LONGFELLOW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HANDBOOK

Longfellow Elementary School

Parent/Student Handbook

Community Consolidated School District 21 959 West Dundee Road Wheeling, IL 60090 847-537-8270 www.ccsd21.org

Revised in January 2026

Maximize the Achievement & Honor the Uniqueness of Every Student, Every Day!

Welcome to the

Maximizing the Achievement and Honoring the Uniqueness of Every Student, Every Day! DISCOVER WELLNESS CCSD 21

Advocate Health is CCSD 21’s operating partner and employs a Medical Director, a Family Nurse Practitioner, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Medical Assistant, and a Patient Service Representative.

SERVICES All District 21 students have access to the Health Center. Students must have a parental consent form on file. Consent forms may be completed online or paper forms may be picked up at the Health Center.

All medical and mental health appointments, including on-site testing services, are provided at no cost.

The services offered at the D21 Health Center will be similar to those community members access at an immediate care center.

•​ School and sports physical exams •​ Immunizations •​ Examination, diagnosis, and treatment of complaints such as: -​ Asthma -​ Cold and cough -​ Fevers -​ Ear infections -​ Eye infections, pink eye, and styes -​ Rashes or skin irritants -​ Seasonal allergies -​ Sinus infections

For life-threatening conditions, please call 911.

CONTACT US Location:​ D21 Community Service Center & ​ Administrative Office ​ 959 W. Dundee Road ​ Wheeling, IL 60090 Hours:​

Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Tel.:​ (224) 481-2025 Fax: ​ (847) 232-4898 Email:​ d21sbhc@ccsd21.org Website:​ www.ccsd21.org/healthcenter

•​ Laboratory testing for a range of conditions such as: -​ Flu, COVID-19, RSV -​ Strep throat -​ Urinary tract infection (UTI) •​ Individual and family counseling sessions with a clinical therapist for conditions such as: -​ Anxiety and depression -​ Relationships -​ Self-esteem -​ Stress and problem-solving -​ Social skills -​ Trauma

APPOINTMENTS Scan the QR code or visit the D21 Health Center webpage at ccsd21.org/healthcenter to schedule an appointment online.

Scan QR code to Schedule an Appointment Scan QR code to Complete the Consent Form

Board of Education Jessica Jacobson Riddick, President 459 Trinity Court Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 jessica.riddick@ccsd21.org Debbi McAtee, Vice President 1271 Lee Street Wheeling, IL 60090 debbi.mcatee@ccsd21.org

Carrie Devitt, Secretary 109 Berkshire Drive Wheeling, IL 60090 carrie.devitt@ccsd21.org

Arlen S. Gould 2821 N. Vista Road Arlington Heights, IL 60004 arlen.gould@ccsd21.org

Iliana Guzman 187 E. Norman Lane Wheeling, IL 60090 iliana.guzman@ccsd21.org

Bill Harrison 840 Weidner Road, Unit 407 Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 bill.harrison@ccsd21.org

Angelika Husmann 515 W. Brittany Drive Arlington Heights, IL 60004 angelika.husmann@ccsd21.org

Community Service Center and Administrative Office 959 West Dundee Road Wheeling, IL 60090 847-537-8270 www.ccsd21.org Dr. Michael Connolly, Superintendent Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress Deputy Superintendent

Mike Frantini Chief Operating Officer

Lewis Roberts Executive Director of Human Resources

Cassandra Young Director of Community Engagement

Schools Cooper Middle School​ Dave DeMuth, Principal 1050 Plum Grove Circle Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 847-520-2750

Holmes Middle School Benjamin Neidich Principal 221 Wolf Road Wheeling, IL 60090 847-520-2790

London Middle School Anastasia Netzel, Principal 1001 W. Dundee Road Wheeling, IL 60090 847-520-2745

Field School Julie Shaver, Principal 51 St. Armand Lane Wheeling, IL 60090 847-520-2780

Frost School Catherine Joy, Principal 1805 Aspen Drive Mt. Prospect, IL 60056 847-803-4815

Kilmer School Colleen Goodrich, Principal 655 Golfview Terrace Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 847-520-2760

Longfellow School Emily Gary, Principal 501 S. Arlington Heights Road Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 847-520-2755

Poe School Stephanie Stallman, Principal 2800 N. Highland Avenue Arlington Heights, IL 60004 847-670-3200

Riley School Nicole Bellini, Principal 1209 Burr Oak Drive Arlington Heights, IL 60004 847-670-3400

Tarkington School Jillian Dorn, Principal 310 Scott Street Wheeling, IL 60090 847-520-2775

Twain School Lisa Applequist, Principal 515 E. Merle Lane Wheeling, IL 60090 847-520-2785

Whitman School Samantha Roth, Principal 133 S. Wille Avenue Wheeling, IL 60090 847-520-2795

Hawthorne Early Childhood School Melissa Scaletta, Director 200 Glendale Avenue Wheeling, IL 60090 847-465-7290

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District 21 Strategic Plan 2025-2028 Goals and Priorities: ●​ Teaching and Learning ○​ Conduct a curriculum audit and revise curriculum cycle to align with greatest needs.

Develop a curriculum development model that includes, but is not limited to: current research, adoption protocols, integrity of implementation and evaluation of its impact on student achievement. Select a core subject to be reviewed each year. ○​ Conduct a deep analysis into root causes of low student achievement, including but not limited to: achievement gaps among key subgroups (EL, SpEd, race, gender), instructional and structural barriers that prevent equitable access to learning opportunities, instructional strategies and effective interventions. Make recommendations for improvements and revisions. ○​ Create a professional development plan that supports the new strategic plan including, but not limited to: PLC implementation; math and reading interventions; EL, SpEd and MTSS strategies; student discipline; social-emotional learning; and new curriculum changes. ○​ Continue to provide highly successful programs in technology, music and the arts and seek ideas for growth and enhancement.

●​ Meeting the Unique Needs of Learners ○​ Conduct an evaluation of current programs and practices used to meet the needs of ESL and Bilingual students and make recommendations for improvements, including but not limited to: transition from grade to grade, coordination with other services and barriers to student achievement growth. ○​ Conduct an evaluation of the MTSS model and the gifted and talented program and make recommendations for improvement including but not limited to transition from grade to grade, coordination with other services and barriers to student achievement growth and intervention models and enrichment opportunities. ●​

Social and Emotional Growth ○​ Create a representative group to develop a district framework for student discipline and improved student attendance, including, but not limited to: consistency in expectations and consequences, communication procedures, restorative practices and proactive/prevention measures. ○​ Continue to support the Community Health Clinic and seek opportunities to expand its impact and improve its services.

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Stakeholder Engagement ○​ Develop recommendations for improvements regarding effective internal and external communications and messaging, with special focus on: the district web site, district newsletters, and other proactive outreach methods. Place special emphasis on creative ideas to reach families that are not primarily English-speaking. ○​ Continue the representative district committee that focuses on creating parental and community engagement opportunities. Place particular emphasis on enhancing Parent-Teacher conferences; activities that enhance student achievement; and the home-school partnership.

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Securing the Future ○​ Continue strong fiscal stewardship by allocating resources in a purposeful, equitable manner and maintaining adequate reserves. ○​ Continue to recruit, select, develop and retain only the most effective and compassionate staff and administrators, with particular focus on student achievement and a caring culture and climate. ○​ Continue to maintain the safety, security and physical foundation of the district buildings. ○​ Establish a committee to research overcrowding in specific schools throughout the district and offer a variety of solutions for Board consideration. ​

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Mission: Maximize the achievement and honor the uniqueness of every student, every day.

We Believe: ●​ Our schools thrive in an emotionally and physically safe environment. ●​ Recognizing and appreciating diversity enriches our learning community. ●​ Highly skilled educators are responsive to the needs of each learner through rigorous and innovative instruction. ●​ Access to opportunities and rich experiences amplify students’ strengths and passions. ●​ Family engagement and community partnerships are vital to our success.

Greatness Indicators: ●​ Superior Performance ○​ Student Academic Achievement ○​ Recognition of Students, Staff, District ○​ High Levels of Satisfaction with Students, Staff, and Community (curriculum, programs, climate)

●​ Distinctive Impact ○​ Home/School/Community Engagement and Partnerships ○​ Students Connectedness and Involvement in School Activities ○​ Diversity as a Strength

●​ Lasting Endurance ○​ Fiscal Responsibility ○​ Success in High School/Beyond ○​ Transition from Elementary School to Middle School to High School

Additional information about School District 21's Strategic Plan can be found on the website at: https://ccsd21.org/strategicplan.

The Community Consolidated School District 21 Parent Handbook includes a summary of Board policies governing the District as well as administrative procedures. Complete Board policies are available on the website at: www.ccsd21.org School District 21 reserves the right to amend the Parent Handbook at any time during the year as needed without notice to parents.

THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE IS NOW: 988 If you or someone you know needs help, call, text, or chat 988, and they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary. For more information, click here.

LET’S TALK We encourage families and students to share concerns related to bullying, threats, or any safety or security issues happening in or around our schools through Let’s Talk. Click here to share a concern. ​

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Chapter 1 - Introductory Information & General Notices​ 1.10 - General School Information 1.20 - Board of Education 1.30 - School Day Hours 1.40 - Early Morning Procedures/Before-School Supervision 1.50 - Holiday Programs 1.60 - School Parties 1.70 - Parent/Guardian Contact Information 1.80 - Parent Communication With Students and Teachers 1.90 - Visitors 1.100 - Equal Educational Opportunities 1.110 - Animals on School Property​ 1.120 - School Volunteers 1.130 - Lost and Found 1.140 - Invitations & Gifts 1.150 - Solicitation of Funds/Donations 1.160 - Deliveries to Classrooms 1.170 - Treats & Snacks 1.180 - Birthdays/Celebrations 1.190 - Accommodating Individuals with Disabilities​ 1.200 - Video and Audio Monitoring System​ 1.210 - Emergency School Closings/Weather Conditions 1.220 - Automated Notification System 1.230 - Contacting the School or District

Chapter 2 - Family/School Partnership 2.10 - Parent or Guardian Involvement 2.20 - Parent or Guardian-Teacher Conferences​ 2.30 - School Directory 2.40 - School-Wide Social Events

Chapter 3 - Enrollment, Attendance & Promotion 3.10 - Attendance​ 3.20 - Early Dismissal 3.30 - Late Arrivals 3.40 - Student Absences 3.50 - Absences on Religious Holidays 3.60 - Truancy​ 3.70 - Make-Up Work 3.80 - Homework 3.90 - Progress Reports and Grades 3.100 - Student Recognition 3.110 - Retention of Students & Notification to Parent 3.120 - Home and Hospital Instruction​ 3.130 - Registration of Students 3.140 - School Admissions and Student Transfers a.​ Kindergarten/New Enrollment b.​ Admissions Procedure c.​ Homeless Children d.​ Student Transfers To and From Non-District Schools e.​ Transfers Within the District f.​ Early Entrance Requests

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Chapter 4 - Instruction Program 4.10 - Curriculum a.​ Content Areas b.​ Social Emotional Learning Curriculum & Learner Qualities c.​ Human Growth and Development/Sex Education d.​ Instructional Material e.​ Programs for Children Learning English (Bilingual & ESL Programs) 4.20 - Technology & Internet Use 4.30 - Library Media Center (LMC) 4.40 - Physical Education (PE) 4.50 - Field Trips 4.60 - Advanced Learners Programs 4.70 - Elementary & Secondary Education Act (ESEA)/Title I Programs a.​ Title I Schoolwide Programs b.​ Title I Parent Involvement c.​ Parents Right-to-Know

Chapter 5 - Student Fees and Food Service 5.10 - Fees, Fines & Charges; Waiver of Student Fees 5.20 - Food Service 5.30 - Breakfast & Lunch Program 5.40 - Free/Reduced Breakfast & Lunch Program

Chapter 6 - Transportation & Parking 6.10 - Bus Transportation ​ 6.20 - Bus Conduct​ 6.30 - Parking

Chapter 7 - Health and Safety 7.10 - Health Services​ 7.20 - Health Office Guidelines​ 7.30 - Health Emergency Forms 7.40 - Health Records 7.50 - Emergency Calls 7.60 - Student Health Examinations​ 7.70 - Student Immunizations 7.80 - Dental Examinations​ 7.90 - Vision Examinations​ 7.100 - Lead Assessment 7.110 - Screening Tests 7.120 - Excuse for Physical Education/Recess 7.130 - Students with Allergies 7.140 - Prevention of Anaphylaxis 7.150 - Care of Students with Diabetes 7.160 - Guidance and Counseling Program 7.170 - Suicide and Depression Awareness and Prevention 7.180 - Awareness and Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse, Grooming Behaviors and Boundary Violations 7.190 - Students Who are Parents, Expectant Parents, or Victims of Domestic or Sexual Violence 7.200 - Student Medication 7.220 - Undesignated Epinephrine Injectors 7.220 - Opioid 7.230 - Communicable Diseases 7.240 - Insurance​ ​

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7.250 - School Communication and Safety a.​ Severe Weather b.​ Crisis Plan c.​ Emergency Phone Numbers d.​ Emergency School Closing Information e.​ Relocation/Reunification Site Information 7.260 - Safety Drill Procedures 7.270 - Targeted School Violence Prevention Program 7.280 - Awareness of Secure Firearm Storage

Chapter 8 - Student Conduct and Responsibilities and School Climate 8.10 - Code of Conduct 8.20 - Damage to Property/Vandalism 8.30 - Right to a High-Quality Education​ 8.40 - Expectations for Participating in School Community a.​ General Principles b.​ When and Where Conduct Rules Apply c.​ Student Conduct d.​ Student Dress Code e.​ Academic Honesty/Integrity f.​ Hallway and Passing Period Guidelines g.​ Cafeteria Guidelines h.​ Field Trips (Behavior) i.​ Bus Guidelines j.​ Recess and Playground Expectations k.​ Chromebook, Information Technology, and Device Norms l.​ Student Use of Electronic Devices/Cell Phones m.​ Taking and Sharing Images n.​ Bicycles, Skateboards and Other Similar Equipment o.​ Money and Valuables p.​ Bullying q.​ Discrimination and Harassment Prohibited r.​ Gangs and Gang Activities s.​ Inappropriate Material/Possession t.​ Smoking, Alcohol Use, Drug Use u.​ Threats 8.50 - Sex Discrimination and Sexual Harassment/Intimidation and Title IX Non-Discrimination 8.60 - Responses to Discipline Situations a.​ Responses to Major Discipline Situations b.​ Detention Procedures c.​ Relevant Factors in Making Discipline Decisions d.​ Disciplinary Sanctions e.​ Student Rights 8.70 - Search and Seizure

Chapter 9 - Internet, Technology & Publications 9.10 - Internet Acceptable Use​ 9.20 - Access to Student Social Networking Passwords & Websites

Chapter 10 - Extracurricular and Athletic Activities 10.10 - Extracurricular Activities a.​ Athletics b.​ Clubs and Special Activities ​

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c.​ Performing Music 10.20 - Student Athlete Concussions and Head Injuries 10.30 - Eligibility Guidelines for Extracurricular Activities

Chapter 11 - Special Education 11.10 - Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) 11.20 - Special Education Records Procedure 11.30 - Annual Notifications/Rights & Records 11.40 - Individuals Having Records Custody & Access to the Records 11.50 - Question of Content and Copies of Records 11.60 - Review & Destruction of Records 11.70 - Public Act 093-0282 School Code 11.80 - Behavior Intervention 11.90 - Classroom Visits 11.100 - PUNS Database Information for Students and Parents or Guardians 11.110 - Parent Resources

Chapter 12 - Student Records & Privacy 12.10 - Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) 12.20 - Student Privacy Protections 12.30 - Student Online Personal Protection Act (SOPPA) 12.40 - Student Records a.​ Student Permanent Record b.​ Student Temporary Record 12.50 - School Pictures 12.60 - Student Biometric Information 12.70 - District Directory 12.80 - Information Designated as PTO/PTA Directory 12.90 - Publishing and Permissions 12.100 - Release of Information 12.110 - Emergency Release of Information 12.120 - Transfer of Records

Chapter 13 - Parental Right Notifications 13.10 - Teacher Qualifications 13.20 - Faith’s Law Notifications 13.30 - McKinney-Vento Services ​ 13.40 - School Visitation Rights ​ 13.50 - Demonstrations on School Grounds​ 13.60 - Non-Custodial Parents’ Rights​ 13.70 - Mandated Reporter​ 13.80 - Unsafe School - Transfer ​ 13.90 - Sex Offender Notification to School Law 13.100 - District Complaint Procedure 13.110 - Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response 13.120 - Water Quality 13.130 - Pest Management

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Chapter 1 1.10 - General School Information Longfellow Elementary School 501 S. Arlington Heights Road Buffalo Grove IL 60089 Emily Gary, Principal​

Tracy Heitman, Assistant Principal

School Office​ 847-520-2755​

Attendance Line 847-520-8833

Fax Number​ 847-419-3078​

Health Office 847-520-2756

District 21 Administration​ 847-537-8270​ 1.20 - Board of Education Board of Education meetings typically take place on the third Thursday of each month and are held on the third floor of the Community Service Center and Administrative Office at 7:00 PM. Throughout the year, the Board Finance, Community Engagement & Strategic Partnership, and Policy Committees meet.

Dates for all meetings can be found at www.ccsd21.org.

If an individual with a disability requires assistance in order to attend a Board meeting, please call 847-537-8270 or contact the School District 21 office electronically at district21@ccsd21.org to make necessary arrangements.

1.30 - School Day Hours Elementary School hours are listed as follow: School Office​

8:15 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.

Students in Grades K-5​ 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. ​ ​ ​ 1.40 - Early Morning Procedures/Before-School Supervision Students enter the building at 8:50 a.m. The school day begins at 9:00am. Playground supervision will only be provided after 8:30 a.m. Please do not send your child before 8:30 a.m. (In case of inclement weather, students will be allowed in the building no sooner than 8:30 a.m.).

Additionally, the school does not provide supervision outside after the school day. Therefore, students who walk or ride their bike after school are to immediately go home. If a student is with an authorized, supervising adult after school, then that student may use the playground area. All other students must go home after the 3:30 p.m. bell rings.

1.50 - Holiday Programs In accordance with the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Illinois, all school-sponsored activities must reflect a clearly secular purpose and be non-sectarian.

All sponsored activities which may be interpreted as a sectarian exercise must be presented with an appropriate explanation of the purpose for which the material is presented. Any school-sponsored activity which deals with a sectarian subject matter intended for secular study or exercise may not be presented if it has a primary effect of aiding a religion or promoting a religious activity or will cause the school to be involved in an excessive entanglement with religion.

Prior to engaging in any school-sponsored activity which may be interpreted by reasonable people as being considered as a sectarian activity, such program or activity must be approved by the Superintendent. ​

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1.60 - School Parties School parties for an entire class are limited to a maximum of two per year. It is recommended that these parties last no longer than one (1) hour. In fifth grade, one of these two parties may include an end of the year activity, which shall be limited to two (2) hours excluding lunch. Individual room parties must be approved by the principal and teachers. In compliance with the National School Lunch Program, no outside food can be brought into the school/classroom for parties during the school day.

1.70 - Parent/Guardian Contact Information It is very important that we have current phone numbers in our records. At times during the year, an emergency may arise whereby we need to locate parents/guardians, or an individual designated by the parents/guardian. If for any reason the contact phone numbers change during the year, please notify the school office immediately.

1.80 - Parent Communication With Students and Teachers Messages will be taken for students and teachers, but it is not always possible to deliver them immediately. If parents wish to speak with teachers on the phone, it is requested they call before or after school when teachers are not in class. Also, each teacher has voicemail and email, so please ask the office staff for assistance in accessing these features which will allow you to leave a message and contact information so that the teacher can reply and/or return your phone call. In addition, families are expected to register their account on the current district communication platform and ensure that all contact information is kept up to date including phone number and email addresses.

1.90 - Visitors All visitors, including parents and siblings, are required to enter through the front door of the building.

Visitors will be asked to identify themselves and will be asked to inform office personnel of their reason for being at school. All CCSD21 schools have secure entrances. Upon being buzzed into the front office, the office staff will scan a picture ID using the Raptor visitor management system and if further entry is required into the school building, the visitor shall wear a printed visitor ID badge on their outer clothing in a clearly visible location.

Visitors are required to proceed immediately to their location in a quiet manner. All visitors must return to the main office and sign out before leaving the school.

Visitors are expected to abide by all school rules during their time on school property. A visitor who fails to conduct themselves in a manner that is appropriate will be asked to leave and may be subject to criminal penalties for trespass and/or disruptive behavior. Any person who engages in prohibited conduct may be ejected from or denied admission to school property in accordance with State law. The person may also be subject to being denied admission to school athletic or extracurricular events for up to one calendar year.

Cross-reference: Policy 8:30, Visitors to and Conduct on School Property 1.100 - Equal Educational Opportunities Equal educational and extracurricular opportunities are available to all students without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, age, religion, physical or mental disability, status as homeless, immigration status, order of protection status, military status, unfavorable military discharge, reproductive health decisions, or actual or potential marital or parental status, including pregnancy.

No student shall, based on sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity be denied equal access to programs, activities, services, or benefits or be limited in the exercise of any right, privilege, advantage, or denied equal access to educational and extracurricular programs and activities.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in CCSD 21 is the representation of all of our varied identities and ​

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differences. It is an ever evolving, asset-based view of our community where authentic self is valued and there is a shared commitment to identifying and addressing the barriers students face.

As a community, we actively invite the contribution and participation of all people in supporting the academic and social-emotional growth of each child, fostering and strengthening a positive sense of belonging in our community.

Any student or parent/guardian with a sex equity or equal opportunity concern should contact Deputy Superintendent Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress at 847-520-2743 or beatrice.childress@ccsd21.org.

Any student may file a sex discrimination complaint under the District’s Title IX Grievance Procedure. Any student may file a sex equity complaint under the District’s Uniform Grievance Procedure. A student may appeal the Board’s decision to the Regional Superintendent and, thereafter, to the State Superintendent of Education.

Cross-Reference: Policy 7:10, Equal Educational Opportunities Policy 7:20, Harassment of Students Prohibited Policy 2:260, Uniform Grievance Procedure 1.110 - Animals on School Property Persons wishing to bring animals on school property must receive prior permission from the building Principal. Students are not permitted to bring animals on the bus.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:100, Using Animals in the Educational Program 1.120 - School Volunteers Many School District 21 programs have been enhanced by the excellent assistance of volunteers. We are fortunate the community has individuals with a wealth of talents and a desire to help our schools. While welcoming volunteers to our schools, the district maintains procedures to ensure the safety of our students. Volunteers are supervised by licensed staff members and the principal. The principal and Human Resources will conduct the appropriate screening and background checks of volunteers based on the level and duration of their volunteer work in the schools. If you would like more information about the volunteer program or if you are interested in volunteering, please contact the school principal.

Cross-Reference: Policy 6:250, Community Resource Persons and Volunteers 1.130 - Lost and Found Misplaced and lost items of clothing, books, etc., are kept in a lost and found box located in the hallway near the Multi-Purpose Room. Parents are encouraged to check the lost and found box throughout the year. To ensure lost and found items are returned, your child’s name should be on all clothing.

Unclaimed articles are donated to charitable organizations at the end of each trimester.

Please contact First Student at 847-541-0220 for items left on the bus.

1.140 - Invitations & Gifts Between Students: Gift exchanges between students are not encouraged. If students do exchange gifts, they should be of minimal cost and optional for those who wish to participate.

To Staff Members: Collections of money either from students or families for the purpose of presenting gifts to staff members is discouraged as a practice.

1.150 - Solicitation of Funds/Donations

By Students: No student or group of students shall solicit funds from other students, district staff members, or members ​

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of the community without the approval of the administration.

Of Students: There shall be no general collection of funds or donations from students in a school or in the school system without the approval of the superintendent or designee and there shall be no collection of funds or donations in a single classroom or department without the approval of the school principal.

Sale of tickets and the distribution of flyers shall not be carried on without the approval of the superintendent or designee.

No student name list shall be released to any individual or agency for non-school purposes.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:325, Student Fund-Raising Activities Policy 8:25, Advertising and Distributing Materials in Schools Provided By Non-School Related Entities Student Policy 8:90, Parent Organizations and Booster Clubs 1.160 - Deliveries to Classrooms If you wish to have something (i.e., books, homework, lunch) delivered to your student that may have been forgotten at home, please come to the Front Office. Clearly label the items with the child's name and room number. We will notify the child's teacher, and the child will be able to come for the item at a time that is convenient to classroom instruction. This will enable us to prevent numerous disruptions to the classroom routine.

1.170 - Treats & Snacks Students will be allowed to eat a healthy snack sent from home. Snacks must be nutritious and must strictly adhere to the district guidelines provided to parents at the beginning of the school year (see section 7.130 - Students with Allergies). Please make sure that you send a snack – only enough food for your child to finish eating in 5-10 minutes.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:285, Anaphylaxis Prevention, Response, and Management Program Policy 6:50, School Wellness 1.180 - Birthdays/Celebrations Please refrain from sending any food items with your child for any type of celebration, as your child will not be allowed to share them with other students. If parents send food items, the items will not be distributed to students and will be kept in the office until a family member is able to pick them up.

Parents who want to celebrate their child’s birthday with their classmates may send non-food items, such as pencils or bookmarks.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:285, Anaphylaxis Prevention, Response, and Management Program 1.190 - Accommodating Individuals with Disabilities Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend School Board Meetings and who require certain accommodations in order to allow them to observe and/or participate in the meeting are requested to call 847-537-8270 or contact the School District 21 office electronically at district21@ccsd21.org to make necessary arrangements.

Individuals with disabilities who plan to attend school functions should contact the building principal so that appropriate accommodations can be made.

Cross Reference: Policy 8:70, Accommodating Individuals with Disabilities 1.200 - Video and Audio Monitoring System A video and/or audio monitoring system may be in use on school buses and a video monitoring system ​

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may be in use in public areas of the school building. These systems have been put in place to protect students, staff, visitors and school property. If a discipline problem is captured on audiotape or videotape, these recordings may be used as the basis for imposing student discipline. If criminal actions are recorded, a copy of the tape may be provided to law enforcement personnel.

Cross-Reference: Policy 4:110, Transportation Policy 7:190, Student Behavior Policy 7:220, Bus Conduct Policy 7:340, Student Records 1.210 - Emergency School Closings/Weather Conditions Parents and Guardians should monitor daily weather forecasts and send children to school dressed for possible weather conditions. Based on weather conditions the principal or designee will determine if students are to stay indoors for recess. As a general policy, students will go outside for recess if it is not raining and it is above 10 degrees with the wind chill according to weather.com.

In the event of extreme weather conditions or any other reason that would require school to be closed, School District 21 will officially post that information on the School District 21 website, send notifications by phone and email through ParentSquare, the district’s automated notification system, and through major news media outlets, such as WGN, WBBM, WMAQ, WLS, WFLD, WGBO and WSNS. You may also check online at www.EmergencyClosingCenter.com under the listing of DIST #21 (WHEELING).

NOTE: Parents and Guardians have the right to keep their child(ren) home if they so choose as a result of inclement weather. Students will, however, be marked as absent.

When school is in session, students will be dismissed on time unless extremely hazardous weather conditions exist.

Cross-Reference: Policy 4:170, Safety 1.220 - Automated Notification System School District 21 utilizes ParentSquare, a phone/email notification system. If at any time you change telephone numbers, email addresses, or emergency contact information, please visit or call your student’s school office with the updated information. Maintaining updated contact information will help everyone in the event of an emergency and will ensure that ParentSquare can connect with you when the system is utilized.

1.230 - Contacting the School or District about Concerns If parents/guardians feel there is an issue with a child or an opinion that needs to be expressed, please contact the principal to discuss the situation and reach resolution. If, after discussing an issue with the principal, you feel the situation remains unresolved, then contact the Deputy Superintendent either by mail, email, or voicemail or complete the Complaint Procedure document available in the school’s office.

Return information (name and a phone number, address or email address) is required in order to receive a response. Staff members will not respond or take action on anonymous letters.

The district offers Let’s Talk, a confidential platform that makes it easier than ever for students to share concerns related to bullying, threats, or any safety or security issues happening in or around our schools.

This tool provides a safe, accessible way to communicate, ask questions, and seek support when needed. Submissions are reviewed promptly by district administrators to ensure students feel heard and supported. We encourage families and students to use this tool anytime they see or hear something that raises concern.

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CHAPTER 2 2.10 - Parent or Guardian Involvement CCSD21 values the home-school partnership as an essential contributor to student success. There is a full range of ways that parents and guardians are involved in their children’s school success: ●​ Making sure children are at school each day prepared for learning ●​ Staying informed about the school and your child’s learning ●​ Sharing information that impacts student learning ●​ Supporting learning at home ●​ Providing feedback to the school ●​ Volunteering when possible One opportunity for contributing to the school on a volunteer basis is to become active in our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). The PTO is a service organization made up of the parents or guardians and teachers from the school whose function is to enhance the educational program in the building. Family involvement supports increased communication between the home and school. They do this by volunteering for school projects and by raising money for the school. PTO dues will be collected at specific dates in the school year. Members are called upon throughout the year to assist board members in providing these services for the students.

Cross Reference: Policy 8:90, Parent Organizations and Booster Clubs Policy 8:95, Parental Involvement 2.20 - Parent or Guardian-Teacher Conferences Parent or Guardian-Teacher conferences are scheduled at the end of the first trimesters. Conference time gives you an opportunity to discuss your child’s progress and needs with the teacher, and if necessary, to develop collaborative plans for improvement. Although this time of year is especially designated for conferences, parents or guardians and teachers are encouraged to arrange a conference any time they feel it is necessary. Day and evening conferences are scheduled at this time to enable more parents to participate. The conference dates, reporting periods and report card dates will be provided to you in the school calendar. Interpreters will be provided upon request by families.

2.30 - School Directory Directory information includes student’s name, address, grade level, birth date and place, and parents’/guardians’ names and contact information (addresses, email addresses, telephone numbers), and school. Directory information is shared with parents who are organizing various school events.

Parents have the right to prohibit the release of directory information by submitting such a request in writing to the school’s principal. The release of the information is at the discretion of the building principal.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:340, Student Records Policy 8:95, Parental Involvement 2.40 - School-wide Social Events In addition to activities designed to strengthen our home-school partnership around academic matters, a variety of school events are developed each year to establish and strengthen our sense of community as a school. We are fortunate to have many opportunities throughout the year to celebrate our school community and come together to connect with neighbors and friends. School-wide social events will occur throughout the year.

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CHAPTER 3 3.10 - Attendance Illinois law requires that whoever has custody or control of any child between six (by September 1st) and seventeen years of age shall assure that the child attends school in the district in which they reside, during the entire time school is in session.

Illinois law also requires that whoever has custody or control of a child who is enrolled in the school, regardless of the child’s age, shall assure that the child attends school during the entire time school is in session.

There are certain exceptions to the attendance requirement, among them for children who attend private school or have a religious reason requiring absence.

Per PA 102-0321 (linked here) students are allowed to take up to 5 days for mental or behavioral health.

The student does not need to provide a medical note and must be given the opportunity to make up missed classroom work. After the second use of a mental health day used, a student may be referred to the appropriate school support personnel. These days are considered excused absences.

Effective July 1, 2025, verified medical or therapeutic appointments and absences related to a student being a parent or expectant parent, or a victim of domestic or sexual violence—including fulfilling parenting responsibilities or addressing circumstances arising from domestic or sexual violence—will be considered excused absences.

Cross-reference: Policy 7:70, Attendance and Truancy 3.20 - Early Dismissal Children will not be allowed to leave the school grounds during class time without the consent of the building Principal or designee. The Principal or designee will make certain that a person calling for a child or requesting that the child be excused is a responsible person that has been authorized by the parent to pick up the child and is known to the child. Parents/Guardians should always notify the school office and their classroom teacher by 12pm on the day they are picking up their child early. The student will be called down to the office, and the parent/guardian will need to sign out the student.

All persons picking up students before dismissal time must report to the office to sign the student out and provide appropriate identification.

Dismissal at Elementary Schools for students in grades K-5 occurs at 3:30 p.m. Students who go home for lunch are expected to be back in their classrooms at the commencement of the afternoon session.

Students who normally eat lunch at school may not leave school grounds unless the school receives written permission from the parent/guardian. Leaving school grounds without permission will result in disciplinary measures.

Cross-reference: Policy 7:90, Release During School Hours 3.30 - Late Arrivals When children come to school late, they lose valuable time, interrupt the class, and will miss important information and instructional activities. Students and family members are responsible for students arriving at school on time.

Punctuality is part of good citizenship, so please help your child be on time. If, on occasion, your child must be late for school, please write a note of explanation to the teacher, escort your child into the office, and sign them in.

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3.40 - Student Absences It is the family member’s/guardian's responsibility to notify the health office or to call the absence line prior to the start of the school day when their child will be absent from school.

A valid cause for being absent, as defined by ISBE (105 ILCS 5/26-2a), and approved for CCSD21 students when the parent/guardian notifies the school office include: A.​ Illness, including the mental or behavioral health of the student; B.​ Observance of a religious holiday; C.​ Death in the immediate family or family emergency; D.​ Other situations beyond the control of the student, as determined by the Board of Education in each district (or nonpublic school administration); E.​ Such other circumstances that cause reasonable concern to the parent for the mental, emotional, or physical health or safety of the student; or F.​ Effective July 1, 2025, verified medical or therapeutic appointments and absences related to a student being a parent or expectant parent, or a victim of domestic or sexual violence—including fulfilling parenting responsibilities or addressing circumstances arising from domestic or sexual violence.

Additionally, a student will be excused for up to 5 days in cases where the student’s parent/guardian is an active-duty member of the uniformed services and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from deployment to a combat zone or combat-support postings. The Board of Education, in its discretion, may excuse a student for additional days relative to such leave or deployment. The student and the student’s parent/guardian are responsible for obtaining assignments from the student's teachers prior to any excused absences and for ensuring that such assignments are completed by the student prior to their return to school.

Unexcused absences for CCSD21 students include: A.​ Missing the bus; B.​ Oversleeping; C.​ Work; D.​ Babysitting; or E.​ Not informing the school office of the student’s absence.

1.​ Calls to the absence line can be made to the school 24 hours a day. If a family member/guardian does not notify the health office of the child’s absence, staff will attempt to contact the parent/guardian at home or at work. The parent/guardian must provide the health office with updated home, work, and cell phone numbers so they can successfully be contacted if the need arises. ​ ​ Parents should call the school office before 9:00 a.m. on the day of an absence. (A voicemail will take messages before and after school hours.) When calling please give the following information: a.​ Student’s first and last name b.​ Grade Level c.​ Reason for absence d.​ Length of absence (Giving this information will alleviate calling the school every day.) e.​ A phone number where you can be reached on the day of the absence Please note: If we do not receive a phone call by 9:30 a.m., we will then call home. If there is no answer at home, we will begin calling the emergency phone numbers in the order parents have requested on the registration form. This may include calling the parent/guardian at work.

Sometimes children may attend school in the morning and for various reasons may not return to school after going home for lunch. If this occurs, please call the school office between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to notify the school of your child’s afternoon absence. When calling, please provide the same information as above. The same procedures as above will be followed if we do not hear from you.

2.​ It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to provide a note from a physician if the child is absent ​

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due to illness from school for 5 or more consecutive school days. In the event of frequent absences totaling or accumulating to more than 5% of the days of attendance, the school may ask the parent/guardian for a note from a physician. In addition, the school nurse may request permission to speak to the doctor to obtain further information regarding the student’s absence.

3.​ If your child has a contagious disease or other serious condition, please call school with the information as soon as you are aware. In this way, letters can go home to the other parents alerting them of the disease so they will not be unaware and can be vigilant for signs of illness.

4.​ In the event a student has a prolonged illness or is expected to be out of school for a prolonged period of time (two weeks or more concurrent or intermittent), the student may be eligible for homebound tutoring. A letter from a physician stating the anticipated length of time needed for recovery at home will be needed along with a parental written request. Contact the building Principal so this process may be initiated. Final approval of any homebound instruction must come from the Deputy Superintendent.

5.​ Removing students from school for vacation trips is discouraged. However, if taking students from school cannot be avoided, please notify the principal as soon as possible so that plans for keeping up with school work can be made. Please refer to section 3.70, Make-Up Work.

If your child misses more than 30 minutes of school during a school day, state law requires that the child be marked absent. The law also requires the parent/guardian to notify the school either by a written note or by telephone within 24 hours of the child’s absence. If the school does not receive notification by the parent/guardian within this time frame, the child will receive an unexcused absence.

Cross-reference: Policy 7:70, Attendance and Truancy Policy 7:80, Release Time for Religious Instruction/Observation Policy 6:110, Programs for Students At Risk of Academic Failure and/or Dropping Out of School and Graduation Incentives Program 3.50 - Absences on Religious Holidays Any child who is unable, because of the observance of a religious holiday, to attend classes on a particular day shall be excused from any assessment or any study or work assignments on that day. A child who is absent from school because of the observance of a religious holiday will be provided an equivalent opportunity to make up any assessment, study or work requirements, which they have missed because of their absence. (105 ILCS 5/26-2b) Cross Reference: Policy 7:80, Release Time for Religious Instruction/Observation 3.60 - Truancy Diagnostic Procedures for Identifying Student Absences and Support Services to Truant or Chronically Truant Students State law requires every school district to collect and review its chronic absence data and determine what systems of support and resources are needed to engage chronically absent students and their families to encourage the habit of daily attendance and promote success. This review must include an analysis of chronic absence data from each attendance center.

Furthermore, State law provides that school districts are encouraged to provide a system of support to students who are at risk of reaching or exceeding chronic absence levels with strategies and are also encouraged to make resources available to families such as those available through the State Board of Education's Family Engagement Framework to support and engage students and their families to encourage heightened school engagement and improved daily school attendance.

Student attendance is critical to the learning process. Truancy is therefore a serious issue and will be dealt with in a serious manner by the school and district.

Students who miss more than 1% but less than 5% of the prior 180 regular school days without valid cause (a recognized excuse) are truant. Students who miss 5% or more of the prior 180 regular school ​

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days without valid cause are chronic truants. Students who are chronic truants will be offered support services and resources aimed at correcting the truancy issue.

The School and District use the following diagnostic procedures for identifying the causes of unexcused student absences: Interviews with the student, their parent/guardian and any school officials who may have information about the reasons for the student’s attendance problems.

Supportive services to truant or chronically truant students include: parent conferences, student counseling, family counseling, and information about existing community services.

If chronic truancy persists after support services and other resources are made available, the school and district will take further action, including: ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Referral to the truancy officer Reporting to officials under the Juvenile Court Act Referral to the State’s Attorney Appropriate school discipline

A parent or guardian who knowingly and willfully permits a child to be truant is in violation of State law.

Cross-reference: Policy 7:70, Attendance and Truancy 3.70 - Make-Up Work Students who are absent from school are expected to make up missed work. All arrangements for make-up work will be determined by the teacher. Parents may email or call the teacher to request make-up work. The teacher or office needs to be notified by 9 a.m. and the homework will be ready for you to pick up at 3:30 p.m.

Teachers will expect missed work to be turned in within a reasonable amount of time of the student’s return to school. If parents or guardians know ahead of time that their child will be absent from school for an extended length of time, call the school office to notify them of the extended absence AND send a note to school 3-5 days prior to the absence so the teacher can organize make-up work.

Extended vacations during the school year can interfere with a child’s access to the school curriculum.

The curriculum that your child interacts with at school often involves guided learning experiences and group work. Therefore, when a child misses school, it is very difficult for them to make up the work. With adequate notice, long-range assignments will be prepared. These assignments will be mind-stretching activities, but because of the delivery methods of today's curriculum, the activities will be somewhat different than those being engaged in by thechild's classmates.

Cross-reference: Policy 7:70, Attendance and Truancy 3.80 - Homework Homework is used as a way for students to practice what they have learned in the classroom. The time requirements and the frequency of homework will vary depending on a student’s teacher, ability and grade level.

Students who are absent from school for a valid cause (an excused absence) may make up missed homework in a reasonable timeframe.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:290, Homework 3.90 - Progress Reports and Grades Report Cards Students in grades K-5 will receive a formal report card three times each year made available in the PowerSchool Parent Portal. Students and families can access grades throughout the trimester by using the portal. Information on how to access the portal can be viewed on the district 21 website ​

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https://ccsd21.org/powerschool-parent-portal. When appropriate, informal reports will also be sent home (i.e., commendation notices, unsatisfactory notices, unit summaries, teacher commentaries, etc.). Teachers will contact parents to keep them abreast of significant achievements or difficulties.

Our formal report card contains the following grades for each subject: Academic Grades indicate how well a student is doing in terms of academic achievement Learner Quality Grades indicate how well a student is doing as a…

Self Directed Learner - Actively engages in learning activities, participates in classroom discussions, manages time effectively in all settings.

Quality Producer - Puts forth a high degree of effort, strives to produce quality work.

Collaborative Worker - Works cooperatively with others, demonstrates on-task behavior during group work.

Respectful and Responsible Citizen - Shows respect for the school community, contributes positively to the class and school, conducts self within the established norms of behavior, accepts responsibility for own actions.

Learner Quality Scale

Descriptor

Meeting: (M)

●​ ●​

Consistently demonstrates understanding of the Learner Quality Meeting grade-level expectations independently or with occasional support

Progressing: (P)

●​ ●​

Demonstrates understanding of the Learner Quality Progressing toward meeting grade-level expectations with frequent support

Developing: (Dev)

●​ ●​

Developing understanding of the Learner Quality Consistently requiring support to meet grade-level expectations

Parents or Guardians and students are encouraged to regularly communicate with teachers concerning academic progress. Attending Parent or Guardian-Teacher Conferences is one way to accomplish this. Communicating with the teacher(s) on a regular basis further enhances the home-school collaboration to support student learning.

Kindergarten students receive report cards twice a year: at the end of the second and third trimesters. Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled at the end of the first trimester for parents of kindergarten students.

Elementary School Grading Scale Throughout the school year, teachers are monitoring student growth in content areas, as well as Learner Qualities that together give us an accurate picture of every child. Teachers use formal and informal assessments to gauge student learning and to inform decisions for instruction. Tests, quizzes, projects, performance-based activities, and portfolios are used as evidence to guide instructional decisions. Teachers use this evidence to determine content area grades.

Kindergarten ●​ Kindergarten “grades” are based on standards. ●​ Students receive specific scores for each of the standards in content areas to show growth over the year towards each standard.

Standards Scale The following numbers and descriptions indicate how the student is performing in relationship to learning targets 4

Secure: Consistently demonstrates understanding and appropriate use of concept/skills

3

Developing: Demonstrates progress toward understanding and use of concept/skills

2

Exploring: Is at the early stage of understanding and using concept/skills

1

Needs Support: Requires frequent support to show evidence of understanding concepts/skills

TBD

To be Determined: Additional instruction and assessment are needed to determine performance

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PA

Previously Assessed: Content was addressed in a previous trimester

Grades 1-2 Academic Scale

Descriptor

EXC

Exceeds

SEC

Secure

DEV

Developing

NS

Needs Support

Special Circumstance I ~ (incomplete)

Prolonged excused absence and student is in the process of making up missed learning opportunities and assignments

PASS

Pass

Grades 3-5 Academic Scale

Descriptor

A ~ (advanced)

Demonstrates excellent scholarship at the student’s level of instruction. Consistently demonstrates thorough understanding of the standards and can apply concepts and skills.

B ~ (proficient)

Is doing above average work at the student’s level of instruction and achieves at a high level.

Demonstrates understanding of the standards and independently uses concepts and skills.

C ~ (developing)

Exhibits average work at the student’s level of instruction and demonstrates basic understanding of standards. With support, uses concepts and skills.

D ~ (deficient)

Is doing below average work at the student’s level of instruction. Does not yet independently demonstrate understanding of concepts and skills.

W ~ (academic warning)

Has not yet met the minimum requirements of the course objectives at the student’s level of instruction. Requires intensive support.

Special Circumstance I ~ (incomplete)

Prolonged excused absence and student is in the process of making up missed learning opportunities and assignments

PASS

Pass

Grading Philosophy Throughout the school year, teachers are monitoring student growth in content areas, as well as Learner Qualities that together give us an accurate picture of every child. Teachers use formal and informal assessments to gauge student learning and to inform decisions for instruction. Tests, quizzes, projects, performance-based activities, and portfolios are used as evidence to guide instructional decisions. Teachers use this evidence to determine content area grades.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:280, Grading & Promotion

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3.100 - Student Recognition Honors and Awards At the end of the school year, our staff will recognize exceptional achievements at our annual awards assembly. Awards will be given for achievements in and out of the classroom, with an emphasis on Learner Qualities. In addition, throughout the school year, our staff recognizes students for their demonstration of positive Learner Qualities.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:280, Grading & Promotion 3.110 - Retention of Students & Notification to Parent Retention of Students School District 21 is dedicated to the progress and growth of each student and committed to the academic, social, and emotional well-being of every child. Although most students will make adequate annual growth and move seamlessly into the next grade, there are times, however rare, when retention is in the best educational interest of the child. These exceptions will be made with prior notification to the parent/guardian. Nonetheless, the final decision will rest with school officials. Factors when considering retaining a student in the same grade level for a second year include: ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Progress on program plans developed by school staff members Academic progress made during the year Teacher observations and evaluation Student attendance patterns Social, physical or emotional issues

Notification to parents or guardians When a child is being considered for retention in the same grade level for a second year, conferences will be held with the teacher, parent and principal during the first trimester of the school year. If retention continues to be considered, a plan will be developed to address deficit skills and a schedule of review conferences will be established. During these review conferences, the teacher, principal and parent or guardian will discuss student progress on the plan. No later than June 1, a conference will take place to make a final determination. If at that time it is determined that the child will be retained in the same grade, the plan will be updated to identify specific program changes for the following year.

3.120 - Home and Hospital Instruction A student who is absent from school, or whose physician, physician assistant or licensed advance practice registered nurse anticipates his or her absence from school, because of a medical condition may be eligible for instruction in the student’s home or hospital.

Appropriate educational services from qualified staff will begin no later than five school days after receiving a written statement from a physician, physician assistant, or licensed advanced practice registered nurse. Instructional or related services for a student receiving special education services will be determined by the student’s individualized education program.

A student who is unable to attend school because of pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, the fulfillment of parenting obligations related to the health of the child, or health and safety concerns arising from domestic or sexual violence will be provided home instruction, correspondence courses, or other courses of instruction under the following circumstances: 1.​ Before the birth of the child when the student’s physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse indicates, in writing, that she is medically unable to attend regular classroom instruction.

2.​ For up to three months after the child’s birth or a miscarriage.

3.​ When a student must care for his or her ill child if: a.​ The child's physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse informs the school, in writing, that the child has a serious health condition that would require the student to be absent from school for two or more consecutive weeks; and ​

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b.​ The student or the student's parent/guardian informs the school, in writing, that the student needs to care for the child during this period.

4.​ The student must treat physical or mental health complications or address safety concerns arising from domestic or sexual violence when a health care provider or an employee of the student's domestic or sexual violence organization informs the school in writing that the care is needed by the student and will cause the student's absence from school for two or more consecutive weeks.

Periodic conferences will be held between appropriate school personnel, parent(s)/guardian(s), and hospital staff to coordinate course work and facilitate a student’s return to school. The school may reassess home instruction provided to a student under No. 3 or No. 4 every two months to determine the student's continuing need for home instruction.

For information on home or hospital instruction, contact your school principal or the Deputy Superintendent.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:150, Home and Hospital Instruction

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3.130 - Registration of Students Each year, students in grades Pre-K through 7 are required to register for the next school year in School District 21 by using the link https://ccsd21.org/registration. At this time registration fees are not collected by the district. School information and class assignments are sent to each family in early August.

Parents or Guardians of students who will enter kindergarten in the fall are encouraged to register beginning in February, as this assists the school in making appropriate plans and distributing information.

To be eligible for admission, a child must be 5 years old on or before September 1 of that school term. A child entering first grade must be 6 years of age on or before September 1 of that school term.

A certified copy of the child's birth certificate or passport should be provided at registration. The individual enrolling the student must establish residency in School District 21. The residence of the person who has legal custody of a student is deemed to be the residence of the student. Documentation of residency is required at the time of registration.

3.140 - School Admissions and Student Transfers The Illinois Constitution guarantees every person access to a free public education through grade 12.

Children are enrolled in the district following state and federal guidelines as well as district policies.

These policies are summarized below and are available on the district website: https://ccsd21.org/information-and-forms-for-parents//. a.​ Kindergarten/New Enrollment Children are eligible for initial admission to the public school system based on state guidelines: ●​ Kindergarten entrance: A child must be 5 years old on or before September 1 of that school term. ●​ First-grade entrance: A child must be 6 years of age on or before September 1 of that school term. ●​ Early Childhood entrance: A child with exceptional needs who qualifies for special education services is eligible for admission at 3 years of age. ●​ Based upon an assessment of the child’s readiness, a child will be allowed to attend first grade if they attended a non-public state-recognized preschool, continued their education at that school through kindergarten, was taught in kindergarten by a teacher who was appropriately certified/licensed by the State, the non-public school is recognized or accredited by the state agency governing education, and will be 6 years old on or before December 31. b.​ Admissions Procedure All students are required to register in School District 21 every year by using the link https://ccsd21.org/registration. For initial enrollment to the district, families/guardians must present the following documents: ●​ Certified copy of the student's birth certificate or passport; ●​ Proof of residence within the district boundaries (as outlined in Board Policy 7:60); ●​ Proof of disease immunization and medical examination, as required by state law and Board Policy 7:100. c.​ Homeless Children Any homeless child shall be immediately admitted to school following Board Policy 6:140, even if records normally required for enrollment are not available. Parents/guardians seeking support should contact the District 21 McKinney-Vento Liaison, Lauren Schmidt, at 847-419-3083. Refer also to the McKinney-Vento Homeless section of this handbook. d.​ Student Transfers To and From Non-District Schools A student may transfer into or out of the district according to State law and procedures developed by the Superintendent. Enrollment of a student will not be refused due to failure to present their student permanent or temporary record from a school previously attended. e.​ Transfers Within the District In rare and extenuating circumstances, parents or guardians may write a letter to the District Student Registrar to request a transfer to a district school other than the one the student was assigned.

Parents or guardians making the request must submit the letter between May 1 and July 15, and do ​

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so with the understanding that the parent/guardian assumes responsibility for transportation to and from the requested school. Decisions regarding a parent/guardian request will be made and communicated to parents/guardians the week prior to the start of school. If granted, a transfer is only valid for one year. Parents/guardians must submit a request in subsequent years if they continue to request a transfer. Letters may be submitted via mail at CCSD21, 999 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling, IL 60090, Attn: Business Office or via email at TransferRequests@ccsd21.org. f.​ Early Entrance Requests CCSD21 follows Illinois law which specifies that, to enter kindergarten or first grade, children must be five years of age by September 1st of their kindergarten year or six years of age by September 1st of their first grade year. However, CCSD21 has an acceleration policy that addresses exceptions for children whose potential and skills are in the very superior range when compared with their peers.

CCSD21 has identified early entrance to kindergarten and first grade as full-grade acceleration, appropriate only for those students who demonstrate compelling evidence that they are intellectually and socially advanced. The decision to allow a student early entrance is solely at the discretion of the school district based on a comprehensive assessment conducted by the school district.

The decision for a child to enter school early can have a profound effect on their academic and social performance for the remainder of the child’s school career. It is a decision that needs to be taken very seriously. Academic readiness, academic potential, and social emotional maturity are all equally important considerations.

For more information, please visit the district website at https://ccsd21.org/early-entrance-requests.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:60, Residence Policy 6:140, Education of Homeless Children Policy 7:30, Student Assignment and Intra-District Transfer Policy 7:50, School Admissions and Student Transfers To and from Non-District Schools Policy 7:100, Health, Eye, and Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of students Policy 7:340, Student Records

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Chapter 4 4.10 - Curriculum School District 21 has developed a core curriculum based on the Illinois Learning Standards (ILS).

Further information about the district's curriculum can be found on the district website: https://ccsd21.org/equity-learning a.​ Content Areas The standards for the content areas align with district and state goals. As teachers design instruction, these goals are being addressed. Teachers will share the standards and expectations for their classes with students and parents/guardians at the beginning of the school year.

Core Curriculum Classes ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Language Arts (Reading & Communications) Mathematics Science Social Studies

Special Area Classes ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Physical Education Art Music LMC (Library Media) STEM (Science Technology and Mathematics)

Elective Performing Music Classes ●​ Band (5th grade) ●​ Chorus (5th grade) ●​ Orchestra (4th grade) b.​ Social Emotional Learning Curriculum & Learner Qualities In addition to addressing academic learning standards, the school district provides a curriculum aligned with the Illinois State Board of Education Social/Emotional Learning Standards. This curriculum is organized around three goal areas for Social Emotional Learning: ●​ Goal 1: Develop self-awareness and self-management skills to achieve school and life success. ●​ Goal 2: Use social-awareness and interpersonal skills to establish and maintain positive relationships. ●​ Goal 3: Demonstrate decision-making skills and responsible behaviors in personal, school and community contexts.

Connected with Social Emotional Learning and with academic learning is the district’s focus on Learner Qualities. Our goal as educators is to support every child and develop each student to be an independent, lifelong learner. Students should ask questions, participate in discussions, and work with a purpose to enhance their own learning. They also need to be engaged in reflective thought.

Each student needs time to process what they have learned in order to be able to apply knowledge to new situations, which will help them make meaning and take initiative in learning new skills and concepts in the future.

Learner Qualities are those attributes which enhance a student’s ability to learn. By emphasizing these qualities, we are helping students to take responsibility for their learning as they set goals and work to improve performance. A student who consistently works at demonstrating these Learner Qualities will often improve their content area achievement at the same time.

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Learner Qualities are life skills. These are the same qualities which are essential for success in the workplace and in everyday life. By learning these behaviors now, students are preparing for a successful future.

A student who is a Self-Directed Learner… ●​ Actively engages in learning activities, participates in classroom discussions, manages time effectively in all settings A student who is a Collaborative Worker… ●​ Works collaboratively with others to forward learning, demonstrates on-task behavior during group work A student who is a Quality Producer… ●​ Puts forth a high degree of effort, strives to produce quality work A student who is a Respectful and Responsible Citizen… ●​ Shows respect for the school community, contributes positively to the class and school, conducts self within the established norms of behavior, accepts responsibility for own actions c.​ Human Growth and Development/Sex Education A written notice will be provided to parents/guardians of students prior to instruction related to puberty, reproduction, sexual abuse and/or harassment. Parents/guardians will be provided the opportunity to not have their child participate in this unit of study.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:60, Curriculum Content d.​ Instructional Material Parents or guardians have the right to inspect all instructional materials used as a part of their child’s education. If you believe that curriculum, instructional materials, or programs violate rights guaranteed by any law or Board policy, you may file a complaint under the District’s uniform grievance policy.

Parents or guardians with other suggestions or complaints about curriculum, instructional materials, or programs should complete a Curriculum Objection Form, which is available from the school office.

A parent or guardian may also request that their child be exempt from using a particular instructional material or participating in certain course content or programs by completing a Curriculum Objection Form.

Exempting a child from using instructional material or refusing to allow a child from taking or participating in course content or a program that allows parents or guardians to object in writing and/or opt their child out of participation shall not be reason for disciplinary action or academic penalty to the student.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:260, Complaints About Curriculum, Instructional Materials, and Programs e.​ Programs for Children Learning English (Bilingual & ESL Programs) Following state and federal guidelines, School District 21 provides language assistance programs for students who are acquiring English proficiency. These programs provide the students with grade-level content instruction and English as a Second Language instruction.

4.20 - Technology & Internet Use District 21 hardware and software technology and Internet access may be used to improve learning and teaching consistent with the educational mission of District 21. Students are only allowed access to information and data on the Internet which is consistent with the school's curriculum and educational mission. District 21 expects legal, ethical and efficient use of the Internet.

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All District 21 technology and services are subject to perusal for virus scanning and/or determination of inappropriate use.

All users of online services are expected to follow the policies and procedures set forth by the Board of Education and School District 21 administrators. a.​ Computer/Chromebook Use Student devices are utilized by all District 21 students in a 1:1 model for use during the school day as well as outside of the school day for anytime learning. All students participate in a Chromebook “take home” model where they bring their device back and forth from school to home each day, while charging each night at home. Student Chromebooks are utilized for instructional use in order to support engaging and authentic learning opportunities. These are enhanced significantly when students have access to the resources of the Internet and the power of collaboration with students and teachers within Google Apps. Specific guidelines (Technology and Internet Use - Student Computer/Electronic Device Procedure - Chromebooks) are available on the District 21 webpage at https://ccsd21.org/information-services/information-services-procedures/. b.​ Chromebook Norms The following Chromebook norms have been developed to support engaging and authentic learning opportunities and responsible digital citizenship. Consequences for Chromebook/Internet misuse will be determined by building administration: ●​ Care and Handling ○​ Keep chromebook free of markings and stickers ○​ Avoid bringing chromebooks into bathrooms and cafeteria ●​ Accountability ○​ Chromebooks should be brought to school every day ○​ Chromebooks should be charged at home on a daily basis ○​ Keep your password secure and to yourself ●​ Using the Chromebooks ○​ Chromebooks should be used in accordance to the District 21 Acceptable Usage Policy ●​ 1:1 Chromebook Program handbooks and student care presentations can be found at https://ccsd21.org/information-services/chromebook-information/chromebook-program/ 4.30 - Library & Media Center (LMC) Each building has a Library and Media Center. Students are encouraged to take advantage of resources available through the LMC. Materials and books may be checked out to support student learning at school and at home. Students are asked to care for the materials and books that they borrow from the LMC so that they are available to the school community throughout the year, and for years to come. On rare occasions when that does not happen, there may be a charge for library materials that are lost or damaged beyond repair.

Cross reference: Policy 6:230, Library Media Program Policy 6:235, Access to Electronic Networks 4.40 - Physical Education (PE) Students will participate in Physical Education (PE) each day that they attend school. Physical education fosters the development of movement skills, enhances health-related fitness, increases students’ knowledge, offers direct opportunities to learn how to work cooperatively in a group setting, and encourages healthy habits and attitudes for a healthy lifestyle.

IMPLEMENTATION AT SPECIFIC GRADE LEVELS ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Kindergarten-Fifth Grades: ●​ Daily PE has two components: PE taught as a special by the PE teachers and Structured PE taught by the classroom teacher. ●​ Students attend PE with a PE teacher 3 times each week. ​

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●​ Structured PE is taught 2 days a week for 30 minutes by the classroom teachers (on the days that students are not in PE with the PE teachers).

EARLY CHILDHOOD Pre-Kindergarten Students: ●​ Students attend 2 half-hour Motor & Movement classes each week taught by their classroom teachers or specials teachers. ●​ Classroom teachers provide 15-minute PE lessons on the other days students are in attendance each week.

PE ATTIRE Students should wear shoes appropriate for physical activity for PE in all grades.

Cross reference: Policy 6:50, School Wellness Policy 6:60, Curriculum Content Policy 7:260, Exemption from Physical Activity 4.50 - Field Trips Occasionally, teachers arrange field trips as part of the educational program. Field trips are an extension of classroom work, therefore, students are encouraged to attend. Students may be asked to pay a small fee to help cover the cost of the trip. The fee and the signed permission slip (which will be sent home from school prior to the event) must be turned in before the day of the trip. Students whose parent or guardian is unable to afford student fees may receive a fee waiver. Students are not allowed to go on a field trip without a signed consent from their parent(s)/guardian(s).

Cross reference: Policy 6:10, Educational Philosophy and Objectives Policy 6:240, Field Trips 4.60 - Advanced Learners Programs Elementary Schools The advanced and accelerated placement programs at the elementary schools are in the areas of math and language arts. Students in 4th and 5th grade whose data profile puts them in the 85% or higher category will be placed in the Advanced Language Arts cluster. Placement data used for this process includes MAP,common assessment, and teacher feedback. This cluster will use higher text level, additional reading & writing content, and the pace of curriculum matches that of core classes. Students will be pulled during guided reading time and will meet twice a week for one hour. Parents/guardians will be notified of this placement before the start of the school year.

5th grade students with data profiles at 95% or above will receive an accelerated curriculum. Program structures will vary based on student numbers.Placement data used for this process includes MAP, common assessment, and teacher feedback. For the accelerated students, 5th grade Everyday Math will be compacted, with instruction targeted to be completed mid-year (December). Students will then be using a new math curriculum entitled Desmos 6th grade for the remainder of the year. Students will meet daily during their math time to receive instruction. Parents/guardians will be notified of this placement before the start of the school year.

Student data will also be evaluated during the first trimester of fourth and fifth grade to ensure that additional students who emerge have the opportunity to participate.

4.70 - Elementary & Secondary Education Act (ESEA)/Title I Programs a.​ Title I Schoolwide Programs District 21 operates ten Title I Schoolwide Programs at: Eugene Field Elementary School, Robert Frost Elementary School, Joyce Kilmer Elementary School, Edgar Allan Poe Elementary School, Mark Twain Elementary School, Booth Tarkington Elementary School, Walt Whitman Elementary ​

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School, James F. Cooper Middle School, Wendell Oliver Holmes Middle School, and Jack London Middle School. Specific information regarding each school's plan is available on the school's website and from the principal. b.​ Title I Parent Involvement A critical component of all Title I programs is to strengthen the home-school partnership. Parents are involved in the Title I programs in a variety of ways. Copies of each school's Title I School-Parent Compact and Title I Parent Involvement Policy are available in the school office and on each school's website. c.​ Parents Right-to-Know In accordance with the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, the district informs parents of students in Title I programs of their right to request information regarding the professional qualifications of staff who is instructing their children. For additional information, please refer to your school's principal, the Human Resources office, and/or the School District 21 website: https://ccsd21.org/equity-learning/title-i-information/

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Chapter 5 5.10 - Fees, Fines; Waiver of Student Fees The district is permitted to establish registration fees to offset the cost of books, materials and resources directly related to the curriculum. Other fees may be established to fund certain school activities. Fees may be paid by cash, check or credit card. Cash payments should be made by the parent/guardian at the District 21 Administrative Center, 959 West Dundee Road, Wheeling, Illinois, where a payment receipt will be issued. Checks should be written to Community Consolidated School District 21. Parents may visit their child’s attendance school to process their credit card payments or submit payment online by visiting https://ccsd21.revtrak.net/ Students will not be denied the opportunity to participate in curricular and extracurricular programs of the school district due to the inability of their parent or guardian to pay fees or certain charges. No child will be discriminated against because of race, gender, national origin, ability or inability to pay fees, or any other factor or combination of factors. Students whose parent or guardian is unable to afford student fees may receive a fee waiver. Fee waiver determination will remain confidential; all students will receive the same consideration regardless of the family’s ability to pay fees. A fee waiver applies to all fees related to school, instruction, and extracurricular activities.

A parent/guardian may request fee waivers by submitting a free/reduced lunch application. Applications are available at the school’s main office and online at https://mealtimeapps.com/. A student is eligible for a fee waiver if at least one of the following prerequisites is met: ●​ The student currently lives in a household that meets the same income guidelines, with the same limits based on household size, that are used for the federal free meals programs. ●​ The student’s parent is a veteran or active-duty military personnel with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty line. ●​ The student is homeless, as defined by the Mc-Kinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. Additional consideration will be given if a family’s income level is above the eligibility cut off, but where one or more of the following factors are present: ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

An illness in the family; Large medical expenses; Unusual expenses such as fire, flood, storm damage, etc.; or Other emergency situations.

Please contact the school office to determine if other means of assistance are available for your situation.

In certain cases, foster children are also eligible for these benefits. If you have foster children living with you and wish to apply for free or reduced-price meals for them, please notify us or indicate it on the application.

After receipt and review of your application, the Business Office will advise you within ten (10) days of receipt of the application whether the fee waiver request has been granted or denied, along with the appropriate appeal process. If you have questions regarding the fee waiver process, you may contact the business office at 959 W Dundee Road, Wheeling, IL 60090 or at 847-520-2706.

You may apply at any time during the school year if your financial situation changes.

Pursuant to the Hunger-Free Student’s Bill of Rights Act, the school is required to provide a federally reimbursable meal to a student who requests one, regardless of whether the student has the ability to pay for the meal or owes money for earlier meals. Students may not be provided with an alternative meal and the school is prohibited from publicly identifying or stigmatizing a student who cannot pay for or owes money for a meal.

Fines for loss or damage to school property are waived for students who meet certain eligibility guidelines.

Cross-references: Policy 4:110, Transportation ​

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Policy 4:130, Free and Reduced-Price Food Services Policy 4:140, Waiver of Student Fees 5.20 - Food Service Our programs are operated under the federally-funded National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs.

Our regulations are developed and administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Illinois State Board of Education. The district offers other programs in addition to the National School Lunch Program and the National School Breakfast Program such as a Community Eligibility Provision, Breakfast After the Bell Program, and Summer EBT. Cross-references: Policy 4:120, Food Service 5.30 - Breakfast & Lunch Program A breakfast and lunch program is available at all schools. Breakfast will be served in the cafeteria and/or after the instructional day starts in the student’s classroom. Lunch will be served in the cafeteria.

Monthly menus are posted on the School District 21 website and www.mealviewer.com. The district strives to provide as much variety as possible in its menus while remaining within the constraints of the National School Lunch Program regulations.

If your child has specific needs related to food allergies, please contact the nurse at your child’s school.

Parents/guardians are responsible for any meal debt incurred by their child. Debts will be handled in accordance with Board Policy 4:45, Insufficient Fund Checks and Debt Recovery. When a student has a negative balance on their account, charging for a second meal or ala carte items will not be allowed.

Payments for breakfast and lunch are recorded using an electronic debit system. An account is created for each student. Parents/guardians may send checks or cash to the school office to be posted to their child’s account. Checks should be made payable to CCSD 21. Please be sure to include your child's name and student ID on the check.

Parents/guardians may also make payments into their child’s school meal account online with credit or debit cards by visiting www.mymealtime.com. My Mealtime allows parents/guardians to view account balances, check meal history, set up automatic payments, and request low balance notifications. For more information, please visit the School District 21 website or log-in at www.mymealtime.com.

Unpaid meal balances will carry over to the next school year or, if the student leaves the district, the balance will be transferred to a sibling in the district. If you have questions regarding the breakfast and lunch program, you may contact the business office at 959 W Dundee Road, Wheeling, IL 60090 or at 847-520-2706.

Cross-references: Policy 4:45, Insufficient Fund Checks and Debt Recovery 5.40 - Free/Reduced Breakfast & Lunch Program The Food Service Price Guide details the cost of items offered during school meals. Our district participates in a Federal program to provide free/reduced-price breakfast and lunch meals for children from families who meet eligibility requirements. An income/household size guide scale, generated and adjusted annually by the Federal Government, is published by the State and is used to determine eligibility for free or reduced-price meals for students.

Additional consideration will be given if a family’s income level is above the eligibility cut off, but where one or more of the following factors are present: ●​ An illness in the family; ●​ Large medical expenses; ●​ Unusual expenses such as fire, flood, storm damage, etc.; ●​ Student is homeless, as defined by the Mc-Kinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act; ●​ Foster Children; or ●​ Other emergency situations.

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Please contact the school office to determine if other means of assistance are available for your situation.

No child will be discriminated against because of race, gender, national origin, ability or inability to pay fees, or any other factor or combination of factors. Free or reduced-price meals determination will remain confidential; all students will receive the same consideration regardless of the family’s ability to pay fees.

Applications are available at the school’s main office and online at https://mealtimeapps.com/. After receipt and review of your application, the Business Office will advise you within ten (10) days of receipt of the application whether or not your child is eligible for free or reduced meals.

You may apply at any time during the school year if your situation changes.

State and Federal guidelines stipulate that in order to receive the benefit of a free/reduced-price meal, a student must take a full meal. If your student does not take all of the required meal components they will be charged the a la carte price for any food they take. For more details on what constitutes as a full meal, please visit https://ccsd21.org/business-services/food-service/food-service-frequently-asked-questions/ Additional servings are available to all students however, all students must pay the additional serving price.

Cross-references: Policy 4:130, Free and Reduced-Price Food Services Policy 4:140, Waiver of Student Fees

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Chapter 6 6.10 - Bus Transportation As directed by the Illinois School Code, free transportation will be provided for those students, including kindergartners, who live 1.5 miles or more as designated by the shortest walking distance to and from school. Transportation may also be provided for those children who live less than 1.5 miles from school where the walking route to school is certified as hazardous by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

All bus assignments, as well as routes and stops, are determined by the Business Office.

Families/guardians whose children ride school buses are asked to be sure their household information is correct. Please note that snow, ice and extremely cold temperatures may affect bus pick-up and/or drop-off times, occasionally causing buses to run late. For more information and frequently asked questions, please visit the School District 21 website.

Students are expected to follow all school rules while on the bus. While students are on the bus, they are under the supervision of the bus driver. In most cases, bus discipline problems can be handled by the bus driver. In the case of a written disciplinary referral, student bus problems will be investigated and handled by the building principal. Video and audio cameras may be active on buses to record student conduct and may be used for the purposes of investigation into misconduct or accidents on the bus. See Section 1.210 - Video and Audio Monitoring System. The right of all students to ride on the bus depends upon their behavior and their obeying the rules and regulations.

Cross-references: Policy 4:110, Transportation Policy 4:170, Safety Policy 7:190, Student Behavior Policy 7:220, Bus Conduct 6.20 - Bus Conduct Bus transportation is a privilege provided by your Board of Education as directed by Illinois school code.

In order to operate a safe and orderly bus program, we need the students’ full cooperation. Bus drivers have only one major responsibility - to safely transport their riders to and from school. Students who ride our buses are held responsible for the exercise of good judgment and behavior. Any conduct considered disruptive and unsafe will not be addressed by the school administration. Notices of misconduct at the bus stop or on the bus will be sent to families/guardians and will require a family/guardian signature.

Families/guardians will be contacted and students will be appropriately disciplined should they abuse their bus riding privileges. Repeated or serious incidents can result in the suspension of bus service for a period of time. Students may only ride the bus to which they are assigned. The following are rules of conduct we expect our students to follow: While riding the bus: ●​ Students are expected to follow any instructions given by a bus driver and to show respect for them. ●​ Students are to load and unload buses in an orderly manner. ●​ Students must remain seated whenever a bus is moving. ●​ Students are not allowed to eat or drink on the bus. ●​ Students should never throw any objects from a bus window. ●​ Hands and arms must never be held outside of a bus window. ●​ Disruptive behavior must not take place on a bus (i.e. fighting, boisterous playing, teasing, throwing objects, loud noises).

Discipline and penalties: ●​ Students may be held financially accountable for any damages they cause to a bus. ●​ The riding privilege of a student may be revoked for violation of the rules or for conduct which is detrimental to the safe operation of the school bus.

A student may lose bus-riding privileges if the behavior is considered exceedingly dangerous or destructive. Chronic or serious offenses may result in permanent exclusion from the bus.

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Late buses may be provided for students who participate or attend sponsored before and/or after-school activities. Bus behavior guidelines apply (see above). If these guidelines are abused, the involved students may lose the privilege of using the activity bus for the balance of the school year.

Cross-references: Policy 4:110, Transportation Policy 4:170, Safety Policy 7:190, Student Behavior Policy 7:220, Bus Conduct 6.30 - Parking We ask that all families who transport students use extra caution while driving in the area around our school to assure that all of our children are able to arrive and leave school safely. We also ask that all drivers cooperate by observing the procedures that have been put in place to help make our traffic flow as safely and efficiently as possible.

Please do not drive into the bus loading area within the circle between 8:30am and 9:15 am; and between 3:15pm and 3:50pm.

It is necessary for the following procedures to be used for child drop-off and pickup in the mornings and at dismissal times: ●​ Follow the traffic pattern as established at each building. ●​ Please do not linger. Once your child is safely away from the car, please move on so the others in line can move forward. ●​ If you need to come inside the building for any reason or need to walk your child to the playground, YOU MUST PARK IN A LEGAL SPACE. Do not park or double park in the drop-off/pickup route. This procedure is in place for the safety of your child. ●​ District 21 would like to consider itself an accident free zone. We can only do that with your help and cooperation. Please talk to your child(ren) about safety rules for walking, riding bikes or using the bus to get to school.

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Chapter 7 7.10 - Health Services Each school is equipped with a health office and Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Certified School Nurses are assigned to specific schools throughout the entire district. The role of the Certified School Nurse is to collaborate with RNs and other health professionals in our schools to ensure that procedures are followed.

7.20 - Health Office Guidelines Each school has Health Office staff on duty throughout the school day, with a Certified School Nurse available on call at all times. In the event of an accident or illness, minor first aid will be administered to the students by the appropriate school staff. Parents/guardians have the right to deny treatment from school staff by submitting such a request in writing to the school’s principal.

For any emergency involving a serious injury or illness, paramedics will be contacted, and emergency medical care will be provided, which may include transportation to the nearest hospital if deemed necessary. Parents/guardians are responsible to pay for all fees in connection with such treatment or service. We will make every effort to contact the parents/guardians. If the parent/guardian cannot be reached, we will then attempt to contact the individuals listed under emergency contacts.

Students are never to leave school during the day unless they are signed out through the school office by a parent, legal guardian, or other authorized adult.

Students with a fever of 100.4°F or higher, vomiting, and/or diarrhea should not attend school. Students must be free of fever, vomiting and/or diarrhea for at least 24 hours without the use of medication before returning to school. Students suspected of having a notifiable infectious disease that requires isolation may also be excluded from school. See guidelines under Section 7.210, Communicable Diseases for more information on the most common communicable diseases.

7.30 - Health Emergency Forms A health information form with current health information and emergency contact information and phone numbers must be completed by parents/guardians on a yearly basis and updated as changes occur.

Parents/guardians are expected to notify the school of any health issues their child may have or any changes in their child's health status during the school year.

7.40 - Health Records Each student’s health information is recorded in the School District 21’s student information system.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:340, Student Records 7.50 - Emergency Calls Every effort will be made to contact parents/guardians in case of emergency. It is important that telephone numbers be kept up-to-date and accurate in school records. Arrangements for alternate adult emergency contacts should be made with appropriate names and phone numbers listed on school records. If, in the judgment of school officials, an injury requires immediate attention, paramedics will be called first and parents notified as soon as possible after contacting the paramedics.

7.60 - Student Health Examinations The requirements regarding student health examination and appropriate immunizations for students shall comply with the standards adopted by the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois School Code.

Proof of having had a required health examination and appropriate immunizations shall be submitted: ●​ Prior to the date of enrollment; ●​ Prior to entering our Early Childhood Program; ●​ Upon entering kindergarten and/or first entrance into an Illinois school with proof of having the examination within the previous year; ●​ Upon entering 6th grade; ​

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●​ Upon transferring into School District 21, irrespective of the grade, unless health records can be obtained from the former school. The transferred health records must be in compliance with Illinois requirements.

These examinations should be completed by a licensed physician and recorded on the state mandated Child Health Examination form, which the school provides. In addition, a physical examination is required annually for all sixth, seventh and eighth grade students participating in team sports. These examinations must be current within 12 months of when the sport is scheduled. The examination must be on file prior to participation.

It may be determined by the district’s administration that a student requires additional health examinations. The examinations may include dental and vision examinations.

The school staff shall inform parents of their obligation in these areas and shall furnish the necessary forms and keep records of compliance. Parents will be expected to notify the school of any allergies to food or drugs or other physical needs their child may have.

In accordance with the Illinois School Code, students objecting to health examinations on religious grounds shall not be required to submit themselves thereto if they present to School District 21 a statement of objection signed by a parent/guardian of the student.

The Superintendent, or designee, is authorized to prohibit a student from attending school until requirements for such physical examinations have been met, or a statement objecting to such physical examination has been submitted. Unless an exemption or extension applies, the failure to comply with the above requirements by October 15 of the current school year will result in the student’s exclusion from school until the required health forms are presented to the District. New students who register after October 15 of the current school year shall have 30 days following registration to comply with the health examination and immunization regulations.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:100, Health, Eye and, Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students ​ 7.70 - Student Immunizations The requirements regarding immunization for students in the district shall comply with the standards adopted by the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois School Code. Every student shall, upon initial enrollment in school, present proof of having received immunization for preventable communicable diseases. Proof of immunization from disease shall be submitted prior to the date of enrollment.

School staff shall inform parents of their obligation in these areas and shall furnish the necessary forms and keep records of compliance. If the student’s physical condition is such that any one or more of the immunizing agents should not be administered, the examining physician shall provide written documentation.

Students who have been unable to comply with this policy will be excluded from school until documentation of compliance has been provided.

In accordance with the Illinois School Code, students whose parents or legal guardians object on religious grounds need not receive the immunizations if they present to the appropriate school officials a signed statement of objection which details the grounds for such an objection. Any medical objection to an immunization must be made by a physician indicating the medical reason for the exemption. Children exempt for religious or medical reasons are considered to be unprotected but in compliance with the immunization provisions of the law.

Unless an exemption or extension applies, the failure to comply with the above requirements by October 15 of the current school year will result in the student’s exclusion from school until the required health forms are presented to the District. New students who register after October 15 of the current school year shall have 30 days following registration to comply with the health examination and immunization regulations. ●​ If a medical reason prevents a student from receiving a required immunization by October 15, the ​

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student must present, by October 15, an immunization schedule and a statement of the medical reasons causing the delay. The schedule and statement of medical reasons must be signed by the physician, advanced practice nurse, physician assistant, or local health department responsible for administering the immunizations. ●​ A student transferring from out-of-state who does not have the required proof of immunizations by October 15 may attend classes only if they have proof that an appointment for the required vaccinations is scheduled with a party authorized to submit proof of the required vaccinations. If the required proof of vaccination is not submitted within 30 days after the student is permitted to attend classes, the student may no longer attend classes until proof of the vaccinations is properly submitted.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:100, Health, Eye and, Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students 7.80 - Dental Examinations The requirements regarding dental examinations for students shall comply with the standards adopted by the Illinois Department of Public Health. All children entering kindergarten, second and sixth grades are required to submit a completed dental exam form to the school by May 15th of that school year. School District 21 will provide parents with a Department of Public Health form to be completed by the child’s dentist.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:100, Health, Eye and, Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students ​ 7.90 - Vision Examinations All children enrolled in kindergarten and any student enrolling for the first time in an Illinois school must show proof of having an eye examination by a licensed eye doctor (optometrist or ophthalmologist) before October 15th of the school year. This eye exam shall at a minimum include history, visual acuity, subjective refraction to the best visual acuity near and far, internal and external examination, and a glaucoma evaluation, as well as any other tests or observations that the doctor determines are necessary.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:100, Health, Eye and, Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students 7.100 - Lead Assessment Lead Assessment is required by law for children age 6 years or below prior to admission to preschool, pre-kindergarten or kindergarten.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:100, Health, Eye and, Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students 7.110 - Screening Tests Vision - Vision screenings will be conducted in School District 21 as required per the Illinois Child Vision and Hearing Test Act (410 ILCS 205) and the Illinois Department of Public Health. Students, other than those wearing glasses, are instrument screened in pre-kindergarten, second and eighth grades. Special education students, teacher referrals and all students new to the district will also be screened. Those students wearing glasses are screened by a visual inspection of their glasses and a determination of when the child last saw their eye doctor. All second graders are additionally screened for color perception. Parents/Guardians will be notified by letter if a student’s second screening indicates the need for further vision examination.

Vision screening is not a substitute for a complete vision evaluation by an eye doctor. Your child is not required to undergo this vision screening if an optometrist or ophthalmologist has completed and signed a report form indicating that an examination has been administered within the previous 12 months and that evaluation is on file at the school. Vision screening is not an option. If a vision examination report is not on file at the school for your child and your child is in the mandated age or grade-group, they will be screened.

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Hearing - Hearing screenings will be conducted in School District 21 as required per the Illinois Child Vision and Hearing Test Act (410 ILCS 205) the Illinois Department of Public Health. Individual pure tone audiometric screenings are completed for students in pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and grades 1, 2, and 3. In addition, special education students, teacher referrals and all students new to School District 21 will also be screened. During the remainder of the school year, any student who has a suspected hearing problem will be retested when the child, teacher, parent/guardian or doctor notifies the Certified School Nurse or Health Office. All students with a known hearing loss will be monitored with an audiogram yearly.

Parents/Guardians are notified by letter if a student needs further evaluation by a physician.

Head Lice - Students with head lice will be excluded from school until after the initial pediculicide treatment. Parents/Guardians will be provided with head lice information and treatment guidelines.

Screenings for head lice may be necessary at the discretion of the nurse and/or principal.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:100, Health, Eye and, Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students 7.120 - Excuse for Physical Education/Recess In order to be excused from participation in physical education, a student must present an appropriate excuse from their parent/guardian or from a person licensed under the Medical Practice Act. The excuse may be based on medical or religious prohibitions. An excuse because of medical reasons must include a signed statement from a person licensed under the Medical Practice Act that corroborates the medical reason for the request and should include a date when participation may resume. An excuse based on religious reasons must include a signed statement from a member of the clergy that corroborates the religious reason for the request. A signed parent request for a student to be excused from physical education activities will be honored for up to three days while awaiting appropriate written documentation as noted above.

Students with an Individualized Education Program may also be excused from physical education courses for the following reasons: 1.​ When their IEP requires that special education support and services be provided during physical education time, and the parent/guardian agrees or the IEP team makes the determination.

2.​ He or she has an IEP, is participating in an adaptive athletic program outside of the school setting, and the parent/guardian documents the student’s participation as required by the Superintendent or designee.

Special activities in physical education will be provided for a student whose physical or emotional condition, as determined by a person licensed under the Medical Practices Act, prevents their participation in the physical education course.

State law prohibits the School District from honoring parental excuses based upon a student’s participation in athletic training, activities, or competitions conducted outside the auspices of the School District.

Students who have been excused from physical education shall return to the course as soon as practical.

The following considerations will be used to determine when a student shall return to a physical education course: 1.​ The time of year when the student’s participation ceases; and 2.​ The student’s class schedule.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:260, Exemption from Physical Education 7.130 - Students with Allergies Parents/Guardians will be expected to notify the school of any allergies to food or drugs their child may have. ​

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In January 2011, the Illinois State Board of Education enacted Public Act 96-0349, which requires school boards in Illinois to adopt policies promoting both the prevention and management of life-threatening allergic reactions. A copy of Community Consolidated School District 21’s manual, Procedures for Managing Life-Threatening Food Allergies in School, is available at your child’s school.

If necessary, snacks may be further limited in accordance with specific food allergies in a classroom.

School District 21 does not allow food as a birthday treat at school. Please refer to Section 1.190 Treats & Snacks.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:285, Anaphylaxis Prevention, Response, and Management Program 7.140 - Prevention of Anaphylaxis While it is not possible for the School or District to completely eliminate the risks of an anaphylactic emergency, the District maintains a comprehensive policy on anaphylaxis prevention, response, and management in order to reduce these risks and provide accommodations and proper treatment for anaphylactic reactions. Parent(s)/guardian(s) and students who desire more information or who want a copy of the District’s policy may contact the Building Principal.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:285, Anaphylaxis Prevention, Response, and Management Program 7.150 - Care of Students with Diabetes If your child has diabetes and requires assistance with managing this condition while at school and school functions, a Diabetes Care Plan must be submitted to the building principal. Parents/guardians are responsible for and must: a.​ Inform the school in a timely manner of any change which needs to be made to the Diabetes Care Plan on file with the school for their child. b.​ Inform the school in a timely manner of any changes to their emergency contact numbers or contact numbers of health care providers. c.​ Sign the Diabetes Care Plan. d.​ Grant consent for and authorize designated School District representatives to communicate directly with the health care provider whose instructions are included in the Diabetes Care Plan.

For further information, please contact the building principal or school nurse.

7.160 - Guidance and Counseling Program The School District provides a guidance and counseling program for students. School counseling services are available to those students who require additional assistance.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:270, Guidance and Counseling Program 7.170 - Suicide and Depression Awareness and Prevention Youth suicide impacts the safety of the school environment. It also affects the school community, diminishing the ability of surviving students to learn and the school’s ability to educate. Suicide and depression awareness and prevention are important goals of the school district.

The school district maintains student and parent/guardian resources on suicide and depression awareness and prevention. Much of this information, including a copy of the school district’s policy, is posted on the school district website. Information can also be obtained from the school office.

The district employs school psychologists and school social workers with training in this area of health.

They are available to collaborate with you and to help connect you with community resources. Please do not hesitate to contact our school psychologist, school social worker, or school principal who are always available to support you and your children in navigating this and other sensitive topics. ​

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If you, your student or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or needs someone to talk with, there are people who care and can help. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ●​ Call, text, or chat 988 ●​ Para Español: Envía un mensaje de texto con la palabra AYUDA al 988 ●​ For TTY Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

The Crisis Text Line ●​ Text HOME to 741741 ●​ Para Español: Envía un mensaje de texto con la palabra AYUDA al 741741 The Safe2Help Illinois Helpline ●​ Call (844) 4-SAFE-IL or (844) 472-3345 ●​ Text SAFE2 or 72332 ●​ Email Help@Safe2HelpIL.com ●​ Submit a tip online: https://app.safe22helpil.com For more information, visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, and the Safe2Help Illinois websites.

Cross-Reference: Policy 7:290, Suicide and Depression Awareness and Prevention 7.180 - Awareness and Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse, Grooming Behaviors, and Boundary Violations Child sexual abuse, grooming behaviors, and boundary violations harm students, their parent/guardian, the District’s environment, its school communities, and the community at large, while diminishing a student’s ability to learn.

Warning Signs of Child Sexual Abuse Warning signs of child sexual abuse include the following. Physical signs: ●​ Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other genital infections ●​ Signs of trauma to the genital area, such as unexplained bleeding, bruising, or blood on the sheets, underwear, or other clothing ●​ Unusual weight gain or loss Behavioral signs: ●​ Excessive talk about or knowledge of sexual topics ●​ Keeping secrets ●​ Not talking as much as usual ●​ Not wanting to be left alone with certain people or being afraid to be away from primary caregivers ●​ Regressive behaviors or resuming behaviors that the child had grown out of, such as thumb sucking or bedwetting ●​ Overly compliant behavior ●​ Sexual behavior that is inappropriate for the child’s age ●​ Spending an unusual amount of time alone ●​ Trying to avoid removing clothing to change or bathe Emotional signs: ●​ Change in eating habits or unhealthy eating patterns, like loss of appetite or excessive eating ●​ Signs of depression, such as persistent sadness, lack of energy, changes in sleep or appetite, withdrawing from normal activities, or feeling “down” ●​ Change in mood or personality, such as increased aggression ●​ Decrease in confidence or self-image ​

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●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Anxiety, excessive worry, or fearfulness Increase in unexplained health problems such as stomach aches and headaches Loss or decrease in interest in school, activities, and friends Nightmares or fear of being alone at night Self-harming behaviors or expressing thoughts of suicide or suicidal behavior Failing grades Drug or alcohol use

Warning Signs of Grooming Behaviors School and District employees are expected to maintain professional and appropriate relationships with students based upon students’ ages, grade levels, and developmental levels.

Prohibited grooming is defined as (i) any act, including but not limited to, any verbal, nonverbal, written, or electronic communication or physical activity, (ii) by an employee with direct contact with a student, (iii) that is directed toward or with a student to establish a romantic or sexual relationship with the student.

Examples of grooming behaviors include, but are not limited to, the following behaviors: ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Sexual or romantic invitations to a student Dating or soliciting a date from a student Engaging in sexualized or romantic dialog with a student Making sexually suggestive comments that are directed toward or with a student Self-disclosure or physical exposure of a sexual, romantic, or erotic nature Sexual, indecent, romantic, or erotic contact with a student Failing to respect boundaries or listening when a student says “no” Engaging in touching that a student or student’s parents/guardians have indicated is unwanted Trying to be a student’s friend rather than filling an adult role in the student’s life Failing to maintain age-appropriate relationships with students Talking with students about personal problems or relationships Spending time alone with a student outside of their role in the student’s life or making up excuses to be alone with a student Expressing unusual interest in a student’s sexual development, such as commenting on sexual characteristics or sexualizing normal behaviors Giving a student gifts without occasion or reason Spending a lot of time with a student Restricting a student’s access to other adults

Warning Signs of Boundary Violations School and District employees breach employee-student boundaries when they misuse their position of power over a student in a way that compromises the student’s health, safety, or general welfare.

Examples of boundary violations include: ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Favoring a certain student by inviting the student to “hang out” or by granting special privileges Engaging in peer-like behavior with a student Discussing personal issues with a student Meeting with a student off-campus without parent/guardian knowledge and/or permission Dating, requesting, or participating in a private meeting with a student (in person or virtually) outside of a professional role Transporting a student in a school or private vehicle without administrative authorization Giving gifts, money, or treats to an individual student Sending a student on personal errands Intervening in a serious student problem instead of referring the student to an appropriately trained professional Sexual or romantic invitations toward or from a student Taking and using photos/videos of students for non-educational purposes Initiating or extending contact with a student beyond the school day in a one-on-one or non-group setting Inviting a student to an employee’s home Adding a student on personal social networking sites as contacts when unrelated to a legitimate educational purpose Privately messaging a student ​

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●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Maintaining intense eye contact with a student Making comments about a student’s physical attributes, including excessively flattering comments Engaging in sexualized or romantic dialog Making sexually suggestive comments directed toward or with a student Disclosing confidential information Self-disclosure of a sexual, romantic, or erotic nature Full frontal hugs Invading personal space

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) maintains a resource guide on sexual abuse response and prevention. The guide contains information on and the location of children’s advocacy centers, organizations that provide medical evaluations and treatment to victims of child sexual abuse, organizations that provide mental health evaluations and services to victims and families of victims of child sexual abuse, and organizations that offer legal assistance to and provide advocacy on behalf of victims of child sexual abuse. This guide can be accessed through the ISBE website at www.isbe.net or you may request a copy of this guide by contacting the school’s office.

If you believe you are a victim of child sexual abuse, grooming behaviors, or boundary violations, or you believe that your child is a victim, you should immediately contact the Building Principal, a school counselor, or another trusted adult employee of the School.

Additional Resources include: National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) National Sexual Abuse Chatline at online.rainn.org Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Hotline at 1.800.25.ABUSE (2873) Cross-Reference: Policy 4:165, Awareness and Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Grooming Behaviors 7.190 - Students Who are Parents, Expectant Parents, or Victims of Domestic or Sexual Violence Domestic and sexual violence affect a student's ability to learn. Students who are parents or expectant parents have unique needs. Providing support services that enable students who are parents, expectant parents, or victims of domestic or sexual violence (Article 26A students) to succeed in school are important school and district goals and are required by law.

Requesting Support Services To facilitate the full participation of Article 26A students, the school district provides in-school support services and information regarding non-school-based support services. Article 26A students are also able to make up work missed on account of circumstances related to their status as a parent, expectant parent, or victim of domestic or sexual violence.

In-school support services include, but are not limited to, enabling a student to meet with counselors or other service providers, excusing the student from class as necessary for circumstances consistent with their Article 26A status, and assisting students with the development of a student success plan.

An Article 26A student and/or their parent/guardian may request a complete copy of the District’s policies related to Article 26A students and information on support services by contacting the Article 26A Resource Person listed below.

Filing a Complaint An Article 26A student and/or their parent/guardian may file a complaint for violations of this procedure with the Nondiscrimination Coordinator, Title IX Coordinator, Building Principal, Assistant Building Principal, a Complaint Manager, or any employee with whom the person is comfortable speaking.

Article 26A Resource Person: Sherri Massa Name 959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address ​

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sherri.massa@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2717 Telephone Nondiscrimination Coordinators: Lewis Roberts Name

Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress Name

959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address lewis.roberts@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2724 Telephone

959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address beatrice.childress@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2743 Telephone

Complaint Managers: Lewis Roberts Name 959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address lewis.roberts@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2724 Telephone

Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress Name 959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address beatrice.childress@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2743 Telephone

Retaliation Prohibited Retaliation against an Article 26A Student or their parent/guardian for exercising or attempting to exercise their rights under this procedure is prohibited. Individuals should report allegations of retaliation to the Building Principal, an administrator, the Nondiscrimination Coordinator, and/or a Complaint Manager.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:255, Students Who are Parents, Expectant Parents, or Victims of Domestic or Sexual Violence 7.200 - Student Medication The purpose of administering medications in school is to help each child maintain an optimal state of health that may enhance their educational plan. The medications shall be those required during school hours that are necessary to provide the student access to the educational program. The use or possession of medical cannabis, even by a student for whom medical cannabis has been prescribed, is prohibited on school grounds or as part of any of its activities unless allowed by state or federal law. a.​ Only those medications that are necessary to maintain the child in school and must be given during school hours shall be administered. b.​ The administration of student medication requires supervision by a Registered Nurse. In the absence of a Registered Nurse, self-administration under supervision by the principal’s designee may be necessary. Students may also carry their own inhaler, diabetic supplies, equipment, and/or Epi Pen with proper authorization, which must be on file with the school. c.​ All medication, including non-prescription drugs, given in school shall be prescribed by a licensed prescriber on an individual basis as determined by the child’s health status.

1.​ A written order for prescription and non-prescription medications must be obtained from the child’s licensed prescriber. The order includes: ●​ Child’s First and Last ●​ Name of Medication - Dosage, route of Name administration, frequency & time of ●​ Licensed Prescriber and Signature administration ●​ Date of Prescription ​ ​ ●​ Reason for Medication ​

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●​ Date of Order ●​ Length of Time

●​ Other Medications the Child is Receiving

2.​ Medication must be brought into school by the parent/guardian in the original package.

Prescription medications shall display: ●​ Child’s First and Last Name ●​ Administration Route and/or Other ●​ Prescription Number Directions ●​ Date of Refill ●​ Licensed Prescriber’s Name ●​ Medication Name/Dosage ●​ Pharmacy Name, Address, and Phone Number 3.​ Over the Counter Medications (OTC): OTC (non-prescription) medications shall be brought in by the parent/guardian, in the new sealed original manufacturer packaging with the manufacturer's original label listing the ingredients, and the child’s name affixed to the container. d.​ In addition to the licensed prescriber’s order, a signed permission shall be obtained from the parent(s)/guardian requesting the medication be given during school hours. It is the parent(s)/guardian’s responsibility to ensure that the licensed prescriber order, written request and medication are brought to the school. e.​ The principal, Certified School Nurse and/or Registered Nurse shall retain the right to accept or reject such requests. f.​ Parent(s)/guardian may come to the school to administer medication(s) and MUST inform the Health Office of the type of medication administered. g.​ Non-Emergency Medication shall be kept in a locked space for safe storage or in the refrigerator if so marked. Emergency Medication shall be kept in a designated area and labeled location/s per student needs. h.​ A record will be kept detailing the medication given, to whom, when, and who administered it. In addition, the date of the initiation of medication, why not given, and the discontinuance of it will be recorded. In addition, a Registered Nurse will document the effects or side effects of the medication as indicated. i.​ The parent’s/guardian’s request, the physician’s order, and the recording information will be logged into the district’s student information system. j.​ All permission for medication shall be renewed at least annually. Changes in medication shall have written authorization from the licensed prescriber. k.​ The parent(s)/guardian will be responsible at the end of the treatment regime for removing from the school any unused medication which was prescribed for their child. If the parent(s)/guardian do(es) not pick up the medication by the end of the school year, the nurse will dispose of and document that the medications were discarded. Medication will be discarded in the presence of a witness.

Please contact the registered nurse for more information and to receive a copy of the necessary forms.

Kindly consider scheduling a time for medication drop-off/pick-up.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:270, Administering Medicines to Students 7.210 - Undesignated Epinephrine Injectors In compliance with Section 22-30(f) of the School Code, the District will maintain a supply of undesignated epinephrine auto-injectors in the name of the District. A school nurse or trained personnel may administer an undesignated epinephrine auto-injector to a person when they, in good faith, believe a person is having an anaphylactic reaction. The purpose of maintaining undesignated epinephrine injectors is to provide emergency care in unpredictable anaphylactic reactions to allergens, while parents and/or paramedics are en route to school.

Epinephrine will be available during normal school hours and on school property. This epinephrine may not be available during before and after school programs and field trips.

Parents of students who have been diagnosed with a life threatening allergy are expected to provide epinephrine, as prescribed by their physician, for their student’s use during before and after school programs, field trips, and during regular school hours. ​

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Cross Reference: Policy 7:270, Administering Medicines to Students 7.220 - Opioid Antagonists In compliance with Section 22-30(f) of the School Code, the District will maintain a supply of undesignated opioid antagonists in the name of the District and provide or administer them as necessary according to State law. A school nurse or trained personnel may administer an undesignated opioid antagonist to a person when they, in good faith, believe a person is having an opioid overdose.

Opioid antagonists will be available during regular school hours and on school property. This opioid antagonist may not be available during before and after school programs and field trips.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:270, Administering Medicines to Students 7.230 - Communicable Diseases Some communicable diseases are not preventable as yet, but the school has established exclusion and re-admission policies in accordance with county and state regulations in the interest of those concerned.

If your child is diagnosed as having one of these diseases, please notify the school. Communicable diseases may include but are not limited to the following: a.​ Chicken Pox – Chicken Pox is a rash associated with fever that occurs early and appears as successive crops of red, raised dots, turning into fluid-filled blisters, drying and forming scabs or crusts. Chicken Pox are heaviest on trunk of body. The incubation period for Chicken Pox is commonly 14-17 days. i.​

For unvaccinated children, the child will be excluded from school until all lesions have crusted and at least seven (7) days after eruption has appeared.

ii.​

For vaccinated children with atypical rash will be excluded from school until afebrile and no new lesions have developed for at least 24 hours.

b.​ Pertussis - Pertussis, or Whooping Cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection. Pertussis is spread through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms usually appear 5 – 10 days after exposure, but can take as long as 21 days. Pertussis is treated with antibiotics. Children will be excluded from school based upon IDPH guidelines. c.​ Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) - Pink eye is a bacterial or viral infection of the lining of the eye.

Symptoms include redness, burning, itching, sensitivity to light, and/or discharge of the infected eye.

The child should not attend school if conjunctivitis is accompanied by symptoms of systemic illness (e.g. fever or severe symptoms) or if the child is unable to keep hands away from the eye(s).

Preschool students with purulent drainage will be excluded from school until the student receives the prescribed treatment for a minimum of 24 hours. d.​ Scarlet Fever and Streptococcal Sore Throat – Symptoms include the sudden onset of high fever, vomiting, sore throat, bright red, pinpoint rash appearing on neck and chest and a telltale “strawberry” tongue. The incubation period is 2-5 days. Streptococcal sore throat is scarlet fever without the rash. A child will be excluded from school until 12 hours after treatment has been initiated and the child has been fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.

However, during outbreaks or in the setting of recurrent infection, students may be excluded from school until 24 hours after initiating effective antibiotics and the child has been fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications. e.​ Skin Rashes - Many rashes and sores resemble more serious contagious diseases. Children will be excluded from school based upon IDPH guidelines.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:280, Communicable and Chronic Infectious Disease 7.240 - Insurance The school district provides at no cost an accident insurance program for students. The policy and its ​

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implementation are solely the responsibility of the company; the school district has no involvement other than to provide claim forms when incidents arise. The school day accident policy covers a child during the school day and school-sponsored activities. Accidents covered by this policy should be promptly reported to the insurance company. If you have questions about the accident insurance program, please contact the School District 21 Business Office at 847-520-2706.

Cross Reference: Policy 4:100, Insurance Management 7.250 - School Communication and Safety a.​ Severe Weather If dismissal time occurs during a severe weather alert, and local conditions indicate children may be unable to safely travel home, dismissal will be delayed until the danger passes. During this period, we reserve the right to retain anyone from leaving the building until the weather conditions are safe. b.​ Crisis Plan Community Consolidated School District 21 schools have put into operation a comprehensive Crisis Plan that is part of a larger, regional plan. The goals of the program are to: ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Protect the safety and welfare of students and staff members; Provide for a safe and coordinated response to emergency situations; Restore schools to normalcy as soon as possible after a crisis; and Protect school property.

Each school in the district has a crisis command structure and staff members have designated roles in that structure. The procedures associated with the crisis plan have been practiced by each building. Go-packs filled with emergency supplies can be found in each classroom. c.​ Emergency Phone Numbers It is very important that we have current contact information on record in order to contact parents/guardians in an emergency. At times during the year, an emergency may arise whereby we need to locate you or an individual whom you trust. If for any reason these phone numbers change during the year, please notify the school office immediately. d.​ Emergency School Closing Information In the event of extreme weather conditions or any other reason that would require school to be closed and or implement an e-learning day, School District 21 will officially post that information on the School District 21 website, send notifications by phone and email through the district’s automated notification system, and through major news media outlets, such as WGN, WBBM, WMAQ, WLS, WFLD, WGBO and WSNS. You may also check online at www.EmergencyClosingCenter.com under the listing of DIST #21 (WHEELING). e.​ Relocation/Reunification Site Information In the event of a crisis that requires student evacuation or relocation, parents/guardians will be notified through the district’s automated system. When reporting to the reunification site, please bring a photo identification. Students will be released only to legal guardians or authorized individuals listed on the student’s emergency contacts.

Do not go to the school (emergency site) or call the reunification location. Parents/guardians may contact the district office at 847-537-8270 for updates.

Cross-Reference: Policy 4:170, Safety 7.260 - Safety Drill Procedures Safety drills will occur at times established by the school board. Students are required to be silent and shall comply with the directives of school officials during emergency drills. There will be a minimum of three (3) evacuation drills, a minimum of one (1) severe weather (shelter-in-place) drill, a minimum of two (2) law enforcement drills to address an active shooter incident, and a minimum of one (1) bus evacuation ​

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drill each school year. There may be other drills at the direction of the administration. Drills will be preceded by a warning to the students.

The lockdown drill must not include simulations that mimic an actual shooting incident or active shooter.

All lockdown drills must be announced in advance to all school personnel and students prior to the commencement of the drill. School administrators and school support personnel may, in their discretion, exempt a student or students from participating in a walk-though lockdown drill. Schools must provide sufficient information and notification to parents and guardians in advance of any walk-through lockdown drill that involves the participation of students Schools must also provide parents and guardians an opportunity to exempt their child for any reason from participating in the walk-through lockdown drill.

Cross-References: Policy 4:170, Safety Public Act 102-0395 (Amended, effective August 16, 2021) 7.270 - Targeted School Violence Prevention Program Threats and acts of targeted school violence harm the District’s environment and school community, diminishing students’ ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate. Providing students and staff with access to a safe and secure environment is an important goal of the School and District. While it is not possible to completely eliminate threats, the School and District maintain a Targeted School Violence Prevention Program and a Threat Assessment Team to reduce these risks to its environment.

Parents/guardians and students are encouraged to report any expressed threats or behaviors that may represent a threat to the community, School, or self. Reports can be made to any school administrator, law enforcement authorities, the Let’s Talk district platform, or the Safe2Help Illinois helpline.

Students and parents are urged to participate in behavioral threat assessment and intervention programs if the Behavioral Threat Assessment Team believes that intervention is necessary to prevent a student from harming themselves or others. However, if for some reason there is a reluctance to participate in the process by the threat maker(s) or parent/guardian(s), the threat assessment process will continue in order to ensure a safe and caring learning environment for all.

For further information, please contact the Building Principal.

7.280 - Awareness of Secure Firearm Storage The safety and security of our school community is a top priority. Unsecured firearms in the home pose a risk to students and their families. CCSD21 is committed to providing our families with safe educational resources on secure storage of firearms. Below you will find links to educational materials from BeSmart, a campaign that raises awareness on secure gun storage. ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Secure Gun Storage Best Gun Storage Practices Types of Gun Storage Secure Gun Storage FAQs Secure Gun Storage Resources

CCSD21 will continue to work closely with our local law enforcement and community agencies on efforts to inform our families of the importance of secure storage of firearms.

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Chapter 8 8.10 - Code of Conduct The goal of our Code of Conduct is to create a safe and nurturing learning community, where every child is afforded an opportunity to contribute to the welfare of all. Establishing and supporting a positive school environment requires awareness and self-discipline within each of our students. By taking responsibility for their own actions, an individual is aware of how their conduct contributes to the creation of a positive school environment. It is our goal to help create, within all children, a respect for themselves and the rights of others. Quality education takes place when students, teachers and parents/guardians work collaboratively towards supporting our collective vision for a positive learning community. ●​ Students will show pride in school by keeping the building and grounds free of litter. ●​ Students will use appropriate language at school. ●​ Students will show respect for others by following instructions given by adults and being considerate of others. ●​ Students will walk and keep their hands and feet to themselves when going to different places in the school. ●​ Dress will be appropriate for school and learning. ●​ Students taking another person's property by force, or threat of force, may receive a suspension. ●​ Students will not bring toys or any electronic games to school. These items will be taken and will only be returned to the parents/guardians. ●​ Students will always keep cell phones powered-off or silenced and in their backpacks. ●​ Students are not allowed to bring sport balls on the bus unless they fit in a backpack. ●​ Hats bandanas or other head coverings shall not be worn in the building unless authorized by the principal. Any head covering brought to school shall be removed before entering. (The exception being head coverings that are based on religious tenets.) ●​ Students are expected to act respectfully and safely while in the hallways ●​ Students are expected to respect school and personal property and shall not write on walls, desks or deface or destroy school property. ●​ Students in possession of and/or who use weapons, including "fake" or toy weapons that are represented as "real" weapons, may result in disciplinary action including suspension or possible expulsion (School Board Policy).

8.20 - Damage to Property/Vandalism Payment and compensation for damage to school property or to the property of school personnel, attributed to the actions of a district student, shall be made by the student within a reasonable period after demand by a school official. Arrangements for deferred payments may be granted by the Superintendent or her/his designee. Further, the parents/guardians of the student may be held responsible under the terms of the Parental Responsibility Law of the State of Illinois.

8.30 - Right to a High-Quality Education All students have a right to a free and appropriate education. As such, school disciplinary measures should not be used to exclude students from school or otherwise deprive them of such an education, unless it is necessary to preserve the safety of students and staff.

8.40 - Expectations for Participating in School Community a.​ General Principles Students are expected to be accountable for their own behavior during school hours, on their way to and from school at school-sponsored activities, at the bus stops, and on the school bus. In order to help students make appropriate behavioral decisions and to develop personal responsibility and self-discipline, we have developed a set of learner qualities. By demonstrating these behaviors, students are preparing for a successful future throughout their schooling and beyond.

The goal of student discipline is to teach students to behave in ways that contribute to academic achievement and school success, and to support a school environment where students and staff are responsible and respectful. Successful school discipline is guided by the following principles:

​

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●​ School safety and academic success are formed and strengthened when all school staff and personnel build positive relationships with students and are actively engaged in their lives and learning. ●​ Clear communication of expectations combined with intentional focus on the development of social emotional learning in grades PK-8 is essential to the learning environment. ●​ Effective and engaging instruction and classroom management are the foundation of effective discipline. ●​ School staff should promote high standards of behavior by teaching, modeling, and monitoring positive behavior, and fairly and consistently providing guidance and redirection for misbehavior. ●​ School discipline that is paired with meaningful instruction and guidance offers students an opportunity to learn from their mistakes and contribute to the school community and is more likely to result in re-engaging the student in learning. ●​ School discipline is best accomplished by preventing misbehavior before it occurs and using effective interventions after it occurs. ●​ Effective school discipline maximizes the amount of time students spend learning and minimizes the amount of time students are removed from their classrooms due to misbehavior. b.​ When and Where Conduct Rules Apply A student is subject to disciplinary action for engaging in prohibited student conduct, as described in the section with that name below, whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities, including, but not limited to: ●​ On, or within sight of, school grounds before, during, or after school hours or at any time; ●​ Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school; ●​ Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event; ●​ During periods of remote learning ●​ If the conduct interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the school environment, school operations, or an educational function, including, but not limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: (a) be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a staff member; or (b) endanger the health or safety of students, staff, or school property c.​ Student Conduct As students are gaining social-emotional skills and learning the norms of the school system, from time to time they may have moments in which they do not fully meet the expectations of the school. Typically these discipline situations represent minor deviations from the norms, which require redirection and re-teaching of skills and are managed within the classroom environment.

However, occasionally the student’s behavior or actions fall into the category of major discipline situations and will require the involvement of school administration in order to determine the appropriate response that will help the student to address behaviors, strengthen social emotional skills, repair the harm, and restore relationships within the school community.

Major discipline situations include, but are not limited to: •​ Aggressive Behavior ○​ Verbal Aggression ○​ Fighting ○​ Physical Aggression ○​ Intimidation •​ Gang-related Behavior •​ Bullying •​ Frequent, Patterned Defiance and/or Disruption •​ Theft or Damage to Property •​ Possession, Use, Distribution, or Sale of Prohibited Substances, Items or Weapons ○​ Substances and Paraphernalia ■​ Alcohol ■​ Drugs (including but not limited to marijuana, hashish, and medical cannabis unless the student is authorized to be administered a medical cannabis infused product under Ashley’s Law) ​

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•​ •​ •​

■​ Inhalants ■​ Tobacco, nicotine and related products, including electronic cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, vape pens or other vaping related products ■​ Look-alike or counterfeit drugs ○​ Items, including but not limited to: ■​ Electronic Devices ■​ Unmanned Aircraft System or Drone ○​ Weapons Sexual Activity and Harassment Teen Dating Violence Threats and Threatening Behavior

d.​ Student Dress Code It is important to the general school environment that students dress appropriately for school. A student’s appearance, including dress and hygiene, must not disrupt the educational process or compromise standards of health and safety. The District does not prohibit hairstyles or hair textures historically associated with race, ethnicity, hair texture, or any other protected classes under Board policy 7:10, Equal Educational Opportunities, including, but not limited to, protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists. The school will not prohibit students from wearing or accessorizing the student's graduation attire with items associated with the student's cultural, ethnic, or religious identity or any other protected characteristic or category identified in the Illinois Human Rights Act. Students who disrupt the educational process or compromise standards of health and safety must modify their appearance.

Accordingly, we ask all of our students and their parents to endorse and follow our Dress Code.

Clothing ●​ Any clothing that is determined by the principal to be disruptive to the educational environment because of extremes in style, fit, or transparency may not be worn. ●​ Clothing and accessories such as backpacks, patches, jewelry, and notebooks must not display (1) racial or ethnic slurs/symbols, (2) gang affiliations, (3) vulgar, subversive, or sexually suggestive language or images; nor, should they promote products which students may not legally buy; such as alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. ●​ The following decorations and/or designs (including tattoos, and/or brands either temporarily or permanently imprinted upon or attached to the body or clothing) are prohibited: −​ Symbols, mottos, words or acronyms that convey crude, vulgar, profane, violent, death-oriented, gang-related, sexually explicit, or sexually suggestive messages. −​ Symbols, mottos, words or acronyms advertising tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia. −​ Symbols, mottos, words or acronyms identifying a student as a member of a secret or overtly antisocial group or gang or that identifies a student as a member of an organization that professes violence or hatred toward one’s fellow man. This includes “gang-like” attire. ●​ Clothing with messages or symbols that are vulgar, include inappropriate language, sexual action or innuendo, racism, or satanic reference. ●​ Clothing or items that are considered to be gang identifiers by our school and community.

Any attire, item, insignia, or symbol which the administration has reasonable cause to believe is a gang identifier or gang look alike.

Accessories and Outerwear ●​ School bags and backpacks should remain in designated areas of the classroom. ●​ Shoes/sandals must be worn at all times. Shoes with built in wheels are not allowed.

Cleats are not permitted to be worn during the school day. ●​ Students who wear winter hats, head coverings, jackets, coats and gloves on their way to school are expected to put these items away while in the classroom/building. ●​ Students must store outerwear (coats, hats, gloves, scarves, sunglasses and bandanas, etc.) in the designated area of the classroom upon arrival at school. Outerwear will not be permitted in classrooms, libraries, corridors or other areas of the school buildings after ​

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arrival unless authorized by the school’s administration..

Religious Purposes When a religious belief or health need of a student conflicts with the school dress code, reasonable accommodation shall be provided. Any student and/or parent/guardian desiring accommodation shall notify the school Principal in writing of the requested accommodation and the factual basis for the request. Approved coverings worn as part of a student’s religious practices or beliefs shall not be prohibited under this policy. e.​ Academic Honesty and Integrity Students are expected to hold the highest levels of integrity when completing academic work. f.​ Hallway and Passing Period Guidelines Student conduct and courtesy are extremely important during these busy periods to ensure building order and everyone’s safety. Students are expected to move through the halls and stairways in an orderly fashion, staying to the right at all times. During class periods, students need a signed pass from a teacher to be in the hallways. Expectations for hallways and passing times are made clear at the beginning of the year and reviewed periodically. g.​ Cafeteria Guidelines In order to make the lunchroom environment pleasant and orderly, students will be expected to: ●​ Stay in seat, raise hand and supervisor/patrol will assist the child. ●​ Use inside voice and only talk to others at the table. ●​ Eat their own food, no sharing allowed. ●​ Dispose of all garbage and clean-up after themselves ●​ Keep hands and feet to self. ●​ Listen and follow the directions and requests of cafeteria supervisors at all times.

Students cannot: ●​ Bring glass containers to school. ●​ Order food to be delivered at breakfast or lunch.

We also ask that students’ lunch boxes and sack lunches have their name and homeroom number printed on the outside. h.​ Field Trips (Behavior) Field trips are an important part of our educational program. Students must abide by all school policies during transportation and during field-trip activities, and shall treat all field trip locations as though they are school grounds. Failure to abide by school rules and/or location rules during a field trip may subject the student to discipline. All students who wish to attend a field trip must receive written permission from a parent or guardian with authority to give permission. Students may be prohibited from attending field trips for any of the following reasons: ●​ Failure to receive appropriate permission from parent/guardian or teacher ●​ Safety concerns ●​ Other reasons as determined by the school.

Cross-References: Policy 6:240, Field Trips i.​ Bus Guidelines Bus transportation is a privilege provided by the Board of Education as directed by Illinois school code. In order to operate a safe and orderly bus program, we need the student's’ full cooperation.

Bus drivers have only one major responsibility - to safely transport their riders to and from school.

Students who ride our buses are held responsible for the exercise of good judgment and behavior.

The driver is in full charge of the students and bus. The students are expected to interact with the bus driver as they would with a teacher. Students will obey the driver promptly and without complaint. The opportunity to ride the bus is conditioned on good behavior and observance of safety rules and regulations. Safety demands complete observance of the rules and regulations. Safety ​

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demands cooperation. Riding the bus is a privilege, not a right, and it is conditioned on appropriate behavior and observance of the bus rules.

All children are expected to follow these guidelines when riding a school bus: 1.​ Friends may not be invited to ride the bus. (This is an insurance requirement.)

2.​ Form a single line in the gym before boarding the bus.

3.​ Board the bus in an orderly manner and sit down as soon as you reach your seat.

4.​ Be very careful when getting off the bus. Where it is necessary to cross the street, wait for the driver to signal and then cross in front of the bus. Never cross the road behind the bus.

5.​ Report any bus vandalism to the driver.

6.​ Any child who damages a bus will be held responsible.

7.​ Remain seated while the bus is moving.

8.​ Open windows only to the mark indicated.

9.​ Keep all parts of your body inside the bus.

10.​ Keep the aisles clear.

11.​ Behave on the bus as you would in the classroom.

12.​ Playing or fighting on the bus is unsafe and will distract the driver, and is not allowed.

13.​ Do not talk to the driver while the bus is moving.

14.​ Do not consume food or beverages on the bus.

Consequences of Misbehavior on the Bus Students who do not follow good habits or safety and courtesy as outlined in the Bus Guidelines will jeopardize their right to ride the school bus. Bus drivers have been instructed to report any behavior that does not conform to the expectations outlined in these guidelines. When a student is reported to the bus supervisors for misbehavior on the bus, parents will be notified. If the misbehavior continues, further consequences may follow which could include the loss of bus privileges.

Students may be held financially accountable for any damages they cause to a bus.

Activity Buses Activity buses may be provided for students who participate in programs that are held outside of regular school hours. Expectations for student behavior on the activity bus will remain the same as those stated for regular bus transportation. If these regulations are not followed, parents will be notified that the student’s behavior must immediately improve. If this does not occur, the student may lose bus riding privileges for the remainder of the program. Students may continue to attend the activity, but parents will need to provide transportation. j.​ Recess and Playground Expectations Parents/guardians, please remember that during the winter months, students go outside as long as the weather permits (+10°F windchill). When snow covers the playground, students who are not wearing mittens, boots, and snow pants will be restricted to the blacktop area only.

Students must follow the following expectations: ●​ Students will play safely on each piece of equipment; ●​ Students will show respect for others by following directions given by any supervisor; ●​ Students will not engage in fighting, swearing, bullying, rough play, or property abuse; ●​ Students will play only on playground areas; ●​ Students will stay within vision of supervisor; ●​ Bicycles and bicycles racks are off limits during school/recess time; ●​ Students will avoid playing in mud and water; ●​ Students will not play with unsafe and dangerous objects including but not limited to rocks, sticks, etc. at school; ●​ Students will show pride in the school by keeping the building and grounds free of litter; ●​ Students will settle differences peacefully. If conflict persists, students will seek help from the supervisor on duty; ●​ Students will remain on the playground unless they get injured. They must notify a supervisor for permission to go to the Health Office; ●​ Students will take turns on equipment; ●​ Students will go down slides one at a time, feet first; ​

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●​ When the bell rings students should promptly line-up to enter the building. k.​ Chromebook, Information Technology and Device Norms The following Chromebook norms have been developed to support engaging and authentic learning opportunities and responsible digital citizenship. Consequences for Chromebook/Internet misuse will be determined by building administration: ●​ Care and Handling ○​ Keep chromebook free of markings and stickers ○​ Avoid bringing chromebooks into bathrooms and cafeteria ●​ Accountability ○​ Keep your password secure and to yourself ●​ Using the Chromebooks ○​ Chromebooks should be used in accordance to the District 21 Acceptable Usage Policy School District 21 Chromebook/Technology and Internet Use Information can be found in Section 4.20 Technology & Internet Use and Section 9.10 Internet Acceptable Use of this handbook. l.​ Student Use of Electronic Devices/Cell Phones Students are prohibited from using a cellular telephone or other personal mobile electronic device in any manner that disrupts the educational environment or violates the rights of others, including using the device to take photographs, cheat, signal others, or otherwise violate student conduct rules.

Unless otherwise banned under this policy or by the school principal, all personal electronic devices must be kept off and out of sight during the regular school day unless: 1.​ the supervising teacher grants permission; 2.​ use of the device is provided in a student’s IEP; or 3.​ it is needed in an emergency that threatens the safety of students, staff, or other individuals. m.​ Taking and Sharing Images Throughout the school year, students are supported in making thoughtful decisions about the content they create and share, regardless of the medium. Digital citizenship is an important component of this decision-making process. Students are expected to be accountable for their own behavior, and to respect the decisions of those with whom they interact. More specifically, students should carefully consider what they take, share, and post online.

Sexting, which, for purposes of this procedure, is the act of creating, sending, sharing, viewing, receiving, or possessing sexually explicit messages, images, or videos electronically, regardless of whether they are authentic or computer-generated, through the use of a computer, electronic communication device, or cellular phone. Sexting also includes creating, sending, sharing, viewing, receiving, or possessing indecent visual depictions, non-consensual dissemination of private sexual images, and non-consensual dissemination of sexually explicit digitized depictions, as defined in State law. n.​ Bicycles, Skateboards and Other Similar Equipment Riders must dismount at school corners and walk their bikes on school property. All bicycles must be locked onto the bike racks in front of the building. Bicycle riders must obey highway safety rules and anyone who does not will lose the privilege of riding to school.

Students may ride skateboards, scooters, rollerblades or skates to school, but must carry them once they are on school property. Skateboards, scooters, rollerblades or skates are not allowed to be used on school property as per the School Board Policy.

We strongly recommend that all children wear helmets and other appropriate protective gear to ensure their safety. o.​ Money and Valuables Students are advised not to bring valuable items such as jewelry, all electronic games and devices, or large amounts of cash to school. The school cannot be responsible for loss or theft of these valuables. ​

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p.​ Bullying Bullying, intimidation, and harassment diminish a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate. Preventing students from engaging in these disruptive behaviors and providing all students equal access to a safe, non-hostile learning environment are important district and school goals.

The District follows the definition of bullying from the National Center Against Bullying which says: bullying is ongoing and deliberate misuse of power in relationships through repeated verbal, physical, and/or social behavior that targets intentional physical, social and/or psychological harm.

The District is dedicated to preventing students from engaging in these disruptive behaviors and to providing all students equal access to a safe, non-hostile learning environment.

Bullying includes cyber-bullying and means any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or electronically, directed toward a student or students that has or can be predicted to have the effect of one or more of the following: 1.​ Placing the student or students in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s or students’ person or property; 2.​ Causing a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s or students’ physical or mental health; 3.​ Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ academic performance; or 4.​ Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

Cyberbullying means bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, including without limitation any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic system, photo-electronic system, or photo-optical system, including without limitation electronic mail, Internet communications, instant messages, or facsimile communications. Cyberbullying includes: (1) the creation of a webpage or weblog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person or the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages if the creation or impersonation creates any of the effects enumerated in the definition of bullying; (2) the distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons if the distribution or posting creates any of the effects enumerated in the definition of bullying; and (3) the posting or distribution of an unauthorized digital replica by electronic means if the posting or distribution creates any of the effects enumerated in the definition of bullying.

Bullying may take various forms, including without limitation one or more of the following: harassment, threats, intimidation, stalking, physical violence, sexual harassment, sexual violence, posting or distributing sexually explicit images, theft, public humiliation, destruction of property, or retaliation for asserting or alleging an act of bullying. This list is meant to be illustrative and non-exhaustive.

Bullying, intimidation, or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, military status, unfavorable discharge from military service, sex, sexual orientation, gender orientation, gender-related identity or expression, ancestry, age, religion, physical or mental disability, physical appearance, socioeconomic status, academic status, order of protection status, homelessness, actual or marital status, parenting status, pregnancy, parenting status, association with a person or group with one or more of the aforementioned actual or perceived characteristics, or any other distinguishing characteristic is prohibited in each of the following situations: 1.​ During any school-sponsored education program or activity.

2.​ While in school, on school property, on school buses or other school vehicles, at designated school bus stops waiting for the school bus, or at school-sponsored or school-sanctioned events or activities.

3.​ Through the transmission of information from a school computer, a school computer network, or other similar electronic school equipment.

4.​ Through the transmission of information from a computer that is accessed at a nonschool-related location, activity, function, or program or from the use of technology ​

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or an electronic device that is not owned, leased, or used by the school district or school if the bullying causes a substantial disruption to the educational process or orderly operation of a school.

Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, direct behaviors (e.g., harassment, teasing, taunting, intimidating, threatening, name-calling, ridiculing, belittling, extorting, hitting, stalking, public humiliation, destruction of property, physical attacks and/or violence) and indirect behaviors (e.g., spreading rumors, causing social or psychological isolation). Allegations of bullying will be investigated and addressed by school administrators or designee using procedures including, but not limited to, contacting parents, restorative circles and conferences, loss of privileges, change of lunch/bus seat or schedule, community service, restitution for damages, in school and out of school suspension, police contact.

A student who is being bullied is encouraged to immediately report it orally or in writing to the Nondiscrimination Coordinator, Title IX Coordinator, Building Principal, Assistant Building Principal, Dean of Students, a Complaint Manager, or any employee with whom the student is comfortable speaking. A parent or guardian is also encouraged to report concerns of bullying to district staff on her/his child’s behalf. Furthermore, anyone who has information about actual or threatened bullying is encouraged to report it to the District Complaint Manager or any staff member. All staff members are obligated to forward reports of bullying to their immediate administrators and/or the District Complaint Manager. School District 21 will not punish anyone because he or she made a complaint or report, supplied information, or otherwise participated in an investigation or proceeding, provided the individual did not make a knowingly false accusation or provide knowingly false information.

Title IX Coordinator: Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress Name 959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address beatrice.childress@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2743 Telephone Nondiscrimination Coordinators: Lewis Roberts Name

Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress Name

959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address lewis.roberts@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2724 Telephone

959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address beatrice.childress@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2743 Telephone

Complaint Managers: Lewis Roberts Name 959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address lewis.roberts@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2724 Telephone

Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress Name 959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address beatrice.childress@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2743 Telephone ​

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A reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of bullying is prohibited. A student’s act of reprisal or retaliation will be treated as bullying for purposes of determining any consequences or other appropriate remedial actions.

A student will not be punished for reporting bullying or supplying information, even if the school’s investigation concludes that no bullying occurred. However, knowingly making a false accusation or providing knowingly false information will be treated as bullying for purposes of determining any consequences or other appropriate remedial actions.

Consistent with federal and State laws and rules governing student privacy rights, the school shall make diligent efforts to notify a parent or guardian within 24-hours after the school’s administration is made aware of a student’s involvement in an alleged bullying incident. The term “bullying incident” includes individual instances of bullying, as well as all threats, suggestions, or instances of self-harm determined to be a result of bullying. Notification to a parent or guardian shall include, as appropriate, the availability of social work services, counseling, school psychological services, other interventions, and restorative measures.

Cross-Reference: Policy 7:20, Harassment of Students Prohibited Policy 7:180, Prevention of and Response to Bullying, Intimidation and Harassment Policy 7:190, Student Behavior Policy 2:260, Uniform Grievance Procedure q.​ Discrimination and Harassment on the Basis of Race, Color, and National Origin Prohibited Discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, or national origin negatively affects a student’s ability to learn and an employee’s ability to work. Providing an educational and workplace environment free from such discrimination and harassment is an important District and School goal.

The District and School do not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, or national origin in any of its education programs or activities and comply with federal and State non-discrimination laws.

Examples of Prohibited Conduct Examples of conduct that may constitute discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin include: disciplining students more harshly and frequently because of their race, color, or national origin; denying students access to high-rigor academic courses, extracurricular activities, or other educational opportunities based on their race, color, or national origin; denying language services or other educational opportunities to English learners; and assigning students special education services based on a student's race, color, or national origin.

Harassment is a form of prohibited discrimination. Examples of conduct that may constitute harassment on the basis of race, color, or national origin include: the use of racial, ethnic or ancestral slurs or stereotypes; taunts; name-calling; offensive or derogatory remarks about a person's actual or perceived race, color, or national origin; the display of racially-offensive symbols; racially-motivated physical threats and attacks; or other hateful conduct.

Making a Report or Complaint; Investigation Process Individuals are encouraged to promptly report claims or incidents of discrimination or harassment based on race, color, or national origin to the Nondiscrimination Coordinator, Title IX Coordinator, Building Principal, Assistant Building Principal, Dean of Students, a Complaint Manager, or any employee with whom the student is comfortable speaking. Reports will be processed under the District’s Uniform Grievance Procedure.

Title IX Coordinator: Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress Name 959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address ​

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beatrice.childress@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2743 Telephone Nondiscrimination Coordinators: Lewis Roberts Name

Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress Name

959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address lewis.roberts@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2724 Telephone

959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address beatrice.childress@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2743 Telephone

Complaint Managers: Lewis Roberts Name 959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address lewis.roberts@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2724 Telephone

Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress Name 959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address beatrice.childress@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2743 Telephone

All complaints will be investigated by the District in accordance with state and federal law and corresponding District policies.

Federal and State Agencies If the District fails to take necessary corrective action to stop harassment based on race, color, or national origin, further relief may be available through the Illinois Dept. of Human Rights (IDHR) or the U.S. Dept. of Education's Office for Civil Rights. To contact IDHR, go to: https://dhr.illinois.gov/about-us/contact-idhr.html or call (312) 814-6200 (Chicago) or (217) 785-5100 (Springfield).

Prevention and Response Program The District maintains a prevention and response program to respond to complaints of discrimination based on race, color, and national origin, including harassment, and retaliation. The program includes procedures for responding to complaints which: 1.​ Reduce or remove, to the extent practicable, barriers to reporting discrimination, harassment, and retaliation; 2.​ Permit any person who reports or is the victim of an incident of alleged discrimination, harassment, or retaliation to be accompanied when making a report by a support individual of the person's choice who complies with the District's policies and rules; 3.​ Permit anonymous reporting, except that an anonymous report may not be the sole basis of any disciplinary action; 4.​ Offer remedial interventions or take such disciplinary action as may be appropriate on a case-by-case basis; 5.​ Offer, but do not require or unduly influence, a person who reports or is the victim of an incident of harassment or retaliation the option to resolve allegations directly with the accused; and 6.​ Protects a person who reports or is the victim of an incident of harassment or retaliation from suffering adverse consequences as a result of a report of, investigation of, or a response to the incident. ​

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Enforcement Any District employee who is determined, after an investigation, to have engaged in conduct prohibited by this policy will be subject to remedial action and/or disciplinary action, up to and including discharge.

Any District student who is determined, after an investigation, to have engaged in conduct prohibited by this policy will be subject to remedial action and/or disciplinary action, including but not limited to, suspension and expulsion, consistent with the student discipline information in this handbook.

Any third party who is determined, after an investigation, to have engaged in conduct prohibited by this policy will be addressed in accordance with the authority of the Board in the context of the relationship of the third party to the District, e.g., vendor, parent, invitee, etc. Any person making a knowingly false accusation regarding prohibited conduct will likewise be subject to remedial and/or disciplinary action.

Retaliation Prohibited Retaliation against any person for bringing complaints, participating in the complaint process, or otherwise providing information about discrimination or harassment based on race, color, or national origin is prohibited.

Individuals should report allegations of retaliation to the Building Principal, an administrator, the Nondiscrimination Coordinator, and/or a Complaint Manager.

Cross-Reference: Policy 2:270, Discrimination and Harassment on the Basis of Race, Color, and National Origin Prohibited r.​ Gangs and Gang Activities The Board of Education has determined that the presence of gangs and gang activities can cause a substantial disruption of, or material interference with, school and school activities. A “gang” is defined in this policy as any group of two or more persons whose purpose includes the commission of illegal acts. By this policy, the Board of Education acts to prohibit existence of gangs and gang activities as follows: No student on or about school property or at any school activity shall: ●​ Wear, possess, use, distribute, display or sell any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign or other things, which are evidence of membership or affiliation in any gang; ●​ Commit any act or omission, or use any speech, either verbal or nonverbal (gestures, handshakes, etc.) showing membership or affiliation in a gang; or ●​ Use any speech or commit any act or omission to further the interests of any gang or gang activity, including, but not limited to: −​ soliciting others for membership in any gangs; −​ requesting any person to pay protection or otherwise intimidating or threatening any person; −​ committing any other illegal act or other violation of school district policies; −​ inciting other students to act with physical violence upon any other person. s.​ Inappropriate Material/Possession Problems arise when children bring articles to school that are dangerous or interfere with the school environment. Please help your child understand that items such as guns, toy guns, explosives, caps, bean shooters, knives, matches, league-type baseballs, must not be brought to school. If they are brought to school, they will be confiscated and students will be subject to disciplinary consequences. t.​ Smoking, Alcohol Use, Drug Use Possession, use, sale, or purchase of tobacco or nicotine products, including without limitation, electronic cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, vape pens or other vaping related products, on district property is prohibited. Additionally, the Board of Education policy prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of drugs and alcohol on the property of the district or ​

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as part of any of its activities (including but not limited to marijuana, hashish, and medical cannabis unless the student is authorized to be administered a medical cannabis infused product under Ashley’s Law). For the purposes of the policy, drugs are defined as any drug, which is not legally obtainable and/or any drug which is legally obtainable, such as a prescription drug, but which is not legally obtained, is not being used for prescription purposes, and/or is intentionally not being taken according to prescribed dosages. u.​ Threats The school administration is authorized to discipline students for gross disobedience or misconduct, including but not limited to: 1.​ Engaging in hazing or any kind of aggressive behavior that does physical or psychological harm to another or any urging of other students to engage in such conduct. Prohibited conduct includes any use of violence, force, noise, coercion, threats, intimidation, fear, harassment, bullying, hazing, or other comparable conduct.

2.​ Engaging in any activity, on or off campus, that interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the school environment, school operations, or an educational function, including but not limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: (a) be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a student or staff member; or (b) endanger the health or safety of students, staff, or school property.

Threats, threatening language or posturing, no matter how seemingly innocent, will be taken very seriously by all school staff members. Therefore, all students should avoid such behaviors.

Students are encouraged to report any threats, or perceived threats, to their teachers and/or school officials immediately. All threats will be thoroughly investigated. Students who use threatening language of any kind will be dealt with in a serious manner. Consequences may include out-of-school suspensions and/or counseling session.

8.50 - Sex Discrimination and Sexual Harassment/Intimidation and Title IX Non-Discrimination Sexual harassment as defined in Title IX (Title IX Sexual Harassment) is prohibited. Any person, including a District employee or agent, or student, engages in Title IX Sexual Harassment when that person engages in conduct on the basis of an individual’s sex that satisfies one or more of the following: 1.​ A District employee conditions the provision of an aid, benefit, or service on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct; or 2.​ Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the District’s educational program or activity; or 3.​ Sexual assault as defined in or stalking as defined in District policy and federal law.

Examples of sexual harassment include, but are not limited to, touching, rape, sexual battery, sexual abuse, sexual coercion, crude jokes or pictures, discussions of sexual experiences, teasing related to sexual characteristics, and spreading rumors related to a person’s alleged sexual activities.

District 21 does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and its regulations, including in employment.

Inquiries about Title IX may be referred to the District’s Title IX Coordinator, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (https://ocrcas.ed.gov/contact-ocr), or both. District 21’s Title IX Coordinator is identified in Board Policy 2:265 (https://boardpolicyonline.com/?b=wheeling_21) District 21’s Title IX nondiscrimination policy and grievance procedures can be located at https://boardpolicyonline.com/?b=wheeling_21, Policy 2:265.

To report information about conduct that may constitute sexual harassment, sex discrimination or make a complaint of sex discrimination under Title IX, please contact the Title IX Coordinator or any employee with whom the student is comfortable speaking.

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Title IX Coordinator: Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress Name 959 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090 Address beatrice.childress@ccsd21.org Email 847-520-2743 Telephone All complaints will be investigated by the District in accordance with state and federal law and corresponding District policies.

Cross-Reference: Policy 7:10, Equal Educational Opportunities Policy 7:20, Harassment of Students Prohibited Policy 7:180, Prevention of and Response to Bullying, Intimidation and Harassment Policy 7:190, Student Behavior Policy 2:260, Uniform Grievance Procedure Policy 2:265, Title IX Grievance Procedure 8.60 - Responses to Discipline Situations a.​ Responses to Major Discipline Situations Responses to major discipline situations will include a teaching/intervention component, as well as the potential for additional consequences as warranted by the specific case. Responses to discipline issues will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Discipline will not follow a prescribed discipline sequence. These consequences may include but are not limited to the following discipline measures: •​ Notifying parent(s)/guardian(s) •​ Disciplinary conference.

•​ Withholding of privileges.

•​ Temporary removal from the classroom.

•​ Return of property or restitution for lost, stolen, or damaged property.

•​ In-school suspension.

•​ Before or after-school study provided the student’s parent/guardian has been notified.

•​ Seizure of contraband; confiscation and temporary retention of personal property that was used to violate this policy or school disciplinary rules.

•​ Suspension of bus riding privileges, in accordance with Board policy 7:220, Bus Conduct.

•​ Out-of-school suspension from school and all school activities in accordance with Board policy 7:200 Suspension Procedures. A student who has been suspended may also be restricted from being on school grounds and at school activities.

•​ Expulsion from school and all school activities for a definite time period not to exceed 2 calendar years in accordance with Board policy 7:210, Expulsion Procedures. A student who has been expelled may also be restricted from being on school grounds and at school activities.

•​ Transfer to an alternative program if the student is expelled or otherwise qualifies for the transfer under State law. The transfer shall be in the manner provided in Article 13A or 13B of the School Code.

•​ Notifying juvenile authorities or other law enforcement whenever the conduct involves criminal activity, including but not limited to, illegal drugs (controlled substances), “look-alikes,” alcohol, or weapons or in other circumstances as authorized by the reciprocal reporting agreement between the District and local law enforcement agencies.

Prior to an out-of-school suspension or expulsion, interventions and alternatives to suspension and expulsion will be analyzed as far as their appropriateness to the given circumstances considering the factors listed below.

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Corporal punishment is prohibited in all circumstances. Corporal punishment is defined as a discipline method in which a person deliberately inflicts pain upon a student in response to the student's unacceptable behavior or inappropriate language, with an aim or set an example for others. It includes slapping, paddling, or prolonged maintenance of students in physically painful positions, or intentional infliction of bodily harm. Corporal punishment does not include reasonable force as permitted by State law. b.​ Detention Procedures On occasion, students may be asked to eat lunch in the office or stay after school for disciplinary reasons and complete a restorative reflection process. Parents will be notified whenever a staff member works with a student in this manner. c.​ Relevant Factors in Making Discipline Decisions When determining appropriate responses students’ misbehavior, administrators and staff must consider the following factors: 1.​ Age, health, and disability or special education status of the student 2.​ Appropriateness of student’s academic placement 3.​ Student’s prior conduct and record of behavior 4.​ Student’s disposition throughout the resolution process 5.​ Student’s willingness to repair the harm 6.​ Seriousness of the offense and the degree of harm caused 7.​ Impact of the incident on the overall school community d.​ Disciplinary Sanctions Legal Authority The Board of Education may directly or through its designees suspend or expel any student for conduct occurring at school, on school property, on a school bus, using school technologies, at a school-supervised or school-related activity, or for conduct that significantly disrupts learning at school for the following: 1.​ Gross disobedience or misconduct 2.​ Violation of any published regulation for student conduct approved by the Board of Education 3.​ Conduct which is disobedient and/or which substantially disrupts, impedes, or interferes with the operation of any public school or the operation of any public school bus 4.​ Conduct which endangers the safety of others (or which substantially impinges upon or invades the rights of others) For students with an identified or suspected disability, the Board of Education and its designees will institute practices to determine if the behavior, conduct or infraction in question is related to the student’s disability or suspected disability when considering and defining appropriate disciplinary actions. If the parent/guardian of a student with an identified or suspected disability disagrees with any decision regarding disciplinary action, they have the right to request an expedited due process hearing. Additional information can be found in the section titled “Discipline of Students with Disabilities” of the Illinois State Board of Education’s Notice of Procedural Safeguards for Parents/Guardians of Students with Disabilities (Form 34-57J), which can be accessed at http://www.isbe.net/spec-ed/pdfs/nc_proc_sfgrds_34-57j.pdf or by contacting the Deputy Superintendent at 847-537-8270.

In-School Suspension The Superintendent or designee is authorized to maintain an in-school suspension program. The program shall include, at a minimum, each of the following: 1.​ Before assigning a student to in-school suspension, the charges will be explained and the student will be given an opportunity to respond to the charges.

2.​ Students are supervised by licensed school personnel.

3.​ Students are given the opportunity to complete classroom work during the in-school suspension for equivalent academic credit.

School Bus Suspension The Superintendent, or any designee as permitted in the School Code, is authorized to suspend a student from riding the school bus for up to 10 consecutive school days for engaging in gross disobedience or misconduct, including but not limited to, the following: ​

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1.​ Prohibited student conduct as defined in School Board policy, 7:190, Student Behavior.

2.​ Willful injury or threat of injury to a bus driver or to another rider.

3.​ Willful and/or repeated defacement of the bus.

4.​ Repeated use of profanity.

5.​ Repeated willful disobedience of a directive from a bus driver or other supervisor.

6.​ Such other behavior as the Superintendent or designee deems to threaten the safe operation of the bus and/or its occupants.

If a student is suspended from riding the bus for gross disobedience or misconduct on a bus, the School Board may suspend the student from riding the school bus for a period in excess of 10 days for safety reasons. The District’s regular suspension procedures shall be used to suspend a student’s privilege to ride a school bus.

A student suspended from riding the bus who does not have alternate transportation to school shall have the opportunity to complete or make up work for equivalent academic credit. It shall be the responsibility of the student’s parent or guardian to notify the school that the student does not have alternate transportation.

Out-of-School Suspension The Superintendent or designee shall implement suspension procedures that provide, at a minimum, for each of the following: 1.​ A conference during which the charges will be explained and the student will be given an opportunity to respond to the charges before they may be suspended.

2.​ A pre-suspension conference is not required, and the student can be immediately suspended, when the student’s presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disruption to the educational process. In such cases, the notice and conference shall follow as soon as practicable.

3.​ An attempted phone call to the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s).

4.​ A written notice of the suspension to the parent(s)/guardian(s) and the student, which shall: a.​ Provide notice to the parent(s)/guardian(s) of their child’s right to a review of the suspension; b.​ Include information about an opportunity to make up work missed during the suspension for equivalent academic credit; c.​ Detail the specific act of gross disobedience or misconduct resulting in the decision to suspend; d.​ Provide rationale or an explanation of how the chosen number of suspension days will address the threat or disruption posed by the student or their act of gross disobedience or misconduct; and e.​ Depending upon the length of the out-of-school suspension, include the following applicable information: i.​ For a suspension of 3 school days or less, an explanation that the student’s continuing presence in school would either pose: •​ A threat to school safety, or •​ A disruption to other students’ learning opportunities. ii. ​ For a suspension of 4 or more school days, an explanation: •​ •​ •​

That other appropriate and available behavioral and disciplinary interventions have been exhausted, As to whether school officials attempted other interventions or determined that no other interventions were available for the student, and That the student’s continuing presence in school would either: ◦​ Pose a threat to the safety of other students, staff, or members of the school community, or ◦​ Substantially disrupt, impede, or interfere with the operation of the school. ◦​ For a suspension of 5 or more school days, the information listed in section 4.e.ii., above, along with documentation by the Superintendent or designee determining what, if any, appropriate and available support ​

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services will be provided to the student during the length of their suspension.

5.​ A summary of the notice, including the reason for the suspension and the suspension length, must be given to the Board by the Superintendent or designee.

6.​ Upon request of the parent(s)/guardian(s), a review of the suspension shall be conducted by the Board or a hearing officer appointed by the Board. At the review, the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) may appear and discuss the suspension with the Board or its hearing officer and may be represented by counsel. Whenever there is evidence that mental illness may be the cause for the suspension, the Superintendent or designee shall invite a representative from the Department of Human Services to consult with the Board. After presentation of the evidence or receipt of the hearing officer’s report, the Board shall take such action as it finds appropriate. If the suspension is upheld, the Board’s written suspension decision shall specifically detail items (a) and (e) in number 4, above.

Informal Hearing Procedures Students will conference with the principal, or assistant principal before a decision to suspend. The hearing process may be postponed if a student's presence poses a danger to people or property or an ongoing threat of disruption to the education process.

The principal, or assistant principal must attempt to inform the student personally of the charge(s).

The student is given an explanation of the evidence. The principal, or assistant principal has authority to decide if the explanation will identify witnesses. The student is given a reasonable opportunity to state her/his position before a decision is made to suspend.

Administrator Decision of Facts After weighing the evidence, the principal, or assistant principal determines if the charge is supported by the evidence and if so, the appropriate disciplinary action that will be taken in accordance with district policies, guidelines, and professional judgment.

Notification of Suspension Administration will call all numbers provided by the parent, to notify the parent/ guardian/emergency person of the suspension. No student is to be sent home from school prior to the close of the school day before a parent/guardian/emergency person contact is made. It is the responsibility of the parent/ guardian to update the school with changes to her/his contact information, including telephone numbers and email addresses.

A Notice of Suspension is presented to the student and hand-delivered or mailed to the parent/guardian, which shall include: 1.​ The date and specific reasons for the suspension; 2.​ The appeal procedures; 3.​ The length of the suspension.

During a period of suspension a student may not participate in any school related activity and the student is not to be present on any school-owned property without prior authorization from the school principal.

Appeal Procedure/Hearings Parents/guardians have the right to appeal any out-of-school suspension.

Procedure to appeal of out-of-school suspensions: a.​ A parent/guardian of a student shall have the right to request a review of an out-of-school suspension. The appeal is made by contacting the principal, or assistant principal, who is responsible for having initiated the suspension to schedule an initial hearing. b.​ Appeal of bus suspensions of less than ten (10) days will be handled in the same fashion as out-of-school suspensions. Appeal of bus suspensions for more than ten (10) days will be conducted in the same fashion as an expulsion hearing. c.​ In the event that the initial hearing with the responsible principal, or assistant principal does not result in a resolution of the appeal, a hearing will be conducted with the school principal if that has not already been done. d.​ If the hearing with the school principal also does not result in a resolution, the parent/guardian may request in writing within 24 hours of that hearing with the principal, a ​

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new hearing before a Hearing Officer. Upon receipt of the properly executed form, School District 21 will schedule a hearing before the Hearing Officer, who will be appointed by the superintendent. e.​ During the appeal process of an out-of-school suspension the student may remain in school unless, in the opinion of the superintendent or designee, the safety of students and/or staff require otherwise. f.​ Failure to attend a hearing on an out-of-school suspension without good cause may result in a waiver of appeal and immediate commencement of suspension.

Student Expulsion Expulsion is the most severe disciplinary consequence a school system may impose. Expulsion can be considered when the student’s continuing presence in school would (1) pose a threat to the safety of other students, staff, or members of the school community, or (2) substantially disrupt, impede, or interfere with the operation of the school. When behavioral and disciplinary interventions have been exhausted or no other appropriate and available interventions exist for the student, the School Board may expel a student for a definite period of time not to exceed two calendar years. Before a student may be expelled, the student and their parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be provided a written request to appear at a hearing to determine whether the student shall be expelled. Upon expulsion, the District may refer the student to appropriate and available support services. e.​ Student Rights When determining a disciplinary decision for inappropriate behavior, the student has the right to: ●​ Know why they are being disciplined. It is the responsibility of the teacher or administrator to make this clear; ●​ Speak in their own defense.

If the disciplinary decision involves a suspension, the student and his/her parents/guardians have specific legal rights as outlined in Section II, under Suspension or Expulsion and detailed in the School Code, Chapter 122, Sec. 10-22.6.

Cross Reference: Policy: 7:190, Student Behavior 8.70 - Search and Seizure In order to maintain safety and security in the schools, school authorities are authorized to conduct reasonable searches of school property and equipment, as well as of students and their personal effects.

“School authorities” includes school liaison police officers.

School Property and Equipment as well as Personal Effects Left There by Students School authorities may inspect and search school property and equipment owned or controlled by the school (such as, lockers, desks, and parking lots), as well as personal effects left there by a student, without notice to or the consent of the student. Students have no reasonable expectation of privacy in these places or areas or in their personal effects left there.

The building principal may request the assistance of law enforcement officials to conduct inspections and searches of lockers, desks, parking lots, and other school property and equipment for illegal drugs, weapons, or other illegal or dangerous substances or materials, including searches conducted through the use of specially trained dogs.

Students Searches School authorities may search a student and/or the student’s personal effects in the student’s possession (such as, purses, wallets, knapsacks, book bags, lunch boxes, etc.) when there is a reasonable suspicion that the particular student has violated or is violating a federal or state law, School District 21 Board of Education policy, and/or school rules and policies. The search will be conducted in a manner that is reasonably related to its objective of the search and not excessively intrusive in light of the student’s age and sex, and the nature of the infraction.

School officials may require a student to cooperate in an investigation if there is specific information about activity on the student’s account on a social networking website that violates the school’s disciplinary rules or school district policy. In the course of the investigation, the student may be required to share the ​

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content that is reported in order for the school to make a factual determination. School officials may not request or require a student or their parent/guardian to provide a password or other related account information to gain access to the student’s account or profile on a social networking website.

Seizure of Property If a search produces evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the school or district’s policies or rules, evidence may be seized and impounded by school authorities, and disciplinary action may be taken. When appropriate, evidence may be transferred to law enforcement authorities.

Questioning of Students Suspected of Committing Criminal Activity Before a law enforcement officer, school resource officer, or other school security person detains and questions on school grounds a student under 18 years of age who is suspected of committing a criminal act, the building principal or designee will: (a) Notify or attempt to notify the student’s parent/guardian and document the time and manner in writing; (b) Make reasonable efforts to ensure the student’s parent/guardian is present during questioning or, if they are not present, ensure that a school employee (including, but not limited to, a social worker, psychologist, nurse, guidance counselor, or any other mental health professional) is present during the questioning; and (c) If practicable, make reasonable efforts to ensure that a law enforcement officer trained in promoting safe interactions and communications with youth is present during the questioning.

Cross-reference: Policy 7:140, Search and Seizure

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Chapter 9 9.10 - Internet Acceptable Use School District 21 is committed to preparing students to be successful leaders in a rapidly changing and technologically-oriented world. Technologies available to students range from computers to software to online services to other devices, such as cameras, as well as the Internet and World Wide Web. The Internet is a vast global network linking computer devices, services, and information around the world.

The Internet offers diverse and unique resources to School District 21 students that support their learning.

School District 21's goal in providing technological hardware, software, and the Internet is to promote sharing, innovation, and communication that enhances learning our curriculum. By being connected to the Internet, students have access to electronic mail and other Internet-based forms of communication, to information via the World Wide Web and Internet-connected applications; to various research sources and databases. School District 21 firmly believes that the valuable information and interaction available on the Internet will enable students to achieve the educational goals of the school district. The hardware and software resources provided to students, as well as the Internet and network, are of School District 21's curriculum and instruction model and are not a public form for general use.

With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the context of the school setting. Sites accessible via the Internet may contain material that is illegal, defamatory, obscene, inaccurate or controversial. School District 21 has taken precautions to restrict access to controversial materials through both administrative procedures and Internet filtering devices. However, on a global network, it is impossible to control all materials and an industrious user may discover controversial information. School District 21 firmly believes that the valuable information and interaction available on this worldwide network far outweighs the possibility that users may procure material that is not consistent with the educational goals of the district.

Internet users are responsible for their actions in accessing available resources. Since it is impracticable for the District to monitor the District’s computer network for improper or illegal activity at all times, students and their parents shall be solely responsible for any improper or illegal activity and/or transaction resulting from the student’s use of the District’s computer network. The District does not condone, authorize or approve of use of the District’s computer network for any activity which is not related to the school curriculum, delivery of services, or co-curricular activities sponsored by the District.

District 21 hardware and software technology and Internet access may be used to improve learning and teaching consistent with the educational mission of District 21. Students are only allowed access to information and data on the Internet which is consistent with the school's curriculum and educational mission. District 21 expects legal, ethical and safe use of the Internet.

All District 21 technology and services are subject to perusal for virus scanning and/or determination of inappropriate use.

All users of online services are expected to follow the policies and procedures set forth by the Board of Education and School District 21 administrators.

The purpose of providing hardware and software technology and online services in District 21 schools is to support research and curriculum in and among academic institutions by providing access to unique and diverse resources and the opportunity for collaborative work.

As a student, •​

I understand that the use of online services must be in support of education and research consistent with the purposes and educational objectives of School District 21. School District 21 technology and the Internet may be used for activities related to the school curriculum and co-curricular activities sponsored by the District and for research and work consistent with the District’s educational objectives. ​

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•​

I understand that School District 21 has the right to review, question, and/or remove any School District 21 work product that is placed onto websites representing School District 21 on the Internet as well as on District 21 networks. Examples of materials constituting District 21 work product include, but are not limited to: student classwork, Parent/Student Handbooks, school newspapers, and school yearbooks.

•​

I understand that confidential personal information about myself, my classmates, school staff members, and other people should not be shared on the Internet or loaded onto the network where unauthorized access to such information may be obtained.

•​

As a condition of being allowed access to the Internet and the District’s online services, including email and document creation, storing, and sharing solutions, using District computers or District means of access, I consent to monitoring and inspection by school administration and staff. This monitoring includes the use of District computers and all electronic mail communications made or attempted to be made or received by me and all materials accessed or downloaded by me.

•​

I shall not use electronic communications to create, communicate or repeat any message or information which is illegal, indecent, obscene, defamatory, likely to constitute harassment of any other individual, including students and staff members, likely to cause disruption in the schools, or is otherwise inconsistent with the District’s curriculum and educational mission.

•​

If I receive a threatening or unwelcome communication, I understand that I am obligated to bring it to the attention of a teacher, the principal, or another adult in the classroom or lab.

•​

I understand that I cannot send any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation. This includes, but is not limited to: copyright material, threatening or obscene material, unauthorized access to or unauthorized use of databases, or material protected by trade secret.

•​

I understand that I cannot use School District 21 technology or its network to advertise a specific product or to conduct political lobbying.

•​

Hate mail, harassment, discriminatory remarks, and other behaviors that violate my school’s rules are prohibited on School District 21 technology and its network.

•​

I will not use any School District 21 technology or its network to access or process inappropriate material or files that are dangerous to the integrity of hardware, software, the School District 21 network, or other users on the Internet.

•​

I will not use the network in ways that impact other users from doing their work on the network.

•​

I will not destroy, modify, or abuse hardware or software or use the network to infiltrate other computers in any malicious way.

•​

I will respect the privacy rights of others and shall not attempt to access any electronic mail communications that are not sent to them or intended to be received by them or to others’ electronic files. I will not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users, or misrepresent other users on the network.

•​

I understand that server and online accounts are to be used only by the authorized owner of the account and for the authorized purpose.

•​

I understand that the illegal installation of copyrighted software for use on district computers is prohibited and that software can only be loaded onto District 21 computers by authorized adults.

•​

I understand that the use of another organization's network or computing resources must comply with the rules appropriate for that network.

From time to time, School District 21 will make determinations on whether specific uses of technology, the network, and the Internet by students are consistent with the Acceptable Use Policy. ​

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School District 21 reserves the right to log the use of technology hardware and software, Internet use, and to monitor file server space utilization by users.

School District 21 reserves the right to remove a user account on the network to prevent further unauthorized activity.

Internet Safety Education Program In accordance with the Illinois Internet Safety Education Act (P.A. 95-0909), students will learn about the General Guidelines listed above in Section E as well as other Internet best practices on an annual basis through classroom instruction.

Confidential Security Code/Password Users may be given a confidential security code, a password. Users have full responsibility for the use of their network access. Account numbers or passwords should never be shared with anyone.

Consequences of Improper or Prohibited Use of District Computers or District Means of Access to the Internet An attempt to violate the provisions of this policy may result in revocation of the users Internet access privileges and/or network services regardless of the success or failure of the attempt. Improper or prohibited use of District computers or District Internet access will result in discipline up to and including expulsion. Criminal conduct may be referred to law enforcement authorities.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:235, Access to Electronic Networks Policy 7:190, Student Behavior ​ 9.20 - Access to Student Social Networking Passwords & Websites School officials may conduct an investigation or require a student to cooperate in an investigation if there is specific information about activity on the student’s account on a social networking website that violates a school disciplinary rule or policy. In the course of an investigation, the student may be required to share the content that is reported in order to allow school officials to make a factual determination.

Cross References: Policy 7:140, Search and Seizure

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Chapter 10 10.10 - Extracurricular Activities School offers a wide range of co-curricular activities throughout the year. Students are encouraged to take part in the many programs available to them. a.​ Athletics Intramurals may be held. The activities may include: soccer, basketball, etc. Notification of times and activities will be sent home during the year. b.​ Clubs and Special Activities Clubs and special activities are designed by teachers based upon student interests which may include the following; Student Council, Battle of the Books, Gardening Club, Makerspace, Chess Club, Running Club, Chorus, Lego Club and Spirit Club. c.​ Performing Music Students may join either of two instrumental music programs. Orchestra is open to students in grades 4 & 5 while band is open to those in 5th grade. Recruitment and enrollment take place in September. Individual and group lessons are also given at school by District 21 specialists.

Group rehearsals are held at the middle school once or twice a week before or after school.

Chorus is offered to 5th grade students, and may be offered to 4th graders if the schedule permits.

Cross-References: Policy 6:190, Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities Policy 7:240, Conduct Code for Participants in Extracurricular Activities 10.20 - Student Athlete Concussions and Head Injuries Student athletes participating in interscholastic sports/activities must comply at all times with CCSD21 procedures and the student code of conduct. Participation in athletic activities also requires compliance with the Illinois Youth Sports Concussion Safety Act, as well as all applicable protocols, policies, and bylaws of the Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA), before engaging in any athletic activity, including practices, games, and competitions.

Students and the parents/guardians of student athletes will receive information about concussions and must acknowledge receipt prior to participating in interscholastic athletics and athletic activities within CCSD21.

A student removed from practice, game, or competition due to a suspected concussion shall be allowed to return only after all statutory requirements are met, including, but not limited to, the School District’s return-to-play and return-to-learn protocols.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:305, Student Athlete Concussions and Head Injuries 10.30 - Eligibility Guidelines for Extracurricular Activities Students must be in attendance at school at least one-half day (11:30 A.M. – 3:30 P.M.) prior to an evening or after-school function in order to participate in it. Exceptions to this policy may only be made by the building administration. If a student leaves school early because of illness, that student should not expect to participate in any after school activity. Students who have been “in” or “out-of-school” suspended will not be eligible to participate in activities that school day.

While participation in co-curricular activities is encouraged, some students need to be encouraged to take care of their academic responsibilities first. When a student’s academic or behavioral performance is unsatisfactory for an extended period of time, they will be placed on the ineligibility list.

Cross-References: Policy 6:190, Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities

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Chapter 11 11.10 - Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) is the nation’s special education law.

IDEIA requires states and public schools to provide a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to all students in the least restrictive environment. IDEIA recognizes that, to the extent possible, children with disabilities are entitled to the same educational experience as their non-disabled peers and that the expenses associated with providing for the special needs of children with disabilities are a public responsibility.

The general goal is to allow children with disabilities to be educated with their peers in the general education classroom to the maximum extent appropriate. IDEIA recognizes that there is an array of placements that meet the general requirements of providing FAPE in the least restrictive environment, which may change from child to child, school to school, and district to district. In developing the Individualized Education Plan (IEP), parents/guardians and the local educational agency (LEA) are empowered to reach appropriate decisions about what constitutes the least restrictive environment for the individual child, including placements that may be more or less restrictive in order to maximize the child’s benefit from special education and related services.

The IEP is a written plan of the educational program designed to meet a child’s individual needs, specifying how the child receives a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.

The plan is developed by the IEP team, which includes special education teachers, related service staff, general education teachers, parents, and other staff who have knowledge of the child's educational strengths and needs. Among other components, the IEP summarizes the child’s academic achievement and functional performance, describes how the child will be included in the general education curriculum, establishes annual goals for the child and describes how those goals will be measured, states what special education and related services are needed by the child, describes how the child will be appropriately assessed and determines which accommodations may be appropriate for the child’s instruction and assessments. Additional information can be obtained through the resources noted below or from your child’s school.

Students with disabilities who do not qualify for an individualized education program, as required by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and implementing provisions of this Illinois law, may qualify for services under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 if the student (i) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, (ii) has a record of a physical or mental impairment, or (iii) is regarded as having a physical or mental impairment.

School District 21 is also a member of the Northwest Suburban Special Education Organization (NSSEO).

NSSEO is a cooperative educational system working with local school districts in providing services to students with significant physical, cognitive, and/or emotional disabilities. As a special education cooperative, NSSEO functions as an agent of the member districts and is governed by the provisions of the Illinois School Code, as well as the Articles of the Joint Agreement adopted by NSSEO member districts.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:120, Education of Children with Disabilities 11.20 - Special Education Records Procedure Student Records are maintained at the District Administration Center. Additional information is also provided under Section 12 Student Records.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:340, Student Records 11.30 - Annual Notifications/Rights & Records Each year parents/guardians of children with disabilities are to be notified of their rights guaranteed under law. Annually, the school district also notifies parents/guardians of information concerning student records. The information below is provided to you for that purpose. It is based on the Illinois School ​

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Code PL 93-380, Family Rights and Privacy Act, amended by Section 2 of PL 93-568 and the 23 Illinois Administrative Code and the Illinois School Student Record Act of 1975.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:120, Education of Children with Disabilities Policy 7:340, Student Records 11.40 - Individuals Having Records Custody & Access to the Records Any employee or agent of School District 21 who has a legitimate educational interest in addition to a parent/guardian or a representative of a parent/guardian may access educational records. Access shall be given within a reasonable time (15 calendar days), after the request. If records are to be reviewed at the school site, an appropriately trained professional will be present to provide assistance as necessary to enable the student or parent(s)/guardian(s) to understand the material in the records. The school district may charge a per-copy fee if copies are requested.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:340, Student Records 11.50 - Question of Content and Copies of Records Please refer to Chapter 12 Student Records for information regarding content and copies of records.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:340, Student Records 11.60 - Review & Destruction of Records The custodian of records or the designee shall be responsible for reviewing school records at least once every three years. Temporary records will be destroyed five years after promotion, transfer, or termination from School District 21 Support Education Services. Please contact the Director of Special Education at 847-520-8820 if you would like your child’s special education records prior to destruction.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:340, Student Records 11.70 - Public Act 093-0282 School Code If a child is deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or visually impaired, they might be eligible to receive services from the Illinois School for the Deaf or the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired. School District 21 shall notify the parent/guardian, in writing, of the existence of these schools and the services they provide.

Notification shall include without limitation information on school services, school admissions criteria, and school contact information.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:120, Education of Children with Disabilities 11.80 - Discipline of Students with Disabilities Behavioral Interventions Behavioral interventions shall be used with students with disabilities to promote and strengthen desirable behaviors and reduce identified inappropriate behaviors. The School Board will establish and maintain a committee to develop, implement, and monitor procedures on the use of behavioral interventions for children with disabilities.

Discipline of Special Education Students The District shall comply with the Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 and the Illinois State Board of Education’s Special Education rules when disciplining special education students.

No special education student shall be expelled if the student’s particular act of gross disobedience or misconduct is a manifestation of his or her disability.

Time Out and Physical Restraint ​

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Time out and physical restraint shall only be used if the student’s behavior presents an imminent danger of serious physical harm to the student or others, and other less restrictive and intrusive measures were tried and proven ineffective in stopping it. The School may not use time out or physical restraint as discipline or punishment, convenience for staff, retaliation, as a substitute for appropriate educational or behavioral support, a routine safety matter, or to prevent property damage in the absence of imminent danger of serious physical harm to the student or others. The School does not use isolated time out. The use of prone restraint is prohibited.

Cross Reference: Policy 7:230, Misconduct by Students with Disabilities 11.90 - Classroom Visits The parent/guardian of a student receiving special education services, or being evaluated for eligibility, is afforded reasonable access to educational facilities, personnel, classrooms, and buildings. This same right of access is afforded to an independent educational evaluator or a qualified professional retained by or on behalf of a parent/guardian or child.

For further information, please contact the school principal or Director of Special Education.

Cross Reference: Policy 6:120, Education of Children with Disabilities 11.100 - PUNS (Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services) Database Information for Students and Parents or Guardians The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) maintains a statewide database known as the PUNS database (Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services) that records information about individuals with intellectual disabilities or developmental disabilities who are potentially in need of services.

IDHS uses the data on PUNS to select individuals for services as funding becomes available, to develop proposals and materials for budgeting, and to plan for future needs. The PUNS database is available for children with intellectual disabilities or developmental disabilities with unmet service needs.

Registration to be included on the PUNS database is the first step toward receiving developmental disabilities services in this State. A child who is not on the PUNS database will not be in the queue for State developmental disabilities services.

For more information and to sign up for PUNS, see the Illinois Department of Human Services PUNS information page at https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=41131. You may also contact the following District employee for assistance: Family Liaison Nora Molina at nora.molina@ccsd21.org or 224-676-8747.

11.110 - Parent Resources The following website from the Illinois State Board of Education provides parents with information about special education and their rights related to special education services including the publication “Explanation of Procedural Safeguards Available to Parents of Students with Disabilities.” ●​ https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Special-Education-Parent-Rights.aspx

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Chapter 12 12.10 - Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) A school student record is any writing or other recorded information concerning a student and by which a student may be identified individually that is maintained by a school or at its direction or by a school employee, regardless of how or where the information is stored, except for certain records kept in a staff member’s sole possession; records maintained by law enforcement officers working in the school; video and other electronic recordings (including electronic recordings made on school busses) that are created in part for law enforcement, security, or safety reasons or purposes, though such electronic recordings may become a student record if the content is used for disciplinary or special education purposes regarding a particular student.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Illinois Student Records Act afford parents/guardians and students over 18 years of age or attend school beyond the high school level (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s school records. The rights are: 1.​ The right to inspect and copy the student’s education records within 10 business days of the day the District receives a request for access.

The degree of access a student has to his or her records depends on the student’s age.

Students less than 18 years of age have the right to inspect and copy only their permanent record. Students 18 years of age or older have access and copyrights to both permanent and temporary records. A parent/guardian or student should submit to the building principal a written request that identifies the record(s) he or she wishes to inspect. Within 10 business days, the building principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent/guardian or student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. In certain circumstances, the District may request an additional 5 business days in which to grant access. If parents/guardians request a copy of the record, they will receive one copy per year at no cost. Additional copies will be provided at the cost of ten cents per page. No parent/guardian or student will be denied a copy of school/student records due to the inability to bear the cost of such material. If you have questions about student records or to request a copy of school/student records, please contact your school’s main office.

These rights are denied to any person against whom an order of protection has been entered concerning the student.

2.​ The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent/ guardian or eligible student believes are inaccurate, irrelevant, or improper.

A parent/guardian or eligible student may ask the District to amend a record that is believed to be inaccurate, irrelevant, or improper. Requests should be sent to the building principal and should clearly identify the record the parent/guardian or eligible student wants changed and the specific reason a change is being sought.

If the District decides not to amend the record, the District will notify the parent/guardian or eligible student of the decision and advise him or her of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent/guardian or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3.​ The right to permit disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the FERPA or Illinois School Student Records Act authorizes disclosure without consent.

Disclosure without consent is permitted to school officials with legitimate educational or administrative interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board. A school official may also include a volunteer, contractor, or consultant who, while not employed by the school, performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of personally identifiable information from ​

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education records (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, therapist, or educational technology vendor); or any parent/guardian or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility or contractual obligation with the district.

Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student has enrolled or intends to enroll, as well as to any person as specifically required by State or Federal law. Before information is released to these individuals, the parents/guardians or eligible student will receive prior written notice of the nature and substance of the information, and an opportunity to inspect, copy, and challenge such records.

Academic grades and references to expulsions or out-of-school suspensions cannot be challenged at the time a student’s records are being forwarded to another school to which the student is transferring.

Disclosure is also permitted without consent to: any person for research, statistical reporting or planning, provided that no student or parent/guardian can be identified; to another school district that overlaps attendance boundaries with the District, if the District has entered into an intergovernmental agreement that allows for sharing of student records and information with the other district, any person named in a court order; appropriate persons if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons; to the Ill. Department of Human Services (DHS) for the sole purpose of assessing or evaluating the student’s eligibility for Medicaid waiver benefits consistent with the rules adopted by the DHS; and juvenile authorities when necessary for the discharge of their official duties who request information before adjudication of the student.

4.​ The right to a copy of any school student record proposed to be destroyed or deleted.

The permanent record is maintained for at least 60 years after the student transfers, graduates, or permanently withdraws. The temporary record is maintained for at least 5 years after the student transfers, graduates, or permanently withdraws. Temporary records that may be of assistance to a student with a disability who graduates or permanently withdraws, may, after 5 years, be transferred to the parent/guardian or to the student, if the student has succeeded to the rights of the parent/guardian. Student temporary records are reviewed every 4 years or upon a student’s change in attendance centers, whichever occurs first.

5.​ The right to prohibit the release of directory information.

Throughout the school year, the District may release directory information regarding students, limited to: ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Name Address Grade level Birth date Parent/guardian names, addresses, electronic mail addresses, and telephone numbers Photographs, videos, or digital images used for informational or news-related purposes (whether by a media outlet or by the school) of a student participating in school or school-sponsored activities, organizations, and athletics that have appeared in school publications, such as yearbooks, newspapers, or sporting or fine arts programs Academic awards, degrees, and honors Information in relation to school-sponsored activities, organizations, and athletics Major field of study Period of attendance in school

Any parent/guardian or eligible student may prohibit the release of any or all of the above ​

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information by delivering a written objection to the building principal within 30 days of the date of this notice.

6.​ The right contained in this statement: No person may condition the granting or withholding of any right, privilege or benefits or make as a condition of employment, credit, or insurance the securing by any individual of any information from a student’s temporary record which such individual may obtain through the exercise of any right secured under State law.

7.​ The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: U.S. Department of Education, Student Privacy Policy Office, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington DC 20202-8520.

Cross-References: Policy 7:15, Student and Family Privacy Rights Policy 7:340, Student Records 12.20 - Student Privacy Protections Surveys All surveys requesting personal information from students, as well as any other instrument used to collect personal information from students, must advance or relate to the District’s educational objectives, or assist students’ career choices. This applies to all surveys, regardless of whether the student answering the questions can be identified or who created the survey.

Surveys by Third Parties Before a school official or staff member administers or distributes a survey or evaluation created by a third party to a student, the student’s parent/guardian may inspect the survey or evaluation, upon their request and within a reasonable time of their request. This applies to every survey: (1) that is created by a person or entity other than a district official, staff member, or student, (2) regardless of whether the student answering the questions can be identified, and (3) regardless of the subject matter of the questions.

Parents who object to disclosure of information concerning their child to a third party may do so in writing to the building principal.

Surveys Requesting Personal Information School officials and staff members will not request, nor disclose, the identity of any student who completes any survey or evaluation (created by any person or entity, including the school or district) containing one or more of the following items: 1.​ Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent/guardian.

2.​ Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family.

3.​ Behavior or attitudes about sex.

4.​ Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.

5.​ Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom students have close family relationships.

6.​ Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.

7.​ Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent/guardian.

8.​ Income other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program.

The student’s parent/guardian may: (1) inspect the survey or evaluation upon, and within a reasonable time of, their request, and/or (2) refuse to allow their child to participate in the survey. The school will not penalize any student whose parent/guardian exercised this option.

Instructional Material A student’s parent/guardian may inspect, upon their request, any instructional material used as part of their child’s educational curriculum within a reasonable time of their request.

The term “instructional material” means instructional content that is provided to a student, regardless of its format, printed or representational materials, audio-visual materials, and materials in electronic or digital formats (such as materials accessible through the Internet). The term does not include academic tests or ​

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academic assessments.

Prohibition on Selling or Marketing Students’ Personal Information No school official or staff member may market or sell personal information concerning students (or otherwise provide that information to others for that purpose). The term personal information means individually identifiable information including: (1) a student or parent’s first and last name, (2) a home or other physical address (including street name and the name of the city or town), (3) a telephone number, (4) a Social Security identification number or (5) driver’s license number or State identification card.

Unless otherwise prohibited by law, the above paragraph does not apply: (1) if the student’s parent/guardian have consented; or (2) to the collection, disclosure or, use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating or providing educational products or services for, or to, students or educational institutions, such as the following: 1.​ Book clubs, magazines, and programs providing access to low-cost literary products.

2.​ Curriculum and instructional materials used by elementary schools and secondary schools.

3.​ Tests and assessments to provide cognitive, evaluative, diagnostic, clinical, aptitude, or achievement information about students (or to generate other statistically useful data for the purpose of securing such tests and assessments) and the subsequent analysis and public release of the aggregate data from such tests and assessments.

4.​ The sale by students of products or services to raise funds for school-related or education-related activities.

5.​ Student recognition programs.

Under no circumstances may a school official or staff member provide a student’s personal information to a business organization or financial institution that issues credit or debit cards.

A parent/guardian who desires to opt their child out of participation in activities provided herein or who desires a copy or access to a survey or any other material described herein may contact the Building Principal.

A complete copy of the District’s Student and Family Privacy Rights policy may be obtained from the Superintendent’s office or accessed on the District’s website.

Cross-References: Policy 7:15, Student and Family Privacy Rights 12.30 - Student Online Personal Protection Act (SOPPA)​ CCSD21 is committed to protecting the information security of its students in accordance with the latest version of the Student Online Personal Protection Act (SOPPA). Information pertaining to operators (i.e., educational technology vendors and other entities that operate internet websites, online services, online applications, or mobile applications that are designed, marketed, and primarily used for K-12 school purposes), what student data is collected, and breach notifications can be found on the Student Data Privacy page (https://ccsd21.org/information-services/student-data-privacy/).

12.40 - Student Records Student records are defined as any writing or other information recorded in any way, including, but not limited to, handwriting, print, computer media, video or audio tape, film, microfilm, and microfiche, concerning a student and by which a student may be individually identified, maintained by a school or at its direction or by an employee of a school, regardless of how or where the information is stored.

Private notes or working notes are defined as data collected for the sole use of the collector, which is destroyed by the collector at the conclusion of its use. Private notes or working notes become a part of student records if and when they are shared or made available to another person.

All student records shall be factual and non-judgmental in nature and maintained in compliance with the state and federal guidelines.

Question of Content of Records and Copies of Records ​

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Parents/guardians or students shall be afforded an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the contents of the records to insure the information is not inaccurate, misleading, or inappropriate and to provide the correction, deletion, or explanation of such information. When parents/guardians request such changes, in writing, a Records Hearing may be arranged. A letter requesting a Records Hearing should be addressed to the school principal at your child’s school. If a Records Hearing is not requested, but a parent/guardian desires to have their dispute with records noted, parents/guardians may add a written statement, which becomes a permanent part of the educational record of the district. The district custodian of records shall determine, after consultation with appropriate professional staff, any deletion or alteration of challenged content.

If parents/guardians request a copy of the record, they will receive one copy per year at no cost.

Additional copies will be provided at the cost of ten cents per page. No parent/guardian or student will be denied a copy of school/student records due to the inability to bear the cost of such material. If you have questions about student records or to request a copy of school/student records, please contact your school’s main office.

To submit a request for school/student records of a student who has transferred out of the school district, please contact the Business Office at 847-520-2610 or email registration@ccsd21.org. a.​ Student Permanent Record Shall consist of: i.​ Basic identifying information, including students and parents/guardians names and address, birthdate, and place and gender; ii.​ Academic transcript, including grades, grade level achieved; iii.​ Attendance record; iv.​ Health record and immunization documentation. v.​ Record of release of permanent record information; and, May also consist of: i.​ Honors and awards received; and ii.​ Information concerning participation in school-sponsored activities or athletics, or offices held in school-sponsored organizations.

No other information shall be placed in the student permanent record. b.​ Student Temporary Record All information not required in the student permanent record may include: i.​ Family background information; ii.​ Intelligence test scores; iii.​ Aptitude test scores; iv.​ Reports of psychological evaluations including information on intelligence, personality, and academic information obtained through test administration, observation or interviews; v.​ Elementary achievement level test results; vi.​ Participation in extracurricular activities including any offices held in school sponsored clubs or organizations; vii.​ Honors and awards received; viii.​ Teacher anecdotal records; ix.​ Disciplinary information; x.​ Special education files including the report of the multi-disciplinary staffing on which placement or non-placement was based, and all records and tape recordings relating to special education placement hearings and appeals; xi.​ Verified reports/information from non-educational persons, agencies or organizations; xii.​ Other verified information of clear relevance to the education of the students; xiii.​ Record of release of temporary record information; xiv.​ Information regarding serious infractions (i.e., those involving drugs, weapons, or bodily harm to another) that resulted in expulsion, suspension or the imposition of punishment or sanction; xv.​ Information provided under Section 8.6 of the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act; xvi.​ Any biometric information that is collected; xvii.​ The completed home language survey form. ​

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Cross-References: Policy 6:340, Student Assessment System Policy 7:340, Student Records 12.50 - School Pictures Each year our schools hire a photo company to take pictures of all children. Several purchase plans are available. All children's pictures are taken so we may use them in the composite picture and for permanent school records.

Cross-References: Policy 7:340, Student Records 12.60 - Student Biometric Information Before collecting biometric information from students, the school must seek the permission of the student’s parent/guardian or the student, if over the age of 18. Biometric information means information that is collected from students based on their unique characters, such as a fingerprint, voice recognition or retinal scan.

Cross-References: Policy 7:340, Student Records 12.70 - District Directory Information that may be designated as district directory information shall be limited to: a.​ Identifying information: name, address, grade level, birth date and place, and parents’/guardians’ names and contact information (addresses, email addresses, telephone numbers); b.​ Academic awards; c.​ Information in relation to school-sponsored activities, organizations and athletics; d.​ Period of attendance in school.

Cross-References: Policy 7:340, Student Records 12.80 - Information Designated as PTO/PTA Directory The PTO/PTA directory information includes student’s name and grade level and parents’/guardians’ names, address, telephone numbers and email addresses. The PTO/PTA directory information is shared with parents/guardians who are organizing various school events. Parents/guardians have the right to prohibit the release of directory information by submitting such a request in writing to the school’s principal.

Cross-References: Policy 7:340, Student Records 12.90 - Publishing and Permissions Throughout the year, opportunities may arise to publicly share information about CCSD21 and celebrate its schools, students, and programs by capturing images, likenesses, voices, names, and/or other identifying information of students. Published items, such as photos, video, and audio, may appear in newsletters, brochures, newspapers, and District, school, community, or other affiliated websites and social media.

Parents/guardians have the opportunity to opt their child(ren) out of these types of celebrations during the annual registration process and can revise their selection throughout the year at the school office.

Permissions apply to the child’s regular school day, but have no bearing at public school-related events, such as athletic competitions or arts performances. District 21 and its schools may freely promote these public events and capture photos and/or video at these events. Audience members may also capture photos or video at these events and publish at their discretion. ​

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12.100 - Release of Information The schools shall grant access to, or release information from, school student records without parental/guardian consent or notification unless you have advised the district to the contrary in accordance with district procedures: a.​ To an employee or official of the school or school district or the State Board of Education, provided such employee or official has a current demonstrable educational or administrative interest in the student and the records are in furtherance of such interest. b.​ To any person for the purpose of research, statistical reporting, or planning, provided that: i.​ The person to whom the information is released signs an affidavit agreeing to comply with all applicable statutes and rules pertaining to school student records; ii.​ No student or parent/guardian can be identified from the information released, and iii.​ The research design and purpose are approved by the Superintendent. iv.​ Pursuant to a court order.

Cross-References: Policy 7:340, Student Records 12.110 - Emergency Release of Information Information may be released without parental/guardian consent in connection with an emergency to appropriate persons if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons, provided that the parents/guardians are notified as soon as possible of the information released, the date of the release, the person, agency, or organization receiving the information, and the purpose of the release.

Cross-References: Policy 7:340, Student Records 12.120 - Transfer of Records When a student leaves School District 21, the student’s file will be forwarded to the official records custodian of the new district of residence upon receipt of official release of records documents from the new district. When a student moves to another school within School District 21, records will automatically be transferred. Upon 8th grade promotion, all permanent and temporary records are automatically sent to the respective high school district. If you wish to object to the forwarding of these records, please notify the Director of Business Services in writing.

If a student is transferring to another public school located in Illinois or any other state and at the time of the transfer is currently serving a term of suspension or expulsion for any reason, then the transferring school shall include with the transferred records: a.​ the Good Standing form which includes the date and duration of the period of any current suspension or expulsion; and b.​ whether the suspension or expulsion is for knowingly possessing, in a school building or on school grounds, a weapon as defined in the Gun Free Schools Act, for knowingly possessing, selling, or delivering in a school building or on school grounds a controlled substance or cannabis, or for battering a staff member of the school.

Cross-References: Policy 7:340, Student Records

Chapter 13 13.10 - Teacher Qualifications In accordance with the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, the district informs parents/guardians of students in Title I programs of their right to request information regarding the professional qualifications of staff who is instructing their children. For additional information, please refer to your school's principal, the Human Resources office, and/or the School District 21 website: https://ccsd21.org/equity-learning/title-i-information/ Cross-References: Policy 5:190, Teacher Qualifications 13.20 - Faith’s Law Notifications ​

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Employee Conduct Standards School districts are required to include in their student handbook the District’s Employee Code of Professional Conduct. These standards, in part, define appropriate conduct between school employees and students. A copy of these standards can be found on the District’s website or requested from the Superintendent’s office.

Cross-References: Policy 4:165, Awareness and Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Grooming Behaviors Policy 5:120, Employee Ethics; Conduct, and Conflict of Interest ​ 13.30 - McKinney-Vento Services The McKinney-Vento Program assists families who have lost housing and find themselves: living in a shelter or motel; sharing housing with others because of lost housing or economic hardship; living in a campground, car, abandoned building or other temporary shelter; without a permanent address. Families in this situation have the right to: ●​ Enroll in school immediately without school or medical records ●​ Receive assistance from the district liaison with immunizations and/or medical records ●​ Choose to attend the child’s previous school based on the previous address or the school closest to where the family is currently residing ●​ Receive transportation to and from school ●​ Dispute enrollment or transportation issues ●​ Participate in your child's education District 21 McKinney-Vento Liaison: Lauren Schmidt at 847-419-3083 North Cook McKinney-Vento Homeless Youth Advocate: Tom Bookler at 630-386-0883 Cross-References: Policy 6:140, Education of Homeless Children 13.40 - School Visitation Rights All visitors, including parents/guardians and siblings, are required to enter through the front door of the building and proceed immediately to the main office. Visitors should identify themselves and inform office personnel of their reason for being at school. Before entering the building, ALL visitors must complete the district’s visitor management process.

Visitors must sign in, identifying their name, the date and time of arrival, and the classroom or location they are visiting. Approved visitors must take a tag identifying themselves as a guest and place the tag to their outer clothing in a clearly visible location. Visitors are required to proceed immediately to their location in a quiet manner. All visitors must return to the main office and sign out before leaving the school.

Any person wishing to confer with a staff member should contact that staff member to make an appointment. Conferences with teachers are held, to the extent possible, outside school hours or during the teacher’s conference/preparation period. The School Visitation Rights Act permits employed parents/guardians, who are unable to meet with educators because of a work conflict, the right to time off from work under certain conditions to attend necessary school functions such as parent/guardian-teacher conferences, academic meetings and behavioral meetings.

Visitors are expected to abide by all school rules during their time on school property. A visitor who fails to conduct themselves in a manner that is appropriate will be asked to leave and may be subject to criminal penalties for trespass and/or disruptive behavior.

No person on school property or at a school event shall perform any of the following acts: ●​ Strike, injure, threaten, harass, or intimidate a staff member, board member, sports official or coach, or any other person. ●​ Behave in an unsportsmanlike manner or use vulgar or obscene language. ●​ Unless specifically permitted by State law, possess a weapon, any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon or looks like a weapon, or any dangerous device. ●​ Damage or threaten to damage another’s property. ​

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●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​ ●​

Damage or deface school property.

Violate any Illinois law or municipal, local or county ordinance.

Smoke or otherwise use tobacco products.

Distribute, consume, use, possess, or be impaired by or under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, cannabis, other lawful product, or illegal drug.

Be present when the person’s alcoholic beverage, cannabis, other lawful product, or illegal drug consumption is detectible, regardless of when and/or where the use occurred.

Use or possess medical cannabis, unless they have complied with Illinois' Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Act and district policies.

Impede, delay, disrupt, or otherwise interfere with any school activity or function (including using cellular phones in a disruptive manner).

Enter upon any portion of school premises at any time for purposes other than those that are lawful and authorized by the board.

Operate a motor vehicle: (a) in a risky manner, (b) in excess of 20 miles per hour, or (c) in violation of an authorized district employee’s directive.

Engage in any risky behavior, including roller-blading, roller-skating, or skateboarding.

Violate other district policies or regulations, or a directive from an authorized security officer or district employee.

Engage in any conduct that interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the district or a school function.

Cross-reference: Policy 8:30, Visitors to and Conduct on School Property 13.50 - Demonstrations on School Grounds To ensure the orderly process of education and business affairs connected with the schools and the safety of persons and property, policies are developed to be followed in case of any type of disruptive demonstration on school property or within school buildings.

This policy is not intended to discourage or prohibit the peaceful expression of opinions or ideas concerning School District 21. However, since the Board is required by law to provide proper school facilities and to maintain an appropriate program of instruction, it is further required to bar any disruption of the schools or interference with their normal operation.

Cross-reference: Policy 8:30, Visitors to and Conduct on School Property 13.60 - Non-Custodial Parents’ Rights Non-custodial parents have a right to see student records and reports and pick up a child from school unless a court order to the contrary is in the student’s file at the school office. Both parents will be assumed to have equal authority and custody of any child until the school has been provided evidence of a court order specifying custody or authority to only one. Examples of acceptable documentation may include a divorce decree, a notarized copy of the decree, or a court order by a judge with the court seal.

A letter from an attorney is not an acceptable form of documentation of a court order. Only acceptable documentation will be placed in the permanent record of the student.

13.70 - Mandated Reporter All school personnel, including teachers and administrators, are required by law to immediately report any and all suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

Cross Reference: Policy 5:90, Abused and Neglected Child Reporting 13.80 - Unsafe School - Transfer If a student is a victim of a violent criminal offense as defined by state law (725 ILCS 120/3) that occurred on school grounds during regular school hours or during a school-sponsored event, the parent/guardian may request a transfer to another public school within the district.

Cross-References: ​

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Policy 4:170, Safety ​ 13.90 - Sex Offender Notification to School Law State law prohibits a convicted child sex offender from being present on school property when children under the age of 18 are present, except for in the following circumstances as they relate to the individual’s child(ren): 1.​ To attend a conference at the school with school personnel to discuss the progress of their child.

2.​ To participate in a conference in which evaluation and placement decisions may be made with respect to their child’s special education services.

3.​ To attend conferences to discuss issues concerning their child, such as retention or promotion.

In all other cases, convicted child sex offenders are prohibited from being present on school property unless they obtain written permission from the superintendent or school board.

Anytime that a convicted child sex offender is present on school property for any reason – including the three reasons above – they are responsible for notifying the principal's office upon arrival on school property and upon departure from school property. It is the responsibility of the convicted child sex offender to remain under the direct supervision of a school official at all times they are in the presence or vicinity of children.

A violation of this law is a Class 4 felony.

Information about sex offenders or violent offenders against youth is available to the public on the Illinois State Police (ISP) website. The ISP website contains the following: ●​ Illinois Sex Offender Registry, https://isp.illinois.gov/Sor/Disclaimer ●​ Illinois Murderer and Violent Offender Against Youth Registry, https://isp.illinois.gov/MVOAY/Disclaimer ●​ Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Sex Offenders, https://isp.illinois.gov/Sor/FAQs Cross-References: Policy 4:175, Convicted Child Sex Offender;Screening; Notifications 13.100 - District Complaint Procedure Issues concerning the school system not covered in 2:260 Uniform Grievance Procedure will be handled through the District Complaint Procedure. This policy shall not be construed to create an independent right to a hearing before the Board.

The District 21 Complaint Procedure ensures that: ●​ the person(s) who have complaints concerning the school system will receive prompt and careful attention, ●​ the person(s) against whom the complaint is directed is given adequate protection, ●​ complaints are processed as expeditiously as possible.

When complaints cannot be resolved with reasonable dispatch by the person who receives the complaint (or by someone to whom the complainant can be referred), the person who originates the complaint shall be given a copy of the District Complaint Procedure, which includes on the back page a copy of the form to be completed.

Cross Reference: Policy 2:260, Uniform Grievance Procedure Policy 8:110, Public Suggestions and Concerns 13.110 - Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response District 21 complies with the AHERA (federal law), which requires school districts to inspect schools for asbestos-containing building materials and file management plans with a designated state agency. The inspection and management plans are completed by a federally accredited professional within the timeline established by the AHERA law.

Our school inspections have not identified any asbestos-containing building materials that needed immediate attention.

Individuals may review the inspection reports and management plans on weekdays between 8:00 AM and ​

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3:00 PM at the District’s Operations Center, 999 West Dundee Road, Wheeling, Illinois 60090. To make an appointment to review the materials or to obtain more information about AHERA, please contact the Director of Operations at 847-520-2805.

Cross Reference: Policy 4:160, Environmental Quality of Buildings & Grounds 13.120 - Water Quality The water quality report for Community Consolidated School District 21 facilities can be found on the district website at: https://ccsd21.org/watertesting/ 13.130 - Pest Management The State of Illinois requires school districts to make notifications prior to the application of specific types of pest control agents if parents/guardians desire to be notified. Applications of pest control products are made only when necessary to address a problem. Detailed information is provided in the letter and in the accompanying form at the end of this handbook. Parents/guardians requiring written notification, prior to the application of any pest control materials, must complete the form and submit it to the school principal.

Cross Reference: Policy 4:160, Environmental Quality of Buildings & Grounds

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Community Consolidated School District 21 959 West Dundee Road • Wheeling, Illinois 60090 847.537.8270 www.ccsd21.org​ ​ ​ ​

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Dr. Michael Connolly, Superintendent

Board of Education Jessica Riddick, President • Debbi McAtee, Vice President • Carrie Devitt, Secretary Arlen S. Gould • Iliana Guzman • Bill Harrison • Angelika Husmann

August Dear Parent or Guardian, In the spring of 1999, the Illinois Legislature passed SP0527 and SB0529, amendments to the Structural Pest Control Act and the Illinois Pesticide Act that affect how pests, mice, ants, etc., are controlled in schools.

All Illinois schools are required to develop a pest process called Integrated Pest Management (IPM), effective August 1, 2000. Schools are required to notify staff, students and parents prior to certain types of pest control applications. The Supervisor of Custodial Services is the Designated Person to oversee the pest management operations and record keeping.

Integrated Pest Management places emphasis on inspection and communication with the school administration. The focus of the program is to identify and eliminate conditions in the school which could cause pests to be a problem. Applications of pest control materials are made only when necessary to eliminate a pest problem. If it becomes necessary to use any pest control products, other than traps or baits, notice will be posted and emailed/mailed two business days prior to the application. The only exception to the two-day notice would be if there was an immediate threat to health or property.

Families requesting notification of the use of pest control materials must complete the following form.

The completed form is to be returned to the school principal and will be maintained in the student’s health record file. The CCSD21 Custodial Manager will be given a copy and communicate the usage information.

Thank you, Glen Michelini Director of Operations ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT NOTIFICATION REQUEST Student’s Name: ___________________________________________________________ School: _____________________________________________ Grade: ______________ Parent/Guardian Signature: _____________________________ Date: _______________ Street address: ____________________________________________________________ Email address: ____________________________ Phone number: ___________________

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