J - Students

JA 

Goals and Objectives  

These student policies are designed to prevent misunderstanding by students about their rights and  responsibilities. The ideas and recommendations of students shall be considered when adopting policies, rules,  and regulations governing the conduct of students and their rights and responsibilities. 

All student handbooks shall be consistent with board policy, approved by the board, and adopted, by reference,  as a part of these policies and regulations. 

Policy Reference: BDA

Policy Reference: CM

Policy Reference: GAA

Policy Reference: JCDA

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/209; 03/08/2016; 07/11/2022

 

JB 

Attendance Records 

Daily attendance records shall be maintained for each student in each school.  The primary responsibility for recording attendance shall be assigned to teachers using forms prescribed by the superintendent.  A cumulative attendance record for each student shall also be maintained

The superintendent shall include attendance data in an annual report to the board.  Attendance problems shall result in disciplinary action and/or truancy reporting, as appropriate, and shall be reported to the board as necessary.

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016 

 

JBC 
Enrollment  
(See IIBGB, JBCA, JBCB, JBCC, and JQKA)

Resident Students
A “resident student” is any student who has attained the age of eligibility for school attendance and lives with a parent or a person acting as a parent who is a resident of the district.  For purposes of this policy, “parent” means the natural parents, adoptive parents, step-parents, and foster parents.  For purposes of this policy, “person acting as a parent” means a guardian or conservator, a person liable by law to care for or support the child, a person who has actual care and control of the child and provides a major portion of support, or a person who has actual care and control of the child with written consent of a person who has legal custody of the child.

Homeless Students
Any student who has attained the age of eligibility for school attendance may attend school in the district where the student resides or is staying if the student is homeless as defined by law. Details concerning the education of homeless students may be found in board policy JBCA.

Foster Students
Any student in the custody of the Secretary of the Department for Children and Families (“DCF”) who has attained the age of eligibility for school attendance shall be permitted to enroll in and attend school in any school district of the state or remain enrolled in and continue attending school in the student’s school of origin.

If a court or DCF changes the placement of a student across a school boundary within the school district, the student shall be permitted to:

• enroll in and attend the school where the student is placed; or
• remain enrolled in and continue attending the student’s school of origin.

DCF shall determine the child’s enrollment and attendance based on the best interests of the child. The district shall not deny or delay enrollment and attendance of any foster student whose placement has changed on the basis that the school district or school is not in possession of the student’s educational records.Details concerning the education of foster students may be found in board policy JBCB.

Nonresident Students
Details concerning the enrollment and continued enrollment process for nonresident students may be found in board policy JBCC.

Military Students
Details concerning the enrollment and attendance of military students, as defined in state law, may be found in board policy JBCD.

Enrollment Restriction
Unless approved in advance by the board, no student, regardless of residency, who has been suspended or expelled from another school district will be admitted to the district until the period of such suspension or expulsion has expired.

Enrollment Procedures
The superintendent shall establish orderly procedures for enrolling all students, including pre-enrollment, changes in enrollment, normal enrollment times, and communication to parents and to the public.

Part-Time Students
The board allows any child to enroll part-time in the school district to allow the student to attend any courses, programs, or services offered by the school district if the child:

• Is also enrolled in a nonaccredited private elementary or secondary school or in any other private, denominational, or parochial school as required by law;
• requests to enroll part-time in the school district; and
• meets the age of eligibility requirements for school attendance.

District administrators shall make a good faith attempt to accommodate scheduling requests of students enrolling in the school district in these situations but shall not be required to make adjustments to accommodate every such request.

Part-time students, other than those specified previously in this policy may enroll with the administration’s permission if they complete all paperwork in a timely fashion and are in attendance no later than first day of school.  Such part-time students may be admitted only to the extent that staff, facilities, equipment, and supplies are available, and the students follow the district’s student conduct policies and rules.

Identification of Students
All students enrolling in the district for the first time shall provide required proof of identity.  Students enrolling in kindergarten or first grade shall provide a certified copy of their birth certificate, a certified copy of the court order placing the child in the custody of DCF, or other documentation which the board determines to be satisfactory. Students enrolling in grades 2-12 shall provide a certified transcript, similar pupil records or data, or other documentary evidence the board deems satisfactory. 

The above requirements are not to serve as barriers to immediate enrollment of students designated as homeless or foster children as required by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the McKinney-Vento Act as amended by ESSA. The district shall work with DCF, the school last attended, or other relevant agencies to obtain necessary enrollment documentation.

If proper proof of identity is not provided within 30 days of enrolling, the superintendent shall notify local law enforcement officials as required by law and shall not notify any person claiming custody of the child.

Enrollment Information
The enrollment documentation shall include a student’s permanent record card with a student’s legal name as it appears on the birth certificate or as changed by a court order and the name, address, and telephone number of the lawful custodian.  The records shall also provide proper proof of identity. 

Assignment to a School Building, Grade Level, or Classes
Unless otherwise provided herein, the superintendent shall assign students to the appropriate building.  Any student desiring to attend a school outside the attendance area in which the student resides may do so only with the prior written permission of the superintendent.          

Assignment to a particular grade level or particular classes shall be determined by the building principal based on the educational abilities of the student.  If the parents disagree, the principal’s decision may be appealed to the superintendent.  If the parents are still dissatisfied with the assignment, they may appeal in writing to the board.

Transferring Credit
In middle school and high school, full faith and credit shall be given to units earned in other accredited schools at the time the student enrolls in the district, unless the principal determines there is valid reason for not doing so.  For online credit approval procedures after enrollment, see board policy IIBGB.

Transfers from Non-Accredited Schools
Students transferring from non-accredited schools will be placed by the principal.  Initial placement will be made by the principal after consultation with parents or guardians and guidance personnel.  Final placement shall be made by the principal based on the student’s documented past educational experiences and performance on tests administered to determine grade level placement.

Grades K-5 Placement (School Choice) 
All in-coming kindergarteners and new students entering or re-entering USD 443 in grades K-5 shall be subject  to the enrollment guidelines of School Choice. While this plan focuses on the kindergarten level and students  new to the community, students who presently attend one of the elementary schools and wish to change their  school assignment should register in the School Choice process. The district provides for parental choice among the district’s elementary attendance centers through registration and a subsequent assignment process to  achieve appropriate class-size balance in accordance with district grade level averages. This registration period  will be conducted annually in the spring.  

A computerized lottery process is used to implement School Choice with parents registering their first, second and third choice schools in order of preference, providing integrity to the selection process and ensuring equal opportunity for selection among all applicants.  

Parents registering their child during the annual registration period will be notified by mail of their child’s school assignment. Any student in grades K-5 who registers after the lottery deadline will be assigned to a school through the School Choice process on a first-come, first-served basis. Students failing to complete  enrollment at their assigned school by the annual K-5 enrollment date forfeit their current school assignment and must re-enter the School Choice process.  

Siblings 
Siblings of students attending a USD 443 elementary school will be “grandfathered” or assigned to the same school for the coming school year, as long as:  

• Class size and available space guidelines are met  
• The student registers during the lottery period each spring, and  
• The student completes the enrollment process by the established enrollment date. 

Waiting Lists 
K-5 students not receiving their first-choice school assignment will be placed in a waiting list in the order their registration was received/processed. The waiting list will be maintained from year to year.  

Transfers 
Once a student is assigned to a school through School Choice registration following the annual K-5 enrollment date, that student must remain at the assigned school on the waiting list until a transfer is available. Transfers,  if available considering class size, are honored at the end of each quarter. Transfers will be limited to one per school year.

 
USD 443 Regulation - Feeder Schools  
Grades 6 – 8 Placement  

Grades 6-8 Placement - Feeder Schools 
All students entering sixth grade from the district’s K-5 elementary schools, will be assigned to a 6-8 middle school by feeder schools. These schools have been grouped to provide balance.  
The feeder schools for each middle school shall be:  

• Comanche MS: Beeson, Central, Ross & Soule
• Dodge City MS: Linn, Miller, Northwest & Sunnyside

Students enrolled in fifth, sixth or seventh grade for the previous school year will be assigned based upon each student’s fourth grade school assignment. If a student did not attend a district K-4 elementary school but has siblings attending a district K-4 elementary school, he/she will be assigned based upon the sibling’s school.  

Students new to the district, having never attended a district K-5 elementary school, will be assigned to a middle school through a random-selection process based on available classroom space in each building.  Consideration for placement shall include maintaining a balanced enrollment between the two middle schools  and the placement of K-5 siblings.  

Middle school students reentering the district from any non-district school, who previously attended a K-5  school in the district, will be assigned to a middle school as a new student to the district.  

Middle School Transfers Students desiring transfer to a different middle school must file a transfer request  with the Superintendent of Schools. Transfers will only be approved for extreme and extenuating circumstances.  

KHSAA eligibility (residence) requirements will apply to transfer students.  

Students of Staff Members Students with a parent/guardian working in a building will have priority for  placement at that particular building, contingent upon class size and available space guidelines.  

Policy Reference: IIBGB

Policy References: JBCA, JBCB, JBCC and JQKA

Adoption Date: 04/28/2003, Revised: 06/08/2009; 11/14/2011; 08/12/2013; 04/13/2015; 08/10/2015;  3/08/2016; 02/13/2017; 10/09/2017; 07/08/2019; 07/11/2022; 06/26/2023; 11/13/2023; 6/2025
 

JBCA  

Homeless Students  

The district, in accordance with state and federal law and the Kansas state plan will ensure that homeless children in the school district have access to a free and appropriate public education. Homeless students are individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. For the purposes of this policy, a student awaiting foster care placement shall not be considered homeless.  

The board shall designate a homeless coordinator for the district. 

Homeless Students Regulations  
(Required by Federal and State Law)  

Homeless students shall, by definition, include the following:  

1. Children and youth who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; or are abandoned in hospitals.  
2. Children and youth who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designated for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings.  
3. Children and youth who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings.  
4. Migratory children who meet one of the above-described circumstances.  

Enrollment/Placement (See JBC)  
The district, according to the child’s or youth’s best interest, shall either continue the child’s or youth’s education in the school of origin for the duration of homelessness in any case in which:  1. a family becomes homeless between academic years or during an academic year; and  2. for the remainder of the academic year, if the child or youth becomes permanently   housed during an academic year; or enroll the child or youth in any public school that  non-homeless students who live in the attendance area in which the child or youth is  actually living are eligible to attend. 

School Stability  
In determining the best interest of the child or youth, the district homeless student coordinator shall: 

1. presume that keeping the child or youth in the school of origin is in the child’s or youth’s best interest, except when doing so is contrary to the request of the child’s or youth’s   parent or guardian, or (in the case of an unaccompanied youth) the youth;  
2. consider student-centered factors related to the child’s or youth’s best interest, including factors related to the impact of mobility on achievement, education, health, and safety of homeless children  and youth, giving priority to the request of the child’s or youth’s parent or guardian or (in the case of  an unaccompanied youth) the youth;  
3. if, after conducting the best interest determination based on consideration of the presumption in clause (1) and the student-centered factors in clause (2), it is determined that it is not in the child’s or youth’s best interest to attend the school of origin or the school requested by the parent or guardian, or (in the case of an unaccompanied youth) the youth, provide the child’s or youth’s parent or guardian or the unaccompanied youth with a written explanation of the reasons for its determination, in a manner and form understandable to such parent, guardian, or unaccompanied youth, including information regarding the right to appeal such determination; and  
4. in the case of an unaccompanied youth, ensure that the district homeless student liaison assists in placement or enrollment decisions under this subparagraph, gives priority to the views of such unaccompanied youth, and provides notice to such youth of   the right to appeal.  

Immediate Enrollment  
The school selected shall immediately enroll the homeless child or youth, even if the child or youth: 

1. is unable to produce records normally required for enrollment, such as previous academic records, records of immunization and other required health records, proof of  residency, or other documentation; or  
2. has missed application or enrollment deadlines during any period of homelessness.  

Relevant Academic Records  
The enrolling school shall immediately contact the school last attended by the child or youth to obtain  relevant academic and other records.  

Relevant Health Records  
If the child or youth needs to obtain immunizations or other required health records, the enrolling school shall immediately refer the parent or guardian of the child or youth, or (in the case of an unaccompanied youth) the  youth, to the district homeless student coordinator, who shall assist in obtaining necessary immunizations or  screenings, or immunization or other required health records.  

Records  
Any record ordinarily kept by the school, including immunization or other required health records, academic  records, birth certificates, guardianship records, and evaluations for special services or programs, regarding  each homeless child or youth shall be maintained so that the records involved are available, in a timely  fashion, when a child or youth enters a new school or school district and in a manner consistent with the  Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. (See policies JR through JRD.)  

Enrollment Disputes  
If a dispute arises over eligibility, school selection, or enrollment in a school:  

1. the child or youth shall be immediately enrolled in the school in which enrollment is sought (whether sought by the parent, guardian, or unaccompanied youth), pending final resolution of the dispute, including all available appeals;  
2. the parent or guardian of the child or youth or (in the case of an unaccompanied youth) the youth shall be provided with a written explanation of any decisions related to school selection or enrollment made by the school, the local educational agency, or the State educational agency involved, including the rights of the parent, guardian, or unaccompanied youth to appeal such decisions; and  
3. the parent, guardian, or unaccompanied youth shall be referred to the district homeless student coordinator, who shall carry out the dispute resolution process as expeditiously as possible after receiving notice of the dispute. 

Placement Choice  
The choice regarding placement shall be made regardless of whether the child or youth lives with the homeless parents or has been temporarily placed elsewhere. 

Privacy  
Information about a homeless child’s or youth’s living situation shall be treated as a student education record,  and shall not be deemed to be directory information, under policy JRB.  

Contact Information  
Nothing shall prohibit the district from requiring a parent or guardian of a homeless child or youth to submit  contact information.  

Definition  
The term “school of origin” means the school that a child or youth attended when permanently housed or the  school in which the child or youth was last enrolled, including a preschool.  

When the child or youth completes the final grade level served by the school of origin, the term “school of  origin” shall include the designated receiving school at the next grade level for all feeder schools.  

Comparable Services  
Each homeless child or youth shall be provided services comparable to services offered to other students in  the school selected, including:  

1. Transportation services;  
2. Educational services for which the child or youth meets the eligibility criteria, such as   services provided under title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 or similar State or local programs, educational programs for children with disabilities, and   educational programs for English learners;  
3. Programs in career and technical education;  
4. Programs for gifted and talented students; and  
5. School nutrition programs.  

Coordination  
The district shall coordinate the provision of services under these regulations with the Department for  Children and Families and other agencies or entities providing services to homeless children and youths and  their families, including services and programs funded under the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (42 U.S.C.  5701 et seq.), and transportation, transfer of school records, and other interdistrict activities, with other local  educational agencies.  

Housing Assistance  
If applicable, the district shall coordinate with state and local housing agencies responsible for developing the  comprehensive housing affordability strategy to minimize educational disruption for children and youths who  become homeless.  

The coordination required shall be designed to:  

1. ensure that all homeless children and youths are promptly identified;  
2. ensure that all homeless children and youths have access to, and are in reasonable  proximity to, available education and related support services; and  
3. raise the awareness of school personnel and service providers of the effects of short- term stays in a shelter and other challenges associated with homelessness. 

Homeless Children and Youths With Disabilities  
For children and youths who are both homeless and eligible for services under the Individuals with Disabilities  Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.), the district shall coordinate the provision of services under these regulations with the provision of programs for children with disabilities served by the district and other  involved local educational agencies.  

District Homeless Student Coordinator  
The board designates the following individual to act as the district’s homeless student coordinator:  State and Federal Programs Supervisor 
2112 First Avenue 
Dodge City, Kansas 67801  
(620) 471-2496 

The district shall inform school personnel, service providers, and advocates working with homeless families of  the duties of this coordinator.  

The district homeless student coordinator shall ensure:  

1. homeless children and youths are identified by school personnel through outreach and coordination activities with other entities and agencies;  
2. homeless children and youths are enrolled in, and have a full and equal opportunity to succeed in, district schools;  
3. homeless families and homeless children and youths have access to and receive educational services for which such families, children, and youths are eligible, including services through Head Start programs (including Early Head Start programs) under the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9831 et seq.), early intervention services under part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.), and other preschool programs administered by the local educational agency; 
4. homeless families and homeless children and youths receive referrals to health care services, dental services, mental health and substance abuse services, housing services, and other appropriate services;  
5. the parents or guardians of homeless children and youths are informed of the educational and related opportunities available to their children and are provided with meaningful opportunities to participate in the education of their children;  
6. public notice of the educational rights of homeless children and youths is disseminated in locations frequented by parents or guardians of such children and youths, and unaccompanied youths, including schools, shelters, public libraries, and soup kitchens, in a manner and form understandable to the parents and guardians of homeless children and youths, and unaccompanied youths;  
7. enrollment disputes are mediated in accordance with these regulations;  
8. the parent or guardian of a homeless child or youth, and any unaccompanied youth, is    
9. fully informed of all transportation services, including transportation to the school of origin, and is assisted in accessing transportation to the school that is selected;  
10. school personnel providing services under these regulations receive professional   development and other support; and  
11. unaccompanied youths:  
    1. are enrolled in school; 
    2. have opportunities to meet the same challenging state academic standards as  Kansas establishes for other children and youth; and  
    3. are informed of their status as independent students under federal law regarding student financial assistance for higher education acquisition and that the youths may obtain assistance from the district homeless student liaison to receive verification of such status for purposes of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.  

The coordinator shall also work with the state coordinator for education of homeless children and youth to  request and receive needed technical assistance and monitoring to ensure the district complies with federal  and state law regarding homeless students. Similarly, the coordinator will coordinate with the state coordinator in order to provide professional development opportunities for district personnel to aid them in  identifying and meeting the needs of homeless children and youths and will respond to inquiries from parents,  guardians, and homeless children and youths to ensure they are provided with the full protection of the law  and services they are due.  

Notice  
The district shall inform school personnel, service providers, advocates working with homeless families,  parents and guardians of homeless children and youths, and homeless children and youths of the duties of the  district homeless student coordinator, and publish annually updated contact information for the coordinator on the district’s website.  

Local and State Coordination 
The district homeless student coordinator, as a part of assigned duties, shall coordinate and collaborate with  state coordinators, the community, and school personnel responsible for the provision of education and  related services to homeless children and youths. Such coordination shall include collecting and providing to  the state coordinator the reliable, valid, and comprehensive data.  

Homeless Status  
The district homeless student coordinator may affirm, without further agency action by the Department of  Housing and Urban Development, that a child or youth who is eligible for and participating in a program  provided by the district, or the immediate family of such a child or youth, who meets the eligibility requirements, is eligible for such program or service.  

Dispute Resolution Process  
A complaint regarding the placement or education of a homeless child or youth shall first be presented orally  and informally to the district’s homeless coordinator. If the complaint is not promptly resolved, the  complainant may present a formal written complaint (grievance) to the homeless student coordinator. The  written complaint must include the following information: date of filing, description of concerns, the name of  the person or persons involved, and a recapitulation of the action taken during the informal charge stage.  Within five (5) working days after receiving the complaint, the coordinator shall state a decision in writing to  the complainant, with supporting evidence and reasons. In addition, the coordinator will inform the  superintendent of the formal complaint and the disposition.  

Transportation (See EDAA, JBC and JGG)  
If it is in the best interest of the homeless child or youth to attend the school of origin, transportation to and  from that school will be provided at the request of the parent or guardian or, in the case of an unaccompanied  youth, the homeless coordinator. If the student’s temporary housing is outside the attendance area of the  school of origin, then the district will work with the school of origin to agree on a method to apportion the  responsibility and costs for transporting the child. If an agreement cannot be reached, the costs will be shared  equally. 

Complaint  
(Assignment to a School Other than School of Origin/School Requested by the Parent)  

After reviewing the situation, it would be in the best interest of your child or youth to be educated at  ___________________________ (school). 

 Explanation of decision:  

If you so choose, you may appeal this decision in the following manner:  
You may verbally and informally state your complaint to the district’s homeless student liaison/coordinator. If  the complaint is not promptly resolved, you may complain in writing to the homeless district homeless student  coordinator. You must include the following information:  

• date of filing, description of the complaint,  
• the name of the person or persons involved, and  
• an explanation of the action taken during the informal charge stage.  

Within five (5) working days after receiving the complaint, the coordinator will provide you a written decision,  with supporting evidence and reasons. In addition, the coordinator will inform the superintendent of the formal complaint and the result. 

Policy Reference: EDAA

Policy Reference: JBC

Adoption Date: 12/08/2003, Revised: 06/08/2009; 02/13/2017

 

JBCB 

Foster Care Students 

(See EDAA, JBC, JBCA, and JRB)

The district, in accordance with state and federal law and the Kansas state plan, will ensure students placed in foster care within the school district have access to a public education in a stable educational environment.  For the purposes of this policy and its applicable regulations, “foster care” means 24-hour substitute care for children placed away from their parents and for whom a child welfare agency has placement and care duties. 

Point of Contact
The board shall designate an employee to serve as a point of contact for child welfare agencies on behalf of the district.

Mobile Crisis Helpline
Crisis support for Kansas families and children to resolve an emotional, psychiatric, or behavioral health crisis is available through the Department of Children and Families Mobile Crisis Helpline, 1-833-441-2240, including:

• Problem solving to resolve behavioral health crisis;
• Referral to community resources or recommendation to engage in stabilization services;
  
• In-person support via mobile crisis response; and
• Contacting mobile crisis response unit to assist in emergency situations.

Services are available to all Kansans 20 years or younger including anyone in foster care or formerly in foster care.

Enrollment and Attendance in School
Foster students will be enrolled in and attend school as outlined in policy JBC.

Transfer of Records
The expedited transfer of student records for students experiencing a change in placement within the foster care system is covered in policy JRB.

Adoption Date: 02/13/2017, Revised 01/10/2022; 7/2026;

 

JBCC

Enrollment of Nonresident Students

(See JBC, JBCA, JBCB, and JQKA)

Kansas law requires the board to allow nonresident students to enroll in and attend the schools of the district if the board’s capacity determination finds there are open seats for such students.  In order to determine the district’s capacity to accept nonresident students at each grade level in each district school, the board has adopted this policy.

Details concerning the nonresident enrollment and continued enrollment processes for nonresident students may be found in this policy, while general processes on enrollment documentation, assignment to buildings and classes, etc., may be found in board policy JBC.

This policy does not apply to any virtual school, as defined by Kansas law, or to any school located on a military installation.  

Any child who is experiencing homelessness shall be permitted to enroll in and attend the school district of origin or the school district of residence without application and acceptance through this policy.

Any student in custody of the Department for Children and Families who has attained the age of eligibility for school attendance shall be permitted to enroll in and attend any school in any school district of the state or remain enrolled in and continue attending school in the student’s school of origin without application and acceptance through this policy.

Any foreign exchange student who resides, or will reside, with a host family in the district may be permitted to enroll in and attend school in the district as if the student were a resident and shall not be subjected to the open-seat lottery for enrollment and attendance purposes.

Definitions
For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply.

“Homeless child” means a child who lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence and whose primary nighttime residence is:

• A supervised publicly or privately operated shelter designed to provide temporary living accommodations, including welfare hotels, congregate shelters and transitional housing for the mentally ill;
• an institution that provides a temporary residence for individuals intended to be institutionalized; or
• a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for humans.

Except as otherwise provided in this policy, “nonresident student” means a child of school age, pursuant to Kansas law, who resides in Kansas and is enrolled and in attendance at or seeking to enroll and attend a school located in a district where such student is not a resident.

“Parent” means and includes natural parents, adoptive parents, stepparents, and foster parents.

“Person acting as parent” means:

• A guardian or conservator; or
• a person, other than a parent, who:
• Is liable by law to maintain, care for or support the child;
• has actual care and control of the child and is contributing the major portion of the cost of support of the child;
• has actual care and control of the child with the written consent of a person who has legal custody of the child; or
• has been granted custody of the child by a court of competent jurisdiction.

“Receiving school district” means a school district of nonresidence of a student who attends school in such school district.

“Sibling” means a brother or sister of the whole or half blood, adoptive brother or sister, a stepbrother or stepsister or a foster brother or foster sister.

Determining Capacity for Nonresident Enrollment
The superintendent or designee has the responsibility for studying capacity in each school of the school district and at each grade level within each school and for making recommendations to the board regarding the district’s capacity to accept nonresident students.  To make recommendations to the board to assist with determining capacity, the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee(s) shall do the following.   

The superintendent or designee shall develop recommendations on capacity and classroom student-to-teacher ratios in each grade level in each school serving kindergarten students and students in grades one through eight.  Such recommendations may be based on, but not be limited to, the following factors:

• Present classroom student-teacher ratios in each grade level in each school;
• projected enrollment shifts based on the resident student population, which may include a percentage adjustment for anticipated growth or decline based on documented enrollment trends; and
• maximum capacity of the classroom and associated learning, activity, and common area spaces.

The superintendent or designee shall develop recommendations on capacity and student-to-teacher ratios for each school building or program serving students in grades nine through twelve.  Such recommendations may be based on, but not be limited to, the following factors:

• Present building or program student-teacher ratios;
• projected enrollment shifts based on the resident student population, which may include a percentage adjustment for anticipated growth or decline based on documented enrollment trends;
• anticipated demand for particular courses or programming; and
• maximum capacity of the classroom and associated learning, activity, and common area spaces.

On or before May 1st of each year, the superintendent shall present the recommendations concerning capacity and student-to-teacher ratios to the board for adoption or modification, and the board shall determine, for each grade level in each school building of the school district for the next succeeding school year, the following:

• Capacity based on the study conducted by the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee; 
• the number of students expected to attend school in the school district; and
• the number of open seats available to nonresidents at each grade, building, or program level.

On or before June 1st of each year, the district shall publish the number of open seats available to nonresident students in each grade level for each school building of the district for the next succeeding school year on the school district’s website.

From January 1st through June 15th, district administration shall accept applications from nonresident students seeking to enroll in and attend the district in the next school year. 

If the number of applications for a grade level in a school building is fewer than the number of available seats for that grade level in the school building, the nonresident students shall be accepted for enrollment and attendance at the school district, unless the nonresident student is deemed not in good standing.

If the number of applications for a grade level in a school building is greater than the number of available seats for the grade level in the school building, district administration shall randomly select nonresident students deemed in good standing using a confidential, open-seat lottery process. This process shall be completed on or before July 15th of each year.

The district shall provide to the parent or person acting as a parent of a nonresident student who was not accepted for or denied enrollment at such school district the reason for the nonacceptance or denial and an explanation of the nonresident student selection process on or before July 30th of each year.

Priority in Filling Open Seats
Regardless of capacity determinations, any nonresident student whose parent or person acting as parent is employed by the district shall be allowed to enroll as if a resident student while the parent or person acting as a parent remains employed by the district, and the student is deemed to be in good standing by district administration.

Subject to having capacity to enroll nonresident students, the district shall give priority in enrollment to the following nonresident students deemed in good standing to enroll.  These students shall receive open seats without necessity of being selected through any open-seat lottery: 

• Any sibling of a nonresident student who is enrolled in and attending school in the district or who is accepted to enroll in and attend school in the district, with priority given when the nonresident student is first accepted and, if necessary, at any other time the district considers transfer applications; and
• any nonresident student who is a military student as defined in K.S.A. 72-5139, with priority given when the student is first accepted and, if necessary, at any other time the district considers transfer applications.

If one of these exceptions no longer applies to the student, the student’s enrollment status would be subject to review based upon the considerations for determining good standing in this policy.

Prohibitions Regarding Open Enrollment Provisions of this Policy
The district shall not:

• Charge tuition or fees to any nonresident student who transfers to the district pursuant to this policy, except fees that are otherwise charged to every student enrolled in and attending school in the district; or
• accept or deny a nonresident student transfer based on ethnicity; national origin; gender; income level; disabling condition; proficiency in the English language; or measure of achievement, aptitude, or athletic ability.

Except for a child in the custody of the Department for Children and Families or a child who is experiencing homelessness, a nonresident student shall not transfer more than once per school year to one or more receiving school districts pursuant to the provisions of this policy or authorizing Kansas law.

Transportation of Students
Neither a resident school district nor a receiving school district shall be required to provide transportation to nonresident students unless otherwise required by applicable law.  If space is available on district transportation vehicles, the district may assign nonresident students an in-district bus stop to and from which transportation may be provided by the district for nonresident students.  The receiving district may provide transportation from the student’s residence by notifying the sending district of the receiving district’s intent to provide transportation. The district shall ensure that transportation for nonresident homeless students is provided comparably to that of housed students.

KSHSAA Eligibility
Nothing in this policy or state law shall exempt a nonresident student who transfers into the district from the requirements of the Kansas State High School Activities Association (“KSHSAA”) regarding eligibility to participate in KSHSAA activities.

Information Share with the Kansas State Department of Education
The superintendent shall annually submit, or have submitted, to the Kansas State Department of Education this policy, the number of nonresident student transfers approved and denied in each grade level, and whether the denials were based on capacity or in accordance with the policy’s terms.

Nonresident Student Continued Enrollment
A nonresident student who has been accepted for enrollment and attendance at a district school shall be permitted to continue enrollment and attendance in the district until such student graduates from high school, reaches the age of 21 (if the student is a student with an exceptionality, not solely eligible for gifted services under an individualized education program), or receives a G.E.D., unless such student is no longer deemed by district administration to be in good standing.

Except as otherwise specified herein, nonresident students who were enrolled in and attending the district during school year 2023-2024, who were attending the district as a resident student in 2023-2024 but have since moved out of the district, or who have been accepted for enrollment by the school district on or after June 1, 2024, will be allowed to continue enrollment in the district as specified above.  The district will not require parents of such students or adult or emancipated students to resubmit a new application each school year. 

Determining Good Standing
Regardless of capacity to accept nonresident students at a nonresident student’s grade level or in the student’s designated school or program, an individual student may be denied enrollment or continued enrollment for not being in good standing.  Nonresident student applicants for enrollment and nonresident students already enrolled in and attending school in the district shall be evaluated by district administration to determine standing for enrollment or continued enrollment.

Students may be denied enrollment or continued enrollment for the next school year based on the results of these evaluations.  However, if the student has a disability, the student’s ability to meet these expectations shall be considered prior to denying continued enrollment in the district.  Similarly, administration shall consider the adverse impact of homelessness on a student’s attendance and any resulting suspensions or expulsions before making a determination on the enrollment or continued enrollment of a student who is homeless. As part of this reflection, administration shall consider the obstacles a homeless student faces to arrive at school on time or each day due to housing instability, lack of transportation, or lack of other basic resources that can hinder consistent attendance.

A student meeting one or more of the following criteria shall automatically be deemed not in good standing and may be denied enrollment or continued enrollment based solely thereon.

• The nonresident student failed to maintain a 90% attendance rate in the last school year, excluding excused absences under board policy JBD and/or any relevant student handbook language;
• the nonresident student or the student’s parent or person acting as a parent provided false or fraudulent information in the application process;
• the nonresident student is not a Kansas resident;
• the student is currently under a period of suspension or expulsion from any Kansas school district, and such suspension or expulsion will not expire until after the next school year has begun.
• the student has had three or more out-of-school suspensions in the current school year, excluding suspensions determined to be a manifestation of the student’s disability or a failure on the part of school staff to implement an individualized education program, Section 504 plan, or behavior intervention plan; or
• the student has been given a long-term suspension or expulsion by a school district in the current school year.

Parents shall be informed of any administrative decision not to enroll or to discontinue enrollment of a nonresident student.

If district administration denies the enrollment application of a nonresident student due to the school district deeming the nonresident student as not in good standing, the parent or person acting as a parent of such student may appeal the decision to the board.  A current nonresident student who is determined not to be in good standing shall not be entitled to the appeal process outlined herein.

Any student who has been denied enrollment or continued enrollment due to being deemed not in good standing may reapply for nonresident enrollment in subsequent school years.

Appeal Process
If a nonresident student’s application for enrollment is denied because the student is determined not to be in good standing, the parent or person acting as a parent may appeal the administrative decision to the board.  

If a parent or person acting as a parent wishes to appeal this decision, a written request for an appeal must be submitted to the clerk of the board within 10 days of receiving notice the student’s application has been denied for lack of good standing.  Such request shall include the individual’s reasons for disagreeing with the administration’s decision.

The board shall consider any appeal of these decisions and any supplemental documentation provided therewith at the next regularly scheduled board meeting following receipt of the request for appeal, and the board’s designee shall notify the requestor of the result of the appeal in writing within 10 days of the board’s decision thereon.

Enrollment of Out-of-State Students
If capacity for nonresident student enrollment remains after the aforementioned application, enrollment, and the disenrollment process has concluded, district administration may consider applications for enrollment submitted by students who are not Kansas residents.  However, priority in enrollment shall be given to Kansas residents.  

If a student who is an out-of-state resident is in good standing and has a parent or a person acting as a parent who is employed by the district, district administration may allow the student to enroll in and attend school in the district as if they were a resident of the district.

Policy References: JBC, JBCA, JBCB and JQKA

Adoption Date: 11/13/2023; Revised: 06/10/2024 4/28/2025;12/2025 Updated- 4/28/2026;7/2026

U.S.D. 443
Application for Nonresident Student Enrollment

The U.S.D. 443 Board of Education has determined the capacity available in each grade level in each school building of the school district (hereafter “district”) for the upcoming school year. 

The number of open seats available to nonresident students in each grade level for each school building can be found on the district’s website at Nonresident Student Enrollment- Open Seats 

This application must be submitted to the district at 2112 First Avenue, between January 1 and June 15.  

STUDENT AND GRADE INFORMATION
Name of Student (hereafter “applicant”):  ______________________________________________________________________
School Level:    Elementary _____    Middle/Junior High _____    High School _____
Name of Preferred School (if applicable ):    _________________________
Grade Level:  _________
If there is no capacity at the grade level at the preferred school when the application is processed, and the application is not approved for that reason, will you accept enrollment at another district school where there is capacity?
Yes ___    No ___

Priority Enrollment Criteria Questions

1. Is applicant experiencing homelessness?    Yes ___    No ___
   1. If applicant is currently experiencing homelessness, in which school and school district did applicant last attend school?  ______________________________________________
2. Is applicant a child who is in the custody of the Department of Children and Families and living in the home of a nonresident student who attends school in the district? Yes ___    No ___
3. Does applicant have a parent or person acting as a parent who is employed by the district?  Yes ___    No ___
4. Does applicant have a sibling who is enrolled in and attending a school in the district or who has been accepted   to enroll and attend school in the district?    Yes ___    No ___
5. Is applicant a military student, as defined by K.S.A. 72-5139?    Yes ___    No ___
6. Is applicant a Kansas resident?      Yes ___    No ___

Good Standing Determination Questions

1. Did applicant maintain at least a 90% school attendance rate in the last school year, excluding absences which were excused under the school’s attendance policy?    Yes ___    No ___
2. Is applicant under a period of suspension or expulsion from any school district?    Yes ___    No ___
   1. If so, when does the period of suspension or expulsion expire?  ______________________
3. Has applicant had three or more out-of-school suspensions in the current school year, excluding suspensions determined to be a manifestation of the student’s disability or a failure on the part of school staff to implement an individualized education program, Section 504 plan, or behavior intervention plan?   Yes ___    No ___
4. Has applicant been given a long-term suspension or expulsion by a school district in the current school year?   Yes ___    No ___

PARENT/GUARDIAN AND STUDENT CONTACT INFORMATION
Name of Parent(s)/Guardian(s) of the Applicant:  __________________________________________________________________
Physical/Residential Address of the Applicant:  __________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address of Applicant (if different from the Physical/Residential Address):  __________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address of Parent(s)/Guardian(s) (if different from the Mailing Address of the Applicant)”
___________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian or Adult or Emancipated Applicant Telephone Number:  ___________________    
Parent/Guardian or Adult or Emancipated Applicant Email Address: ___________________

Parent/Guardian and Applicant understand and acknowledge the following:

1. If the number of applications for the grade level and school building referenced herein is less than the number of available seats for that grade level in the school building, an eligible nonresident student deemed in good standing will be accepted for enrollment and attendance at the school district for the current school year and will be permitted to continue enrollment and attendance in the district, unless such student is no longer deemed by district administration to be in good standing. 
2. If the number of applications for a grade level in a school building referenced above is greater than the number of available seats for the grade level in the school building, district administration shall accept students in good standing based on priority enrollment status first.  If capacity remains after accepting priority enrollment students, the administration will randomly select nonresident student applicants deemed to be in good standing for enrollment using a confidential lottery process that will be completed on or before July 15 of each year.
3. If applicant is not a resident of Kansas, enrollment may only be considered if applicant’s parent or person acting as a parent is an employee of the district, applicant is a homeless student and this is the applicant’s district of origin, or if capacity remains after the district has completed its nonresident selection process, the student is in good standing, and district administration opts to allow out-of-state students to enroll.
4. If applicant is not accepted for or is denied enrollment at the district, the district will provide notice to the parent or person acting as a parent of the nonresident student or the adult or emancipated applicant of the reason for the nonacceptance or denial and an explanation of the nonresident student selection process on or before July 30 of each year.
5. If there is no capacity at the applicant’s preferred school, and the application states enrollment in a school other than the preferred school will be denied, the district will deny the application due to lack of capacity.
6. If the application is accepted, applicant’s enrollment may be discontinued if it is discovered applicant or applicant’s parent or person acting as a parent provided false or fraudulent information in the application process.
7. The district shall not be required to provide transportation to nonresident students unless otherwise required to do so by applicable law.
8. If accepted to enroll in school in the district, applicant shall not be exempt from the requirements of the Kansas State High School Activities Association (hereafter “KSHSAA”) regarding eligibility to participate in KSHSAA activities.
9. This application process and the board policy authorizing it does not apply to any virtual school run by the district or any school located on a military installation.

By signing below, I attest that all information provided in this application is true and accurate, to the best of my knowledge.  

____________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature

____________________________________
Applicant Signature

Date Application Received: ________________

• Administrative Determination and Reasoning:
  • Approved (applicant is a homeless student either residing in district or for whom the district is the school of origin  [Priority Enrollment Criteria Question 1])
  • Approved (applicant meets Priority Enrollment Criteria regardless of capacity and is in good standing [Priority Enrollment Criteria Question 2 or 3])
  • Approved (applicant meets Priority Enrollment Criteria, is in good standing, and capacity is available [Priority Enrollment Criteria Question 4 or 5])
  • Approved (capacity is greater than number of applications, and applicant is in good standing)
  • Approved (capacity is less than number of applications, applicant is in good standing, and applicant was randomly selected in lottery)           
  • Denied due to lack of capacity
  • Denied due to ineligibility to attend school in Kansas pursuant to K.S.A 72-3118 (age of eligibility)
  • Denied due to lack of good standing
  • Denied due to residency outside of the state of Kansas

JBCD
Enrollment of Military Students                                                                                                     
(See IIBGB, JBC, JBCA, JBCB, JBCC, and JQKA)

For the purposes of this policy, the following terms will be defined as follows:

“Military student” is a person who is a dependent of a full-time active duty member of the military service or a dependent of a member of any of the United States military reserve forces who has been ordered to active duty under 10 U.S.C. §§ 12301, 12302, or 12304, or ordered to full-time active duty for a period of more than 30 consecutive days under 32 U.S.C. §§ 502(f) or 512 for the purposes of mobilizing for war, international peacekeeping missions, national emergency, or homeland defense activities.

“Parent” means the natural parents, adoptive parents, step-parents, and foster parents.

“Person acting as a parent” means a guardian or conservator, a person liable by law to care for or support the child, a person who has actual care and control of the child and provides a major portion of support, or a person who has actual care and control of the child with written consent of a person who has legal custody of the child.

Enrollment of Military Students in Grades K-12

If evidence is provided that a military student’s parent or person acting as a parent will be stationed at a military installation in Kansas during the current or immediately succeeding school year, the district shall enroll any military student in kindergarten or any of the grades one through 12 prior to the military student physically residing in this state, and no proof of address shall be required at the time of enrollment. Residency within the district may be required for attendance if the district does not have open seats at the time of enrollment as determined by board policy JBCC and Kansas law.

Enrollment of Military Students in District Pre-K Programs

If the district offers a pre-kindergarten program, it shall enroll any military student in a pre- kindergarten program if the military student is eligible to participate in the program and the military student or the military student’s parent or person acting as a parent provides evidence that the military’s parent or person acting as parent will be stationed at a military installation in Kansas during the current or immediately succeeding school year. If the district has no open seats for the program, then the military student shall be placed on a waiting list for enrollment. Proof of address shall not be required at the time of enrollment, but proof may be required for attendance.

Special Education and Section 504 Services

If the military student has an individualized education program (IEP) or a 504 plan, the district shall take appropriate measures to ensure the military student will receive the required education and related service upon attending school in the district.

Enrollment of Military Students  JBCD-2

 Approved: KASB Recommendation – 6/25

 

JBD 

Absences and Excuses 

(See AEB, IHEA, JB, JBE, JBH, and JDD)

When a student is absent from school, an attempt shall be made to contact the parent or guardian to determine the reason for the absence. The principal has been designated to determine the acceptability and validity of excuses presented by the parent(s) or the student.

Procedures for notifying parents on the day of a student’s absence shall be published in the student handbook.

Excused/Unexcused Absences

The definition of “excused absence” includes the following:

• Personal illness;
• Health-related treatment, examination, or recuperation;
• Serious illness or death of a member of the family;
• Obligatory religious observances;
• Participation in a district-approved or school sponsored activity or course;
• Absences prearranged by parents and approved by the principal; and
• Students of active-duty military personnel may have additional excused absences at the discretion of the principal for visitations relative to leave or deployment.

All absences which do not fit into one of the above categories would be considered an unexcused absence and would subject a student to appropriate disciplinary action.  A student serving a period of suspension or expulsion from the district shall not be considered inexcusably absent.

Significant Part of a School Day

An absence of two or more hours in any school day shall be considered an absence for a significant part of the school day.

Make-Up Work

It is the student’s responsibility to obtain make-up assignments from teachers following an excused or unexcused absence.

Policy Reference: AEB

Policy Reference: IHEA

Policy References: JBE and JDD

Adoption Date: 06/15/1992, Revised: 02/09/1998; 06/08/2009; 04/13/2015; 08/10/2015, 09/12/2022 

 

JBE 
Truancy 
Unless reporting would violate the terms of any memorandum of understanding between the district and  the authority to which reports would be made. The building principal or designee shall report students who are inexcusably absent from school to the appropriate authority. 

Truancy is defined as any three consecutive unexcused absences, any five unexcused absences in a semester, or  seven unexcused absences in a school year, whichever comes first. Truancy shall not apply to students who have  attained a high school diploma, a general educational development credential, or a high school equivalency credential. Exceptions also exist for students attending the Kansas academy of mathematics and  science and for students who are part of a recognized church or religious denomination objecting to a regular public high school education under circumstances specified in state law.  

For truancy purposes, being enrolled and continuously attending a public school; a private, denominational,  or parochial school taught by a competent instructor for a period of time which is substantially equivalent to the period of time public school is maintained in the school district in which the private, denominational,  or parochial school is located; or a combination of attendance in both a public school and a  private, denominational, or parochial school may satisfy compulsory attendance requirements. School year  means the period from July 1 to June 30. Students who are absent without a valid excuse for a significant part  of any school day shall be given an unexcused absence for truancy accounting purposes considered truant. 

Prior to reporting to either the Department for Children and Families (if the student is under 13) or the  county or district attorney (if the student is 13 or more years of age but less than 18 years of age), a letter shall be sent to the student’s parent(s) or guardian notifying them that the student’s failure to attend school without  a valid excuse shall result in the student being reported truant. 

Waiver of Compulsory Attendance Requirements 
Students 16 or 17 years of age may be exempt from compulsory attendance regulations if: 

• The student is regularly enrolled in and attending a program recognized by the board as an approved alternative educational program; 
• the parent(s) or person acting as parent provides written consent to allow the student to be exempt from the compulsory attendance requirement and the student and the student’s parent or person acting as parent attend the counseling session required by law and signs the appropriate consent and waiver form; 
• the student is not subject to truancy law in accordance with law or this policy; 
• the child is regularly enrolled and continuously attending school as required by law and is concurrently enrolled in a postsecondary educational institution; or 
• the student is exempt from compulsory attendance requirements pursuant to a court order. 

Involvement of Law Enforcement 
Law enforcement officers may return truant children to the school where the child is enrolled, to the child’s parent or guardian, or to another location designated by the board to address truancy issues.

Reporting to Parents 
If a truant child is returned to school by a law enforcement official, the principal shall notify the parent or guardian. 

Dual Enrollment Students 
Eligible students who are enrolled in a board-approved dual enrollment program shall not be considered  truant for the hours during the school day they attend classes at a Regent’s university, community college,  technical college, vocational educational school, or Washburn University. 

Policy Reference: AEB

Policy Reference: IDCE

Policy Reference: JBD and JQ

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 07/09/2012; 08/12/2013; 08/08/2016;  07/09/2018; 01/25/2021; 07/11/2022; 01/09/2023; 06/24/2024 

Waiver of Compulsory Attendance Form 

I, (name of parent(s) or legal guardian), understand that pursuant to Kansas law, (name of student) is required  to attend school until he/she receives a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED)  credential or reaches the age of 18, whichever occurs first. 

Pursuant to K.S.A. 72-3120, as amended, Unified School District No. 443 encourages (name of student) to remain  in school or to pursue an education alternative. 

• The school has informed me that the academic skills listed below have not been achieved by (name of student): 
  • Reading
  • Speaking
  • Decision-making
  • Computer
  • Sociability
  • Diversity Skills
  • Writing
  • Thinking Skills
  • Problem-solving
  • Responsibility
  • Self-management
  • Leadership
  • Arithmetic/Mathematics
  • Listening
  • Self-esteem
  • Team Skills
  • Science
  • Career Technical Skills

Based on information attached, I understand the difference in future earnings power between a high school graduate and a high school dropout. 

• The school has indicated to me and to my child that (name of student) is encouraged to attend one of the following alternative educational programs: 
  • Dodge City Education Center
  • GED

The undersigned hereby give(s) written consent to allow (name of student), who is [choose one] 16 or 17 years of age, to be exempt from the Kansas compulsory attendance requirement and state I/we have attended the final counseling session conducted by Unified School District No. 443 in which the aforementioned information was presented to us. 

Parent/Legal Guardian Sign: ________________________________ Date: _________________________

Students Sign: ________________________________ Date: _________________________ 

Unemployment rates and earnings by educational attainment, 2024

(Note: Data are for persons 25 and over. Earnings are gfor full-time wage and salary workers.

Source: U.S. Bureau of labor Statistics, Current Population Survey.)

Educational attainment	Median ususal weekly earnings ($)	Unemplyment rate (%)
Doctoral degree	2,278	1.2
Professional degree	2,363	1.3
Master’s degree	1,840	2.2
Bachelor’s degree	1,543	2.5
Associate’s degree	1,099	2.8
Some college, no degree	1,020	3.8
High School diploma	930	4.2
Less than a high school diploma	738	6.2
Total	1,221	3.3

JBH 

Release of a Student During the School Day 

Building principals shall only release a student during the school day with a written or verbal request from the  student's lawful parent or person acting as a parent. 

Before releasing a student during the school day, the building principal shall be responsible for verifying the  identity of the person seeking release of the student. 

If the principal is not satisfied with the identification provided by the person seeking release of a student or if the safety of student(s), staff members(s), or others would be endangered by orchestrating the student’s release  from school, the student’s release may be refused. 

Students shall not be allowed to run personal errands for school employees off school premises during the  school day. 

Policy References: EBB and EBBD

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006; Revised: 06/08/2009; 02/12/2024

 

JCAB  

Searches of Property Including the Use of Metal Detectors and Searches of Students 

Principals are authorized to search property if there is reasonable suspicion that district policies, rules, or  directives are being violated. In addition all lockers shall be subject to random searches without prior notice or  reasonable suspicion. All searches by the principal shall be carried out in the presence of another adult witness.  

Whenever the principal is mentioned in this policy, it shall be construed to include the superintendent “or  designated representative.”  

Search of Lockers 
Lockers in the district schools shall be under supervision of the principal. Students shall have no expectation of  privacy in any school locker. 

The combinations and/or keys to all locker locks shall be in the possession of the principal and stored in a place  designed to guard against unauthorized access or use. The principal may search any locker at any time without  notice. Students shall not place locks, other than those approved by the school, on any locker. 

Searches of Property 
Any person other than the principal who wishes to search a student’s locker or property shall report to the  principal before proceeding. In no event shall any person be permitted to search a student’s locker or property without the principal’s consent unless the person has a valid search warrant authorizing a search.  

If a law enforcement officer desiring to search a student’s locker or property has a search warrant, the principal  shall permit the search which shall be made in the presence of the principal. Prohibited items found during the  search shall remain in the custody of either the building principal or the law enforcement officer. If any items  are turned over to law enforcement officials the principal shall receive a receipt for the items.  

Use of Trained Dogs in Conducting Sweeps 
At the request of the principal or on a schedule agreed upon by the service provider and the principal, law  enforcement officers or licensed private agencies contracting with the school for such service, may use trained  dogs on school premises to identify student property which may contain illegal or illicit materials and to  determine whether materials, such as drugs, weapons, or other materials which may threaten the general  health, welfare, and safety of the students and/or staff are present in the district parking lot, hallways, lockers,  classrooms, and/or locker rooms. Students will never be sniffed by the dogs used to conduct the sweeps.  

USD 443 Regulation  
School Safety and Security Policy: Use of Metal Detectors and Searches of Students

Purpose: The purpose of using the metal detectors is to prevent and deter weapons from entering our schools  and school-sponsored events. The safety and security of our students, staff, and visitors are top priorities for  USD443. This policy outlines the procedures for the use of metal detectors and the search of students, balancing  the need for a secure environment with respect for individual rights. 

Scope: This policy applies to all students, staff, visitors, and individuals entering the premises of USD 443. It  covers the use of metal detectors, searches, and situations requiring the involvement of law enforcement.

Use of Metal Detectors 

1. Implementation: Metal detectors may be used at school entrances and school-sponsored events to ensure safety. These screenings may be random or based on specific security concerns. 
2. Screening Process: Individuals entering the school or event venues may be required to pass through a   metal detector. Refusal to comply may result in denial of entry. 
3. Parent Notification: Parental notification will not be required for metal detector screenings or searches  as these are considered routine safety measures. 
4. Follow-up Actions: If a prohibited item is detected, further investigation and appropriate disciplinary  actions will be taken, including the possible involvement of law enforcement. Parents will be notified if  a prohibited item is found. 
5. Refusal to be Screened: If a parent or visitor refuses to go through the security screening, they will be  denied access to the facility. 

Searches of Students 

1. Authorization to Search: Principals (or their designated representatives) are authorized to search  individuals when there is reasonable suspicion that district policies, rules, or directives are being  violated. 
2. Procedure for Searches: 
   1. The individual shall be informed of the reason for the search. 
   2. Individuals may be asked to empty items such as pockets, purses, shoulder bags, backpacks, and  briefcases. 
   3. Searches will be conducted in the presence of another adult witness. 
3. Strip searches shall not be conducted by school authorities under any circumstances.
4. Parental Notification and Law Enforcement: 
   1. If prohibited items are found, the principal shall attempt to contact the student’s parents  immediately after a search is conducted. 
   2. If illegal items are found, law enforcement may be called. Any items connected to illegal activities  shall remain in the custody of the principal unless turned over to law enforcement. 
   3. If a student refuses to cooperate with a search, the principal may impose disciplinary actions  and/or seek law enforcement assistance. 
5. Involvement of Law Enforcement: 
   1. If law enforcement assistance is requested, further searches will be conducted in cooperation  with law enforcement officials. 
   2. The principal shall remain with the student and be present during any search conducted by law  enforcement. 
6. A receipt shall be issued for any items turned over to law enforcement officials. 
7. Threats to Safety: 
   1. If the principal believes an individual is in possession of an item that poses a danger to the health,  safety, or welfare of the individual or others, the individual may be removed to a safe location  until the situation is resolved. 
   2. This determination may be based on information from staff or other sources. 
8. Documentation: 
   1. Written documentation of a search must be maintained by the principal, including details of the  search if any restricted items are found. 

Conclusion: This combined policy ensures that the school district can maintain a safe environment while  respecting individual rights. Metal detectors and searches are tools to protect the school community from  dangerous or prohibited items, with procedures in place to ensure fairness and transparency. Metal detector screenings are considered a routine part of security, and parental notification is not required for these  measures. 

USD 443 Security Screening Protocols 

The purpose of the security screening system is to detect weapons such as guns, explosives and large knives. 

Hours of Use 

• When students and visitors are allowed into the building during normal business hours 
• Special events at the discretion of the building administrator 
• If an individual cites a medical reason that they cannot pass through the Security Screening System, a  hand-held metal detection device will be used. 
• If an individual refuses to be scanned, an administrator or SRO should be contacted for assistance. The  individual will not be allowed entry into the building. 

Staffing 

• All entrances should be monitored by a staff member where anyone other than USD 443 staff is allowed  to enter the building. 
• At entrances where Security Screening Systems are deployed, it is recommended that at least two staff  members are assigned. 
• Administration should ensure that adequate staffing is present and radios are provided for staff at  these positions. 

Alerts 

• If the Security Screening System indicates red or provides an audible alert, the person who triggered  the alert should advance to a secondary screening area. 
• At the secondary screening area, the individual will place their backpack and any items they may be  carrying on the table for an additional search. 
• A hand-held metal detection wand may be used as a secondary scan of the person. 
• If an item of concern is located, the item should be secured by staff and administration and/or an SRO  should be contacted for assistance. 
• If the individual who triggered the alert refuses to cooperate in any way, administration and/or an SRO  should be contacted for assistance. 
• If an item of concern has been located (if it is a policy violation), it should be handled by an  administrator or designee. If it is a criminal violation, the SRO or appropriate law enforcement agency  should be contacted and appropriate documentation should be recorded. 

Charging/Testing 

• School administration should assign staff to routinely charge and test every Security Screening System  assigned to the school 
• School administration should assign staff to routinely test and provide batteries for every hand-held  metal detection wand assigned to the school. 
• Check battery status daily and assign a secondary person to perform this function if the primary person  is absent.

Phone App 

• School administration should assign staff who will use the OPENGATE app to monitor every Security  Screening System assigned to the school 
• Multiple staff should be assigned access to the phone app. 

Wands 

• A hand-held metal detection wand shall be located at each entrance where a Security Screening System  is deployed. 

Students With Disabilities 

• Accommodations may be made for students with disabilities. 

Policy Reference: JCABB

Adoption Date: 02/08/1999, Revised: 06/08/2009; 04/13/2015; 09/23/2024 

 

JCABB 

Searches of Students 

Principals are authorized to search students if there is reasonable suspicion that district policies, rules or  directives are being violated. Strip searches shall not be conducted by school authorities. All searches by the  principal shall be carried out in the presence of another adult witness. 

The student shall be told why a search is being conducted. The student shall be requested to empty items such  as, but not limited to, pockets, purses, shoulder bags, book bags and briefcases. The principal shall attempt to  call the student’s parent/s and may call law enforcement. Items which the principal believes may be  connected with illegal activity shall remain in the custody of the principal unless the items are turned over to  law enforcement officials. If the student refuses to cooperate, the principal may take disciplinary action  and/or seek assistance from law enforcement. 

If law enforcement assistance is present, further search of the student shall be with cooperation and  assistance of law enforcement officials. The principal shall remain with the student and be present during any  search of the student made by law enforcement officials on school property. The principal shall receive and  file a receipt for items turned over to law enforcement officials. 

If the principal believes a student is in possession of an object which can jeopardize the health, welfare or  safety of the student or others, the student shall be removed to a safe location. This determination may be  based on any information received by the principal or any member of the faculty or staff. 

Written documentation of each search shall be maintained by the principal. 

(Whenever the principal is mentioned in this policy, it shall be construed so as to include the superintendent  “or designated representative.”) 

Policy Reference: JCAB and JCAC

Adoption Date: 02/08/1999, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016 

 

JCAC 

Interrogation and Investigations 

(See EBC, GAAD, JCABB, JCEC and JHCAA)

Building administrators, and others designated by the superintendent may conduct  investigations and question students about violation of school rules or the student conduct code.  Unless otherwise provided herein, such investigators shall not be required to contact the student’s parent,  guardian, or representative prior to questioning. If administration requests law enforcement, including a  school resource officer or campus police officer for assistance in conducting interviews during an investigation, administration shall contact a parent, guardian, or representative of the student prior to any questioning.

If there is reason to believe a violation of  criminal law has been committed, the building administrator, or  the  superintendent’s designee, a shall notify the appropriate law enforcement agency of criminal conduct as provided  in law, in the district's juvenile justice memorandum of understanding or board policy and may request further investigation of the alleged violation. 

When a school resource officer, school security officer, or campus police officer initiates an investigation of a potential violation of  criminal law by a student on the officer’s own initiative and not at the request of a building administrator or the  superintendent’s designee, such officer will notify the building administrator and contact the student’s parent, guardian, or representative prior to initiating questioning. 

Coordination with Law Enforcement 

School administrators or the superintendent’s designee shall meet as needed with relevant stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, the courts, and the district and county attorneys,s to discuss the district’s juvenile justice memorandum of understanding to  establish clear guidelines for how and when school-based behaviors are referred to law enforcement or the juvenile justice system.

Child Abuse and Identity Investigations Conducted by Law Enforcement Officers 

The administration shall cooperate with law enforcement officers who are conducting investigations of  suspected child abuse or neglect or concerning the student’s identity. For any investigations concerning known  or suspected child abuse or neglect, school staff shall follow the procedures outlined in board policy GAAD  instead of the requirements of this policy. 

Law Enforcement Initiated Investigations at School 

In cases not involving the investigation of known or suspected child abuse or neglect or involving the student’s  identity, law enforcement officers shall not be permitted to initiate and conduct investigations involving the  questioning of students during school hours unless the student’s parent or guardian has given the school  permission to allow the questioning, a valid warrant has been presented to the building administrator for such  purpose, or in demonstrated emergency situations. Contact with the parent, guardian, or representative shall be documented by the administrator involved. If a student’s parent, guardian, or representative gives permission for the interview but is not present during the questioning of the student, the principal may be present unless otherwise specified in law or board policy. If a demonstrated emergency is found, the building  administrator shall require identification of law enforcement officials and reasons for the interrogation or investigation of a student. If the building administrator is not satisfied with either the identification or the  reason, the request shall not be granted. The building administrator shall attempt to notify the superintendent  and the officer’s superiors of the reasons for the refusal.  

Taking Students Into Custody 

Students shall not be voluntarily released by school officials to law enforcement authorities unless the student  has been placed under arrest or taken into custody by law enforcement, or Department for Children and Families (“DCF”) authorities pursuant to a child abuse investigation.  Except as otherwise specified in this policy,or as specified in a court order or arrest warrant, a reasonable effort shall be made to notify the student’s parent,  guardian, or representative when students are removed from school for any reason.  Such notifications shall be documented. Parents shall not be  notified by school officials when their child is taken into custody by DCF, school resource officers, campus police  officers, and/or law enforcement as a result of allegations of abuse or neglect and there is reason to believe  sharing the information may lead to harm of the child or others.  

When a student has been taken into custody or arrested on school premises without prior notification to the  building administrator, the school staff present shall ask the law enforcement officer to notify the building  administrator of the circumstances as quickly as possible and shall themselves contact the building  administrator with any information they have regarding the child being taken into custody. 

Disturbance of School Environment 

Law enforcement officers, school resource officers, school security officers or campus police officers may be requested to assist in controlling disturbances at school and, if necessary, to  take students or other persons into custody. 

Definition 

For the purposes of this policy, “school security officer” and “campus police officer” are defined as outlined in Kansas statute.

For the purposes of this policy, students will not be deemed to be “taken into custody” when they are being  questioned by a school resource officer, school security officer, and/or campus police officer about a violation  of state law, county resolutions, city ordinances, board policy or regulation, and/or school rules on property  owned, occupied, or operated by the school district or at the site of a function sponsored by the school district. 

Policy Reference: EBC

Policy Reference: GAAD

Policy Reference: JCEC and JHCAA

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 08/12/2013; 07/09/2018; 02/11/2019; 07/11/2022; 12/2025

 

JCDA 

Student Conduct 

Each principal shall develop rules and regulations to govern student conduct consistent with board policies.  The rules shall be reviewed by the board and adopted as policy by reference. The rules of conduct shall be  published in student handbooks. 

Violation of any provision of the behavior code may result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension  and/or expulsion.  

Policy Reference: AEB

Policy Reference: IIBG

Policy References: JA, JDD and JHCAA

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

JCDAA 

Tobacco-Free School Grounds for Students  

The use, possession, or promotion of any tobacco product by any student is prohibited at all time in any district facility; in school vehicles; at school-sponsored activities, programs, or events; and on school owned or operated  property. 

Student violations will result in disciplinary actions as outlined by board policy and/or student handbooks.  Disciplinary actions may include parent/guardian notification, participation in a tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery systems education program, referral to a cessation program, and/or community service. Student  violations may be reported to law enforcement if use or possession is deemed to be illegal. 

The following definitions apply to this policy. 

• “Tobacco product” means any product that is made from or derived from tobacco, or that contains  nicotine, that is intended for human consumption or is likely to be consumed, whether smoked, heated,  chewed, absorbed, dissolved, inhaled, or ingested by any other means, including, but not limited to,  electronic nicotine delivery system (hereafter “ENDS”), cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, chewing  tobacco, snuff, or snus.  
• Tobacco product also means any component or accessory used in the consumption of a tobacco product,  such as filters, rolling papers, pipes, charging devices, cartridges, and any substances used in ENDS, whether or not they contain nicotine. This definition does not include FDA-approved nicotine  replacement therapies including transdermal nicotine patches, nicotine gum, and nicotine lozenges  prescribed to the student by a medical practitioner or obtained over the counter and used in accordance  with label requirements. 
• “Electronic nicotine delivery system” or “(ENDS)” means any device that delivers a vaporized solution  (including nicotine, THC, or any other substance) by means of cartridge or other chemical delivery  systems. Such definition shall include, but may not be limited to, any electronic cigarette, vape pen,  hookah pen, cigar, cigarillo, pipe, or personal vaporizer. ENDS are not FDA-approved nicotine  replacement therapy devices. 
• “Promotion” includes, but is not limited to, product advertising via branded gear, bags, clothing, any  personal articles, signs, structures, vehicles, flyers, or any other materials. 

Policy Reference: GAOC

Policy Reference: KMA

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009, Revised: 08/12/2013; 08/08/2016; 02/11/2019; 08/10/2020

©KASB. This material may be reproduced for use in USD 443. It may not be reproduced, either in whole or in part, in any form whatsoever, to be given, sold or  transmitted to any person or entity including but not limited to another school district, organization, company or corporation without written permission from KASB. 

 

JCDB 

Dress Code 

Neatness, decency, and good taste are guidelines of the district dress code. Students must dress in a manner that is not obscene; offensive; or substantially or materially disruptive to the learning environment. Apparel that is sexually suggestive; promotes violence, illegal activities, drugs, alcohol, and/or tobacco; or is determined  to be gang related is prohibited. 

Student apparel and grooming must also meet requirements of any courses which are part of the approved  curriculum in which they are enrolled. 

Traditional tribal regalia or objects of cultural significance shall not be prohibited at a public event. Dress codes shall be published in the appropriate student handbooks. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016; 01/10/2022

 

JCDBB  

Weapons  

A student shall not knowingly possess, handle, or transmit any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon at school, on school property, or at a school-sponsored event. This shall include any weapon, any item  being used as a weapon or destructive device, or any facsimile of a weapon.  

Weapons and Destructive Devices 

As used in this policy, the term “weapon and/or destructive device” shall include, but shall not be limited to: 

• any weapon which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action  of an explosive;  
• the frame or receiver of any weapon described in the preceding example;  
• any firearm muffler or firearm silencer;  
• any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than  four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than 1/4 ounce, mine, or similar  device;  
• any weapon which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an  explosive or other propellant and which has any barrel with a bore of more than 1/2 inch in diameter;  
• any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into a destructive  device described in the two immediately preceding examples and from which a destructive device may  be readily assembled;  
• any bludgeon, sand club, metal knuckles, or throwing star;  
• any knife, commonly referred to as a switchblade, which has a blade that opens automatically by hand  pressure applied to a button, spring, or other device in the handle of the knife or any knife having a  blade that opens, falls, or is ejected into position by the force of gravity or by an outward, downward,  or centrifugal thrust or movement;  
• any electronic device designed to discharge immobilizing levels of electricity, commonly known as a stun  gun.  

The term "weapon" does not include within its meaning: 

• an antique firearm;  
• any device which is neither designed nor redesigned for use as a weapon;  
• any device, although originally designed for use as a weapon, which is redesigned for use as a signaling,  pyrotechnic, line throwing, safety, or similar device;  
• surplus ordinance sold, loaned, or given by the secretary of the army pursuant to the provisions of  section 4684(2), 4685, or 4686 of title 10 of the United States Code;  
• class C common fireworks. 

Penalties for Weapon Violations 

Possession of a weapon and/or destructive device listed under the “Weapons and Destructive Devices”  heading of this policy shall result in expulsion from school for a period of one calendar year, except the  superintendent may recommend this expulsion be modified on a case-by-case basis.  

Possession of, handling of, and/or transmitting a weapon of a type other than described under the “Weapons  and Destructive Devices” heading above, an item being used as a weapon or destructive device, or a facsimile  of a weapon may result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension and/or expulsion. Expulsion  hearings for weapons violations shall be conducted by the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee. 

Students violating this policy shall be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency(ies) and, if a  juvenile, to the Secretary for DCF or the Secretary of KDOC as appropriate.  

Possession of an air gun at school, on school property, or at a school supervised activity will not be prohibited  for students participating in an air gun-related activity sponsored by an organization held at school or when in  transit to or from such activities held off district property.  

Policy Reference: EBC

Policy Reference: JDC, JDD and JHCAA

Policy Reference: KGD

Adoption Date: 10/9/2000; Revised: 6/8/2009; 08/12/2013; 8/10/2015; 08/08/2016; 04/22/2024 

 

JCDC
Student Personal Electronic Communications Devices
(See BDA, JBD, and JDD)

Students are prohibited from using or accessing personal electronic communication devices during the school day while on district owned or operated property, except as expressly permitted by this policy or by law.

This policy does not apply to any virtual school, as defined by Kansas law.

When personal electronic communication device use is not permitted, students are allowed reasonable access to a school-provided telephone or communication device during the school day to contact a parent or person acting as a parent.

Device Storage
All student personal electronic communication devices shall be powered off and securely stored away from the student’s person in an inaccessible location during the school day, unless an exception applies to this requirement as specified in this policy.

Students may choose not to bring personal electronic communication devices to school by leaving such devices at home or in a vehicle, including a vehicle located on school premises.  As students will not have the ability to access or use such devices during the school day, students are encouraged to leave any personal electronic communication devices not necessary for the implementation of their Individualized Education Program (hereafter “IEP”) or Section 504 accommodation plan (hereafter “504 plan”), communication during their commute to or from school, for work, or learning experience that is not located on the school premises at home.  If students elect to leave such devices in their vehicle, students are encouraged to lock their vehicles to protect against theft of or damage to the devices. 

Kansas law provides that the board, school district employees, and/or any agents thereof shall not be liable for any damage to personal electronic communication devices or for storage of such devices that are brought to school.

The superintendent or superintendent’s designee(s) shall develop procedures to ensure all personal electronic communication devices are turned off and securely stored away from the student’s person in an inaccessible location during the school day.  Such procedures shall be included in student handbooks as adopted by the board and communicated to students and parents/guardians as deemed appropriate by district administration.

Definitions
For purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:

• “Personal electronic communication device” is any wireless electronic communication device that both provides for voice, text, or video communication between two or more parties, including, but not limited to, a mobile or cellular phone, tablet, computer, watch, wireless headphones or earbuds, text messaging device, or personal digital assistant; and is not owned or issued to students by the school district.
• “School day” is the time from the start of school until dismissal at the end of the day on the school premises, including, but not limited to, the time in any classroom, structured or unstructured learning setting, recess, lunch or passing period.  The term “school day” excludes any time associated with a student’s travel to or from a learning experience that is not located on the school premises, including any postsecondary educational course, career technical education course, work-based learning program, or other alternative educational opportunity.

Permitted Exception
A student may be permitted to use a personal electronic communication device during the school day under the following circumstances.
Any student may use a personal electronic communication device during the school day if it is the intervention of last resort such that there is no other reasonable alternative option available for such student, and the use is either:

• Required for the implementation of a student’s IEP or 504 plan; or
• Approved by a licensed physician as a medical necessity to support the health or well-being of the student.

Use During School-Sponsored Activities Before and After the School Day

• Students [may/shall not] use or access personal electronic communication devices during school-sponsored activities, programs, or events occurring before and after the regular school day, subject to district-approved procedures, event-specific rules, and staff direction.

Enforcement and Disciplinary Action
Violations of this policy [may/shall] result in disciplinary action in accordance with the district’s student code of conduct. Disciplinary measures may include, but are not limited to, confiscation of the device through the end of the school day, referral to administration for determination of appropriate consequence, parental notification, or other appropriate disciplinary response, up to and including suspension and/or expulsion from school.

Discipline shall be applied in a nondiscriminatory manner and shall not interfere with rights provided under an IEP, 504 plan, or applicable law.

Administrative Procedures and Directives
The superintendent or designee(s) may develop administrative procedures and provide directives necessary to ensure consistent implementation of this policy and any board approved regulations and handbooks across district buildings, so long as such procedures and directives are not in conflict with board approved policy, regulation, or handbook language.

Approved:  5/11/2026

 

JCE 
Complaints of Discrimination (for students)

The district is committed to maintaining a working and learning environment free from discrimination, insult,  intimidation, and harassment due to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability. 

Discrimination against any student on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or religion in the  admission or access to, or treatment in the district’s programs and activities is prohibited. The Superintendent  of Schools, PO Box 460, Dodge City, KS 67801, (620) 371-1070 has been designated to coordinate compliance  with nondiscrimination requirements contained in Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education  Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of  1990. 

Any incident of discrimination, including acts of harassment, shall promptly be reported for investigation and  corrective action by the building principal or district compliance coordinator. Any student or employee who  engages in discriminatory conduct shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination from  employment or expulsion from school. 

Any perceived incident of discrimination in any form shall be promptly reported to the building principal,  another administrator, the counselor, another certified staff member, or the district compliance coordinator for  investigation and corrective action by the building or district compliance officer. Any school employee who  receives a complaint of discrimination or harassment from a student shall inform the student of the employee’s  obligation to report the complaint and any proposed resolution of the complaint to the building principal. If the  building principal is the alleged harasser, the report shall be made to the district compliance coordinator.  Complaints alleging discriminatory and/or harassing conduct on the part of the superintendent shall be  addressed to the board of education. Any general student complaint, not alleging an act of discrimination, shall  be resolved under the district’s general complaint procedures in policy KN. 

Except as otherwise provided in this policy or board policies GAAC, JGEC, or KNA regarding complaints of  discrimination on the basis of sex or regarding child nutrition programs, complaints about discrimination,  including complaints of harassment, will be resolved through the following complaint procedures. 

Informal Procedures 
The building principal shall attempt to resolve complaints of discrimination or harassment in an informal manner  at the building level. Any school employee who receives a complaint of such discrimination or harassment from  a student, another employee, or any other individual shall inform the individual of the employee’s obligation to  report the complaint and any proposed resolution of the complaint to the building principal. The building  principal shall discuss the complaint with the individual to determine if it can be resolved. If the matter is  resolved to the satisfaction of the individual, the building principal shall document the nature of the complaint  and the proposed resolution of the complaint and forward this record to the district compliance coordinator.  Within 20 days after the complaint is resolved in this manner, the principal shall contact the complainant to  determine if the resolution of the matter remains acceptable.  

If the matter is not resolved to the satisfaction of the individual in the meeting with the principal, or if the  individual does not believe the resolution remains acceptable, the individual may initiate a formal complaint. 

Formal Complaint Procedures 

• A formal complaint shall be filed in writing and contain the name and address of the person filing the complaint. The complaint shall briefly describe the alleged violation. If an individual does not wish to file a written complaint, and the matter has not been adequately resolved through the informal procedures described herein, the building principal may initiate the complaint. Forms for filing written complaints are available in each school building office and the central office. 
• A complaint should be filed as soon as possible after the conduct occurs but not later than 180 days after the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation, unless the conduct forming the basis for the complaint is ongoing. 
• If appropriate, an investigation shall follow the filing of the complaint. If the complaint is against the superintendent, the board may appoint an investigating officer. In other instances, the investigation shall be conducted by the building principal, the compliance coordinator, or another individual appointed by the board or the superintendent. The investigation shall be informal but thorough. The complainant and the respondent will be afforded an opportunity to submit written or oral evidence relevant to the complaint and to provide names of potential witnesses who may have useful information. 
• A written determination of the complaint’s validity and a description of the resolution shall be issued by the investigator, and a copy forwarded to the complainant and the respondent within 30 days after the filing of the complaint. If the investigator anticipates a determination will not be issued within 30 days after the filing of the complaint, the investigator shall provide written notification to the parties including an anticipated deadline for completion. In no event, shall the issuance of the written determination be delayed longer than 10 days from the conclusion of the investigation. 
  • If the investigation results in a recommendation that a student be suspended or expelled, procedures outlined in board policy and state law governing student suspension and expulsion will be followed. 
  • If the investigation results in a recommendation that an employee be suspended without pay or terminated, procedures outlined in board policy, the negotiated agreement (as applicable), and state law will be followed. 
• Records relating to complaints filed and their resolution shall be forwarded to and maintained in a confidential manner by the district compliance coordinator. 

Formal Complaint Appeal 

• The complainant or respondent may appeal the determination of the complaint. 
• Appeals shall be heard by the district compliance coordinator, a hearing officer appointed by the board or the superintendent, or by the board itself. 
• The request to appeal the resolution shall be made within 20 days after the date of the written determination of the complaint at the lower level. 
• The appeal officer shall review the evidence gathered by the investigator at the lower level and the investigator’s report and shall afford the complainant and the respondent an opportunity to submit further evidence, orally or in writing, within 10 days after the appeal is filed. 
• The appeal officer will issue a written determination of the complaint’s validity on appeal and a description of its resolution within 30 days after the appeal is filed. 

The district prohibits retaliation or discrimination against any person for opposing discrimination, including  harassment; for participating in the complaint process; or making a complaint, testifying, assisting, or  participating in any investigation, proceeding, or hearing.

Use of this complaint procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of any other remedies including the right to file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Education or the Kansas Human Rights Commission.  

Policy References: JDDC, JGEC and JGECA

Policy References: KN and KNA

Adoption Date: 12/08/2003, Revised: 06/08/2009; 08/10/2015; 01/09/2023 

USD 443 - Dodge City Complaint Form

JCEC 

Demonstrations 

Student demonstrations on school property shall be conducted in an orderly and non-disruptive manner.  Demonstrations may be terminated at any time by the principal or the superintendent.  

Policy Reference: JCAC

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009

 

JDA 

Corporal Punishment 

Corporal punishment shall not be permitted in the school district. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

JDB 

Detention 

Detention periods may be established by building principals and administered according to rules approved by  the board. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

JDC 

Probation 

Any punishment, suspension or expulsion, may be deferred by the superintendent, principal, hearing officer, or designee. The student involved may be placed on probation for a set period of time. The punishment, suspension, or expulsion, shall remain deferred so long as the student meets the conditions of the probation.  

If a student is placed on probation, written notification shall be sent to the student’s parent or guardian. Any  decisions on probation for students found to be in violation shall be handled by the superintendent. 

A student placed on probation shall be given a written list of the terms and conditions of the probation. The  student shall sign a statement that: the terms and conditions have been explained, the student understands  the conditions, the student agrees to abide by the conditions, and failure to abide by the conditions may be  reason to reinstate the original punishment. 

Policy References: JCDBB and JDD

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 04/13/2015 

 

JDD 

Suspension and Expulsion Procedures 

Except as limited by Section 504 or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”), a student may be  suspended or expelled, for reasons set forth in Kansas law. Any student who is suspended for a period of more  than 10 days or expelled shall receive a copy of the current suspension and expulsion law and this policy.  Suspension/expulsion hearings shall be conducted by the superintendent/designee or other certificated  employee, or committee of certificated employees of the school in which the pupil is enrolled, or by any other  hearing officer appointed by the board. 

Reasons for Suspension or Expulsion 

Students may be suspended or expelled for one or more of the following reasons: 

• Willful violation of any published, adopted student conduct regulation; 
• Conduct which substantially disrupts, impedes, or interferes with school operation; 
• Conduct which endangers the safety or substantially impinges on or invades the rights of others; 
• Conduct which constitutes the commission of a felony; 
• Conduct at school, on school property, or at a school supervised activity which constitutes the commission of a misdemeanor; 
• Disobedience of an order of a school authority if the disobedience results in disorder, disruption or interference with school operation; and 
• Possession of a weapon at school, on school property or at a school- sponsored event. 

Short-term Suspension 

Except in an emergency, a short-term suspension (not exceeding ten school days) must be preceded by oral or  written notice of the charges to the student and an informal hearing. If a hearing is not held prior to the  suspension, an informal hearing shall be provided no later than 72 hours after imposition of a short-term  suspension.  

Written notice of any short-term suspension shall be delivered to the student’s parent or guardian within 24  hours after the suspension has been imposed. Short-term suspension hearings may be conducted by any person designated in policy as having the authority to suspend. 

At the informal suspension hearing, the student shall have the right to be present and to be notified of the charges and the basis for the accusation. The student shall have the right to make statements in his/her defense  after receiving notice of the charges. 

Long-Term Suspension or Expulsion 

Before a student is subject to long-term suspension (not to exceed 90 school days) or expulsion (not to exceed  186 school days or one calendar year for certain weapon and/or destructive device violations), a hearing shall  be conducted by a hearing officer who has been authorized by the board. Formal hearings shall be conducted  according to procedures outlined in current Kansas law and: 

• The student and parents or guardians shall be given written notice of the time, date and place of the hearing. 
• The notice shall include copies of the suspension/expulsion law, and appropriate board policies, regulations and handbooks. 
• The hearing may be conducted by either a certified employee or committee of certified employees authorized by the board, the chief administrative officer, or other certified employee of the district in which the student is enrolled, or by an officer appointed by board. Expulsion hearings for weapons violations shall be conducted in compliance with Kansas law by  persons appointed by the board. 
• Findings required by law shall be prepared by the person or committee conducting the hearing.  
• A record of the hearing shall be available to students and parents or guardians according to Kansas law. 
• Written notice of the result of the hearing shall be given to the pupil and to parents and guardians within 24 hours after determination of such result. 

Rules Which Apply in all Cases When a Student May be Suspended or Expelled 

• Refusal or failure of the student and/or the student’s parents to attend the hearing shall result in a waiver of the student’s opportunity for the hearing. 
• A student suspended for more than 10 school days or expelled from school shall be provided with information concerning services or programs offered by public and private agencies which provide services to improve the student’s attitude and behavior. 
• A student who has been suspended or expelled shall be notified of the day the student can return to school. 
• If the suspension or expulsion is not related to a weapons violation, the principal may establish appropriate requirements relating to the student’s future behavior at school and may place the student on probation. (See JDC) 
• If the expulsion is related to a weapons violation the superintendent may establish appropriate requirements relating to the student’s future behavior at school and may place the student on probation if the student is allowed to return. (See EBC, JCDBB and JDC) 
• The days a student is suspended or expelled are not subject to the compulsory attendance law. 
• During the time a student is suspended or expelled from school, the student may not: 
• Be on school property or in any school building without the permission of the principal. 
• Attend any school activity as a spectator, participant or observer. 

A student over the age of 18 or the parents or guardian of a student who is suspended for more than 10 days  or expelled from school may appeal to the board within 10 calendar days of receiving written notice of the  hearing results. 

When a suspension is imposed during the school day, the student shall not be removed from school until a  parent has been notified. If a parent cannot be notified during regular school hours, the student shall remain  at school until the regular dismissal time. 

Student Rights During a Long-Term Suspension/Expulsion Hearing 

The student shall have the right: 

• to counsel of his/her own choice; 
• to have a parent or guardian present; 
• to hear or read a full report of testimony of witnesses; 
• to confront and cross-examine witnesses who appear in person at the hearing; to present his or her own witnesses; 
• to testify in his or her own behalf and to give reasons for his or her conduct; 
• to an orderly hearing; and 
• to a fair and impartial decision based on substantial evidence. 

Appeal to the Board 

The following conditions shall apply if a student who is age 18 or older or the student’s parent or 

guardian files a written appeal of a suspension or expulsion: 

• Written notice of the appeal shall be filed with the clerk within 10 calendar days of receiving the results of the hearing. 
• The board or hearing officer appointed by the board shall hear the appeal within 20 calendar days after the notice of appeal is filed. 
• The student and the student’s parent shall be notified in writing of the time and place of the appeal at least 5 calendar days before the hearing. 
• The hearing shall be conducted as a formal hearing using rules similar to those noted earlier for expulsion hearings. 
• The board shall record the hearing. 
• The board shall render a final decision no later than the next regularly scheduled board meeting after the conclusion of the appeal hearing. 

Policy Reference: AEB

Policy Reference: EBC

Policy Reference: IHEA

Policy Reference: JBD, JCDBB, JDC, JCDA, JDDB, JDDC and JHCAA

Adoption Date: 07/10/1996, Revised: 08/01/1998; 10/01/1999; 06/08/2009; 04/13/2015; 03/08/2016;  06/28/2021; 01/09/2023

JDD Report to Staff of Expulsion or Conviction

©KASB. This material may be reproduced for use in USD 443. It may not be reproduced, either in whole or in part, in any form whatsoever, to be given, sold or  transmitted to any person or entity including but not limited to another school district, organization, company or corporation without written permission from KASB. 

 

JDDA 

Drug-Free Schools 

Maintaining drug-free schools is important in establishing an appropriate learning environment for the district's  students. Unless otherwise specified in this policy, the possession, use, sale, distribution, and/or being under  the influence of illicit drugs, controlled substances, and/or alcohol by students at school, on or in school  property, or at school sponsored activities or events is prohibited.  

Possession, use, and/or being under the influence of a controlled substance by a student for the purposes of  this policy shall only be permitted if such substance was:  

• Obtained directly from, or pursuant to a valid prescription or order, issued to such student from a person  licensed by the state to dispense, prescribe, or administer controlled substances; 
• In the case of use or possession, approved and administered, if administered at all, in accordance with  board policy JGFGB and/or board policy JGFGBA; and  
• Used, if at all, in accordance with label directions.  

Student Conduct 

As a condition of continued enrollment in the district, students shall abide by the terms of this policy. 

Students shall not manufacture, sell, distribute, dispense, possess, use, and/or be under the influence of illicit  drugs, controlled substances, or alcoholic beverages at school, on or in school district property, or at any school  activity, program, or event. Any student violating the terms of this policy will be reported to the appropriate  law enforcement officials, and will be subject to: 

[Insert local sanctions here: Possible sanctions for noncompliance must include expulsion as a consequence  for violation of JDDA.] 

• Short-term suspension of 1 – 10 days, 
• Long-term suspension from 11 – 90 days, or 
• Expulsion up to 186 days. 

Students who are suspended or expelled under the terms of this policy will be afforded the due process rights  contained in board policies and Kansas statutes, K.S.A. 72-6114, et seq. Nothing in this policy is intended to  diminish the ability of the district to take other disciplinary action against the student in accordance with other  policies governing student discipline. If a student agrees to enter and complete a drug education or rehabilitation program, the cost of such program will be borne by the student and his or her parents. 

A list of area drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation programs, along with names and addresses of contact persons for the programs, is on file with the board clerk. Parents or students should contact the directors of the programs to determine the cost and length of the program. 

A copy of this policy will be provided to all students and the parents of all students. Parents of all students will  be notified that compliance with this policy is mandatory. 

Policy Reference: GAOB

Policy References: JGFGB and JGFGBA

Policy Reference: LDD

Adoption Date: 06/10/1996, Revised:  01/12/1998; 06/08/2009; 07/09/2012; 03/03/2014; 07/09/2018

 

JDDAA 

Student Misuse of Medication 

Unless otherwise provided herein, students found to be self-administering their own medication at a dosage or  rate exceeding product label instructions; distributing over-the-counter or prescription medications to other  students; or using or possessing another person’s over-the-counter or prescription medication will be subject  to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension and expulsion from school. 

Notwithstanding the misuses of medication outlined in this policy, Kansas law and board policy allow a  bystander to administer an opioid antagonist to a person the bystander believes to be experiencing an opioid  overdose. 

Policy References: JDDA, JGFGB and JGFGBA

Policy Reference: LDD

Adoption Date: 02/12/2024

 

JDDB  

Reporting to Law Enforcement 

Unless reporting would violate the terms of any memorandum of understanding between the district and local law enforcement, whenever a student engages in conduct which constitutes the commission of any misdemeanor or felony at school, on school property, or at a school supervised activity and/or has been found:

• in possession of a weapon,
• in possession of a controlled substance or illegal drug,
• to have engaged in behavior at school which has resulted in or was substantially likely to have resulted in serious bodily injury to others, or
• threaten to commit violence intending to cause fear, disruption, or evacuation targeting students/staff/visitors on school property regardless of the location of origin
• the principal/superintendent shall report such act to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
• definition of serious bodily injury as, based in part, on 18 U.S.C. 2246(4) – “’serious bodily injury’ means bodily injury that involves a substantial risk of death, unconsciousness, protracted and obvious disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member, organ, or mental faculty.”

Policy Reference: EBC

Policy Reference: JDD

Adoption Date: 10/9/2000, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016, 08/08/2016, 9/23/2025

JDDB REPORTING CRIMES TO LAW ENFORCEMENT

JDDC 
Bullying 
The board of education prohibits bullying in any form by any student, staff member, or parent towards a  student or a staff member on or while using school property, in a school vehicle, or at a school-sponsored  activity or event. For the purposes of this policy, the term “bullying” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in  Kansas law. 

The administration shall propose, and the board shall review and approve a plan to address bullying as  prohibited herein. The plan shall include provisions for the training and education of staff members and students and shall include appropriate community involvement as approved by the board. 

Students who have bullied others in violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and  including suspension and/or expulsion. If appropriate, students who violate the bullying prohibition shall be reported to local law enforcement.

For the purposes of this policy, bullying generally includes any intentional written, electronic, verbal, or physical act, when such act: 

• Physically harms a student, school employee, or patron, or damages the student’s, school employee’s,  or patron’s property; or 
• Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education; or 
• Is severe, persistent, or pervasive, creating an intimidating or threatening environment; or 
• Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the classroom or school. 

“Intentional” refers to the individual’s choice to engage in the act rather than the ultimate impact of the action(s). 

Harassment, intimidation or bullying can take many forms including, but not limited to: slurs, rumors, jokes, innuendo’s, demeaning comments, drawing cartoons, pranks, gestures, physical attacks, threats, or other written, electronic, oral, or physical actions. 

This policy is not intended to prohibit expression of religious, philosophical, or political views, provided that the expression does not substantially disrupt the education environment. Many behaviors that do not rise to the level of harassment, intimidation, or bullying may still be prohibited by other district policies or building, classroom, or program rules. 

Corrective disciplinary action, counseling, and/or referral to other school district and community resources, including law enforcement, may be used to address and correct the behavior of the perpetrator(s) and mitigate any impact on the victim(s). 

False reports or retaliation for harassment, intimidation, or bullying also constitutes violations of this policy. 

USD 443 Bullying Plan (Also see Policies GAAE and JDDC) 

Bullying means: Any intentional gesture or any intentional written, verbal, electronic, or physical act or  threat either by any student, staff member, or parent towards a student or by any student, staff member or  parent towards a staff member that is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an  intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment that a reasonable person, under the  circumstances, knows or should know will have the effect of: 

• Harming a student or staff member, whether physically or mentally; 
• Damaging a student’s or staff member’s property: 
• Placing a student or staff member in reasonable fear of harm; or 
• Placing a student or staff member in reasonable fear of damage to the student’s or staff member’s  property. 

Bullying also includes cyberbullying. “Cyberbullying” means bullying by use of any electronic  communication device through means including, but not limited to, e-mail, instant messaging, text  messages, blogs, mobile phones, pagers, online games, and websites. 

Additionally, bullying means any form of intimidation or harassment prohibited by the board of education  of the school district in policies concerning bullying adopted pursuant to K.S.A. 72-6147 or subsection (e)  of K.S.A. 72-1138, and amendments thereto. USD 443 will not tolerate these actions by students, staff, or  parents. 

For the purposes of this plan and its authorizing policies, “parent” includes a biological, adoptive, or step parent; guardian; custodian; or other person with authority to act on behalf of a student. 

Similarly, a “staff member” means any person employed by the district. 

Any act of bullying by either an individual student or group of students towards a student or staff member  of the district is prohibited on or while utilizing school property, in a school vehicle, or at school-sponsored  activities, programs, and events. This policy applies to students who directly engage in an act of bullying,  to students who, by their behavior, support another student’s act of bullying, and to all staff members and parents who engage in similar behaviors.

Training concerning identifying, reporting, investigating, and preventing bullying behaviors as outlined in  district policies and this plan shall be provided to students and staff members using resources available for  such purpose and shall be provided through school assemblies, staff development, or other appropriate  forums at least {annually/biannually}. 

USD 443 focuses on bullying prevention by: 

1. Developing a bullying prevention program based on the KSDE Bullying Prevention Resource Tool kit including addressing bullying, building adult capacity to change climate and culture,  curriculum and instructional resources, and measuring social -emotional learning; 
2. Using the KSDE’s Social - Emotional and Character  Development Standards to address school bullying and student mental health; 
3. Implementing a social- emotional learning curriculum that includes an anti-bullying family engagement component; 
4. Providing students and families with information and resources annually on bullying, cyberbullying, digital citizenship and how to make smart choices on-line; 
5. Providing students and families with the district’s student behavior expectations relating to  bullying and explanations for incidences that do not meet the legal definition of bullying; 
6. Tracking incidences of bullying including physical, cyber, verbal, and relational bullying and  reporting this information to the Kansas State Board of Education; 
7. Collecting data on bullying incidences from social emotional data sources and annually reviewing  this information with the board of education; 
8. Developing an understanding that certain demographic groups are disproportionately bullied at a higher rate than peers based upon sex, disability, socio-economic status, religious beliefs, and race/ethnicity (including migrant populations);
9. Requiring all school employees to complete the following bullying prevention, identification,  reporting and training module (describe district’s annual training program). 

The board or the district administration on behalf of the board may seek student, staff, parent, and/or  community input on the adoption, revision, and/or implementation of the board’s bullying policies or plan  as directed or approved by the board. 
No teacher, administrator, or school district employee shall engage in, permit, or tolerate bullying.

Retaliation against a victim, good faith reporter, or a witness to bullying is prohibited. A student or staff  member who engages in an act of bullying, reprisal, retaliation, or false reporting of bullying, shall be  subject to discipline in accordance with school district policy and procedures. The school administration  and/or board may consider the following factors when determining an appropriate disciplinary action for  such prohibited conduct: the ages of the parties involved; the developmental and maturity levels, special  education needs of the parties involved, and the nature, frequency, and severity of the behavior. 

Discipline guidelines for student bullying may be found in student and employee handbooks. Offenses  over time or single offenses which are severe in nature may result in discipline up to and including  suspension and/or expulsion or termination from employment. Parents participating in prohibited bullying  conduct aimed at district students and/or staff members may jeopardize their access to district facilities;  district property; school sponsored activities, programs, and events; and/or district students and/or staff  members through the district’s communication systems. As appropriate, reports to local law enforcement  will be filed to report criminal bullying behaviors. (See Policies EBC, GAAC, GAACA, JGEC, JGECA  and KN) 

Policy Reference: EBC

Policy Reference: GAAE

Policy References: JCE, JDD, JGEC and JGECA

Policy Reference: KGA

Adoption Date: 12/11/2007, Revised: 08/12/2013; 03/08/2016; 07/09/2018; 06/28/2021; 12/2025

JDDC REPORT TO LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT (BULLYING)

- Sample Form - 

Retype to suit local needs, remove from policy book and file with the clerk and principals. Form could also be included in staff or student handbooks.

Report to Local Law Enforcement
USD 443

Pursuant to Kansas law, the administrator or other school employee whose signature appears below is reporting the following crimes.

Briefly describe each incident and the person/s involved in a misdemeanor or felony behavior at school,  
on school property, or at a school activity. 

Date	School/Location	Student/s or Person/s Involved	Brief Description of Bullying Incident/s
1.
2.

School Districts are required by Federal Law and K.S.A. 72-6311 to protect the privacy rights of students under the age of 18.

Signed by Administrator or other school employee_________________________________

c/superintendent, USD 443
c/student’s file/employee’s file as allowed by applicable negotiated language

Revised:  06/28/2021; 12/2025

 

JF 

Academic Achievement 

Staff shall establish high expectations for all students. These expectations shall be based on individual student  ability to meet the board approved learning objectives for each subject. 

Reporting 

Periodic reports on each student's academic progress and mastery of the approved learning objectives shall be  issued to the parents. 

Report Cards 

Report cards shall be issued to each student at the end of each specific grading period for each subject taken.  Reasons for deficiencies and/or failures shall be given. The superintendent shall develop standard reporting  forms for each grade level. 

Policy Reference: II

Policy Reference: JR et seq.

Adoption Date: 12/08/2003, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

JFA 

Peer Grading of Assignments 

Limited Peer Grading Allowed 

Peer grading shall be allowed when the teacher believes peer grading will be a valuable learning experience  for the class. During a peer grading activity, the teacher shall use the activity to help students review class  concepts or objectives. If peer grading is allowed, students shall not be asked to publicly reveal either their  own grade or the grade of another student.  

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009

 

JFB 

Promotion, Retention, and Acceleration 

Students may be promoted when they have demonstrated mastery of the approved learning objectives. 

The final decision to promote or retain a student shall rest with the Superintendent or designee, after receiving  information from parents/guardians, teachers, principals, IEP teams if applicable and other appropriate school personnel. 

For a student to be promoted, the student must demonstrate mastery of accelerated course/grade level  outcomes through predetermined performance assessments. (IIA Course Test Out Opportunity) 

Adoption Date: 06/60/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016; 06/08/2020

 

JFC 

Graduation Exercises 

Students who have completed the requirements for graduation from high school may be allowed to participate in graduation exercises unless participation is denied for appropriate reasons. Graduation exercises shall be under the control and direction of the building principal. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

JFCA 

Early Graduation 

Students who complete all state and local graduation requirements may request permission to graduate early.  

Students shall not be permitted to graduate prior to the completion of the 7th semester of high school. A student who wishes to graduate from high school early may request permission to do so. The student and  parents shall consult with high school administrative and/or guidance personnel in order to develop a graduation plan. The student’s request shall be in writing, addressed to the high school principal, state the  reasons supporting the request, and include a letter of support from the student’s parents. 

Approval of each request for early graduation is to be determined by the high school principal on the merits of  the individual circumstances; one case shall not set a precedent for others. (Refer to student handbook for  procedures.) 

Exceptions to this seven semester rule may be made only under special circumstances as provided by law, or  as recommended by the high school principal and approved by the Board of Education.  

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016

 

JGA 

Student Insurance Program 

The board recommends that all students be covered by accident insurance. Such insurance may be provided by each student's parents through personal insurance coverage or through the student group insurance program, with information available annually upon enrollment and/or from each building principal. 

Any medical expense not covered by the student's accident insurance, the KSHSAA catastrophic insurance, or  activities insurance is the responsibility of the parents. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016 

 

JGC  

Health Assessments and Physicals  

Unless otherwise provided herein, all students under the age of nine shall submit evidence they have undergone a health assessment prior to entering kindergarten or before enrolling in the district for the first  time.  

The above requirement is not to serve as a barrier to immediate enrollment of students designated as homeless or foster children, as required by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the McKinney-Vento Act, as amended by ESSA. The district shall work with the Department for Children and Families, the school last attended, or other relevant agencies to obtain necessary documentation of health assessments. 

All students engaged in athletic activities covered by KSHSAA rules shall provide the building principal with proof of a physical examination and clearance to participate.  

Principals shall work cooperatively with local, county, and state health agencies to disseminate materials related to the availability of health assessments. 

Policy Reference: JGCB

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016; 02/13/2017

 

JGCA 
Local Health and Wellness 
The board is committed to providing a school environment that promotes student health and wellness as part  of the total learning experience for its students. To this end, the board shall promote and monitor a local health  and wellness plan that includes methods to promote student health and wellness, prevent and reduce childhood  obesity, and provide assurance that school meals and other food and beverages sold and otherwise made  available on the school campus during the school day are consistent with applicable minimum federal standards.  The plan shall: 

• Include goals for providing proper student nutrition promotion and education, physical activity, and other school-based activities designed to promote student wellness which are based on evidence based strategies and techniques; 
• Meet federal nutrition standards and guidelines for all foods and beverages provided to students in each school during the school day; 
• Ensure standards and nutrition guidelines for all foods and beverages sold to students during the school day at each district school are consistent with the requirements of the School Breakfast Program, the National School Lunch Program, and the competitive food standards established pursuant to the National School Lunch Program; 
• Provide students with opportunities to improve personal health and disease prevention;
• Develop essential health skills necessary to maintain and enhance personal and community health behaviors; 
• Include goals for addressing student social and mental health needs; 
• Develop skills to prevent injury; and 
• Understand the effects and consequences of nicotine, alcohol, and drug use. 

The Superintendent or designee shall be responsible for the implementation and oversight of this policy and plan to ensure each of the district’s schools, programs, and curriculum is compliant with this policy, the plan, and existing law and regulations.  

Each building principal or designee shall annually report to the superintendent or designee regarding compliance in his/her school. Staff members responsible for programs related to school health and wellness shall also report to the superintendent or designee regarding the status of such programs. The superintendent or designee shall then annually report to the board on the district’s compliance with law, policy, and the district’s plan related to school wellness.  

Health and Wellness Committee 
The board shall establish a health and wellness committee comprised of, but not necessarily limited to, at least  one of each of the following: school board member, district administrator, district food service representative,  student, parent/guardian, school health professional, physical education teacher, and member of the public.  

The health and wellness committee shall serve as an advisory committee regarding student health issues and  shall be responsible for developing, implementing, and periodically reviewing and updating a school health and  wellness policy and plan that complies with law to recommend to the board for adoption.  

The health and wellness committee shall review and consider evidence-based strategies and techniques in  establishing goals for nutrition education and promotion, physical activity, and other school-based activities that  promote student health and wellness as part of the policy and plan development and revision process. 

The superintendent or designee and the health and wellness committee shall conduct an assessment at least  once every three (3) years on the contents and implementation of this policy and plan as part of a continuous  improvement process to strengthen them and ensure proper implementation. This triennial assessment shall  be made available to the public in an accessible and easily understood manner and include: 

• The extent to which district schools are in compliance with law, policy, and its plan related to school health and wellness; 
• The extent to which this policy and plan compare to model local health and wellness policies; and
• A description of the progress made by the district in attaining the goals of this policy. 

At least once every three (3) years, the district shall update or modify this policy and health and wellness plan  based on the results of the most recent triennial assessment and/or as district and community needs and  priorities change; health and wellness goals are met; new health science, information, and technologies emerge;  or new federal or state guidance or standards are issued. 

The district shall annually inform and update the public, including parents/guardians, students, and others in the community, about the contents, updates and implementation of this policy and plan via the district website,  student handbooks, newsletters, or other efficient communication methods. This annual notification shall include information on how to access the school health and wellness policy and plan; information about the most recent triennial assessment; information on how to participate in the development, implementation, and periodic review and update of the school health and wellness policy and plan; and a means of contacting health and wellness committee leadership. 

Recordkeeping 
The district shall retain records documenting compliance with the requirements of the school health and wellness policy, which shall include: 

• The written school health and wellness policy and plan; 
• Documentation demonstrating that the district has informed the public, on an annual basis, about the contents of the school health and wellness policy and plan and and updates to these documents; 
• Documentation of efforts to review and update the school health and wellness policy and plan, including who was involved in the review and methods used by the district to inform the public of their ability to participate in the review; and 
• Documentation demonstrating the most recent assessment on the implementation of the school health and wellness policy and plan and notification of the assessment results to the public. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 08/11/2014; 03/08/2016; 07/10/2017; 01/25/2021

JGCA DISTRICT HEALTH AND WELLNESS PLAN (Sample Plan) 
DISTRICT HEALTH AND WELLNESS PLAN 

The board offers the following district health and wellness plan as a supplement to its health and  wellness policy, JGCA. This plan reflects some of the board’s elected methods to promote  student health and wellness, prevent and reduce childhood obesity, and provide assurance that  school meals and other food and beverages sold and otherwise made available on the school  campus during the school day are consistent with applicable minimum federal standards. This  plan is periodically revised in accordance with policy JGCA. Questions concerning its contents  may be directed to the superintendent at 620-371-1070.

NUTRITION PROMOTION AND EDUCATION 
Designated instructional staff will integrate nutrition education into the district’s sequential, comprehensive health education program. The program will be reviewed and updated, as  appropriate. 

Nutrition education will be interactive and will endeavor to provide students with the  knowledge and skills needed to adopt healthy eating behaviors. 

Nutrition education may be provided in school cafeterias, as well as in the classroom, with coordination between the food service personnel and teachers.

The district will provide appropriate training to the staff members responsible for providing nutrition education and training to students on strategies for promoting healthy eating  behaviors. 

Consistent nutrition messages will be disseminated throughout the district, schools, classrooms, cafeterias, homes, and community utilizing one or more of the following methods: 

1. Handouts; 
2. Posters and bulletin boards; 
3. Postings on the district’s website; 
4. Articles and information provided in district or school newsletters; 
5. Presentations that focus on nutritional value and healthy lifestyles; 
6. Special programs that highlight aspects of nutrition education; and
7. News media. 

Lessons and Activities 
District staff will develop and implement nutrition education lessons and activities for all grades  that are appropriate to the student’s age and developmental levels.  

Instructional staff will be requested to integrate nutritional themes into daily lessons and  activities, as appropriate, to complement the academic standards based on nutrition education.  Nutritional themes may include, but are not limited to: 

1. Knowledge of USDA dietary guidelines; 
2. Sources and variety of foods; 
3. Guide to a healthy diet, including snacks and the   importance of breakfast; 
4. Concepts of control and prevention of disease and nutritional deficiencies; 
5. Use and misuse of dietary supplements; 
6. Understanding calories; 
7. Understanding and using food labels; 
8. Essential nutrients and their relationship to physical performance and body composition; 
9. Appreciating cultural diversity related to food and eating; 
10. Recognizing appropriate serving sizes; 
11. Safe food preparation, handling, and storage; and 
12. Identifying and limiting junk food. 

District staff members are expected to be supportive in helping students to practice the  nutritional themes used in lessons and activities.

Family and Community Involvement 
The superintendent or designee will be responsible for promoting family and community  involvement in supporting and reinforcing nutrition education in the schools utilizing one or  more of the following methods:  

1. Nutrition education materials are sent home with students, posted in school buildings, and made available on the district’s website; 
2. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to send healthy snacks/meals to school; 
3. Families are invited to attend any exhibitions of student nutrition projects or health fairs; 
4. Nutrition education workshops and screening services may be offered; 
5. Links with nutrition service providers (e.g., qualified public health and nutrition professionals) may be established on the district’s website to inform families about supplemental nutritional services available in the community; 
6. Nutrition education curriculum may include homework that students can do with their families, such as: 
7. Reading and interpreting food labels, 
8. Reading nutrition-related articles, and 
9. Preparing healthy recipes; and 
10. School staff members will be encouraged to cooperate with other agencies and community groups to provide opportunities for student projects related to nutrition, as appropriate. 

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY 
Developmentally appropriate physical activities during the school day for students will be  designed to achieve optimal health, wellness, fitness, and performance benefits, and may  include the following: 

1. Daily school-wide exercise program for students in which all students participate in their classrooms; 
2. Physical activity breaks for students between lessons or classes, as appropriate; activities will be planned to maximize student participation; 
3. Providing information to parents/guardians that encourages students’ physical activity outside the school environment, such as outdoor play at home, sports, recreation programs, before and after-school programs, community programs, etc.;
4. Establishing guidelines governing the age-appropriate physical activity opportunities for students that will be provided in each school; 
5. Offering and supervising walking programs for students on school property before school, at lunch, or after school; 
6. Daily recess periods for elementary school students featuring time for unstructured but supervised active play; 
7. Introducing physical activities other than competitive sports to students; 
8. Organizing and supervising walking trains for students going to and coming home from school; 
9. Programs conducted before and after school in district facilities providing developmentally appropriate physical activities to students in an effort to promote physical activity. Designated staff will meet with providers of before and after-school programs in district facilities to discuss and support opportunities for physical activity for attendees; 
10. Sending students home with suggestions for physical activities for use by parents/guardians through: 
    1. Monthly suggested activity calendars, 
    2. Periodic information and updates, 
    3. Notices of family activity events taking place in the schools or community; 
11. Promoting the use of school facilities by students and the community for physical activity, fitness, sports, and recreation programs offered by district schools and/or community-based organizations outside of school hours through: 
    1. Announcements, 
    2. Posted notices, 
    3. Newsletters, 
    4. District’s website, 
    5. District’s calendar,
    6. News media. 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 
Professional staff will provide physical education instruction that complies with the established  curriculum and academic standards to ensure that students develop required skills and  knowledge. 

The physical education curriculum and program will be reviewed and updated, as appropriate. District schools will encourage all students to participate in physical education classes. 

Physical education staff will utilize appropriate instructional strategies that provide meaningful  inclusion of all students, regardless of skill or fitness level. 

The district’s physical education programs will: 

1. Provide physical activity options and alternatives from a variety of categories such as outdoor, rhythmical, and lifetime; 
2. Feature cooperative as well as competitive games; 
3. Teach self-management skills as well as movement skills; 
4. Actively teach cooperation, fair play, and responsible participation; 
5. Promote participation in physical activity outside of school; 
6. Endeavor to be an enjoyable experience for students; 
7. Encourage lifelong participation in health-enhancing physical activities; 
8. Attempt to create a positive learning environment in which students feel safe and supported; and 
9. Utilize physical activities that are developmentally appropriate. 

Suitably adapted physical education will be included, when practicable, as part of a student’s  IEP, Section 504 Plan, or accommodation when chronic health problems, disabling conditions,  or other special needs preclude such student’s participation in regular physical education  instruction or activities. Documented medical conditions and disabilities will be accommodated  in accordance with the applicable IEP or Section 504 Plan.  

An annual assessment and inventory of equipment, facilities, and resources used for physical  education courses will be made by physical education staff. Equipment, facilities, and resources  determined to be obsolete, out-of-date, unusable, or unsafe will be reported for disposition. 

Physical education staff will attend professional development opportunities and inservice  programs, in accordance with board policy. 
District schools will discourage the withholding or use of physical education solely as a form of  punishment. 

Student physical activity on school grounds during school hours will be supervised to enforce  safety rules and to attempt to prevent injuries. 

Building administrators are encouraged to notify district staff that physical activity (e.g., recess)  will not be used or withheld as a form of punishment; 
Assessment 
A local assessment system may be implemented to track student progress on the Health and  Physical Education academic standards. Course grades will be awarded in the same manner  grades are awarded in other subject areas and will be included in calculations of grade point  average, class rank, and academic recognition programs. 
Family and Community Involvement 
To promote family and community involvement in supporting and reinforcing physical  education in the schools, the building principal or designee will be responsible for ensuring  that: 

1. Physical education activity ideas are sent home with students; 
2. Parents/Guardians are actively encouraged to promote their child’s participation in the school’s physical education programs and any after-school activities through information distributed by the school; 
3. Families are invited to attend and participate in physical education activity programs and health fairs when held; 
4. Physical education curriculum may include homework that students can do with their families. 
5. School staff is encouraged to consider student preferences and interest when developing physical education programs.
6. School staff is encouraged to work with local recreation agencies and community organizations to provide opportunities for students to participate in physical activity programs outside of school. 

OTHER SCHOOL BASED ACTIVITIES 
Drinking water shall be available and accessible to students, without restriction and at no cost  to the student, at all meal periods and throughout the school day.  

Nutrition professionals who meet hiring criteria established by the district and in compliance  with federal regulations shall administer the school meals program. Professional development  and continuing education shall be provided for district nutrition staff, as required by federal regulations. 

1. Students shall be provided a clean and safe meal environment. 
2. District administrators may consider offering alternative service models to increase school breakfast participation, such as breakfast served in the classroom and “grab & go breakfast” to reinforce the positive educational, behavioral, and health impacts of a healthy breakfast. 
3. Students shall have access to hand washing or sanitizing before meals and snacks. 
4. { } Access to the food service operation shall be limited to authorized staff. 
5. { } Nutrition content of school meals shall be available to students and parents/guardians upon request. 
6. { } The district shall provide appropriate training to staff on the components of the school health and wellness policy and plan. 
7. { } Fundraising projects submitted for approval shall be supportive of healthy eating and student health and wellness or at least neutral on that topic. 
8. { } The district shall support the efforts of parents/guardians to provide a healthy diet and daily physical activity for children by communicating relevant information through various methods. 
9.  { } ______________________________________________ other.

FUNDRAISERS 
Fundraising projects must be submitted for district approval in accordance with district policy.  School fundraising activities will be approved with consideration of the following: 

1. Fundraising activities held during the school day involving the sale of food or beverages will be limited to foods that meet the USDA Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards, unless an exemption is approved by the building principal; 
2. Availability of any food or beverage items sold as part of a fundraising activity will be restricted until at least thirty (30) minutes after the last lunch period; 
3. Fundraising activities that promote physical activity will be encouraged; and 
4. District staff members are encouraged to select foods and beverages which are low in sugar and fat content to be sold as part of any fundraisers for school sponsored activities, programs, or events outside of the school day. 

For purposes of this regulation, school day means the period from midnight before school  begins until thirty (30) minutes after the end of the official school day.  

Copies of this administrative regulation will be available in the central office and will be  distributed to activity sponsors, student treasurers of school activities, and other interested  individuals and groups.

 Exempt fundraiser foods or beverages may not be sold in competition with school meals in the  food service area during the meal service.

NUTRITION GUIDELINES FOR ALL FOODS/BEVERAGES AT SCHOOL 
All foods and beverages available in district schools during the school day shall be offered to  students with consideration for promoting student health and reducing obesity.

Foods and beverages provided through the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs  shall comply with established federal nutrition standards.  

Foods and beverages offered or sold at school-sponsored events outside the school day, such as  athletic events and dances, shall offer healthy alternatives in addition to more traditional fare.  

Competitive Foods 
Competitive foods available for sale shall meet or exceed the established federal nutrition  standards (USDA Smart Snacks in School). These standards shall apply in all locations and  through all services where foods and beverages are sold to students, which may include, but  are not limited to: a la carte options in cafeterias, vending machines, school stores, snack carts,  and fundraisers conducted during the school day. 

Competitive foods are defined as foods and beverages offered or sold to students on school  campus during the school day, which are not part of the reimbursable school breakfast or  lunch. 

For purposes of this policy, school campus means any area of property under the jurisdiction of  the school that students may access during the school day. 

For purposes of this policy, school day means the period from midnight before school begins  until thirty (30) minutes after the end of the official school day.

The district may impose additional restrictions on competitive foods, provided that the  restrictions are not inconsistent with federal requirements. 

Non-Sold Competitive Foods  
Non-sold competitive foods available to students, which may include but are not limited to  foods and beverages offered as rewards and incentives, at classroom parties and celebrations,  or as shared classroom snacks, shall meet or exceed the standards established by the district. 

If the offered competitive foods do not meet or exceed the Smart Snacks in School nutrition  standards, the following standards shall apply: 

1. Rewards and Incentives: (CHOOSE ONE OF THE OPTIONS BELOW) 
   1. { } Foods and beverages shall not be used as a reward or incentive in district schools. 
   2. { } Foods and beverages shall not be used as a reward for classroom or school activities unless the reward is an activity that promotes a positive nutrition message (e.g., guest chef, field trip to a farm or farmers market, etc.). 
   3. { } ___________________________________________other. 
2. Classroom Parties and Celebrations: (CHOOSE ONE OR MORE OF THE OPTIONS BELOW) 
   1. { } Only non-food based parties and celebrations shall occur on the school campus during the school day in district schools. 
   2. { } Classroom parties/celebrations with food/beverages shall be limited to no more than one (1) per month in each classroom.
   3. { } Parents/Guardians shall be informed through newsletters or other efficient communication methods that foods/beverages should only be brought in when requested for scheduled parties. 
   4. { } Classroom parties shall offer a minimal amount of foods (maximum 2-3 items) containing added sugar as the primary ingredient (e.g., cupcakes, cookies) and will provide the following: 
   5. Fresh fruits/vegetables; and 
   6. Water, 100 percent juice, 100 percent juice diluted with  water, low-fat milk, or nonfat milk. 
   7. { } When possible, foods/beverages for parties and celebrations shall be provided by the food service department to help prevent food safety and allergy concerns. 
   8. { } Food celebrations shall not occur until thirty (30) minutes after the end of the last lunch period. 
   9. { } ___________________________________________other. 
3. Shared Classroom Snacks: 
   1. { } Shared classroom snacks are not permitted in district schools 
   2. { } ___________________________________________other. 

The district shall provide a list of suggested nonfood ideas and healthy food and beverage  alternatives to parents/guardians and staff, which may be posted via the district website,  student handbook, newsletters, posted notices and/or other efficient communication methods.  

Marketing/Contracting 
Any foods and beverages marketed or promoted to students on the school campus during the  school day shall meet or exceed the established federal nutrition standards (USDA Smart Snacks  in School) and comply with established Board policy and administrative regulations.

Exclusive competitive food and/or beverage contracts shall be approved by the board, in  accordance with provisions of law. Existing contracts shall be reviewed and modified to the  extent feasible to ensure compliance with established federal nutrition standards, including applicable marketing restrictions.  

SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL 
District schools may provide appropriate instruction on walking and bicycling safety to students. 

To make walking and biking to school safer and easier for students, improvements to school  zone traffic safety may be made by: 

1. Developing drop-off and pick-up procedures and informing students, parents/guardians, and district staff by means of: 
   1. Publication in handbooks; 
   2. Reminders to parents/guardians in the form of letters or emails at the start of each school term and as necessary throughout the school year; 
   3. Presentation at a student assembly; 
   4. Presentation at a parents meeting; and/or 
   5. Posting of notice/signs. 
2. Designating a drop-off and pick-up zone to discourage traffic congestion in front of schools; 
3. Conducting regular traffic safety training for school personnel, volunteers, and students who drive to school; 
4. Encouraging carpooling to alleviate traffic congestion in front of schools; 
5. Staggering school arrival and dismissal times for different grades to minimize the flow of traffic; and 
6. Using a designated employee, parent/guardian, or volunteer at drop-off locations to open the student’s door and expedite the drop-off process. 

Designated school personnel, police, and volunteers may periodically evaluate drop-off and  pick-up conditions and provide safety information and instruction to drivers.  

The Superintendent or designee may meet periodically with local municipality officials, law  enforcement, and community organizations to develop, evaluate, and maintain safe routes to  school.  

In cooperation with the local ordinances and laws, physical improvements such as curb striping  and signage revision may be made to the school’s drop-off and pick-up zones and/or parking  and stopping spots. 

PERSONAL AND COMMUNITY HEALTH 
The district will provide a framework to educate, support, and promote health enhancing  behaviors and programs for students levels. Research demonstrates that healthy students do  better in school and score higher on achievement tests. Parents should be involved with the  health education provided to their students. Students will be provided opportunities to learn  and understand personal health, prevention and control of disease, the dangers of substance  use, abuse and additions, mental and emotional health, injury prevention and safety, and community health needs which may include: 

1. Major body systems, functions, and relationships between systems; 
2. Healthy personal hygiene habits; 
3. Importance of personal health and seeking health care; 
4. Value of and recommended sleep amounts; 
5. Health and unhealthy habits; 
6. Leading causes of death and risk behaviors; 
7. Disease prevention skills; 
8. Communicable and noncommunicable diseases; 
9. Relationship between nutrition, exercise, and disease prevention; 
10. Structure and functions of the immune system; 
11. Drug types and dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and other illegal drugs; 
12. Refusal skills; 
13. Physical and psychological addictions; 
14. Cumulative risk behaviors; 
15. Addictive substances and effect on health; 
16. Personal strategies for drug free living; 
17. Communicating care, consideration, and respect; 
18. Developing stress management skills;
19. Avoiding negative self-talk, self-harm, and suicide;
20. Developing positive body image and self esteem; 
21. Expressing feelings, wants and needs in a health manner; 
22. Role of the individual in maintaining a healthy community; 
23. Local community health needs, issues, and events; and
24. Opportunities to develop and maintain a healthy community. 

Adoption Date: 01/25/2021
©KASB. This material may be reproduced for use in USD 443. It may not be reproduced, either in whole or in part, in any form whatsoever,  to be given, sold or transmitted to any person or entity including but not limited to another school district, organization, company or  corporation without written permission from KASB.

JGCB  

Inoculations  

Unless provided otherwise herein, all students enrolling in any district school shall provide the building principal with proof of immunization of certain diseases or furnish documents to satisfy statutory requirements. Booster shots mandated by the Secretary of the Department of Health and Environment are also required.  

Notice of this policy and the applicable state law shall be distributed to parents or guardians of current and  prospective district students on or before May 15th of each school year. The superintendent shall issue a news  release each August explaining the required inoculations and booster shots. Parents may delegate in writing  their authority to consent to immunizations.  

School boards shall provide information on immunizations applicable to school age children to parents and guardians of students in grades six through 12. The information on immunizations shall include:  

• A list of sources for additional information; and  
• Related standards issued by the national centers for disease control and prevention.  

Students who fail to provide the documentation required by law may be excluded from school by the  superintendent until statutory requirements are satisfied. Notice of exclusion shall be given to the  parents/guardians as prescribed by law. Students who are not immunized against a particular disease(es) may  be excluded from school during any outbreak.  

The above requirements are not to serve as barriers to immediate enrollment of students designated as  homeless or foster children as required by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the McKinney-Vento Act  as amended by ESSA. The district shall work with the Department for Children and Families, the school last  attended, or other relevant agencies to obtain necessary documentation of inoculations.  

Each principal shall forward evidence of compliance with the inoculation law to other schools or school  districts when requested by the school or by the student's parents/guardians and shall work cooperatively  with local, county, and state health agencies to disseminate materials related to the availability of  inoculations. 

Policy Reference: JGC

Adoption Date: 02/09/1998, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016; 02/13/2017

 

JGCBA 

Automated External Defibrillators 

If the board approves their use in district schools and other facilities, automated external defibrillators shall be  properly maintained as required by law, and used in accordance with recommended instructions. 

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009, Revised: 03/08/2016

 

JGCC 

Communicable Diseases 

Any student noted by a physician, or the school nurse, or local health officer as having a communicable disease may be excluded from school for the duration of the illness. The student will be readmitted to regular classes upon termination of the illness, as authorized by the student’s physician, the local health officer, or after  the expiration of any period of isolation or quarantine. 

The board reserves the right to require a written statement from the student’s physician or local health officer indicating that the student is free from all symptoms of the disease. 

If a student is absent from regular classes for more than three consecutive days or the principal has been notified that a student has or is suspected of having a communicable disease, the principal shall determine whether a release shall be obtained from the student's physician or local health department before the student  reenters school. 

Decisions regarding the type of education and the setting for provision of educational services for a student with a communicable disease shall be based on the child’s medical condition, the child’s educational needs, and  the expected type of interaction with others in the educational setting. Final decisions will be made by  school administration after receiving input from the student’s physician, public health personnel, the student’s  parent or guardian, and personnel associated with the proposed care or educational setting. 

Regulation Concerning Pediculosis Management within USD 443  

It is the position of the National Association of School Nurses, as well as the Kansas Department of Health and Environment that the management of pediculosis (infestation by head lice) should not disrupt the education process. No disease is associated with head lice, and in-school transmission is considered to be rare.  The KDHE states "frequent screenings for lice in schools have not been shown to be effective in the control of head lice. Head lice infestation is a mild health condition without serious health consequences for a child,  and should not be considered as a major health threat to those infested or those potentially exposed." Both  the KDHE and NASN recommend that children found with live head lice should remain in class until the  conclusion of the school day. Per KDHE suggestion, "school policies should reflect the mild nature of this health  condition and the impracticality of total elimination. Policies and practices should have minimal disruptive effect on children’s educational experiences and minimal stigmatizing impact on children."  

Taking all of this information into consideration, the recommended USD 443 regulation concerning  student pediculosis management within USD 443 is:  

• Any student found with pediculosis will be sent home at the end of the school day and parents will be  notified as soon as possible. 
• The student will have no more than two (2) calendar days to receive treatment and return to school.
• Once treatment has been administered, the student will return to school and be re-examined by the  School Nurse before returning to the classroom. If a student has been dismissed for pediculosis more  than once during a school year, the parent may be asked to show proof of treatment before the student is re-admitted to school. 
• The student will be re-admitted to class if no head lice are found. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016; 01/25/2021; 01/23/2023 

 

JGCD 

Health Screenings 

Vision, hearing, and dental screenings will be conducted in the district as part of the overall health services program. Such screenings will be administered in accordance with state law. When appropriate, other screenings deemed beneficial to students may be performed in the school health program.  

When these screenings cannot be performed by district staff, the board authorizes the superintendent to identify healthcare service providers to provide them. Such healthcare service providers shall be required to enter into a contract with the district prior to providing any screenings or other services to students in the  school setting. 

Vision Screenings 

Basic vision screenings shall be provided to students without charge according to the following schedule: 

• Annually for every child participating in IDEA part B programs; 
• At least once each school year for students in kindergarten and grades one, two, three, five, seven,  and ten; 
• Within the first year of enrollment in the district; 
• Upon request by the parent or guardian of a student enrolled in an accredited nonpublic school who resides in the school district. 

These basic vision screenings shall be performed by a vision screener designated by the board, who shall  follow current state vision screening guidelines for performing the screenings. The results of the screening  and, if necessary, referral for an examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist shall be reported to the  parents or guardians of the student. Any referral shall not show a preference in favor of any particular  ophthalmologist or optometrist to provide an additional examination. 

While not part of the board provided vision screening program, each student needing assistance in achieving  mastery of basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills shall be encouraged to obtain an eye examination by  an optometrist or ophthalmologist to determine if the student suffers from conditions impairing the ability to  read. Expense for such an examination, if not reimbursed through Medicaid, private insurance, or any other  governmental or private program, shall be the responsibility of the student’s parent or guardian. 

Hearing Screening 

Each year hearing screening procedures will be conducted for students in their first year of school attendance  in the district. Such procedures will be provided for other students at a frequency of not less than once every  three years unless otherwise specified by state law. Students known to have hearing difficulties and students  referred by teachers, parents, and/or physicians will be screened regardless of grade level. 

Under certain conditions, hearing screening services are provided for students residing within district  boundaries who are enrolled in accredited non-public schools. These services are coordinated between the  administration of the accredited nonpublic school and district administration and require a request from the  student’s parent or guardian. Implementation of the program for nonpublic school students follows the same  guidelines as for district students.

The results of the test and, if necessary, the desirability of examinations by a qualified physician shall be  reported to the parents or guardians of students screened. 

Dental Screenings 

Free dental inspections will be provided to students annually, planned for by designated school staff, and  conducted by appropriate dental care providers. Students presenting a certificate from a legally qualified  dentist providing that a dental examination was completed in the three months prior to the school dental  inspection need not be provided with an inspection. 

A certificate of the result of a school dental inspection, together with suggestions of requirements for the  curing of any defects found, shall be made by the dental care provider making such inspection. One copy of  this certificate is to be furnished to the child examined, and another will be filed with the clerk of the board.  No dental work other than the inspection and provision of the certificate shall be performed by the examining  dental care provider without the consent of the parents or guardian of the child. 

Selected Screenings  

Other screening procedures may be deemed appropriate and beneficial to students. Designated staff will assist in the planning and implementation of other screening programs following standard procedures. 

Screening results and referrals, when necessary, will be communicated to parents. 

In accordance with state law, the parent or guardian of any child entering school for the first time shall be  informed of the availability of sickle cell screening and of the location of the nearest facility providing blood tests for sickle cell trait and sickle cell anemia.  

Adoption Date: 08/08/2016, Revised 07/11/2022

 

JGD 

Student Psychological Services 

Various psychological services are available to students through the district, cooperative special education  programs, the county, and the state. Results of any such psychological service, testing program, or consultation services will be kept in strict confidence by school authorities and shall be governed by JR through JRD. 

Policy Reference: JR

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016

 

JGEC 
Sex-Based Discrimination
(See GAAC, GAAD, GAF, JDDC and KN)

The board of education is committed to providing a positive and productive working and learning environment, free from discrimination on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment.  The district does not discriminate on the basis of sex in admissions, employment, or the educational programs or activities it operates. Discrimination on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment, of employees or students of the district in any district education program or activity will not be tolerated in the school district and is strictly prohibited.

Sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment, is unlawful discrimination under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.  All forms of sexual harassment are prohibited at school, on school property, and at all school-sponsored activities, programs, or events within the United States.    

The Executive Director of Human Resources, 2112 1st Avenue, Dodge City, KS 67801, (620) 371-1004 has been designated to coordinate compliance with nondiscrimination requirements contained in Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Information concerning the provisions of this Act, and the rights provided thereunder, are available from the Title IX Coordinator.  Inquiries about the application of Title IX to the district may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator; to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington D.C. 20202-1100, (800)421-3481; at OCR@ed.gov; or both.

Definitions

• For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply.
  • “Appeal decision-maker” reviews the appeal along with written statements in support of, or challenging, the outcome of the written determination regarding responsibility, and other relevant documentation collected during the formal grievance process. The appeal decision-make shall not be the Title IX Coordinator, investigator, decision-maker, or formal resolution facilitator.
  • “Complainant” means an individual who is alleged to be a victim of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.
  • “Dating violence” means violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the length of the relationship, the type of relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved.
  • “Decision-maker” reviews all the evidence and prepares an impartial written responsibility determination as to whether the alleged conduct occurred and provides an opportunity for the parties and their representatives to prepare written questions to be answered by the other party. The decision-maker shall not be the Title IX Coordinator, investigator, appeal decision-maker, or formal resolution facilitator.
  • “Domestic violence” includes felony or misdemeanor crimes committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim under the family or domestic violence laws of Kansas.
  • “Formal complaint” means a document filed by a complainant or signed by the Title IX Coordinator alleging sexual harassment against a respondent and requesting that the district investigate the allegation of sexual harassment.
  • “Informal resolution facilitator” is a neutral person, designated by the Title IX Coordinator, who has been trained to assist the parties through the voluntary informal resolution process. The informal resolution facilitator shall not be the Title IX Coordinator, investigator, decision-maker, or appeal-decision maker.
  • “Investigator” is the person who carries out the investigation after the formal complaint is filed and conducts interviews of the witnesses, collects and documents evidence, and drafts an investigative report. The investigator shall not be the Title IX Coordinator, decision-maker, appeal decision-maker, or informal resolution facilitator.
  • “Respondent” is an individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.
  • “Sex-based discrimination” means any unfair treatment, unequal opportunity, or harassment on the basis of sex in the district’s programs or activities.
  • “Sexual assault” means an offense classified as a forcible or nonforcible sex offense under the uniform crime reporting system of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
  • “Sexual harassment” means conduct on the basis of sex involving one or more of the following: (1) A district employee conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of the district on an individual’s participation in unwelcomed sexual conduct;  (2) unwelcomed 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, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking.
  • “Stalking” means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for his or her safety or the safety of others or to suffer substantial emotional distress.
  • “Supportive measures” means non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered as appropriate, as reasonably available, and without fee or charge to the complaint or the respondent regardless of whether a formal complaint has been filed. Such measures are designed to restore or preserve equal access to the recipient’s education program or activity without unreasonably burdening the other party, including measures designed to protect the safety of all parties or the recipient’s educational environment, or deter sexual harassment. Supportive measures may include counseling, extensions of deadlines or other course-related adjustments, modifications of work or class schedules, mutual restrictions on contact between the parties, changes in work locations, leaves of absence, increased security and monitoring of certain areas of the school, and other similar measures. The supportive measures provided to the complainant or respondent by the district must remain confidential to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair the ability of the district to provide the supportive measures. The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the effective implementation of supportive measures.
  • “Title IX Coordinator” is the individual designated at the district level who has the responsibility to coordinate compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. The Title IX Coordinator’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to: developing materials and ensuring professional development occurs for staff involved in Title IX compliance, creating systems to centralize records, gathering relevant data, contacting the complainant (and/or parents or guardians, if applicable) once the district has actual knowledge of alleged sexual harassment, coordinating the implementation of supportive measures, signing a formal complaint to initiate a grievance process, and ensuring any remedies are implemented.

Reporting of Sex-Based Discrimination, including Sexual Harassment
The district takes all reports of sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment, seriously and will respond meaningfully to every such report of which the district has actual knowledge.

The district encourages all victims of sexual harassment and persons with knowledge of such harassment to report the harassment immediately.  Any person may make a verbal or written report of sex discrimination by any means and at any time.

Any act of retaliation or discrimination against any person who has opposed discrimination; filed a complaint; or testified, assisted, or participated in any investigation, proceeding, or appeal involving sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment, is prohibited. The district will take appropriate available action to address retaliation, which may include student or employee discipline procedures.

It shall be a violation to discourage a student or an employee from filing a complaint, or to fail to investigate or refer for investigation, any complaint lodged under the provisions of this policy.  Violation of this policy shall result in appropriate disciplinary action.

False or malicious complaints of sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment, may result in corrective or disciplinary action against the complainant.

False statements made in the course of an investigation of sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment, may result in corrective or disciplinary action against the individual.

Complaint Process for Sex-Based Discrimination (Not Sexual Harassment)
Complaints of sex-based discrimination that do not allege sexual harassment will be investigated through the complaint procedure outlined in policy KN to determine whether, under the totality of the circumstances, the alleged behavior constitutes a violation of this policy.

Actions determined to be in violation of this policy shall result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination for employees and expulsion for students. Actions which are in violation of other policies but do not constitute sex-based discrimination may also result in appropriate discipline. 

Grievance Process for Sexual Harassment
Any employee who witnesses an act of sexual harassment or receives a complaint of harassment from another employee or a student shall report the complaint to the Title IX Coordinator, the employee’s supervisor, or other designated district official. Employees who fail to appropriately report complaints or incidents of sexual harassment to the Title IX Coordinator, their supervisor, or other designated district official may face disciplinary action.

Use of this complaint procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of any other remedies including the right to file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Education.

The Title IX Coordinator, any investigator, decision-maker, appeal decision-maker, or any informal resolution facilitator shall not have a conflict of interest or bias for or against the complainant or respondent. These individuals shall receive training on the definition of sexual harassment; the scope of the education program and activities; how to conduct an investigation, including appeals and informal resolution processes; and how to serve impartially, including avoiding prejudgment of the facts, conflicts of interest, and bias.

Investigators shall receive training on issues of relevance of questions and evidence in order to create investigative reports that fairly summarize relevant evidence. Decision-makers shall receive training on issues of relevance of questions and evidence, including when questions and evidence about the complainant’s sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior are not relevant.

Within 10 business days of any reports of sexual harassment, the Title IX Coordinator shall contact the complainant and discuss the availability of supportive measures, with or without the filing of a formal complaint; consider the complainant’s wishes as to supportive measures; and inform the complainant of the right to a formal complaint investigation consistent with Title IX and the informal resolution process.

Informal Resolution Process for Sexual Harassment Complaints
At any time during the formal complaint process regarding alleged sexual harassment and prior to reaching a determination regarding responsibility, the district may facilitate an informal resolution process, such as mediation, that does not involve a full investigation and determination of responsibility.
The informal resolution process requires:

• The informal resolution facilitator is to be a trained educational professional, consultant, or other individual selected by the Title IX Coordinator who has received training on their role;
• the parties to be provided a written notice disclosing the allegations, the requirements of the informal resolution process, and information on when it may preclude the parties from resuming a formal complaint arising from the same allegations;
• at any time prior to agreeing to a resolution, any party to have the right to withdraw from the informal resolution process and resume the investigation of the formal complaint and to be informed of any consequences resulting from participating in the informal resolution process;
• that the parties voluntarily consent, in writing, to the informal resolution process; and
• that the informal resolution process is not used to resolve allegations that an employee has sexually harassed a student.

If the matter is resolved to the satisfaction of the parties, the facilitator shall document the nature of the complaint and the resolution, have both parties sign the agreement, provide a copy of the agreement to both parties, and forward it to the Title IX Coordinator.  If the matter is not resolved, the informal resolution facilitator will notify the Title IX Coordinator, who will resume the formal complaint process.

Formal Grievance Process for Sexual Harassment Complaints
No formal investigation of alleged sexual harassment may occur until after a formal complaint has been filed.
The procedures for filing a formal complaint are as follows.

• At the time of filing a formal complaint, a complainant must be participating in or attempting to participate in the education program or activity of the district concerning which the formal complaint is filed.
• A formal complaint should be filed in writing and contain the name and address of the person filing the complaint.  The complaint should briefly describe the alleged violation.  Filing of the complaint with the Title IX Coordinator may be done in person, by mail, or by email.  If an individual does not wish to file a written complaint, and the matter has not been adequately resolved, the Title IX Coordinator may initiate the complaint.  Forms for filing written complaints are available in each school building office and the central office.
• A complaint should be filed as soon as possible after the conduct occurs, but not later than 180 calendar days after the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation, unless the conduct forming the basis for the complaint is ongoing.

Upon receipt of a formal complaint, the Title IX Coordinator shall either dismiss the formal complaint or initiate the formal grievance process by providing notice to the parties of the complaint.

Dismissal of a Formal Complaint of Sexual Harassment
The Title IX Coordinator must dismiss the complaint if it is determined that:

• Even if all the facts alleged are true, the conduct alleged in the formal complaint would not constitute sexual harassment as defined herein;
• the conduct did not occur in the recipient’s education program or activity; or
• the conduct did not occur against a person in the United States.

During the course of the formal grievance process, the Title IX Coordinator may dismiss the complaint if:

• A complainant notifies the Title IX Coordinator in writing that the complainant would like to withdraw the formal complaint or any allegations therein;
• the respondent is no longer enrolled in or employed by the district; or
• specific circumstances prevent the recipient from gathering evidence sufficient to reach a determination as to the formal complaint or allegations therein.

Upon a dismissal of a complaint, the Title IX Coordinator must promptly send written notice of the dismissal and reason(s) therefor simultaneously to the parties.

Dismissal of a formal complaint does not preclude an investigation or disciplinary action under another district policy.

Initiation of Formal Grievance Process for Sexual Harassment Complaint
Upon filing of a formal complaint of sexual harassment, the district shall provide written notice to the known parties including:

• Notice of the allegations of sexual harassment including sufficient details to prepare a response before any initial interview including:
  • the identities of the parties involved, if known;
  • the conduct allegedly constituting sexual harassment; and
  • the date and location of the alleged incident, if known.
• The district’s investigation procedures, including any informal resolution process;
• A statement that the respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct and that a determination regarding responsibility will be made by the decision-maker at the conclusion of the investigation;
• Notice to the parties they may have an advisor of their choice and may inspect and review any evidence; and
• Notice to the parties of any provision in the district’s code of conduct or policy that prohibits knowingly making false statements or knowingly submitting false information.

If, in the course of an investigation, the investigator decides to investigate allegations about the complainant or respondent that are not included in the notice initially provided, the Title IX Coordinator shall provide notice of the additional allegations to known parties.

Formal Complaint Investigations Regarding Sexual Harassment
To ensure a complete and thorough investigation of any sexual harassment complaint and to protect the parties, the investigator shall:

• Ensure that the preponderance of the evidence burden of proof and the burden of gathering evidence sufficient to reach a determination regarding responsibility rests on the district and not the parties;
• Provide an equal opportunity for the parties to present witnesses and evidence;
• Not restrict either party’s ability to discuss the allegations under investigation or to gather and present relevant evidence;
• Allow the parties to be accompanied by an advisor of their choice;
• Provide written notice of the date, time, location, participants, and purpose of any interview or meeting at which a party or witness is expected to participate;
• Provide the parties equal access to review all the evidence collected which is directly related to the allegations raised in a formal complaint of sexual harassment, including the investigative report, and the opportunity to respond to that evidence before a determination is made;
• Be impartial and objectively evaluate all relevant evidence without relying on sex stereotypes;
• Not have conflicts of interest or bias for or against complainants or respondents;
• Not make credibility determinations based on the individual’s status as complainant, respondent, or witness.

The investigator shall prepare an initial investigative report that fairly summarizes relevant evidence and share the report with the parties and their advisors simultaneously.

The parties shall have 10 days to submit a written response to the initial report for the investigator’s consideration.

Following the opportunity for the parties and their advisors to review and respond to the initial report, the investigator shall submit a final report to the parties and the Title IX Coordinator simultaneously. Upon receipt, the Title IX Coordinator shall provide a copy of the final report and supporting documentation to the decision-maker.  

Decision-Maker’s Determination Regarding Sexual Harassment Complaints
Upon receiving the investigator’s final report, but prior to reaching a determination regarding responsibility, the decision-maker must afford each party the opportunity to submit written, relevant questions that a party wants asked of any party or witness, provide each party with any answers provided, and allow for additional, limited follow-up questions.

The decision-maker must issue a written determination regarding responsibility based on a preponderance of the evidence. The decision-maker’s written determination shall:

• Identify the allegations potentially constituting sexual harassment;
• describe the procedural steps taken, including any notifications to the parties, site visits, methods used to gather evidence, and interviews;
• include the findings of fact supporting the determination;
• address any district policies and/or conduct rules which apply to the facts;
• a statement of, and rational for, the result as to each allegation, including a determination regarding responsibility; and
• the procedures and permissible bases for the complainant and/or respondent to appeal the determination.

The written determination may, but is not required to, recommend that, based on respondent’s action, respondent be subject to disciplinary sanctions and any remedies designed to preserve access to the educational program or activity that may be provided by the district to the complainant.

Actions determined to be in violation of this policy shall result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination for employees and expulsion for students. Actions which are in violation of other policies but do not constitute sex-based discrimination may also result in disciplinary action.  

 A copy of the written determination shall be provided to both parties and the Title IX Coordinator simultaneously.

The decision becomes final on the date the parties receive the results of an appeal, if any appeal is filed, or on the date the opportunity for an appeal expires.

If the formal grievance process determines the actions constituted sexual harassment in violation of this policy, the respondent shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination for employees or expulsion for students. If the formal grievance process determines the actions were in violation of other policies but do not constitute sexual harassment, the respondent may be subject to discipline under those policies. 

If it is determined that sexual harassment has occurred, the district will take prompt, remedial action to prevent its reoccurrence.

Appeals Regarding Sexual Harassment Complaints
The complainant or respondent may appeal the decision-maker’s determination regarding responsibility of a sexual harassment complaint or a dismissal of a formal complaint, on any of the following:

• Procedural irregularity that affected the outcomes;
• new evidence that was not reasonably available at the time the determination regarding responsibility or dismissal of the complaint was made that could affect the outcome; and/or
• the Title IX Coordinator, investigator, or decision-maker had a conflict of interest or bias against either party that affected the outcome.

The request to appeal shall be made in writing to the Title IX Coordinator within 10 days after the date of the written determination.  Appeals shall be a review of the record by an attorney, an independent hearing officer appointed by the board, or the board. The appeal decision-maker may not be the Title IX Coordinator, the investigator, the decision-maker, or informal resolution facilitator that participated in any level of the grievance process that led to the original determination.

The Title IX Coordinator shall notify the parties in writing of the filing of an appeal and implement appeal procedures equally for both parties.
The appeal decision-maker shall give the parties an equal opportunity to submit a written statement in support of, or challenging, the outcome of the determination regarding responsibility. Within 30 days after the appeal is filed, the appeal decision-maker shall issue a written decision, including the rationale for the decision, and provide the written decision simultaneously to both parties and to the Title IX Coordinator.

Recordkeeping
Records relating to sexual harassment complaints filed and their resolution shall be maintained by the Title IX Coordinator for seven years.

Dissemination of Policy
A summary of this policy and the complaint procedures including how to report or file a formal complaint of sex discrimination or sexual harassment shall be published in district handbooks and on the district’s website as directed by the Title IX Coordinator.  Notification of the policy may include posting informational notices in district or school publications, publishing in local newspapers, publishing in newspapers and magazines operated by the school, or distributing memoranda or other written communications to students and employees.

In addition, the district is required to include a statement of nondiscrimination  in any bulletins, announcements, publications, catalogs, application forms, or other recruitment materials that are made available to participants, students, applicants, or employees.

Policy References: GAAC, GAAD and GAF

Policy Reference: JDDC

Policy Reference: KN

Adoption Date: 02/08/1999, Revised: 06/08/2009; 08/12/2013; 08/10/2015; 02/11/2019; 08/10/2020;  06/28/2021 

USD 443 - Dodge City Complaint Form

©KASB. This material may be reproduced for use in USD 443. It may not be reproduced, either in whole or in part, in any form whatsoever, to be given, sold or  transmitted to any person or entity including but not limited to another school district, organization, company or corporation without written permission from KASB. 

 

JGECA 

Racial and Disability Harassment: Students 

The board of education is committed to providing a positive and productive learning and working environment,  free from discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of race, color, national origin, or disability.  Discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, or national origin (“racial harassment”) or on the basis  of disability (“disability harassment”) shall not be tolerated in the school district. Racial or disability harassment  of employees or students of the district in any district education program or activity is strictly prohibited. 

Racial harassment is unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin under Titles VI and VII  of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Kansas Acts Against Discrimination. Disability harassment is unlawful  discrimination on the basis of disability under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans  with Disabilities Act. All forms of racial or disability harassment are prohibited at school, on school property,  and at all school-sponsored activities, programs or events.  

It shall be a violation for any employee to discourage a student from filing a complaint, or to fail to investigate  or refer for investigation, any complaint lodged under the provisions of this policy. 

Prohibited conduct under this policy includes racially or disability-motivated conduct which: 

• Affords a student different treatment, solely on the basis of race, color, national origin, or disability, in a  manner which interferes with or limits the ability of the student to participate in or benefit from the  services, activities or programs of the school; 
• Is sufficiently severe, pervasive or persistent so as to have the purpose or effect of creating a hostile  academic environment; or 
• Is sufficiently severe, pervasive or persistent so as to have the purpose or effect of interfering with a  student’s academic performance or ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities or  programs of the school. 

Racial or disability harassment may result from verbal or physical conduct or written graphic material. 

The district encourages all victims of racial or disability harassment and persons with knowledge of such  harassment to report the harassment immediately. The district will promptly investigate all complaints of racial  or disability harassment and take prompt corrective action to end the harassment. 

Any student who believes he or she has been subject to racial or disability harassment or has witnessed an act  of alleged racial or disability harassment, should discuss the alleged harassment with the building principal,  another administrator, the guidance counselor, or another certified staff member. Any school employee who  receives a complaint of racial or disability harassment from a student shall inform the student of the employee’s  obligation to report the complaint and any proposed resolution of the complaint to the building principal. If the  building principal is the alleged harasser, the complaint shall be reported to the district compliance coordinator.  The building principal shall discuss the complaint with the student to determine if it can be resolved. If the matter is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student in this meeting, the student may initiate a formal  complaint under the district’s discrimination complaint procedure in policy KN.  

Complaints received will be investigated to determine whether, under the totality of the circumstances, the  alleged behavior constitutes racial or disability harassment under the definition outlined above. Unacceptable  student conduct may or may not constitute racial or disability harassment, depending on the nature of the  conduct and its severity, pervasiveness and persistence. Behaviors which are unacceptable but do not  constitute harassment may provide grounds for discipline under the code of student conduct. The discipline of  a student for violation of any provision of the code of student conduct may be enhanced if the conduct is racially  or disability motivated. 

If discrimination or harassment has occurred, the district will take prompt, remedial action to prevent its  recurrence. 

An employee who witnesses an act of racial or disability harassment shall report the incident to the building  principal. Employees who fail to report complaints or incidents of racial or disability harassment to appropriate  school officials may face disciplinary action. School administrators who fail to investigate and take appropriate  corrective action in response to complaints of racial or disability harassment may also face disciplinary action. 

When a complaint contains evidence of criminal activity or child abuse, the compliance coordinator shall report  such conduct to the appropriate law enforcement or DCF authorities. 

To the extent possible confidentiality will be maintained throughout the investigation of a complaint. The desire  for confidentiality must be balanced with the district’s obligation to conduct a thorough investigation, to take  appropriate corrective action or to provide due process to the accused. 

The filing of a complaint or otherwise reporting racial or disability harassment shall not reflect upon the  student’s status or grades. Any act of retaliation or discrimination against any person who has filed a complaint or testified, assisted, or participated in any investigation, proceeding, or hearing involving a racial or disability  harassment complaint is prohibited. Any person who retaliates is subject to immediate disciplinary action, up  to and including expulsion for a student or termination of employment for an employee. 

False or malicious complaints of racial or disability harassment may result in corrective or disciplinary action  against the complainant. 

A summary of this policy shall be posted in each district facility and shall be published in student handbooks and  on the district’s website as directed by the district compliance coordinator. Notification of the policy shall be  included in the school newsletter or published in the local newspaper annually, if applicable.  

Policy References: GAACA, GAAB and GAF

Policy Reference: JDDC

Policy Reference: KN

Adoption Date: 02/08/1999, Revised: 06/08/2009; 08/12/2013; 08/10/2015; 02/11/2019; 06/28/2021 

USD 443 – Dodge City Complaint Form

©KASB. This material may be reproduced for use in USD 443. It may not be reproduced, either in whole or in part, in any form whatsoever, to be given, sold or  transmitted to any person or entity including but not limited to another school district, organization, company or corporation without written permission from KASB. 

 

JGFB 

Supervision of Students 

Students shall be supervised by school personnel when they are under the jurisdiction of the school. 

Each building principal shall coordinate and assign teachers, aides or paraprofessionals to supervise students  engaged in school sponsored activities. All school-sponsored activities shall be supervised by an adult  approved by the administration. 

Each building principal shall ensure appropriate staff members are available for supervising students at  specific times and in designated areas. 

Policy References: GAO and GBR

Policy Reference: JH

Adoption Date: 07/25/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016 

 

JGFF 

Student Transportation  

Use of Vehicles and Bicycles 

The superintendent may develop procedures regulating to the driving, parking, and use of vehicles and the use  and parking of bicycles or other similar equipment during the school day. Failure to observe district rules and/or  procedures may result in disciplinary action. 

Rules and procedures concerning use of vehicles and bicycles on school property may be included in the student  and/or other district handbooks. 

Walkers 

Students who walk to and from school are urged to become familiar with traffic safety laws governing such  activities, to be alert to their surroundings, and to exercise caution while crossing streets in high traffic areas. 

Notice 

At the beginning of each school year, district staff will provide students with appropriate notice of the rules and procedures relevant to their use of transportation to school and school-related activities.  

Policy Reference: JGG

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 08/12/2013; 07/11/2022 

 

JGFG 

Student Accidents and Health Emergencies (including Epinephrine and Naloxone Policies)

When a staff member becomes aware that a student has been involved in an accident or is in need of emergency  care at school, on school property, or at a school-sponsored activity, the staff member shall follow the rules for  the care of an injured student and shall report the accident to the building principal. If a student has an accident  which appears to require medical treatment, an employee shall send for medical help and try to make the  student as comfortable as possible while waiting for medical assistance to arrive. 

When appropriate, the student's parent(s) shall be notified of the student’s condition as soon as possible to  determine appropriate action. If the student needs medical attention, and the parents cannot be reached, the principal shall seek emergency medical treatment. 

Emergency Care 

At the scene of an emergency or accident when medical help is not readily available to assist in the care of an  injured student, an employee may render emergency care or assistance, including, but not limited to, first aid,  as deemed reasonably necessary until medical help arrives. Kansas law provides protection from civil liability  for any person who, in good faith and without compensation, renders emergency care or assistance to any  person, including a minor without first obtaining the consent of the parent or guardian of such minor, at the  scene of an emergency or accident. However, this protection does not extend to individuals whose acts or  omissions in rendering emergency care in these circumstances were grossly or wantonly negligent. 

Records 

Appropriate records documenting student accidents shall be maintained. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 03/08/2016; 02/11/2019; 01/23/2023

Epinephrine Policy: It is the policy of the USD 443 School District to provide assistance to any person(s) who may be  suffering from a life-threatening allergic reaction (Anaphylaxis) following protocols and procedures of the school district. Staff members trained in accordance with the policy shall make every reasonable effort, to  include the use of Epinephrine Auto-Injectors in the event of a life-threatening allergic reaction. 

EpiPens will be kept in the nurse’s office and/or main office for students or staff who may have forgotten theirs and for individuals who may have an allergic reaction (Anaphylaxis) that has not previously been diagnosed. 

Adoption Date: 01/23/2023

 

Naloxone Policy: It is the policy of the USD 443 School District to provide assistance to any person(s) who may be  suffering from an opioid overdose following protocols and procedures of the school district. Staff members  trained in accordance with the policy shall make every reasonable effort, to include the use of Naloxone combined with rescue breaths, to revive the victim of any apparent drug overdose. 

Naloxone will be kept in the nurse’s office and/or the main office of the secondary school buildings. 

Adoption Date: 01/23/2023

 

JGFGA 

Administration of Emergency Opioid Antagonists 

Kansas law creates standards governing the use and administration of emergency opioid antagonists approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) to inhibit the effects of opioids and for the treatment of an opioid overdose. Any first responder or school nurse is authorized to possess, store, distribute, and administer emergency opioid antagonists as clinically indicated, provided that all personnel with access to emergency opioid antagonists are trained in proper protocol.

Similarly, Kansas law allows a patient or bystander (meaning a family member, friend, caregiver, or other person in a position to assist a person who the bystander believes to be experiencing an opioid overdose) to acquire and utilize emergency opioid antagonists.

Therefore, to further prioritize student health and safety in its schools, programs, and activities, the district shall obtain, store, and administer the emergency opioid antagonist Naloxone, which is commonly known by the brand name Narcan, for emergency use in its schools.  A stock supply of Naloxone may consist of one or more standard-dose prepackaged nasal spray devices. The school nurse and other properly trained and designated district staff members may administer such medication in emergency situations to an individual who displays the signs and symptoms of opioid overdose at school, on school property, or at a school-sponsored event if such school nurse or designated school staff member reasonably believes that an individual is exhibiting the signs and symptoms of an overdose. Opioid antagonists may be available during the regularly scheduled school day.  They may be available at other times at the discretion of the superintendent.

The board establishes the following rules governing the utilization and administration of emergency opioid antagonists, such as, but not necessarily limited to, Naloxone, by members of district staff.

Training

If obtaining the emergency opioid antagonist through a pharmacy, the providing pharmacy of the emergency opioid antagonist (hereafter “the product”) shall provide written education and training materials to the individual to whom the product is dispensed. First Aid for Opioid Overdose must be obtained by each school nurse and other staff members designated by the superintendent to respond to potential opioid overdose situations.  In addition, all district staff members with access to emergency opioid antagonists shall be trained, at a minimum, on the following:

• Techniques to prevent opioid overdose, to recognize signs of such an overdose and to effectively respond thereto;
• Standards and procedures to safely store the emergency opioid antagonist where readily accessible to the school nurse, if applicable, or other designated school staff members responsible for distribution and administration of the emergency opioid antagonist;
• Spotting potential side effects or adverse events that may occur as a result of administering an emergency opioid antagonist;
• Emergency follow-up procedures, including the requirement to summon emergency medical services either immediately before or immediately after administering an emergency opioid antagonist to a patient;
• Inventory requirements, recordkeeping, and reporting any administration of an emergency opioid antagonist to the school nurse or another healthcare provider; and
• Availability of drug treatment programs.

District staff members personally acquiring such products for use as a patient or bystander are encouraged to inform the school nurse or the superintendent’s designee, so that they may be trained in proper protocol and included in the school or district’s crisis response plan regarding potential opioid overdose.

Procurement of the Product

The school nurse or other staff member(s) designated by the superintendent will be responsible for the procurement of the product.

Storage

The following storage protocols shall be followed:

• The product will be clearly marked and stored in an accessible place at the discretion of the school nurse or the superintendent’s designee.
• The product will be stored in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid extreme cold, heat, and direct sunlight.
• Inspection of the product shall be conducted at least quarterly.
• The individual responsible for the product’s safekeeping shall check, document, and track the expiration date found on the box. Pursuant to Kansas law, “emergency opioid antagonist” is defined to include an expired emergency opioid antagonist up to 10 years past the products  expiration date. Therefore, the individual responsible for the product’s safekeeping shall replace the product on or before the 10^th anniversary of its expiration date.

Use of the Product

In case of a suspected opioid overdose, the school nurse, designee, or other individual shall follow the protocols outlined in the training or product instructions in administering the product.

 

Follow-up

• After administration of the product, the school nurse, or other designated staff, will report appropriate information to emergency services, parents (guardians), central office personnel, and if determined necessary, the patient will be transported to a hospital.
• The school nurse or other designated staff will complete the designated incident report and file the report with the school nurse or district office, whichever is applicable.

Limitations on School Nurses

While Kansas law supports the use of emergency opioid antagonists for up to 10 years after their expiration dates, school nurses are not to prescribe, dispense, distribute, or furnish expired emergency opioid antagonist, in order to protect their professional licenses.

Gifts, Grants, and Donations

The board is authorized by law to accept monetary gifts, grants, and donations to provide a stock supply of Naloxone for emergency use in its schools or may accept Naloxone nasal spray devices from manufacture or wholesalers.

Protection from Liability

Any patient, bystander, school nurse, a first responder, or technician operating under a first responder agency, who, in good faith and with reasonable care, receives and administers an emergency opioid antagonist pursuant to this policy to a person experiencing a suspected opioid overdose shall not, by an act or omission, be subject to civil liability or criminal prosecution, unless personal injury results from the gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct in the administration of the emergency opioid antagonist.

 

Publish Policies and Procedures

The district shall publish information related to its Naloxone policies and procedures in student handbooks and any other locations, as determined by appropriate by the superintendent.

Adoption Date: 06/24/2024; 7/2026