High School Student Handbook
Working for each student’s future, one success at a time.
- Directory
- Bell Schedules
- BREAKFAST and LUNCH
- Expectations for behavior
- Phones
- The rest of the Dress Code
- Tobacco & Vape
- Tardiness
- Academic honesty
- Fighting
- Food in classrooms
- Hallways
- Harassment
- I.D. Cards
- Loitering/Trespassing
- Open Campus
- Public Displays of Affection
- Shuttle Bus
- Skateboards/rollerblades/Heelies
- Sleeping in class
- Students on Choice Transfers (formerly called ‘Boundary Exceptions’)
- Field Trips
- Life Threatening Health Conditions
- Medication
- Parking
- Report Cards
- Student – Led Conferences
- Student Transfers
- Valuables
- Vandalism
- Visitors
- Withdrawal
- Graduation Requirements
- Grading & Class Information
- Testing
- Student Attendance
- Student Activities
- School Dances
- Student Athletics
Directory
Main office: 360-414-2926
To contact a teacher by phone, please call the office.
- James Bryant: Social Studies/English Teacher jbryant@longview.k12.wa.us
- Ron Moore: English/Social Studies Teacher rmoore@longview.k12.wa.us
- Audra Degg: Science Teacher adegg@longview.k12.wa.us
- Barry Nusbaum: District Attendance Coordinator bnusbaum@longview.k12.wa.us 360-414-2928
- Valerie Dunaway: Math Teacher vdunaway@longview.k12.wa.us
- Renee Messinger Secretary/Registrar: rmessinger@longview.k12.wa.us
- Mike Kleiner: Principal mkleiner@longview.k12.wa.us 360-414-2920
- Billie Rease: Career Specialist/Secretary brease@longview.k12.wa.us 360 575-7026
- Jim VanFleet: Math Teach jvanfleet@longview.k12.wa.us
- Tracey William: Guidance Counselor twilliams1@longview.k12.wa.us 360 575-7986
Bell Schedules
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday |
|||
period |
class |
leave for shuttle |
shuttle departs |
1 |
7:55-8:50 |
8:44 |
8:47 |
2 |
8:55-9:50 |
9:44 |
9:47 |
3 |
9:55-10:50 |
10:44 |
10:47 |
4 |
10:55-11:50 |
11:47 |
11:50 |
lunch |
11:55-12:25 |
|
|
5 |
12:30-1:25 |
1:19 |
1:22 |
6 |
1:30-2:25 |
2:17 |
2:20 |
7 |
2:30-3:25 |
|
|
Wednesday |
|||
period |
class |
leave for shuttle |
shuttle departs |
1 |
7:55-8:40 |
8:34 |
8:37 |
2 |
8:45-9:30 |
9:24 |
9:27 |
3 |
9:35-10:20 |
10:14 |
10:17 |
4 |
10:25-11:10 |
11:04 |
11:07 |
lunch |
11:15-11:45 |
11:39 |
11:42 |
5 |
11:50-12:35 |
12:28 |
12:31 |
6 |
12:40-1:25 |
1:17 |
1:20 |
Friday |
|||
period |
class |
leave for shuttle |
shuttle departs |
1 |
7:55-8:45 |
8:38 |
8:41 |
2 |
8:50-9:40 |
9:33 |
9:36 |
Advisory |
9:45-10:25 |
10:18 |
10:21 |
3 |
10:30-11:15 |
11:08 |
11:11 |
4 |
11:20-12:05 |
12:03 |
12:05 |
lunch |
12:10-12:40 |
12:33 |
12:36 |
5 |
12:45-1:30 |
1:23 |
1:25 |
6 |
1:35-2:25 |
2:17 |
2:20 |
BREAKFAST and LUNCH
Breakfast
Students who qualify for Free and/or Reduced Lunch may get breakfast at RA Long or Mark Morris High Schools. Not sure? Get a form at school or go here: https://tinyurl.com/y7472sfc
Lunch Options at Discovery
Options:
- BYO lunch. You may also use our kitchen to cook your own lunch. Of course, we expect people to clean up after themselves.
- go off campus (this is sketchy… be back on time).
- order a box lunch. If you choose this option, be sure to sign up on the board in the hallway. Just put a check next to your name and it will be billed to your account. Lunch will be delivered to the café.
At R.A. Long
Discovery students who want to eat at RAL:
- need approval from Discovery High School Principal.
- may have lunch at RA Long, so long as:
- there are no discipline concerns;
- student has signed up and been approved;
- student has ID;
- must have student ID and sign up for lunch access at other schools.
- must remain in the cafeteria and courtyard;
- may bring their lunch back to the Discovery café.
At Mark Morris
- See details are the same as for RAL, except that Discovery students must have a class at Mark Morris either 4th or 5th period.
Expectations for behavior
We can’t end drama in the world, but we can ask that it not interfere with your work and the work of the people around you.
As you can see, this is a small school. Each staff person here is 100% dedicated to your success. In order for us (you included) to do the important work that is ahead, your cooperation is necessary.
Phones
Discovery phone rules:
At the start of class, have your phone away. Putting it in a pocket with earbuds out is not away. Put it where you won’t fidget with it.
Use a Yondr if you need help staying off your phone.
The plan…
- Class is reminded to Yondr the phones.
- Personal reminder to Yondr your phone. Please let it stop here.
- This is the point where student-teacher power struggles get worse. We would like to avoid that, because if it gets to this point, two things aren’t happening:
a. You aren’t learning.
b. We aren’t working to help others learn.
4. If you refuse to Yondr the phone, you’ll be asked to put your phone in a locker for the rest of your day here. The locker has a combination that YOU set, so you don’t need a staff person in order to get the phone at lunch or at the end of the day.
5. We tried. From here it will be considered insubordination and we will follow with discipline. See policy 3241 (D-1). Let’s not go there.
We cannot get you graduated if we cannot get your attention.
The rest of the Dress Code
The dress and appearance of students is the direct responsibility of the parents. (by law)
If in the judgment of school officials dress or appearance is disruptive, the student will be required to change into appropriate clothing or receive another consequence.
- No displays (messages or pictures) that are vulgar, obscene, profane, violent, drug/alcohol/tobacco related, affiliated with gangs, discriminatory or demeaning to any person due to race, religion, ethnic group, gender or sexual orientation (including the Confederate flag or swastikas)
- No underwear showing (including sports bras and bra straps).
- No spaghetti straps, backless, strapless, halter-tops, crop tops, half-shirts, low-cut tops, one-shoulder, off- shoulder, or see-through clothing.
- Skirts/shorts must be finger length with arms fully extended along the legs. Cuts/slashes/fraying must also be no more than 2 inches above the knee.
- No sagging or bagging – pants must be pulled up.
- No pajamas or slippers.
- No masks or face coverings (exceptions for medical or religious reasons).
- No jewelry that could indicate gang affiliation through colors, numbers or design can be visibly worn where it is on display.
- No unsafe jewelry such as spikes, long chains, etc.
Tobacco & Vape
Don’t.
There are three things to consider here:
- The legal age in Washington to vape, smoke, or possess those materials, is 18.
- Those materials aren’t permitted on school grounds even if you are 18.
- School Administrators may legally confiscate those materials. That includes searches (see district policy for that).
- You are not entitled to the return of those materials if they get taken away.
Do not vape or smoke near our neighbors’ houses or garages.
Tardiness
Academic honesty
Do Your Own Work.
Do not use, accept, or receive aid on class tests or assignments unless specifically authorized by the teacher. Do not take other people’s work and claim it’s yours. Give credit to the source through accepted documentation.
Consequences may include:
- zero or reduced grade on the assignment
- parent/guardian/recruiter/court officer notification
- removal from the course
- administrative action - written referral, etc.
Fighting
It goes without saying: fighting is extremely disruptive to the school environment. If you see a fight (or hear plans of one) please report it.
Fighting will result in a minimum of a 3 day suspension, regardless of who started the fight.
Specific discipline will be determined by administration.
Some things to keep in mind:
- encouraging a fight (in person or by technology) is subject to discipline
- recording a fight is subject to discipline
People often get permanently hurt in school fights. We don’t want that for our kids – please let us know if a fight is on the way.
The rules about fighting are found in the District Policies section #3330 3b.
Food in classrooms
Hallways
Harassment
I.D. Cards
Loitering/Trespassing
For safety reasons, individuals not having a legitimate reason for being on campus will be asked to leave and may be issued a trespassing notice and referred to police. Please do not have non-student friends meet you on campus.
If you are on a short schedule, leave campus at the end of the last class.
Open Campus
Public Displays of Affection
Shuttle Bus
The shuttle is for transportation to and from Mark Morris High School for CLASSES ONLY. Students may not ride the shuttle for any other reason, unless cleared with administration.
- Only students with SHUTTLE STICKERS on their IDs will be allowed to leave class at the shuttle bell and board the bus.
- It shall not be used for lunch transportation. IF A STUDENT MISSES THE SHUTTLE, THEY SHOULD REPORT TO THE OFFICE IMMEDIATELY.
- Students who miss the shuttle will not be excused after the first week of each term.
Skateboards/rollerblades/Heelies
Sleeping in class
Students on Choice Transfers (formerly called ‘Boundary Exceptions’)
Field Trips
Life Threatening Health Conditions
If you have a serious medical condition, please contact the school health office immediately to obtain forms for you to take to your health-care provider. Your health care provider will determine if your child has a life- threatening condition.
Washington State Law requires that schools get information about medications or treatments for their students with life-threatening health conditions – if these conditions might require medical services to be performed at the school. Some of these conditions include: allergies to foods or bee stings, asthma, seizure disorders, etc.
Required information to be provided to the school includes:
- Doctor’s orders for dispensing of medications and/or treatment of illness
- Written parent consent for services.
- Required medication and supplies.
Medication
If it is necessary to take medications at school, please inform the Building Secretary. They will keep and administer medication to students with written doctor’s orders and parent permission. Pick up the form in the main office (See policy 3416). THIS INCLUDES OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS SUCH AS TYLENOL AND ADVIL.
Parking
Report Cards
Student – Led Conferences
Student Transfers
A full program of classes at other accredited secondary schools will be honored by the Longview School District as the equivalent of a full program of classes in this district when evaluating credits for graduation. Official documentation, however, is required from the school so classes and grades can be evaluated appropriately.
Valuables
Vandalism
Visitors
Withdrawal
Graduation Requirements
Classes of 2019 and 2020
CREDITS: A student shall earn a minimum of 22 credits (to be eligible to receive a diploma from Discovery High School. One-half (.5) credit is earned for each passed class.
- English: 4 Credits
- Math: 3 Credits
- Science: 1 Credit +
- Lab Science: 2 Credits
- U. S. History: 1.5 Credits
- Civics: 0.5 Credits
- Contemporary World Problems: 1Credit
- Credit Physical Education: 2 Credits
- Health: 0.5 Credits
- Career & Technical Education: 1 Credit/*2
- Fine Arts: 1 Credit/*2
- World Language: *2 Credits
- Electives: 6 Credits/*2
Total : 22 Credits
*Flexible requirements: 1 art credit, world language credit, career concentration credit, and electives may be substituted according to a student’s High School and Beyond Plan.
STATE ASSESSMENTS: English Language Arts (ELA) and Math SBA, Math EOC and Science EOC must be met by graduation.
HIGH SCHOOL AND BEYOND PLAN/ASPIRE TO ACHIEVE PORTFOLIO: Completed within Advisory class.
Classes of 2021 and beyond
CREDITS: A student shall earn a minimum of 24 credits (to be eligible to receive a diploma from Discovery High School. One-half (.5) credit is earned for each passed class.
- English: 4 Credits
- Mathematics: 3 Credits
- Science: 3 Credits
- Social Studies: 3 Credits
- Health and Fitness: 2 Credits
- Career & Technical Education: 1 Credit
- Fine Arts: 2 Credits
- World Language or Personalized Pathway Requirement: 2 Credits
- Electives: 4 Credits
Total: 24 Credits
Grading & Class Information
- Grading expectations will be communicated to all students from their first day, along with communication to parents via progress reports, conferences and report cards. Students are required to meet specific deadlines and course standards to earn full credit.
- A passing grade is 60% on daily work, quizzes and assessments. If a student doesn’t achieve at this level, the student will require additional interventions and or assigned additional time at school to be successful.
- All courses are taken for a grade or credit and become part of the student’s permanent record.
- All tests and final exams must be taken on site. Tests and exams will be locked until teachers allow access.
- Families will receive grade communication/reports for grading periods and will get grade reports at Student-Led conferences. All grades and credit earned are available on Skyward Family Access outside of traditional grading periods.
- Parents will be included as coaches for their students on Odysseyware, to increase communication regarding learning progress.
Waiver of Required Courses - Students have the right to appeal required courses to a building administrator if they desire to have them considered for a waiver. “…individual students may be excused from participating in physical education otherwise required under
this section on account of physical disability, employment or religious belief, or because participation in directed athletics or military science and tactics or for other good cause.” RCW 28A/05.040 Criteria for the waiver must be met before a waiver is granted.
Class Standing - Students will be promoted regardless of credits earned until their senior year. A student will retain junior standing until a minimum of 16 credits are earned. It is advisable to have a minimum of 4 credits at the beginning of the sophomore year, and a minimum of 10 credits at the beginning of the junior year to be in good credit standing for graduation.
Testing
Discovery High School offers a comprehensive testing program in combination with the Longview School District. Tests available include:
- ODYSSEYWARE EXAMS -All testing for Odysseyware courses are required to be completed @ Discovery High School.
- Smarter Balance – This is a graduation requirement passing test for all students in the class of 2019 and beyond. Students in the class of 2016, 2017, and 2018 may use the results of this test to meet graduation requirements for state testing. Students will take the English Language Arts test as well as the Math Test.
- Advanced Placement (AP) – AP tests are designed for students to demonstrate college level skills while in high school and they are given in specific areas. Cost of the AP test is about $80 for each test. However, students who are eligible for free or reduced lunch prices also qualify for a reduced rate for the AP tests. Credit may be awarded by colleges or universities depending on results.
- Please check with the institution you plan on attending to see what they offer. AP tests occur in May.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – The purpose of the TOEFL test is to evaluate English language abilities of non-native students for appropriate placement in English Language Learner (ELL) courses.
- Compass – This test is administered to potential Running Start students by Lower Columbia College throughout the year. Please see the LCC website or catalog for more information.
- SAT I and SAT II – The SAT I and SAT II are usually taken in the spring of the junior year or early in fall of the senior year. The SAT I is administered six times a year and may be repeated if necessary. Registration must be done a head of time either through the mail or registering on-line. The SAT II test includes specific subject areas and is required by a few select colleges and universities. Please check with the institution of your choice to find out what they require in testing.
- American College Testing Program (ACT) – The AC T is similar to the SAT because it is offered multiple times nationwide. It is a different test then the SAT. Some colleges recommend the ACT. Again, please check with the institution you want to attend to find out their testing requirements.
- Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) – This test must be taken in October of the junior year to qualify for National Merit Scholarships.
Other programs using this test include the Weyerhaeuser four-year scholarship, ROTC, academies, and other specialized scholarships. Sophomores may take this test for experience in test taking. The PSAT scores are reported in three categories; verbal, mathematics and written language. Scores are reported in the range of 20 (low) to 80 (high). The PSAT scores are not usually used by colleges as admissions criteria. Merit scholars are selected with these test scores. Other selected scholarships may require these scores.
Student Attendance
Parent/Guardian Responsibilities
If a student is absent, it is the expectation for parents or guardians to call the attendance office, 360 575-7026 or Main Office 360 414-2926 and leave a detailed message. The answering machine is turned on all hours and on weekends for parent/guardian use. If no call is made,
the parent/guardian should send the student to school the next day with a signed note detailing the reason for the absence. All absences must be cleared within three school days
from the date of occurrence.
Student Responsibilities
- Remind your parents to call the school before 10:00 am the day of an absence or to write a note to take to the attendance office the day you return.
- Report to the attendance office before first period to take care of absences. a. Students whose parents called and excused the absence the day before do not need to go to the attendance office.
- Forged notes or phone calls will be considered unexcused absences and will receive disciplinary action.
- Disciplinary consequences may include the following: Detention, In-School Suspension, Short-Term Suspension and Long-Term Suspension with possible loss of credit.
- Teachers do not have to give make up work for unexcused absences.
- Students will have one day for each excused absence to get work completed and turned into the teacher. For example, if you are sick for 2 days, you will have 2 days upon your return to get work turned in if your absence is excused.
Check-Out Procedures
Students leaving campus for any reason other than illness must check out through the main office.
Parents/guardians who are picking students up from school, must have photo ID to remove a student from school or class.
Students who are sick must go to the main office. Parents will need to check students who are sick out at the main office before removing them from school
Leaving campus any time except during lunch without signing out will be considered truancy and will be cause for disciplinary action!
Student Activities
Students enrolled at Discovery High School are able to take part in student activities at R.A. Long and Mark Morris High School under the guidelines and regulations required of all students of the Longview School District.
ASB Cards – must be purchased at the high school of the student’s boundary address. The price of an ASB Card is $45.00. The ASB card entitles the holder to attend home athletic events (excluding league playoff games and district tournaments), receive reduced prices on away games and reduced admission to school dances. Your ASB card must be presented at the activity you are attending. Lists will not be available once ASB cards are issued. ASB cards may be purchased in the ASB Offices at R.A. Long and Mark Morris High School; refunds cannot be made once they are purchased. Replacement cost for a lost ASB card is $5.00.
Assemblies -Students at Discovery High School are not allowed to attend assemblies at R.A. Long or Mark Morris High School unless they are attending class at that building during the period when the assembly is being held.
Publicity - All posters and banners must be approved by the administration prior to posting.
Student Conduct - AKA – Be Cool or Fake It - All students are expected to conduct themselves according to acceptable standards at all school sponsored activities . Any student attending a school district activity, in district or away, will be subject to the building disciplinary code. See Policy 2151.
School Dances
School Dances
Discovery High School students are allowed to attend a dance at Mark Morris and R.A. Long High School if it is at the high school in the district boundary where they live, and they have completed a Dance Pass with Discovery High School administration and the administration at the other high school. Students are required to follow the rules and regulations for the school dance they are attending. Students are encouraged to learn about the requirements at each building to ensure that they are able to meet and follow all rules and regulations for that high school’s dance. Students failing to follow these regulations may be restricted from attending future dances at the request of the high school administration of the building hosting the dance. Scheduled school dances for each of the other high schools will be posted on the daily electronic bulletin.
Dance Behavior
Dances are sponsored as fundraisers for clubs and classes. Always remember that dances are a privilege to attend. There is to be no aggressive dancing, no bumping and/or grinding. Dancers will be given one warning of a violation. A second violation will result in being removed from the dance.
Dance Passes
Guest passes will be allowed at specific identified dances. Guest passes must be completed and returned to the administration no later than the Friday PRIOR to ticket sales. Guest passes that do not have all information completed (including signatures) will not be accepted. NO EXCEPTIONS!!!!!!!!!
TOLO, Winter Ball, Prom
- Pre-paid ticket list. The sponsoring club determines cost. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
- One member of the couple must be a student in that high school’s boundary, and a guest must have a completed guest pass on file.
- No one admitted after 10:00 pm. Students are not allowed to leave the dance and return.
- All school rules apply.
Guests: For Tolo and Winterball, all guests must be currently attending high school. Prom guests must be 20 years old or younger and meet the criteria below.
- Currently enrolled/in good standing in another high school OR
- Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
(MUST MEET WITH ADMINISTRATION PRIOR TO PASS BEING APPROVED) NO EXCEPTIONS!
PROM
Mark Morris, R.A. Long and Discovery High School will be hosting a combined prom. Discovery High School students must complete a dance pass with administration in order to attend according to the rules and regulations for students at the other high schools.
Student Athletics
Eligibility: In order to participate as a member of one of the district athletic teams a student must:
- Attend on a regular basis.
- Have an active physical card on file with the ASB Office.
- Abide with rules of the athletic/activity code of conduct. (See Athletic Handbook).
- Have either personal family medical insurance coverage and/or insurance purchased at school.
- Pay the determined Pay-to Play fee per sport ($40 per sport)
- Purchase an ASB Card. ($45)
- Have a signed “Athletic & Medical Emergency Authorization Form” on file in the ASB Office. This includes a signed code of conduct statement and consent of parent.
- Have a signed safety guidelines form on file in ASB office for each sport the athlete participates in.
- Have assigned concussion information form on file in the ASB office.
- Meet state and local scholastic requirements.
- Be enrolled in a minimum of five classes per day.
- Attend “Preparation for Success” after school
Insurance: All athletes are required to be covered by insurance, either through the school or by their family’s policy. Proof of coverage must be on file with the ASB Office.
All students are encouraged to take out accident insurance with the school if they are not covered by a family policy. The school cannot assume financial responsibility for accidents students have at school. If medical insurance changes during the school year, the ASB Office must be informed of the change.
Participation: All students who are interested have equal opportunity to participate in the sport or activity of their choice.
Pay to Participate: Each sport = $60, except football = $75
Physical Exams: All athletes must have a physical examination prior to the start of a sports season. Physicals are valid for two years from the date of the physical.
Training Rules: Training rules are mandated by the Longview District Athletic Code. These rules will be given to athletes by their coaches at the beginning of each sports season.
Interscholastic: Five schools make up the AA division of the Greater St. Helens League competing in football, cross country, volleyball, swimming, basketball, wrestling, track, baseball, tennis, girls’ bowling, golf, fast pitch, and soccer. The member schools are: R. A. Long, Mark Morris, Washougal, Woodland, Hudson’s Bay, Ridgefield, and Hockinson.
Admission Prices for Home Athletic Events
Family passes are available for some sports, please see the athletic secretary at your boundary high school for information about or to purchase family/individual athletic passes. Family passes admit middle school aged students and younger when accompanied by a parent. Admission prices for tournaments or playoff games may vary from the ticket prices listed below.
Football |
Varsity |
Student with ASB Card |
Free |
Adults & Students with NO ASB Card |
$5.00 |
Senior Citizens, Elementary Students, Visiting students with ASB card |
$4.00 |
Wrestling |
Varsity & JV |
Student with ASB Card |
Free |
Adults and Students with NO ASB Card |
$5.00 |
Senior Citizens, Elementary Students, Visiting students with ASB card |
$4.00 |
Volleyball and Basketball |
Varsity & JV |
C-Squad |
Student with ASB Card |
Free |
Free |
Adults & Students with NO ASB Card |
$5.00 |
$4.00 |
Senior Citizens, Elementary Students, Visiting students with ASB card |
$4.00 |
$4.00 |
OSPI Model Student Handbook Language
HIB, Nondiscrimination Policy, & Gender Inclusive Schools
- 1. Our Schools Protect Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)
- What is HIB?
- How can I make a report or complaint about HIB?
- What happens after I make a report about HIB?
- What is the investigation process?
- What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?
- 2. Our School Stands Against Discrimination
- What is discriminatory harassment?
- What is sexual harassment?
- What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?
- What can I do if I’m concerned about discrimination or harassment?
- What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?
- What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?
- Who else can help with HIB or Discrimination Concerns?
- 3. Our School is Gender-Inclusive
1. Our Schools Protect Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)
Schools are meant to be safe and inclusive environments where all students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities. This section defines HIB, explains what to do when you see or experience it, and our school’s process for responding to it.
What is HIB?
HIB is any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act of a student that:
- Physically harms another student or damages their property;
- Has the effect of greatly interfering with another student’s education; or,
- Is so severe, persistent, or significant that it creates an intimidating or threatening education environment for other students.
HIB generally involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated. HIB is not allowed, by law, in our schools.
How can I make a report or complaint about HIB?
Talk to any school staff member (consider starting with whoever you are most comfortable with!). You may use our district’s reporting form to share concerns about HIB (https://www.longviewschools.com/fs/resource- manager/view/d199e7e5-60e4-4ffe-b989-2a9d8b9a3850) but reports about HIB can be made in writing or verbally. Your report can made anonymously, if you are uncomfortable revealing your identity, or confidentially if you prefer it not be shared with other students involved with the report. No disciplinary action will be taken against another student based solely on an anonymous or confidential report. If a staff member is notified of, observes, overhears, or otherwise witnesses HIB, they must take prompt and appropriate action to stop the HIB behavior and to prevent it from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer (Penny Andrews, Director of Human Resources, 360.575.7004 pandrews@longview.k12.wa.us) that supports prevention and response to HIB.
What happens after I make a report about HIB?
If you report HIB, school staff must attempt to resolve the concerns. If the concerns are resolved, then no further action may be necessary. However, if you feel that you or someone you know is the victim of unresolved, severe, or persistent HIB that requires further investigation and action, then you should request an official HIB investigation.
Also, the school must take action to ensure that those who report HIB don’t experience retaliation.
What is the investigation process?
When you report a complaint, the HIB Compliance Officer or staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved with the complaint and must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 5 school days, unless you agree on a different timeline. If your complaint involves circumstances that require a longer investigation, the district will notify you with the anticipated date for their response.
When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must provide you with the outcomes of the investigation within 2 school days. This response should include:
- A summary of the results of the investigation
- A determination of whether the HIB is substantiated
- Any corrective measures or remedies needed
- Clear information about how you can appeal the decision
What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?
For the student designated as the “targeted student” in a complaint: If you do not agree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal the decision and include any additional information regarding the complaint to the superintendent, or the person assigned to lead the appeal, and then to the school board.
For the student designated as the “aggressor” in a complaint: A student found to be an “aggressor” in a HIB complaint may not appeal the decision of a HIB investigation. They can, however, appeal corrective actions that result from the findings of the HIB investigation.
For more information about the HIB complaint process, including important timelines, please see the district’s https://www.longviewschools.com/family-resources/bullying-online- conduct or the district’s HIB Policy [3207] and Procedure [3207P].
2. Our School Stands Against Discrimination
Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because they are part of a protected class, including their race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, creed, disability, use of a service animal, or veteran or military status.
What is discriminatory harassment?
Discriminatory harassment can include teasing and name-calling; graphic and written statements; or other conduct that may be physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Discriminatory harassment happens when the conduct is based on a student’s protected class and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when conduct is so severe, pervasive, or persistent that it limits a student’s ability to participate in, or benefit from, the school’s services, activities, or opportunities.
To review the district’s Nondiscrimination Policy [3210] and Procedure [3210P], visit [https://www.longviewschools.com/about/policies- procedures].
What is sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct or communication that is sexual in nature and substantially interferes with a student's educational performance or creates an intimidating or hostile environment. Sexual harassment can also occur when a student is led to believe they must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or communication to gain something in return, such as a grade or a place on a sports team.
Examples of sexual harassment can include pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors; unwelcome touching of a sexual nature; graphic or written statements of a sexual nature; distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures; making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks; and physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.
Our schools do not discriminate based on sex and prohibit sex discrimination in all of our education programs and employment, as required by Title IX and state law.
To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy [3205] and Procedure [3205P], visit [https://www.longviewschools.com/about/policies- procedures].
What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?
When a school becomes aware of possible discriminatory or sexual harassment, it must investigate and stop the harassment. The school must address any effects the harassment had on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and make sure that the harassment does not happen again.
What can I do if I’m concerned about discrimination or harassment?
Talk to a Coordinator or submit a written complaint. You may contact the following school district staff members to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns.
Concerns about discrimination: Civil Rights Coordinator: Penny Andrews, Director of Human Resources 360.575.7004 pandrews@longview.k12.wa.us
Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment: Title IX Coordinator: Penny Andrews, Director of Human Resources 360.575.7004 pandrews@longview.k12.wa.us
Concerns about disability discrimination: Section 504 Coordinator: Kari Montgomery, Executive Director of Teaching & Learning 360.575.7980 kmontgomery@longview.k12.wa.us
Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity: Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Kari Montgomery, Executive Director of Teaching & Learning 360.575.7980 kmontgomery@longview.k12.wa.us
To submit a written complaint, describe the conduct or incident that may be discriminatory and send it by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery to the school principal, district superintendent, or civil rights coordinator. Submit the complaint as soon as possible for a prompt investigation, and within one year of the conduct or incident.
What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?
The Civil Rights Coordinator will give you a copy of the school district’s discrimination complaint procedure. The Civil Rights Coordinator must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that require a longer investigation, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing with the anticipated date for their response.
When the investigation is complete, the school district superintendent or the staff member leading the investigation will send you a written response. This response will include:
- A summary of the results of the investigation
- A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws
- Any corrective measures or remedies needed
- Notice about how you can appeal the decision
What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?
If you do not agree with the outcome of your complaint, you may appeal the decision to the district board of directors and then to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). More information about this process, including important timelines, is included in the district’s Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and Sexual Harassment Procedure (3205P).
I already submitted an HIB complaint – what will my school do? Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) can also be discrimination if it's related to a protected class. If you give your school a written report of HIB that involves discrimination or sexual harassment, your school will notify the Civil Rights Coordinator. The school district will investigate the complaint using both the Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and the HIB Procedure (3207P) to fully resolve your complaint.
Who else can help with HIB or Discrimination Concerns?
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) All reports must start locally at the school or district level. However, OSPI can assist students, families, communities, and school staff with questions about state law, the HIB complaint process, and the discrimination and sexual harassment complaint processes.
OSPI School Safety Center (For questions about harassment, intimidation, and bullying)
- Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/health- safety/school-safety-center
- Email: schoolsafety@k12.wa.us
- Phone: 360-725-6068
OSPI Equity and Civil Rights Office (For questions about discrimination and sexual harassment)
- Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/policy-funding/equity-and-civil- rights
- Email: equity@k12.wa.us
- Phone: 360-725-6162
Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO) The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds works with families, communities, and schools to address problems together so every student can fully participate and thrive in Washington’s K-12 public schools. OEO provides informal conflict resolution tools, coaching, facilitation, and training about family, community engagement, and systems advocacy.
- Website: www.oeo.wa.gov
- Email: oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov
- Phone: 1-866-297-2597
U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces federal nondiscrimination laws in public schools, including those that prohibit discrimination based on sex, race, color, national origin, disability, and age. OCR also has a discrimination complaint process.
- Website: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html
- Email: orc@ed.gov
- Phone: 800-421-3481
3. Our School is Gender-Inclusive
In Washington, all students have the right to be treated consistent with their gender identity at school. Our school will:
- Address students by their requested name and pronouns, with or without a legal name change
- Change a student’s gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records
- Allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity
- Allow students to participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips in accordance with their gender identity
- Keep health and education information confidential and private
- Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and apply dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender
- Protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity
To review the district’s Gender-Inclusive Schools Policy [3211] and Procedure [3211P], visit [https://www.longviewschools.com/about/policies-procedures]. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Tony VanderMaas, Assistant Superintendent, tvandermaas@longview.k12.wa.us 360-575-7021
For concerns about discrimination or discriminatory harassment based on gender identity or gender expression, please see the information above.