaint procedures in an effort

to first resolve the complaint at the local level.

1. Report by LEA. Within thirty-five days of the complaint being filed, the LEA will submit a

written summary of the LEA investigation and complaint resolution. This report is considered public record and may be made available to parents, teachers, and other members of the general public.

1. Verification. Within five days of receiving the written summary of a complaint

resolution, the Department will verify the resolution of the complaint through an on-site visit, letter, or telephone call(s).

1. Appeal. The complaint or the Lea may appeal the decision of the Department to the

U.S. Department of Education.

1. How are complaints related to equitable services to nonpublic school children handled differently?

In addition to the procedures listed in number 7 above, complaints related to equitable services will also be filed with the U.S. Department of Education, and they will receive all information related to the investigation and resolution of the complaint. Also, appeals to the United States Department of Education must be filed no longer than thirty days following the Department’s resolution of the complaint (or its failure to resolve the complaint).

1. How will appeals to the Department be investigated?

The Department will initiate an investigation within ten days, which will be concluded within thirty days from the day of the appeal. This investigation may be continued beyond the thirty day limit at the discretion on the Department. At the conclusion of the investigation, the Department will communicate the decision and reasons for the decision to the complainant and the LEA. Recommendations and details of the decision are to be implemented within fifteen days of the decision being delivered to the LEA.

1. What happens if a complaint is not resolved at the state level (the Department)?

The complainant or the LEA may appeal the decision of the Department to the United States Department of Education.

NOTIFICATION OF TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS

According to the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (Public Law 114-95), you have the right to know the following:

Upon your request, our district is required to provide to you in a timely manner, the following information:

Whether your student’s teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.

Whether you student’s teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria have been waived.

Whether your student’s teacher is teaching in the field of discipline of the certification of the teacher.

Whether your child is provided services by a paraprofessional and, if so, their qualifications.

In addition to the information that parents may request, a building receiving Title I.A funds must provide to each individual parent:

Information on the level of achievement and academic growth of your student, if applicable and available, on each of the State assessments required under Title I.A.

Timely notice that your student has been assigned or has been taught for 4 or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who has not met applicable State certification or licensure requirements at the grade level and subject area in which the teacher has been assigned.

Due Process Procedures for Students with Disabilities (34 CFR 300.506-300-514) The district must obtain your written consent before conducting an initial evaluation or making an initial placement of your child in a special education program. In order to obtain your consent, the district will make every effort to explain its position and hear your concerns. If you refuse to give written consent for the initial evaluation or initial placement, the district must take the following steps:

1. The district administrator will request, in writing, that you meet with your child’s teacher and other

appropriate staff to discuss their immediate concerns for your child. This will be done as often as necessary to reach an agreement.

1. If you continue to refuse to give your consent, the school district will provide to you, in writing, the

following information: A.) The need for the initial evaluation or initial placement of your child; B.) The fact that you refuse to give consent; C.) The fact that the school district will initiate a due process hearing (three-person hearing panel) if you continue to refuse to give your consent. You also have the right, within ten (10) days, to request a due process hearing.

After your child’s initial placement in a special education program, you may initiate a due process hearing at any time you do not agree with any action proposed or refused concerning the re-evaluation, educational placement, or the provision of a free appropriate public education for your child.

Administrative Review: If agreement cannot be reached through discussions with school personnel, you will be advised of the school district’s position, in writing, which will clearly indicate the action which they propose or refuse to initiate. After you receive this notice, you may request, in writing, an informal administrative review with district administrator. The review is to be conducted within ten (10) days of receipt of your request unless you agree to a later time. The review must be held at a time and place that is convenient to you.

The Administrative Review Shall:

1. Be conducted by the school district Administrator or someone designated by the Administrator.
2. Be informal.

At the Administrative Review:

1. The school district will tell you about and permit you to review all information they have on your child.
2. The school district will fully explain to you each reason they have for the action which they propose.
3. You or your representative may present any information you have which pertains to the proposed action.
4. Cross-examination shall be permitted.

Three-Person Hearing Panel: If a satisfactory agreement is not reached, you may appeal the decision within ten (10) days, to the local board of education. During this time your child’s educational placement cannot be changed without your written approval. The school board must take the following action:

1. A three-person hearing panel will be formed within ten (10) days of your request. One panel member is

to be selected by you, one by the school district and one mutually agreed upon by you and the district. No panel member can have a personal or professional interest which would conflict with his/her objectivity.

1. The hearing panel will have fifteen (15) days to set the date and location, give notice to all involved, hold

a due process hearing and render findings and recommendations to you and the local board of education.

1. A written notice will be sent to you and the local board of education regarding the findings and

recommendations.

At the Formal Hearing You and The District Have the Right:

1. To be represented by legal counsel and by individuals with knowledge or training in problems of

handicapped children.

1. To present evidence, cross examine witnesses and compel the attendance of witnesses.
2. To prohibit the introduction of evidence or records that has not been disclosed at least five (5) days

before the hearing.

1. To obtain a written or electronic verbatim record of the hearing.
2. To obtain a written findings of fact and decisions of the hearing.

As A Parent, You Have the Right:

1. To have your child present.
2. To open the hearing to the public.

State Board of Education Review: You and the school district have thirty (30) days in which to decide whether you are in agreement with the panel’s findings. If either of you disagree, you may request a review by the State Board of Education. Within thirty (30) days, the State Board of Education must review the panel’s findings and render a final decision. If neither you nor the local board requests such a review, the decision of the hearing panel shall be final after the thirty (30) day period.

Administering Medicines to Students

1. When medicine is to be administered by school officials, the medicine must be accompanied by a label

affixed by a pharmacy/physician. In addition, written instructions, signed by the parent/guardian and /or physician, will be required and will include the following:

Child’s name Time to be administered Name of medication Date Prescribed Dosage

1. Ripley County R-IV School recognizes that some students may require medications for chronic or short-term

illnesses during the school day to enable them to remain in school and participate in the district’s educational services. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to submit any relevant information regarding the medications their student needs. This includes the administration of over-the-count medications that do not require a prescription as long as one administers these medications according to the specific directions outlined on the manufacturer’s label and pursuant to established district administrative procedures. The district prohibits students from possessing or self-administering medications while on district grounds, on district transportation or during district activities unless explicitly authorized in accordance with this policy. You will find a copy of the form that you are required to sign if your child has permission to receive certain over-the-counter medications in this handbook. If you wish to obtain a form to sign, please contact the office.

1. The administration of the medicine to a student, when all the above conditions have been met, shall be limited to

the Administrator or other designated person(s). All medication shall be kept in a designated place or the Administrator’s office. The parent/guardians of the student must assume responsibility for informing school personnel of any change in the student’s health or change in medication.

1. If the child has a chronic medical problem for which he must keep medication on hand, such as allergies, a letter

from the child’s parents explaining the reason for the medication and what medication it is, should be kept on file in the office.

Ripley County R-IV School District

Schoolwide Parent Engagement Policy

2026-2027

Parents and guardians have the right to be involved in their child’s education. We have a Parent Advisory Council which meets during the year. The district will send home suggestion sheets so that parents can offer suggestions of parent involvement activities they would like to participate in at the school if possible.

Parents can talk to their child’s teachers as needed. You may use the Remind App or call the school at 573-996-7118 to set up a time to talk to the teacher.

Parent notices will be sent home to inform parents when meetings or conferences will be held.

Ripley County R-IV School

RESPONSIBLE USE POLICY FOR ELECTRONIC RESOURCES

All Ripley County R-IV students and staff are responsible for their actions and activities involving the school district’s computers, electronic devices, network, and internet services, and for their computer files, passwords, and accounts. These rules provide general guidance concerning the use of school computers and other electronic devices and provide examples of prohibited uses. The rules and guidelines detail responsible use of electronic information resources under which students, staff, and all members of the Ripley County R-IV Community, herein referred to as “users,” will be held accountable. The rules do not attempt to describe every possible prohibited activity. Students, parents, and school staff who have questions about whether a particular activity is prohibited are encouraged to contact a building administrator. These rules apply to all school computers, all school- provided electronic devices wherever used, all uses of school servers, and internet access and networks regardless of how they are accessed.

Responsible Use

1. School computers, network and internet services, and electronic resources are provided for

educational purposes and research consistent with Ripley County R-IV’s educational mission, curriculum, and instructional goals.

1. Users must comply with all board policies, the student handbook, and school rules and

expectations concerning conduct and communications when using school computers or school- issued electronic resources, whether on or off school property.

1. Students also must comply with all specific instructions from school staff.

Prohibited Uses

1. Unacceptable uses of school electronic resources include, but are not limited to the following:
2. Accessing or Communicating Inappropriate Materials – Users may not access, submit, post,

publish, forward, download, scan or display defamatory, abusive, obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit, sexually suggestive, threatening, discriminatory, harassing, bullying and/or illegal materials or messages.

1. Illegal Activities – Users may not use the school district’s computers, electronic devices, networks

or internet services for any illegal activity or in violation of any board policy/procedure or school rules. Ripley County R-IV and its employees and agents assume no responsibility for illegal activities of students while using school computers or school-issued electronic resources.

1. Violating Copyrights or Software Licenses – Downloading, copying, duplicating and distributing

software, music, sound files, movies images or other copyrighted materials without the specific written permission of the copyright owner is prohibited, except when the use falls within the Fair Use Doctrine of the United States Copyright Law (Title 17, USC) and content is cited appropriately.

1. Plagiarism – Users may not represent as their own work any materials obtained on the internet

(such as term papers, articles, music, etc.). When using other sources, credit must be given to the copyright holder.

1. Use for Non-School-Related Purposes – School district’s computers, electronic devices, networks

and internet services are provided for purposes related to educational programs, school operations, and performance of job responsibilities. Incidental personal use of school devices is

permitted as long as such use: 1) does not interfere with the user’s responsibilities and performance; 2) does not interfere with system operations or other system users; and 3) does not violate this policy and the accompanying rules, or any other board policy, procedure or school rules. “Incidental personal use” is defined as use by an individual of occasional personal communications.

1. Misuse of Passwords/Unauthorized Access – Users may not share passwords; use other user’s

passwords; access or use others user’s accounts; or attempt to circumvent network security systems.

1. Malicious Use/Vandalism – Users may not engage in any malicious use, disruption or harm to the

school district’s computers, electronic devices, network and internet services, including but not limited to hacking activities and creation/uploading of computer viruses.

1. Avoiding School Filters – Users may not attempt to or use any software, utilities or other means

to access internet sites or content blocked by the school filters.

1. Unauthorized Access to Blogs/Social Networking Sites, Etc – Users may not access blogs, social

networking sites, etc. prohibited by building administration or the Ripley County R-IV Technology Department. Teachers and students using authorized social networking sites for educational projects or activities shall follow the age requirements and legal requirements that govern the use of social networking sites in addition to the guidelines established in this policy.

1. Wasting System Resources – Users shall not use the network in such a way that would waste

system resources or disrupt the use of the network by others. This includes but is not limited to excessive printing, file storage, online games, and video/audio streaming not directly related to educational projects, as determined by the supervising instructor or building administrator.

1. Unauthorized Equipment – Users may not attach unauthorized equipment, including personal

laptops, tablets, and handheld devices to the district’s secured network without permission from the Ripley County R-IV Technology Department.

Compensation for Losses, Costs and/or Damages

1. In the event an electronic device is lost, stolen or damaged, the individual student or staff

member will be responsible for the cost of the repair and/or cost of replacement as determined by school administrators. Multiple instances of damage may result in the loss of device or other disciplinary actions.

1. Purposeful, malicious damage or vandalism as determined by school administrators will be

subject to the full replacement value of said device.

1. In addition, all users (students and staff) may be responsible for compensating the school district

for any losses, costs or damages incurred for violations of board policies/procedures and school rules, including the cost of investigating such violations. The school district assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges or costs incurred by users while using school district computers, devices, or the school network.

Student Security

1. Users may not reveal personal information, including a home address and phone number, about

themselves or another individual on any unsecured electronic medium, such as web sites, blogs, podcasts, videos, wikis, or social networking sites. If users encounter dangerous or inappropriate information or messages, they shall notify the school administration immediately.

1. Staff may post student pictures on district/school/classroom “public” websites as long as the

student’s name or other identifying information is not included. Students’ grades, test results, or other identifying pictures may be stored only on district-approved secure sites that require a username and password for authorized individuals to access.

1. All Ripley County R-IV Schools are closed campuses. Ripley County R-IV retains all rights

concerning any recording and/or publishing of any student’s or staff member’s work(s) or images(s). Students must obtain permission from a Ripley County R-IV staff member to publish a photograph or video of any school-related activity. It is best practice and common courtesy to ask permission before recording an individual or groups.

1. The use of cameras in any type of electronic device is strictly prohibited in locker rooms and

restrooms.

1. Ripley County R-IV Staff must maintain the confidentiality of student data in accordance the

Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

1. Students shall/may be issued a school email address to improve student communication and

collaboration on school projects. Email shall be used only for educational purposes that directly relate to a school project or assignment.

Technology Privacy

All computers, telephone systems, voice mail systems, electronic mail, and electronic communication systems are the district’s property. The district retains the right to access and review all electronic and voice mail, computer files, databases, and any other electronic transmissions contained in or used in conjunction with district’s computer system, telephone system, electronic mail system and voice mail system. Students and staff should have no expectation that any information contained on such systems is confidential or private.

System Security

Any user who identifies a security problem must notify his/her teacher or building administrator immediately. The user shall not demonstrate the problem to others or access unauthorized material. Staff shall immediately report any potential security breaches to the Ripley County R-IV administrators.

Personal Devices

All users are prohibited from using privately-owned electronic devices in school unless explicitly authorized by the Ripley County R-IV district administration.

Additional Rules for Laptops, IPads or Other Electronic Devices Issued to Students or Staff

1. Electronic devices loaned or leased to students or staff shall be used only for educational

purposes that directly relate to a school project or assignment, unless otherwise explicitly authorized by building administration.

1. Users are responsible for the proper care of electronic devices at all times, whether on or off

school property, including costs associated with repairing or replacing the device.

1. Users must report a lost or stolen device to the building administration immediately. If a device

is stolen, a report also should be made immediately with the school safety officer and/or local police.

1. The policy and rules apply to the use of the electronic device at any time or place, on or off school

property. Students are responsible for obeying any additional rules concerning care of devices issued by school staff.

1. Violation of policies or rules governing the use of electronic devices, or any careless use of the

device may result in a student’s device being confiscated and/or a student only being allowed to use the device under the direct supervision of school staff. The student will also be subject to disciplinary action for any violations of board policies/procedures or school rules.

1. Parents are responsible for supervising their child’s use of the device when not in school.
2. The device configuration shall not be altered in any way by users. No software applications shall

be installed, removed, or altered on the device unless permission is explicitly given by the teacher or building administrator.

1. The device is to be used by the student or staff member to whom it is issued. The person to

whom the device is issued will be responsible for any activity or action performed on the device.

1. The device must be returned in acceptable working order by the last day of each school year,

upon withdrawal or exit date from the school district and whenever requested by school staff.

Terms of Use

Ripley County R-IV reserves the right to deny, revoke or suspend specific user privileges and/or take other disciplinary action, including suspensions or expulsion from school, for violations of this policy. Additionally, all handbook regulations apply to the use of the Ripley County R-IV network, internet and electronic resources.

Disclaimer – Ripley County R-IV, its employees, and agents, make no warranties of any kind, neither expressed nor implied, concerning the network, internet access, and electronic resources it is providing. Furthermore, Ripley County R-IV is not responsible for:

1. The accuracy, nature, quality, or privacy of information stored on local servers or devices or

information gathered through internet access.

1. Any damages suffered by a user (whether the cause is accidental or not) including but not

limited to, loss of data, delays or interruptions in service and the infection of viruses or other malware on personal computers or other devices.

1. Unauthorized financial obligations resulting from the use of Ripley County R-IV electronic

resources.

Please read, sign and return the agreement for Ripley County R-IV’s Responsible Use Policy for Electronic Resources

RIPLEY COUNTY R-IV SCHOOL DISTRICT

Parent Information and Resource Center (PIRC) Handout

The Parental Information and Resource Center (PIRC) program is funded by the US Department of Education, Office of Innovation, and Improvement, established to provide training, information, and support to parents and individuals who work with local parents, districts, and schools that receive Title I.A funds. PIRCs provide both regional and statewide services and disseminate information to parents on a statewide basis.

PIRCs help implement successful and effective parental involvement policies, programs, and activities that lead to improvements in student academic achievement, and that strengthen partnerships among parents, teachers, principals, administrators, and other school personnel in meeting the educational needs of children; and to assist parents to communicate effectively with teachers, principals, counselors, administrators, and other school personnel.

The recipients of PIRC grants are required to serve both rural and urban areas, use at least half of their funds to serve areas with high concentrations of low-income children, and use at least 30 percent of the funds they receive for early childhood parent programs.

Centers must include activities that establish, expand, or operate early childhood parent education programs and typically engage in a variety of technical assistance activities designed to improve student academic achievement, including understanding the accountability systems in the state and school districts being served by a project. Specific activities often include helping parents to understand the data that accountability systems make available to parents and the significance of that data for such things as opportunities for supplemental services and public school choice afforded to their children attending buildings in school improvement.

PIRCs generally develop resource materials and provide information about high quality family involvement programs to families, schools, school districts, and others through conferences, workshops, and dissemination of materials. Projects generally include a focus on serving parents of low-income, minority, and limited English proficient (LEP) children enrolled in elementary and secondary schools.

Missouri has two PIRCs-one in St. Louis and one in Springfield. For service and contact information, go to their website at http://www.nationalpirc.org/directory/MO-32,html

This is available at the school office for those of you without access to a computer.

Ripley County R-IV School District

RESPONSIBLE USE POLICY FOR ELECTRONIC RESOURCES AGREEMENT

FY 2026- 2027

I have read and will follow the Ripley County R-IV’s RESPONSIBLE USE POLICY FOR

ELECTRONIC RESOURCES:

Student’s Name (Please Print): _________________________________________

Student’s Signature: _________________________________________________

Date: _____________________

Grade: ____________________

Question #1 – Do you have internet access available for educational purposes? Yes No

Question #2 – Do students have access to a device for educational purposes? Yes No

Parent’s Signature: __________________________________________________

Teacher’s Signature: _________________________________________________

(This form must be signed and returned to the office.)

Acknowledgment of Student Self Administration of Medication

FY 2026-2027

As parents/guardians of _________________________________________ in grade ______we authorize our (Student’s Name) son/daughter to possess and to self-administer medication to treat his/her asthma or anaphylaxis including, but not limited to inhaled bronchodilators and auto injectable epinephrine.

We warrant that:

1. A licensed physician prescribed or ordered such medications for use by our son/daughter.
2. A licensed physician has instructed our son/daughter in the correct and responsible use of such

medications.

1. Our son/daughter has demonstrated to our son/daughter’s licensed physician or licensed designee the

skill necessary to use the medication and nay device necessary to administer such medications.

1. Our son/daughter’s physician has approved and signed a written treatment plan for managing asthma or

anaphylaxis episodes and medication for use by our son/daughter. The treatment plan includes a physician’s statement that our son/daughter is capable of self-administering the medication under the treatment plan. A copy of this treatment plan is attached to this acknowledgment.

1. We agree to complete and submit to the school all written documentation required by the school.

___________________________________________ __________________ Parent/Guardian Signature Date

WE ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THE SCHOOL DISTRICT AND ITS EMPLOYEES SHALL INCUR NO LIABILITY AS

RESULT OF ANY INJURY ARISING FROM THE SELF-ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION BY OUR

SON/DAUGHTER OR THE ADMINISTRATION OF SUCH MEDICATION BY SCHOOL STAFF.

___________________________________________ __________________ Parent/Guardian Signature Date

(Please complete form on other side even if this form is not needed)

RIPLEY COUNTY R-IV SCHOOL

OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS FOR SCHOOL USAGE

FY 2026-2027

The district may administer over-the-counter medication to a student upon receipt of a written request and permission to do so by the parent/guardian. All over-the-counter medications must be delivered to the school principal or designee in the manufacturer’s original packaging and will only be administered in accordance with the manufacturer’s label.

1. Acetaminophen Regular Strength (Tylenol or Generic substitute) for temporary relief of headache, minor

muscular aches, pains, strains or sprains, and menstrual cramps. If your child has a fever of 100 or above, you will be contacted to take your child home.

1. Orajel or Generic toothache substitutes. For toothache or mouth irritation.
2. Generic Mentholated Cough Drop.
3. Benadryl Cream or Generic Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream. Apply locally for itching 3-4 times a day as

needed. If rash of unknown organ is noticed, you will be contacted to take your child home.

1. Sting Kill Swabs. Apply to and around affected areas. For the temporary relief of pain and itching due to

insect bites.

1. Neosporin Ointment or Generic Triple Antibiotic Ointment substitute. First aid to help prevent infection in

minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.

1. Blistex/Carmex. Used for chapped lips.

Please place your initials on ONE line in front of the statement in which you agree:

_____ I have carefully read the above information regarding each medication available for my child’s use should the need arise and hereby authorize the faculty, staff, or school nurse to administer ANY of them as they see necessary.

_____ I DO NOT want ANY of the above medications given to my child during the school year.

_____ I have carefully read the above information regarding each medication available for my child’s use should the need arise and hereby authorize the faculty, staff or school nurse to administer any of them EXCEPT (please list medications you DO NOT want your child to receive)

List any medication allergies__________________________________________ NONE ________

Name of student __________________________________Teacher/Grade __________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian __________________________Date ________________________

Parent Authorization For School Trips

FY 2026-2027
I give my consent for my child, _____________________________, in grade __________ to attend, and be transported, if necessary, to any school sponsored event whether it be in district or out of district.

Parent Signature: _________________________________ Date: _______________________

This handbook was designed to provide information about the Ripley County R-IV School to both students and parents. To ensure that the information is shared, please sign on the appropriate line and return only this page back to the classroom teacher where it will be filed in the student’s permanent record. Please have at least one parent or guardian sign as well as the student.

I have read the student handbook and shared it with my child.

_______________________________________ _____________________________________ Signature of Student Date Signature of Parent Date

Please complete the following for verification of school records.

Please print.

Names of parents or guardians with whom now living.

Mother _______________________________________________________________________ Father _______________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address ________________________________________________________________ Telephone Number ______________________________________________________________

Parent Authorization

I authorize the Ripley County R-IV School to make pictures and sound recordings of my child/children. I understand that the pictures and recordings may be copied, published, telecast, or broadcast with descriptions and editorial statements.

Parent Signature _________________________________________ Date ________________

Ripley County R-IV School

Art Release

FY 2026-2027

I give permission and the irrevocable and unrestricted right for the
Ripley County R-IV School District to use, reproduce and publish my
student’s artwork for educational, promotional and/or other uses and
release the Ripley County R-IV School District from any and all claims
and liability relating to the use of the student work.

Student Name: __________________________________
Grade: ________

Parent/Guardian Name: __________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: _______________________________________

Ripley County R-IV School Parent Portal 2026-2027

Dear Parents/Guardians,

We have opened the parent portal to School Insight (our student records
program). If you wish to be able to look at your child’s records online,
please fill out and submit the following information:

Student’s Name: _____________________________________________________

Your Email Address: __________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ____________________________________________

Date: ______________________________________________________________

When the office receives the information, you will be sent an email
regarding login and password information. If you have any questions,
please call the office at 573-996-7118.

Sincerely,
Karen Johnson
Secretary