Oak View Handbook2021 - 2022

Mission StatementEmpowering students to take charge of their future.

Oak View1300 SW Countyline RoadGrimes, IA 50111Phone:515-986-3155Fax:515-986-3155

Principal: Dr. Lori PhillipsDean of Students: Mr. Marc Jurgens

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION OFFICE2504 West 1st StreetGrimes, IA 50111Phone: 515-996-3838

SuperintendentScott Grimes

Associate SuperintendentJill Van Workem

Business ManagerMichelle Wearmouth

Director of Student ServicesMary Jane Stites

Director of Teaching and LearningLisa Clayberg

Director of TransportationJeff Wolfe

Director of CommunicationsAnne Wemhoff

Director of TechnologyMike Hoskins

Board of EducationDoug Rants Ryan CarpenterSara Wilson Mark BejarnoMark Wills Ronnie WeidemanKathie Hicock

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Table of ContentsOffice Hours 4Building Schedule 4

Early Dismissal for Professional Development 4Attendance 4

When to Come to School and Why Attendance is Important 5Absent 5Excused Absences 5Unexcused Absences 5Advanced Make-Ups 5Tardy 5Consequences for unexcused tardiness 6Leaving School During the Day 6Procedures for Excessive Absences and/or Tardiness 6Advice for Parents 6

Non Discrimination Statement 7Communication 7

No School 7Telephone 7Flier Distribution 8Release of Student Photographs/Information 8

Student Discipline 8Bullying/Harassment 9

Filing a Complaint 9Investigation 10Decision 10

Sexual Abuse and Harassments of Students by Employees 11Expectations for Students 11Jurisdictional and Behavioral Expectation Statement 11

Discipline 12Detentions 12Cell Phone Communications/Recording Devices 12Internet Use 13Dress Code 13School Property 14Prohibited Items 15Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs 15Consequences 15Weapons 15Posters & Advertisements 15Health and Safety 15Building Nurse Contact Information 15School Nurse-Student Relationship 15Medication Guidelines at School 17Bomb Threats 17Fire & Tornado Drills 17Security Cameras 17

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Student & Parental Rights 17Grading 18

High School Coursework 18Homework 18Homework Guidelines 19Teacher Responsibility 19Student Responsibility 19Parent Responsibility 19Grading & Reporting Progress 20Testing Program 20

Transportation 20Bus Permits 20Bus Rules 20Athletic Trips 20Consequences 20Activities 20

Good Conduct Policy 21First Offense 22Second Offense 22Third Offense 22Fourth Offense 22Additional Good Conduct Code Guidelines 22Eligibility Appeal Process 23

Student Activity Program 23Participation in Non-School Sponsored Activities 23

Nutrition Services 24USDA Free Meals 24Negative Account Balances Repayment 24

Student Rights and Responsibilities 24Parent/Community Involvement 25Student Information 25

Student Directory Information 26Student Planners/Planning Devices 26Student Records 26Fundraising 26

Special Services 26Heartland AEA 26Special Education 26Guidance Services 26Health Services 27Student Services 27Student Assistance Team 27Extended Learning Program 27

Library/Media Center 27

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OFFICE HOURSThe school offices are open from 7:00 a.m. to3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. No studentwill be allowed to remain in the building after3:45 p.m. except under direct supervision of afaculty member. An activity shuttle bus will beavailable to those students who haveparticipated in a school-sponsored activity orhave been working under the direct supervisionof a staff member. Before 7 a.m. and after 3:45p.m., a voicemail system will take yourmessages. Messages reporting your child’sabsence can be left at a time convenient to youbefore 7:30 a.m. Messages requesting a returncall on the voicemail system after 3:45 p.m. willbe returned the following day. We encourageyou to use this service before and after schoolhours for your convenience. Oak View officesare generally not open when school is not insession. The District Administration Office isopen throughout the summer. The DistrictAdministration Office hours can be found onthe district website and their phone number is515-992-3866.

BUILDING SCHEDULEDaily Schedule

● 7:15 a.m. - Students eating breakfastmay enter building

● 8:00 am - All students may enterbuilding

● 8:15 - School Begins● 8:20 - Tardy Bell● 3:15 - Dismissal

We ask that parents refrain from dropping offtheir children at school before 7:00 a.m.Students should not be on school grounds andmay not enter the building before 8:00 am,unless they are eating breakfast at school. Ifyour child is participating in the schoolbreakfast program, he/she may enter thebuilding at 7:45 am. and proceed directly to classat 8:00 am. There is no supervision for yourchildren prior to 8:00 am (exception is thebreakfast program) and after 3:15 pm. Please be

timely in dropping off and picking up your child.Students will not be allowed to wait in the officearea for any extended period of time prior to orafter school dismissal. Please make alternatearrangements when these circumstances occur.Students may not remain in the building or onthe school grounds after school unless they areparticipating in a scheduled event or are undersupervision of a staff member. Students who arereceiving assistance from a teacher may stayafter the regular school day, provided they havepermission from the teacher and their parents.Supervision is not provided before or beyondthe regularly scheduled school hours for anyother reason.

Early Dismissals for ProfessionalDevelopmentA limited number of “shortened” school days arescheduled each school year to allow time forprofessional development. These dates are notedon our school calendar. Plan now to use thosefree hours to take care of some of your child’sout-of-school needs (medical and dentalappointments).

ATTENDANCE(Attendance Board Policy 501.1) Consistent andpunctual attendance is of vital importance inorder to receive maximum benefit from theinstructional program, develop habits ofpunctuality, respect, self-discipline andresponsibility and to assist in keeping disruptionof the educational environment to a minimum.Students will be expected to attend classesregularly and be on time. Irregular attendanceor tardiness by students not only impedes theirown studies but also interferes with theprogress and studies of those students who areregular and prompt in attendance. Attendanceis a shared responsibility and requirescooperation and communication amongstudents, parents and school. If your child isabsent, please call or email the office. Allnotifications regarding full-day absences,leaving early, arriving late, etc. need to go

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through the office rather than through theclassroom teacher. The school determineswhether an absence is excused or unexcused.Attendance letters will be sent home tocommunicate when absences reach ten percentor more.

When to come to school and whyattendance is importantWhile we certainly understand that illnessesand special circumstances are bound to happen,especially with children, please do your best tohelp your children be at school every day. Avoidscheduling appointments during the schoolday, when possible. Here are a few things tokeep in mind when considering your child’sschool attendance:

● Research shows that missing 10 percentof a school year, or two days a month,negatively affects a student’s academicperformance.

● Poor attendance can influence whetherchildren read proficiently by the end ofthird grade.

● When students improve theirattendance rates, they improve thelikelihood of school successacademically and socially.

● All students in a classroom may sufferwhen even one student is chronicallyabsent. The inconsistency can hamper ateacher’s ability to engage all studentsand meet their learning needs.

The following rules or guides will be followed inthe elementary schools concerning absencesand tardiness for students in kindergartenthrough fifth grade.

AbsentA student arriving after 9:45 a.m. will bemarked absent for the morning. A studentleaving after 10:00 a.m. and before 1:30 p.m. willbe marked absent for the afternoon.

Excused Absences● Personal illness (note may be requested

from a doctor if absence is 4 or moredays)

● Attending a funeral● Family emergencies● Recognized religious observances

● Medical or dental appointments● Planned trip with parent or guardian● Other reasons justified from an

educational standpoint

Unexcused Absences● Oversleeping● Missing the bus or a ride● Shopping and concerts● Hunting or fishing (unless on a planned

family trip)● Preparations and participation of party

or other celebrations● Skipping Class

Advance Make-upsIf a student knows ahead of time he or she isgoing to be absent, we request that parentsnotify the school in writing at the earliestpossible date. The student will then be requiredto collect work that will be missed due to theexcused absence. Work will be expected to becomplete upon return. In the event that theabsence is due to participation in a schoolactivity or field trip, students will be expected tocomplete work and turn it in prior to theabsence.

Tardyl Students are expected to be punctual. A

student is considered tardy when he/she isnot in his/her assigned place when theclass is to start. Students should carrybooks and materials to go to numerousclasses so that they need not return totheir lockers after each class. The followingguidelines will determine whether thetardiness is unexcused: Oversleeping,missing the bus or a ride, shopping,employment, hunting or fishing, loiteringin the hall, using the restroom. This list isnot all-inclusive; it is simply a guide.

Consequences for unexcused tardinessThe grade level teacher team and buildingadministrator shall determineconsequences for tardiness. This couldinclude parent contacts, detentions, or aformal intervention plan.

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Leaving School During the DayStudents leaving school during the day for anyreason should contact the school in advance,stating the reason for the absence. Any studentleaving school during the day must be signedout by an adult and signed back in if they returnbefore the end of the day. Students are notallowed to walk home by themselves during theschool day. No student will be allowed to leavethe school during the day with any adult otherthan a parent or guardian unless properpermission is given by the parent/guardian ina note or parent phone call.

Procedures for Excessive Absences and/orTardiness

● The first absence/tardy letter may begenerated by the secretary, signed bythe principal and mailed to the student’shome.

● An entry may be logged in InfiniteCampus by the secretary to note thatthe first contact has been made inregard to the student’sabsences/tardiness.The second absence/tardy letter may begenerated by the secretary, signed bythe principal and mailed to the student’shome.The principal may call the student’sparent(s) to notify them that anotherletter has been sent.

● A meeting may be held to discuss thestudent’s excessive absences/tardinessand determine appropriate action.

● An entry may be logged in InfiniteCampus by the principal to note theoutcome of the meeng. Truancy will bedealt with by the building principal. Thestudent may be required to make up thetime missed from school.

Dually Enrolled students participating in schoolactivities are subject to the same policies, rulesand regulations as other students and aredisciplined in the same manner as otherstudents.Parents, you are responsible for their child'sregular attendance at school.

Chapter 299 of the Iowa Code requires thatevery child between the ages of 5 to 16 shallattend school.Parents: Help your children understand that byregularly showing up in school, their adult lifewill be better than if they don't attend.

Notify School of Any AbsenceMake sure you know your school's policiesabout notification regarding absences and whatdocumentation your school accepts for:

● Illness● Medical appointments● Observance of religious holidays● Family emergencies

Also know what absences your school willexcuse. Some activities generally not acceptedfor an excused absence include:

● Babysitting● Missing the bus● Cold Weather● Employment● Need for sleep or rest● Car broke down

Communication with your school is veryimportant. Make sure to inform your school ofevery time your child misses class.Advice for Parents

1. Make it clear that education isimportant by showing interest in yourchild's schoolwork and activities.

2. Establish a routine and be consistent.3. Set a regular bed time.4. Set clear expectations and follow

through.5. Plan appointments and vacations

around the school day as much aspossible.

6. Bring doctor's notes with dates andtimes your child was seen if they mustmiss school.

7. Make sure your child arrives on time.Being late 10 minutes a day totals 30hours of lost instruction for the schoolyear.

8. Refuse to provide and excuse for yourstudent unless it is a legitimate absence.

NON DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

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Students, parents, employees and others doingbusiness with or performing services for theDallas Center Grimes Community SchoolDistrict are hereby notified that this schooldistrict does not discriminate on the basis ofrace, color, creed, religion, gender, nationalorigin, sexual orientation, gender identity,disability, age (for employment), marital status(for programs), or socioeconomic status (forprograms) in admission or access to, ortreatment in, its programs and activities orhiring and employment practices. Any personhaving inquiries concerning the school district'scompliance with the regulations implementingTitle VI, Title VII, Title IX, the Americans withDisabilities Act (ADA), 504 or Iowa Code 280.3 isdirected to contact: Mary Jane Stites, 2405 West1st. St., Grimes Iowa 50111, telephone: 515992-3866, who has been designated by theschool district to coordinate the school district'sefforts to comply with the regulationsimplementing Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, theADA, 504 and Iowa Code 280.3.

COMMUNICATIONThe Dallas Center-Grimes School District valuescommunication between home and school andthroughout the community. DallasCenter-Grimes School District uses a notificationsystem called Thrillshare. Thrillshare is a fullyhosted notification platform used to connectparents, students and staff through voice, SMStext, email and social media. DCG will be usingThrillshare for emergency and generalnotifications. This includes notifications such asbuilding information, bus updates, late starts orother emergency situations that may ariseduring or after school hours. Thrillshare fullyintegrates with Infinite Campus, so there is nolist for parents to sign up.We will be communicating with you frequentlythroughout the year through the followingmodes of communication:

● Building communication sent via emailor Parent Portal in Infinite Campus

● Mustang Monthly, district-widenewsletter, mailed and emailed tofamilies

● Building Facebook pages● Teachers will share classroom updates

and information about student learningin the classroom

● Parent-teacher conferences are heldtwice a year. There will be only oneconference scheduled per child.Babysitting will be provided atconferences for siblings.

● Parents may call at any time for aninformal phone conference within thechild’s school day at theteacher’s/parent’s convenience.

● Students receive report cardselectronically at the end of each quarter

● Email addresses can be found on ourwebsite at www.dcgschools.com bygoing to each school for the staffdirectory

Staff members do not have a break from teachingto check email during the day. If you have otherinformation for your student or a teacher, pleasecontact the office and they will make sure yourmessage is delivered before school is dismissed.

In Case of No SchoolDuring the months of the year when badweather might cause school to be closed, thedistrict will try to make the decision to cancelschool by 6:30 a.m. Closings/ emergencyinformation is communicated through amessaging system called, Thrillshare. This canbe done by phone, text and/or email. Pleaserefer to www.dcgschoools.com for additionalinformation, notifications will appear on thefront page of the website. Such information willalso be announced on local television and radiostations during the public serviceannouncements.

TelephoneStudents at Oak View are allowed to use thetelephone with prior approval from a staffmember. Students are not permitted to use thephones at a time that is disruptive to theeducational process. Parents may call the officeat any time, and students will be given phonemessages at a time that is non-disruptive to thelearning process. Student cell phones should beturned off or to silent from 8:05-3:15.

Flier DistributioneBackpack is Dallas Center-Grimes SchoolDistrict’s “green” approach to distributinginformation from school sponsored activitiesand non-profit organizations. All fliers must be

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approved at the District Administration Office.eBackpack can be accessed by visitinghttp://dcgbackpack.blogspot.com/

Release of StudentPhotographs/InformationFrom time to time, our students are featured innewspaper articles, district newsletters, schoolweb pages, etc. In the Dallas Center-GrimesCommunity School District, photographs orlikenesses may be released without writtenconsent unless parents or guardians of studentsunder age 18 object in writing. Objections torelease of information or photographs should beat the time of registration.

STUDENT DISCIPLINETo attain the highest standards of education inour district, it is necessary for the schools towork in cooperation with the community andhome or parent/guardian, to achieve a highdegree of discipline. It should be kept in mindthat correctional discipline should beconstructive and not just punive. Students’conduct and behavior should be appropriate tomaintain the orderly and efficient operation ofthe school while respecting the rights andprivileges of all students, school personnel andmembers of the community.

Our district discipline policy is based on thepremise that all students will be responsiblefor their own actions.

One goal of Dallas Center-Grimes CSD is toprovide a safe and healthy learningenvironment for all people who enter ourbuilding. We teach our school-wideexpectations so that students know andunderstand the specific guidelines for thehallway, lunchroom, bathroom, playground andclassroom.

Students are responsible for their own behavior.Being responsible means taking ownership ofthe consequences for behaviors exhibited.Regardless of the behavior of others aroundyou, students are expected to make positivedecisions and display good character.

Students are expected to comply with and abideby the school district's policies, rules, regulationsand student handbook. Students who fail to

abide by the school district's policies, rules,regulations and student handbook may bedisciplined for conduct which disrupts orinterferes with the education program; conductwhich disrupts the orderly and efficientoperation of the school district or schoolactivity; conduct which disrupts the rights ofother students to obtain their education or toparticipate in school activities; or conductwhich interrupts the maintenance of adisciplined atmosphere. Disciplinary measuresinclude, but are not limited to, removal from theclassroom, detention, suspension, probation andexpulsion. Discipline can also includeprohibition from participating inextracurricular activities. The disciplineimposed is based upon the facts andcircumstances surrounding the incident and thestudent's record. The school reserves and retainsthe right to modify, eliminate or establish schooldistrict policies, rules, regulations and studenthandbook provisions as circumstances warrant,including those contained in the handbook.Students are expected to know the contents ofthe handbook and comply with it. Students orparents with questions or concerns may contacttheir school office for information about thecurrent enforcement of the policies, rules,regulations or student handbook of the schooldistrict.

We work hard to create a positive and safeenvironment; however, there are certainbehaviors that are not tolerated:

● Harassment/Bullying: verbal orphysical conduct that creates anintimidating, hostile, or offensiveenvironment

● Property Damage: breaking, tearingdestroying, or otherwise besmirchingphysical property anywhere on theschool grounds

● Fighting/Physical Aggression: thestudent strikes or touches anotherperson with his/her body, an objectconnected to his/her body or an objectpropelled by his/her body with theintent of causing pain

● Theft: a student takes another person’sproperty without their verbal orwritten consent

● Possession of a Weapon: weapon isdefined in the school policy section

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BULLYING/HARASSMENTThe Dallas Center Grimes School District iscommitted to providing all students with a safeand civil school environment in which allmembers of the school community are treatedwith dignity and respect. We do have a zerotolerance for bullying and harassment. If yourchild is feeling bullied, please have them sharethis with someone at school, as we want toaddress the problem immediately. As the parent,please do not hesitate to call us if you areconcerned about bullying issues. We will workas a team (principal, teacher, parents, andstudents) to help resolve the issue. Bullyingand/or harassment of or by students, staff, andvolunteers is against federal, state, and localpolicy and is not tolerated by the board.Bullying and/or harassing behavior canseriously disrupt the ability of school employeesto maintain a safe and civil environment, andthe ability of students to learn and succeed.Therefore, it is the policy of the state and theschool district that school employees,volunteers, and students shall not engage inbullying or harassing behavior in school, onschool property, or at any school function orschool-sponsored activity, and while away fromschool grounds if the misconduct directlyaffects the good order, efficient managementand welfare of the school or District.Definitions:For the purposes of this policy, the definedwords shall have the following meaning:“Electronic” means any communicationinvolving the transmission of information bywire, radio, optic cable, electromagnetic, or othersimilar means. “Electronic” includes but is notlimited to communication via electronic mail,internet-based communications, pager service,cell phones, and electronic text messaging.“Harassment” and “bullying” shall mean anyelectronic, written, verbal, or physical act orconduct toward a student based on theindividual’s actual or perceived age, color, creed,national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex,sexual orientation, gender identity, physicalattributes, physical or mental ability ordisability, ancestry, political party preference,political belief, socioeconomic status, or familialstatus, and which creates an objectively hostileschool environment that meets one or more ofthe following conditions:

1. Places the student in reasonable fear of harmto the student’s person or property.2. Has a substantial detrimental effect on thestudent’s physical or mental health.3. Has the effect of substantially interferingwith a student’s academic performance.4. Has the effect of substantially interferingwith the student’s ability to participate in orbenefit from the services, activities, or privilegesprovided by a school.“Trait or characteristic of the student” includesbut is not limited to age, color, creed,national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex,sexual orientation, gender identity,physical attributes, physical or mental ability ordisability, ancestry, political partypreference, political belief, socioeconomic status,or familial status.“Volunteer” means an individual who hasregular, significant contact with students.

Filing a Complaint:A Complainant who wishes to availhimself/herself of this procedure may do so byfiling a complaint with the superintendent orsuperintendent’s designee. An alternate will bedesignated in the event it is claimed that thesuperintendent or superintendent’s designeecommitted the alleged discrimination or someother conflict of interest exists. Complaints shallbe filed within 30 days of the event giving riseto the complaint or from the date theComplainant could reasonably become aware ofsuch occurrence. The Complainant will state thenature of the complaint and the remedyrequested. The Complainant shall receiveassistance as needed. School employees,volunteers, and students shall not engage inreprisal, retaliation, or false accusation against avictim, witness, or an individual who hasreliable information about an act of bullying orharassment.

Investigation:The school district will promptly andreasonably investigate allegations of bullying orharassment. The building principal or person(s)designated by the principal (hereinafter“Investigator”) will be responsible for handlingall complaints alleging bullying or harassment.The Investigator shall consider the totality ofcircumstances presented in determiningwhether conduct objectively constitutes

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bullying or harassment. The superintendent orthe superintendent’s designee shall also beresponsible for developing procedures regardingthis policy.

Decision:If, after an investigation, a student is found to bein violation of this policy, the student shall bedisciplined by appropriate measures, which mayinclude suspension and expulsion. If after aninvestigation a school employee is found to be inviolation of this policy, the employee shall bedisciplined by appropriate measures, which mayinclude termination. If after an investigation aschool volunteer is found to be in violation ofthis policy, thevolunteer shall be subject to appropriatemeasures, which may include exclusion fromschool grounds.A school employee, volunteer, or student, or astudent’s parent or guardian who promptly,reasonably, and in good faith reports anincident of bullying or harassment, incompliance with the procedures in the policyadopted pursuant to this section, to theappropriate school official designated by theschool district, shall be immune from civil orcriminal liability relating to such report and toparticipation in any administrative or judicialproceeding resulting from or relating to thereport.Individuals who knowingly file false bullying orharassment complaints and any person whogives false statements in an investigation maybe subject to discipline by appropriate measures,as shall any person who is found to haveretaliated against another in violation of thispolicy. Any student found to have retaliated inviolation of this policy shall be subject tomeasures up to, and including, suspension andexpulsion. Any school employee found to haveretaliated in violation of this policy shall besubject to measures up to, and including,termination of employment. Any schoolvolunteer found to have retaliated in violationof this policy shall be subject to measures up to,and including, exclusion from school grounds.

A variety of age appropriate resources forparents are available in the guidance office.Also, a link is provided on the school’s websiteunder each building’s counseling department.(or community resources)

Students who feel that they have been harassedor bullied should:

1. Communicate to the harasser or bullythat the student expects the behavior tostop, if the student is comfortable doingso. If the student needs assistancecommunicating with the harasser orbully, the student should ask a teacher,counselor or principal to help.2. If the harassment or bullying does notstop, or the student does not feelcomfortable confronting the harasser orbully, the student should:

· Tell a teacher, counselor orprincipal; and· Write down exactly whathappened, keep a copy and giveanother copy to the teacher,counselor or Principal including:

● What, when and where it happened● Who was involved● Exactly what was said or what the

harasser or bully did● Witnesses to the harassment or

bullying● What the student said or did, either at

the time or later● How the student felt● How the harasser or bullying responded

Sexual harassment may include unwelcomesexual advances, requests for sexual favors andother verbal or physical conduct of a sexualnature. Harassment or bullying on the basis orage, color, creed, national origin, race, religion,marital status, sex, sexual orientation, genderidentity, physical attributes, physical or mentalability or disability, ancestry, political partypreference, political belief, socioeconomic statusor familial status includes conduct of a verbal orphysical nature that is designed to embarrass,distress, agitate, disturb or trouble personswhen:

· Places the student in reasonable fearof harm to the student's person orproperty;· Has a substantially detrimental effecton the student's physical or mentalhealth;· Has the effect of substantiallyinterfering with the student's academicperformance· Has the effect of substantiallyinterfering with the student's ability to

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participate in or benefit from theservices, activities, or privilegesprovided by a school. Sexualharassment includes, but is not limitedto:· Verbal physical or writtenharassment or abuse;· Pressure for sexual activity;· Repeated remarks to a person withsexual or demeaning implications; and· Suggesting or demanding sexualinvolvement, accompanied by impliedor explicit threats.

Harassment or bullying based upon factorsother than sex includes, but is not limited to:

· Verbal, physical, or writtenharassment or abuse;· Repeated remarks of a demeaningnature;· Implied or explicit threats concerningone's grades, job, etc; and· Demeaning jokes, stories or activities

Sexual Abuse and Harassment of StudentsBy EmployeesInvestigation of Child Abuse by a SchoolEmployeeIn compliance with the child abuse policypassed by the State Board of Education, theDallas Center-Grimes Schools designate thefollowing as investigators of physical andsexual abuse of students by schoolemployees:1. Investigators for Dallas Center-GrimesPrimary Investigator:Mary Jane Stites2405 W. 1st StreetGrimes, IA 50111515-992-3838

Alternate Investigator:Lisa Clayberg2405 W. 1st StreetGrimes, IA 50111515-992-3838

2. Second level investigators will bean official from outside thedistrict’s regular staff. Theprimary investigator will examinereported incidents of physical and

sexual abuse of students by schoolemployees. She/he will review allallegations and determinewhether a Level Two referral iswarranted. The investigator mustnotify local law enforcementauthorities in cases of provenserious physical and sexual abuse.

The investigator must also give a copy ofthe report to the employee’ssuperintendent. All proven cases of abuseby certified employees will be reported tothe Iowa Professional Teaching PracticesCommission. Counseling services for thestudent will be arranged upon request fromthe parents or student.

EXPECTATIONS for STUDENTSOne goal of Dallas Center-Grimes is to provide asafe and healthy learning environment for allpeople who enter our building. Students,teachers, administrators, associates, secretaries,custodians, bus drivers, and cafeteria workersare expected to display behavior consistent withthe Character Counts! Pillars of Character:Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring,Trustworthiness, and Citizenship.Students are responsible for their own behavior.Being responsible means taking ownership ofthe consequences for behaviors exhibited.Regardless of the behavior of others aroundyou, students are expected to make positivedecisions and display good character.

Jurisdictional and Behavioral ExpectationStatementThis handbook is an extension of board policy and is areflection of the goals and objectives of the schoolboard. The board, administration and employeesexpect students to conduct themselves in a mannerfitting to their age level and maturity and with respectand consideration for the rights of others. Students,teachers, employees and visitors are expected to treateach other with respect and courtesy so that all may besafe within the school environment. Students may notuse abusive language, profanity or obscene gestures orlanguage.

This handbook and school district policies, rulesand regulations are in effect while students areon school grounds, school district property or on

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property within the jurisdiction of the schooldistrict; while on school-owned and/orschool-operated buses or vehicles or charteredbuses; while attending or engaged in schoolactivities; and while away from school groundsif the misconduct directly affects the good order,efficientmanagement and welfare of the school districtor involves students or staff. School districtpolicies, rules and regulations are in effect 12months a year. A violation of a school districtpolicy, rule, regulation or student handbookmay result in disciplinary action and may affecta student's eligibility to participate inextracurricular activities whether the violationoccurred while school was in session or whileschool was not in session.

Students are expected to comply with and abideby the school district's policies, rules, regulationsand student handbook. Students who fail toabide by the school district's policies, rules,regulations and student handbook may bedisciplined for conduct which disrupts orinterferes with the education program; conductwhich disrupts the orderly and efficientoperation of the school district or schoolactivity; conduct which disrupts therights of other students to obtain theireducation or to participate in school activities;or conduct which interrupts the maintenance ofa disciplined atmosphere. Disciplinary measuresinclude, but are not limited to, removal from theclassroom, detention, suspension, probation andexpulsion. Discipline can also includeprohibition from participating inextracurricular activities, including athletics.The discipline imposed isbased upon the facts and circumstancessurrounding the incident and the student'srecord.The school reserves and retains the right tomodify, eliminate or establish school districtpolicies, rules, regulations and studenthandbook provisions as circumstances warrant,including those contained in the handbook.Students are expected to know the contents ofthe handbook and comply with it. Students orparents with questions or concerns may contactthe high school office for information about thecurrent enforcement of the policies, rules,regulations or student handbook of the schooldistrict.

Discipline(Board Policy 502.1) Good discipline includes aresponsibility for one’s actions in accordancewith socially accepted behavior as well as arespect for and proper response to rules, laws,and order. When there is good discipline,schools can then best perform the functions ofteaching basic skills and guiding thedevelopment of worthy citizens, and studentscan realize their greatest opportunities forgrowth.

DetentionsDetention may be given for academic andbehavior reasons. Detention takes priority overextra curricular activities. Students need toserve the detention no more than 1 day after ithas been assigned. Detention will be conductedeither prior to or directly after school, upon thediscretion of the supervising teacher. Teachersmay require students to serve detentions in themorning or with another teacher. Students whofail to report for detention will have the lengthof detention doubled and face other possibledisciplinary actions.

Cell Phones/Electronic CommunicationDevicesStudents will not be allowed to use cell phonesduring the school day. This is in effect from 7:35am until 2:45 pm. Cell-phones in the classroomsand study hall are not allowed unless underspecific directions from the teacher. Earbuds arenot permitted without teacher permission.Consequences will be assigned according to thefollowing:If the device is turned on and the phone is beingused or makes noise, the teacher will ask thestudent to surrender the phone and the teacherwill deliver it to the Principal’s office.

· First offense: The student will reclaimthe electronic device from main office afterschool· Second offense: The student’s parent orguardian will be required to pick up thephone from the office.· Third and subsequent offenses: Parentsare required to pick up the phone from theoffice, and further consequences may beassigned.

Students may carry electronic devices on schoolshuttles, school sponsored trips, and/or activity

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trips. These devices are to remain off, unlesspermission is obtained from the supervisor,sponsor, or coach.Music devices may be used at an appropriatevolume in the study halls at teacher/supervisordiscretion.

Internet Use(Board Policy 602.26) The DallasCenter-Grimes School District offers anopportunity for students to access theinternet and other digital devices. The vastdomain of the information containedwithin Internet’s libraries can provideunlimited opportunities for students.Students will be allowed access to theinternet and digital devices unless thestudent’s parent or guardian provides awritten notification prohibiting thatstudent’s access.Students will abide by the following:

● Students will only be able to accessthe Internet under supervision of astaff member.

● Students shall only remain on thesystem long enough to get neededinformation.

● Students shall not useobjectionable language.

● Students shall not intentionallyaccess or download any text file orpictures or engage in anyconference that includespornography, advocates violence,racism, anarchy, treason, ordiscrimination.

● Students shall be responsible foradditional charges if their accessingthe Internet resulted in the chargesbeing assessed.

● Students need to understand thatall accounts are subject to beingaccessed by the networkadministrator.

Consequences:First offense:

● Student receives a school-to-homereport. Student loses access toInternet for one week. Restricteddates are recorded in the student’s

planner. Other disciplinary actionmay be taken.

Second Offense:● Student receives a school-to-home

report. Student loses access toInternet for the remainder of thequarter. Restricted dates arerecorded in the student’s planner.Other disciplinary action may betaken.

Third Offense:● Student receives a school-to-home

report. Student loses access toInternet for remainder of the year.Restricted dates are recorded in thestudent’s planner.

Dress CodeDCG takes pride in the appearance of itsstudents. A student's dress affects the student'sconduct and school work, and reflects thequality of the school. What is legally permittedmay not always be educationally acceptable. Allstudents are expected to dress and groomthemselves neatly in clothes that are suitable forschool activities. It is critical that our studentsfeel comfortable at school without fear ofdiscipline and/or discrimination. Our toppriority is to create a safe, inclusiveenvironment where all students and staff feelwelcomed and have a healthy environment tofocus on their academics and social/emotionalwell-being.

The following are student dress expectations:● Clothing must meet reasonable

expectations of cleanliness andappropriateness to the educationalsetting.

● Clothing must cover the chest area.● Fabric must cover all private parts and

must not be see through.● Teachers will establish safety and

hygiene rules regarding clothing for PE,lab, shop, or art areas, and may require astricter dress code during certaincircumstances or activities.

● Students may not wear hats in schoolunless for a special occasion or reward

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earned and approved by the buildingprincipal. Hoodies may be worn, but thehood must not cover the head.

● Cultural and religious head garmentsmay be worn.

The following are not allowed:● Clothing that allows the entire

undergarment to be shown.● Clothing or items with suggestive,

obscene, vulgar or racial writing orpictures.

● Wearing clothing or other items thatdepict drugs, tobacco, vape or alcohol.

● Sunglasses or colored glasses that do notpermit the eyes to be easily observed.

● Billfold type chains, handcuffs, nor largemetal adornment will be allowed due topotential harm to persons or property.

● Shoes with cleats, except for outdoorathletic practices.

The staff is to enforce the dress policy. Theprincipal makes the final determination of theappropriateness of the student's appearance.

The student may be given the following choices:● Trade shirt for office supplied t-shirt● Remove item● Leave school to change – unexcused

absence during the time the student isgone

● Others to be determined byadministration, up to and includingsuspension

● Continued infractions will beconsidered insubordination and dealtwith appropriately.

School PropertyAll desks and lockers in the buildings are theproperty of the Dallas Center-GrimesCommunity Schools and remain the schoolproperty even though they are temporarilyassigned to students. Students are to use desksand lockers only for the storage ofschool-related books, school materials,outerwear clothing, and possessions ordinarily

used in day-to-day school activities. Studentsare to use desks and lockers only for the storageof school-related books, school materials,outerwear clothing, and possessions ordinarilyused in day-to-day school activities. The desksand lockers will be subject to inspection at anytime for cleanliness, missing school property,and evidence of vandalism. All studentsassigned to a desk or locker are responsible for itand may be charged individually or equally fordamages to lockers or desks. Lockers are subjectto inspection for contraband items. Studentswho place such items in a desk or locker shall besubject to disciplinary action.

The school anticipates normal wear and tear ofbooks, lockers, and furniture supplies tostudents. If students damage school property orlose items, they will be expected to pay full priceto replace the item/s.

Students are responsible for the proper care ofall computers, books, supplies, lockers, andfurniture supplied by the school. . Lost ordamaged items will be charged to the student atreplacement value cost. Students who disfigureproperty, break windows, or do other damage toschool property or equipment (including buses)will be required to pay to replace the item.School officials may seize any item that mayreasonably be assumed to be used to disrupt orinterfere with the educational environment.Such items shall, upon request, be returned tothe student or parent at the end of a school yearat the discretion of the principal.

Prohibited ItemsStudents may not possess the following items onschool property or at school events without theexplicit permission of a teacher oradministrator: (This is in addition to otherspecifically listed items within this handbook.)

● Gambling devices● Lighters or matches● Explosive devices or other incendiary

devices● Weapons or “look alike” weapons

including but not limited to: guns, rifles,knives, screwdrivers, and/or other itemsused to cause physical harm to personsor property

● Medication or pills● Animals or pets

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● Skates or skateboards● Any items that violate the health, safety

and well-being of others

Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs(Board Policy 502.4) Possessing, using orselling tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs, or“look alike” substances is strictly prohibitedon school property, while under schoolsupervision or at a school activity.

ConsequencesIf a student chooses the above behavior, astudent will be subject to a range ofdiscipline based on frequency and severityof occurrence. This could includesuspension up to and including expulsion.Parents will be contacted and authoritieswill be notified if the action is against thelaw.

WeaponsParents of students found to possess a weaponor dangerous objects on school property shall benotified of the incident. Confiscation of weaponsor dangerous objects shall be reported to the lawenforcement officials, and the student will besubject to disciplinary action includingsuspension or expulsion.

The school does not allow knives of any kind tobe on school property. Students are also notallowed to bring harmful objects that are notnecessary for learning. These include (but arenot limited to) pliers, screwdrivers and otherconstruction-type tools.

Dangerous weapons are defined by Iowa Codeto be any instrument or device designedprimarily for use in inflicting death or injuryupon a human being or animal, and which iscapable of inflicting death upon a human beingwhen used in the manner for which it wasdesigned. Additionally, any instrument ordevice of any sort whatsoever which is actuallyused in such a manner as to indicate that thedefendant intends to inflict death or seriousinjury upon the other, and which, when so used,is capable of inflicting death upon a humanbeing, is a dangerous weapon. Dangerousweapons include, but are not limited to, anyoffensive weapon, pistol, revolver, or otherfirearm, dagger, razor, stiletto, switchblade knife,

or knife having a blade exceeding five inches inlength.

Posters and AdvertisementsStudents may display posters after receivingpermission from the activities sponsor and theadministration. Posters must be well done, ingood taste, and should relate to school activities.The administration will consider and approveonly those posters of coming events, whichaffect a larger portion of the student body andmeet the publishing and posting criteriastandards.

Oak View Student Driving RulesSeventh and eighth grade students are notallowed to drive to school.

HEALTH AND SAFETYOak View has a school nurse or healthassociate. Please keep them informed of anyneeded medical information.Oak View Nurses Contact Information:

Melissa Scott, melissa.scott@dcgschools.com

School Nurse-Student Relationship(Board Policy 504.1) The following areguidelines for students to follow relevant to theschool nurse:

● Students returning after four or moredays of illness shall report to the nurse.The nurse will indicate to the secretaryif it is permissible to admit the studentto school.

● Students who wish to leave school dueto illness must report to the nurse. Thenurse must give permission before thestudents will be allowed to leave. If thenurse is unavailable, the secretary orprincipal will make the decision afterconsultation with the nurse. In all cases,the parents will be notified before thestudent may leave the building.

● Students asking to be excused from PEclass due to illness will report to thenurse.

● The nurse will serve as a resourceperson to all students who havequestions or concerns relating to healthmatters.

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● The nurse will administer medicationwith written permission from thestudent's parent or guardian. Allmedications must be brought to schoolin the original container from thepharmacy and will be kept under thenurse's supervision. Students may notcarry any medication at school. Theschool nurse may administerover-the-counter medicine withwritten permission from the parent orguardian. Students will furnish theirown over-the-counter medication.Medication will be stored in a securedcabinet.

● Temporary exclusion is recommendedwhen:

● The illness prevents the student fromparticipating comfortably in activitiesas observed by the school staff.

● The illness results in a greater need forcare than the school staff determinethey can provide without compromisingtheir ability to care for other students

● The student has the followingconditions, unless a health professionaldetermines the student’s condition doesnot require exclusion:

● The student appears severely ill—Couldinclude lethargy, lack of responsiveness,irritability, persistent crying, difficultbreathing, or quickly spreading rash

● Fever (temperature above 101 orally,100 F axillary) or behavior change orother signs and symptoms such as a sorethroat, rash, vomiting or diarrhea

In case of an accident, school personnel willnotify the school nurse. We will attempt tonotify Parents/Guardians if we need to contactmedical professionals. Parents are stronglyencouraged to keep the phone numbers foremergency situations updated in the office.Students who are ill will not be sent homeunless a responsible adult is there to receivethem or verbal permission has been given by aparent or guardian. Students should call parentsfrom the nurse’s office. Students must see thenurse in order to be excused from school.

Please do not send your child to school if he/sheis ill. Your child should have a normaltemperature for 72 hours before returning to

school without the use of fever reducingmedication. Children who participate in schoolactivities during the day or evening are toattend school all day the day of the activity.Written permission to be absent, any timebefore the activity, will be the only exception tothis situation. (Example: dental appointment,funeral, non-illness appointment)

Refer to the policy section of the handbook toread our accident/illness policy in more depth.

Fever (temperature 100.4 or greater) -https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/public-health-recommendations.html

*For the purpose of this guidance, fever isdefined as subjective fever (feeling feverish) or ameasured temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) orhigher. Note that fever may be intermittent ormay not be present in some people, such asthose who are elderly, immunocompromised, orcertain taking fever reducing medications (e.g.,nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs[NSAIDS]).

*Any student with a fever of 100.4 or above andwith additional symptoms consistent withinfluenza or COVID-19 will be asked by theschool nurse to wear a mask and be placed in anisolated area until the student can be picked upby a parent or emergency contact. This is toprotect others from potential exposure.

In case a student has an accident or is seriouslyill while at school, every attempt will be made tonotify the parent, guardian or designee. If allwere unavailable, your child’s physician (ordentist if a dental injury) would be contacted forinstructions. If that person is unavailable, theschool will make whatever arrangements seemnecessary, including ambulance transportationto the emergency room if required. Thus it isimportant that the information on theemergency sheet filled out at registration isaccurate and as complete as possible. Parentsshould notify the school of any change ininformation contained on this sheet.

Medication Guidelines At SchoolStudents are not allowed to have medicationswith them at school. All medication(prescription and over the counter) must be kept

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in the health office and will be administeredunder the supervision of the school nurse ordelegated trained school employee.Administration of medication at school requiresa parent/guardian signature on the districtMedication Authorization Form, which can befound in Appendix C, on the district’s websiteunder forms, or in the school Health Office.Medication must be brought in the originalcontainer or labeled by the pharmacy or themanufacturer with the name of the student,name of the medication, time of day that it is tobe given, dosage and duration. Medications mustbe age-appropriate and will be administeredaccording to label recommendations.

Students must supply all medications to begiven at school with parent/guardian consent.Elementary schools will not have stockmedications available. The authorization form isavailable in Appendix C, on the district’s websiteunder the forms section or in the Health Offices.

Bomb ThreatsStudents need to understand that bomb threatswill be taken seriously. Any student who isguilty of making a bomb threat, verbally or inwriting, will be prosecuted to the full extent ofthe law. The possible consequences are up tofive years in prison and $5000 fine plus anyadditional costs that were incurred due to thethreat. The student will also be considered forexpulsion from the school. Any school time lostdue to bomb threats will be rescheduled.

Fire and Tornado Drills(Board Policy 504.10) Fire drills and tornadodrills will be conducted throughout the schoolyear. These drills are required of each schooldistrict by state law.Students shall follow the instructions posted ineach room. These instructions will assist inproviding for your protection and safety.Students should consider these drills a seriousmatter. Fires and tornadoes destroy schoolbuildings each year in Iowa. A casual approachmay prove to be harmful to your personalhealth as well as that of your classmates.Fire drills will be announced by the fire alarmsystem. If the alarm system is not working, thepublic address system, a megaphone, ordoor-to-door notification will be used.

Tornado drills will be announced by publicaddress system announcement. If the publicaddress system is not working, a megaphone ordoor to door notification will be used.

Security CamerasIn an effort to provide additional protection forstudents, staff, and property, security camerashave been installed in the interior, including theentrance and hallways, and exterior areas of thebuilding including the entrance, parking lots,stadium, and grassy areas. These cameras are inoperation twenty-four hours a day.

STUDENT AND PARENTAL RIGHTSThe Dallas Center-Grimes Community SchoolDistrict does not discriminate in its educationalprograms and activities on the basis of astudent's disability. It has been determined thatyour child has a qualifying disability for whichaccommodations may need to be made to meethis or her individual needs as adequately as theneeds of other students. As a parent, you havethe right to the following:

· Participation of your child inschool district programs and activities,including extracurricular programs andactivities, to the maximum extentappropriate, free of discriminationbased upon the student's disability andat the same level as students withoutdisabilities;· Receipt of free educationalservices to the extent they are providedstudents without disabilities:· Receipt of information aboutyour child and your child's educationalprograms and activities in your nativelanguage;· Notice of identification of yourchild as having a qualifying disabilityfor which accommodations may need tobe made and notice prior to evaluationand placement of your child and right toperiodically request a re-evaluation ofyour child;· Inspect and review your child'seducational records including a right tocopy those records for a reasonable fee;you also have a right to ask the schooldistrict to amend your child'seducational records if you feel theinformation in the records is misleading

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or inaccurate; should the school districtrefuse to amend the records, you have aright to a hearing and to place anexplanatory letter in your child's fileexplaining why you feel the records aremisleading or inaccurate;· Hearing before an impartialhearing officer if you disagree with yourchild's evaluation or placement; youhave a right to counsel at the hearingand have the decision of the impartialhearing officer reviewed.

Inquiries concerning the school district'scompliance with the regulations implementingTitle VI, Title IX, the Americans with DisabilitiesAct (ADA), § 504 or Iowa Code § 280.3 should bedirected to: Mary Jane Stites, 2405 W 1st Street,Grimes, Iowa 50111, telephone: 515-992-3866,who has been designated by the school district tocoordinate the school district's efforts to complywith the regulations implementing Title VI, TitleIX, the ADA, § 504 and Iowa Code 280.3.

GRADINGGrading is a very important part of any schoolprogram and must be as consistent as possible.The following grading system is to be usedwhen recording all grades on the office gradesheets in grades 6-12. All grades will beconverted to the following:

Percentage Grade Non-weighted WeightedQuality Pts Quality Pts

100-93 = A 4.0 5.092-90 = A- 3.67 4.6789-87 = B+ 3.33 4.3386-83 = B 3.0 4.082-80 = B- 2.67 3.6779-77 = C+ 2.33 3.3376-73 = C 2.0 3.072-70 = C- 1.67 2.6769-67 = D+ 1.33 2.3366-63 = D 1.0 2.062-60 = D- .67 1.6759-0 = F 0 0

An explanation of the weighted grades systemwill be communicated to staff, students, andparents through the course registration bookand process. Student transcripts will reflect

both weighted and non-weighted grading for allhigh school students.Transfer transcripts will be evaluated byprincipal or designee and weighting assignedbased on local weighted course standards.

High School CourseworkEighth grade students who take classes for highschool credit will be subject to the followingguidelines:

● Students must meet the accelerationcriteria in order to be considered forhigh school coursework.

● Students must maintain a "B average" orthe student services team will meet todiscuss proper placement. Parents mayrequest a different placement at anytime.

● The class grades will be posted on thehigh school transcript

● Semester tests will count toward thestudent’s semester grade

HomeworkStudents are expected to complete assignmentsthat are part of the regular classroom routine.Since the completion of assignments is the basisupon which ongoing learning is built, studentswill be held accountable for assignmentcompletion. If students do not completeassignments, they will be expected to work withteachers after school.

Homework GuidelinesThe faculty of Oak View assigns homework inorder to allow students the opportunity topractice new or existing skills, to prepare forupcoming lessons or assessments, or to elaborateon concepts taught during the school day. Richand meaningful assignments enhance theeducational experience. It is the goal of the OakView staff to provide students with learningopportunities, including homework, thatmaximize attainment of academic goals andstudent achievement. All assignments given tostudents will assist in reaching this goal, andstudents are expected to complete all assignedwork.

Teacher Responsibility

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● Teachers will assign rich andmeaningful work designed to increasestudent learning.

● Teachers will coordinate within eachgrade level to monitor the amount ofhomework given each day and to limitthe number of tests given on a givenday.

● Teachers will expect students to utilize aplanning device of some sort, whether itbe something the child already uses, oran electronic planner on the student’slaptop.

● Teachers will communicate studentprogress on a regular basis bymaintaining accurate records and byposting daily homework assignmentson the online website. Teachers willalso respond to special communicationrequests by providing a paper copy ofthe same information as is found on theInternet.

● Teachers will utilize communicationtools to notify parents in a timelymanner of unacceptable academicperformance.

Student Responsibility● Each student will maintain an accurate

and up-to-date planning device,reflecting daily homework, which canbe reviewed by a parent/guardian.

● Each student is expected to complete allassigned homework in a timely manner.When homework is not completed ontime, the student is expected tocommunicate with the classroomteacher regarding a timeline forcompletion.

● Each student is expected to monitorhis/her own grades and academicprogress and communicate with his/herparents regarding academic progress.

● Each student is expected to makeproductive use of study hall and in-classwork time. Classroom teachers areavailable to provide assistance at thesetimes, and it is the responsibility of eachstudent to make use of this resource.

● Each student is expected to attendassigned study sessions before orafter school, designed to help the

student improve his/her academicperformance.

Parent Responsibility● Parents of Oak View students are

expected to monitor their child’s use ofthe planning device. It should containdaily information regarding classroomactivities, homework assignments, andtest dates.

● Parents of Oak View students areexpected to monitor their child’sacademic progress. Grade reports areavailable on Infinite Campus. Parentswill be notified every three weeks byemail if their child has a D or and F in aclass.

● Parents of Oak View students areexpected to communicate with theirchild’s teachers when they have anacademic concern. Each teacher hasvoice mail that can be accessed bycalling the main office at 986-0105.

● Parents of Oak View students areexpected to provide an environmentconducive to completing homework.Having a consistent, organized place forhomework, establishing a schedule forcompleting homework, andencouraging and prompting your childwill help him/her to successfullycomplete homework assignments.

● Parents of Oak View students areexpected to stop their child fromworking when bedtime comes or he/shehas worked on homework an excessiveamount of time, even if homework isnot done. The quality of the workcompleted and your child’s ability tofocus in school the following day willsuffer if he/she is up late or hasexcessive amounts of homework in agiven evening. As a general guide forthe amount of homework that would beconsidered appropriate, multiply thechild’s grade level by 10.

Grading and Reporting ProgressReport cards based on teacher evaluationsare issued at the end of every gradingperiod. Students will receive reports a

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minimum of every 9 weeks. Studentprogres can be monitored on a weekly basisthrough our on-line database (Infinite Campus.)Assignments are updated weekly. PortalAccess can be obtained at the Oak Viewmain office. Progress reports and dailyassignments are also available in papercopy by contacting the Oak View office at986-0105.

Testing ProgramAll students will take the Iowa StatewideAssessment of Student Progress (ISASP)anywhere from March - May. Parents will benotified of the individual achievement of theirchild, and the performance of the district whencompared to state and national results.

TRANSPORTATIONBus PermitsIf a student wants to ride a bus to which he orshe is not regularly assigned, a written requestfrom a parent is required. This must bepresented to the main office personnel who willthen issue a signed permit that must bepresented to the bus driver. Students will bepermitted to ride the activity shuttles only ifthey are coming from or leaving from asupervised activity.

Bus RulesStudents should be waiting for the school buswhen it comes to a stop. If the driver is onschedule, she/he will wait three minutes. Ifshe/he is behind schedule, she/he will not waitfor a student who is not at the pick-up point. Astudent who is not riding the bus on a particularmorning is asked to call the preceding family onthe route so that they can tell the driver not tostop and wait. This will prevent other studentsfrom waiting unnecessarily. Students mustboard the bus only after it comes to a completestop.

State law requires that students who board thebus from the opposite side of the street or roadmust wait for the bus to come to a complete stopand for the driver to motion them across. Also,when leaving the bus and having to cross thestreet or road, students must wait at the front ofthe bus for the driver's signal to cross.A student may not:

● Move from one seat to another.

● Throw things either inside the bus orfrom the window.

● Touch one another.● Lean, yell, or throw items out the

window.● Leave trash on the floor.● Damage or deface any part of the bus.● Use Inappropriate Language● Every student must obey the driver's

instructions immediately.

Athletic TripsWhen we play a home Oak View athletic event,students will be transported to the game venue.Following the game, there will be no specificshuttle for the teams. Students must arrangetheir own transportation following a game.When we play an away Oak View athleticevent, upon return from the game, shuttle bustransportation will be provided to each town.Students must arrange their own transportationfrom the drop-off point in each town.

ConsequencesThose students who fail to behaveappropriately, who fail to follow the driver'sinstructions, or who create a disturbance on ornear the bus will be required to report to theprincipal's office for discipline, which mayinclude denial of the privilege of riding the bus.

ActivitiesParticipants are expected to travel to and fromcontests in transportation provided by the DCGSchool District. There will be few exceptions tothis rule. Many coaches ask the athlete(s) to rideback to the district with the team as a way tobuild team unity. In the event that a parentrequests other travel arrangements for thereturn trip to DCG:

● Students may only ride with his/herparent/adult family member or theparents of another student.

● Parent must make personal contactwith the coach and providepermission in writing.

● At no time will a student be allowed toleave the contest site with anotherstudent or student(s) without thepresence of a parent in the vehicle.

● For a participant to ride home withanyone other than parent, written and

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personal contact must be made priorto departure for the event.

Students are expected to ride to the event onthe school vehicles that are provided. In theevent of an unusual family circumstance,arrangements can be made in advance withthe coach/sponsor and the administration forthe family to take the student to the activity.Parent must make personal contact as well asprovide permission in writing.Students who miss the departure time of thebus will not be allowed to participate in thecontest except in extreme circumstancesbeyond the control of the student or family.Any damage on buses or school vehicles willbe the responsibility of the student causing it.Any inappropriate behavior on any trip willresult in disciplinary action.

GOOD CONDUCT POLICY(Board Policy 503.10R) The Board of Directors ofthe Dallas Center-Grimes Community SchoolDistrict offers a variety of voluntary activitiesdesigned to enhance the classroom education ofits students. Students who participate inextra-curricular and co-curricular activitiesserve as ambassadors of the school (district)throughout the calendar year, whether awayfrom or at school. Students who wish to exercisethe privilege of participating in extracurricularor co-curricular activities must conductthemselves in accordance with board policy andmust refrain from activities that are illegal,immoral, unhealthy, or highly inappropriate.Participation in these activities is a privilege,conditioned not only upon meeting theeligibility criteria established by the board,administration, and individual activity coachesand sponsors, but by demonstrating lawful andreasonable conduct. This policy shall be in effectfor the entire calendar year (365 days), bothduring the regular school year as well as allvacation periods, as well as anywhere in theworld. The principal shall keep records ofviolations of the Good Conduct Rule.The following activities are covered by theboard’s policy and these rules:

Athletics, instrumental and vocal musiccontests, drama productions, speechcontests, debate contests, cheerleadingand dance team.

Direct extensions of the curriculum that are notextra-curricular contests or competition will notbe subject to the Good Conduct Code.

To retain eligibility for participation in theDallas Center-Grimes High Schoolextra-curricular or co-curricular activities,students must conduct themselves as goodcitizens both in and out of school at all times.Students who represent the school in anactivity are expected to serve as good rolemodels to other students and to the members ofthe community.

A student who has allegedly violated the GoodConduct Code shall be confronted with theallegation, the basis of the allegation, and givenan opportunity to tell his/her side. A studentwho is found to have violated the Good ConductCode will be deemed ineligible for a period oftime, as described below. A student may loseeligibility under the Good Conduct Code for anyof the following behaviors:

· Possession, use, sale, manufacture,distribution, or purchase of tobaccoproducts, regardless of the student’s age;· Possession, use, sale, manufacture,distribution, or purchase of alcoholicbeverages, including beer and wine (“use”includes having the odor of alcohol on one’sbreath);· Possession, use, sale, manufacture,distribution, or purchase of any controlledsubstance, or a “look alike” substance, unlesssuch substance was prescribed for thatstudent by a valid prescription or order of alicensed medical practitioner while actingin the course of his/her duties;· Possession, use, sale, manufacture,distribution, or purchase of any drugparaphernalia or apparatus used to allowthe person using it to be involved with acontrolled substance;· Engaging in any act that would begrounds for arrest or citation in the criminalor juvenile court system, excluding minortraffic offenses, regardless of whether thestudent was cited, arrested, convicted, oradjudicated for the act(s);· Being suspended for six or more daystotal during the school year for fighting,harassment, verbal abuse, aggression, or useof profanity;

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· Repeated violations of rules andregulations established by the Board.

When the administration believes it is morelikely than not that the student violated theGood Conduct Code, during the school year orsummer, the student is subject to a loss ofeligibility as follows:

First Offense:The student will be ineligible for 25% of thescheduled contests of an athletic season; and/orone major fine arts activity. The student mustalso perform five hours of approved communityservice or participate in a minimum four-hoursubstance abuse education program.Arrangements are to be made, and fees paid, bythe student. The number of contests may bereduced to 15% of the contests of an athleticseason if the student admits to the violation tothe administration within 48 hours of theoccurrence

Second Offense:The student will be ineligible for 50% of thescheduled contest dates of an athletic seasonand/or two major fine arts activities. Thestudent must also perform ten hours ofapproved community service to be arranged bythe student. If a student admits to the violationto the administration within 48 hours of theoccurrence, the student can choose the option ofreducing the ineligibility length to 33% of theseason and 20 hours of community service.For both offenses, the minimum penalty will beone contest. If a student is in more than oneactivity at the time of the declaration ofineligibility, the penalties for each will be servedconcurrently. The ineligibility may involvemore than one activity season. This policy is ineffect 12 months a year.

Third Offense:The student will be ineligible for 12 calendarmonths from the date of the violation.

Fourth Offense:The student will be ineligible for the remainderof the student’s career at Oak View.

Additional Good Conduct Code Guidelines

· A major Fine Arts activity is a dramaproduction, speech or debate contest, andvocal or instrumental contest.· Percentages that do not divide evenlyinto the total number of contests will berounded to the greater number.· If it has been at least one calendar yearsince a previous violation, the offensenumber will drop back one. For example, if astudent has served for a first offense andhas another violation at least one calendaryear later, he/she will be given theconsequences for a first offense again.· If a student transfers in from anotherIowa school or school district and thestudent had not yet completed a period ofineligibility for a violation of a GoodConduct Code in the previous school orschool district, the student shall beineligible.· In satisfying an ineligibility penalty, astudent must complete the activity seasonthey have started. If a student has beendeclared ineligible, he/she will not beallowed to participate in an activity if thatactivity season has already started. (Asponsor may allow the student to practice,but the activity will not count towardfulfilling the ineligibility.)· Students who are participating insummer activities between grade 8 andgrade 9 are considered to be in grade 9. Thisrule also applies to seniors who graduatedand participated in state association ofschool sponsored activities during thespring and summer months.· If a student is in both athletics and finearts, a student will be ineligible for theassigned athletics and a maximum of onefine arts event that falls during the period ofathletic ineligibility.

Eligibility Appeal ProcessWhenever a student is declared ineligible formore than one contest, the following shallapply:

· A verbal conference will be held withthe administrator and the student andhis/her parents. At that time, the length ofthe period of ineligibility and a specificexplanation of the reasons for ineligibilitywill be discussed. The offense and theconsequences will be put in writing and

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sent to the parents. If parents do not wish toappeal the ineligibility, the principal’sdecision will be in effect and be consideredfinal.· Should the student or his/her parent(s)feel that the offense or circumstances of thiscase is/are not a violation of the GoodConduct Code, they may appeal in thefollowing manner:● The request for the appeal must be

received by the principal in writingwithin seven (7) business days of beingdeclared ineligible.

● Upon receipt of the notice of appeal, anadvisory, three-member panel ofdisinterested DCG certified teachers willreview the case. The school principalshall appoint two members of thereview panel. The student may chooseone of these two appointed staffmembers if he/she so desires. Thesuperintendent of schools will designatethe third panel member.

● The student and his/her parent(s) shallbe notified in writing three (3) daysprior to the meeting of when and wherethe review panel will meet. Thestudent and his/her parents shall beallowed to appear before the reviewpanel. The meeting shall be held at theearliest feasible opportunity but no laterthan fourteen (14) business daysfollowing the request for appeal.

● The review panel shall consider thecircumstances and evidence anddetermine whether theoffense/circumstance(s) are a violationof the Good Conduct Code, and make itsrecommendations in writing to thestudent and parent(s) and to the schoolprincipal. Responsibility for the decisionrests solely with the principal of theschool. The decision of the principalshall be mailed to the student andhis/her parents.

● If the student wishes to appeal theprincipal’s decision, he/she must do so inwriting to the superintendent andBoard of Education within three (3)business days of the receipt of theprincipal’s decision. The appeal shall beheard at the earliest possibleopportunity, but no later than seven (7)

business days following the filing of theappeal.

● The Board shall schedule a specialmeeting for the purpose of conducting aformal hearing with all individualsinvolved. At the hearing, both thestudent and his/her parents and theadministration will have anopportunity to meet and presentevidence and information in support oftheir position. The appeal will beconducted in closed session. However,any formal action by the Board ofEducation must be taken at an openmeeting. The Board shall issue a writtendecision after the hearing, whichincludes finding of fact and conclusions.

● During the appeal procedure thestudent will be ineligible.

STUDENT ACTIVITY PROGRAMAll students that are in an athletic activitymust provide a current physical, acompleted emergency card and aconcussion form before students areallowed to participate.The student activity handbook as well asthese regulations state that athleticactivities have inherent risks associatedwith participation. Parents and studentsaccept a level of risk when studentsparticipate in extracurricular activities. Allguidelines for student activities can belocated in the school activity handbook.

Participation in Non-School SponsoredActivitiesOak View students wishing to participate as anindividual or a team member in a non-schoolevent during the season that they are a memberof a Dallas Center-Grimes High School team,will be allowed to do so provided:The student, parents, and head coach sign awaiver. This waiver is available from theActivities Director and must be filed prior toany non-school competition.Participation in the non-school event will notresult in a loss of practice time or games beingmissed with the Dallas Center-Grimes HighSchool team. If this does occur, the student willmiss one scheduled game for each game and/orpractice that is missed.

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School SocialsStudents are expected to follow school ruleswhile attending all school functions. Schoolsocials are for 7th and 8th graders that attend OakView only.

NUTRITION SERVICESUSDA Free MealsFor the 2021-2022 school year meals arefree for all students. Each student has a mealaccount and seconds and ala carte options areavailable for purchase. When the balancereaches $0.00 a student may charge no morethan $15 to this account. After a student’saccount is in arrears by $15 or more and theparent/guardian does not make payment to thenutrient account, they will be notified that theNutrition Service Department will provide analternate reimbursable meal for breakfast andlunch. Payment for these meals will be chargedto the student’s account.

Deposits can be made online in RevTrak ormoney can be brought to the school office. Lowand negative balance email alerts and textmessages can be set up in RevTrak. Low andnegative balance email alerts can be set up inRevTrak online payment system.Ala carte itemsare not part of the USDA program and are notallowed to be charged or purchased if a studenthas a negative balance.

Students who qualify for free meals shall neverbe denied a reimbursable meal, even if theyhave accrued a negative balance from previouspurchases. Students with outstanding mealcharge debt shall be allowed to purchase a mealif the student pays for the meal when it isreceived.

Free and reduced priced meals are available tothose families who qualify. Apply for free orreduced priced meals online or contact theNutrition Service Department for anapplication.Negative Account Balance RepaymentNegative balances of more than $15 not paidprior to the end of the school year will beturned over to the superintendent orsuperintendent’s designee for collection.Options for collection may include: collection

agencies, small claims court, or any other legalmethod permitted by law.

Students should not carry extra money toschool. All lunch money can be placed in thestudent’s account on RevTrak. Students will notbe allowed to purchase a la carte items from anaccount with a negative balance.

Students who are disruptive duringbreakfast/lunch can expect to be disciplined bystaff by being assigned to specific areas, assignedto eat in the office, and/or lose the privilege ofpurchasing a la carte items. We encouragestudents to eat healthy; therefore no soda isallowed during the school day.

STUDENT RIGHTS ANDRESPONSIBILITIES

1. Each student has the right to feel safeand be free from harassment andemotional or physical torment, when inclass, passing in the halls or on schoolgrounds.

2. Each student has the right to be treatedwith respect and, in turn, has theresponsibility to treat others the same.

3. Each student has the right to expectothers to respect personal property, andin turn, has the responsibility not toviolate other person’s property.

4. Each student has a right to bring his/herconcerns about school matters to theattention of the staff and administrationof the building without fear ofretribution.

5. Each student has the right to participatein curricular and extracurricularactivities so long as he/she has met therequirements of the State of Iowa, theDCG Community School District andOak View School.

Student conduct that interferes withmaintaining a positive and productive learningenvironment will be considered in breach ofgood discipline. The following is not intended tobe a comprehensive list, but rather given asexamples of unacceptable behavior:

● Vandalizing or intentionally damagingschool property or another student’sproperty

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● Damaging, defacing, or erasingcomputer files or software

● Fighting● Physical or verbal abuse or threats● Harassment● Using or displaying profane, obscene,

inappropriate language or languageoffensive to race, gender, disability orreligion

● Open defiance or disobedience● Insubordination● Gambling● Stealing● Cheating● Engaging in inappropriate displays of

affection● Leaving school without permission● Inappropriate classroom behavior● Violating drug, alcohol and tobacco

policy● Violating weapons policy● Disrespect● Unexcused absences● Excessive tardiness or absenteeism● Behavior deemed socially unacceptable● Food and open containers in the

hallway or classroom● The discipline policy can be exercised in

the following areas:● While in the school building itself or on

the school grounds● While on school-owned or chartered

buses or while being transported underthe supervision of school personnel

● While attending school-sponsored orschool-related activities

● While away from school grounds, ifsuch conduct would directly affect thegood order, efficiency, management, andwelfare of the school.

Consequences for violating the discipline policymay be one or more of the following:

● Verbal reprimand/warning● Removal from class - this may be for the

remainder of the class period, or longerwith determination of theadministration.

● Detention - assigned time for student toserve outside the regular school day

● Suspension - in-school, out-of-school orrestriction from activities.

● Probation - a suspension withpredetermined conditions

● Expulsion - removal from the schoolenvironment; requires official boardaction.

● Other consequences as natural forstudent behavior

PARENT/COMMUNITYINVOLVEMENTVisitorsPersons who wish to visit a classroom whileschool is in session are asked to notify theprincipal and obtain approval from the principalprior to the visit so appropriate arrangementscan be made and so class disruption can beminimized. Teachers and other employees shallnot take time from their duties to discussmatters with visitors.Children and recent graduates are discouragedof visiting school during school hours without aspecific educational purpose due to the potentialdisruption of the educational environment. Allvisits must be approved by the buildingprincipal in advance.Visitors shall conduct themselves in a mannerfitting to their age level and maturity and withmutual respect and consideration for the rightsof others while attending school events.Visitors failing to conduct themselvesaccordingly may be asked to leave the premises.Children who wish to visit school must beaccompanied by a parent or responsible adult.

STUDENT INFORMATIONStudent Complaints and GrievancesStudent complaints and grievances regardingboard policy or administrative regulations andother matters should be addressed to thestudent's teacher or another licensedemployee, other than the administration, forresolution of the complaint. It is the goal of theboard to resolve student complaints at thelowest organizational level.If the complaint cannot be resolved, by alicensed employee, the student may discussthe matter with the principal within fiveschool days of the employee's decision. If thematter cannot be resolved, by the principal,the student may discuss it with thesuperintendent within five days afterspeaking with the principal.If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved, bythe superintendent, the student may ask tohave the matter placed on the board agenda of

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a regularly scheduled board meeting incompliance with board policy.

Student Directory InformationIf parent/guardians do not want DallasCenter-Grimes Community School to disclosedirectory information from a child's educationrecords without your prior written consent,the parent/guardian must notify the District inwriting by the first day of school each year.Dallas Center-Grimes Community School hasdesignated the following information asdirectory information:

· Student's name· Participation in officially recognizedactivities and sports· Weight and height of members ofathletic teams· Photograph· Degrees, honors, and awardsreceived· Dates of attendance· Grade level· The most recent educational agencyor institution attended· Release of information on theDistrict’s web site will be limited toinformation that does not allow for theidentification of individual studentsby address or telephone numbers.

Student Planners/Planning DevicesThe Oak View staff is committed to makingorganizational skills a habit for all students. Wewill encourage students to commit to theelectronic planning system on their computers.Students will be expected to maintain a recordof assignments in their planning device, whichcan also be used for communication betweenschool and home.

Student RecordsAn accurate record shall be maintained for eachstudent attending our school district. Astudent's records shall be reasonably accessibleto parents of that student or to the studenthimself if 18 years old or older. Student recordsshall remain confidential.

FundraisingAll proposals for fundraising activities must bepresented in writing to the principal. Thetimeline, activity, company used, and the

purpose of the funds must be included. Allfundraisers must be approved by the activitiesdirector.

SPECIAL SERVICESHeartland A.E.A.The Heartland Area Education Associationserves all students in our district. A socialworker, school psychologist, and nurseconsultant are available to work with ourstudents throughout the school day.

Special EducationConsultants from the Heartland AEA areavailable to visit our school and provide servicesfor learning disabilities, hearing impairment,emotional disabilities, mental disabilities, giftedand talented, and professional in-service. Theseconsultants will participate in staffing meetingsto evaluate and plan individualized learningprograms. A remedial and multi-categoricalresource room program is available to providespecial assistance to students having difficultieswith school.

Guidance ServicesThe main objective of guidance service is to helpeach child to gain better self-direction andself-understanding, which will allow him or herto make wise decisions. The program alsostimulates thoughtful consideration in planningand preparing for a career in light of testinformation, grade evaluation, personalinterests, health and ability. Group guidanceactivities are conducted to help students dealappropriately with common life situations andto give them insight into their own personalproblems.

Health ServicesThe school nurse will be in our school everyday. Vision screening will be done upon parentor teacher request. Immunization cards arereviewed and then audited by a county healthofficial. Health records are kept and up-datedannually. A student who becomes ill during theday must report to the nurse or the office.

Student ServicesStudent Services is available for students whoqualify for entry into the program. Entry intothe student services program must come as arecommendation of the Student Assistance

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Team, of which the student and parent are vitalmembers. Enrollment will be based uponnumerous factors associated with student’sperformance at school.

Student Assistance TeamWe expect all students to perform academicallyto their ability, meet behavioral expectations,and to function socially and emotionally withinthe school setting. When students are unable tomeet these expectations, they will be referred tothe Student Assistance Team. This team, madeup of school personnel, the student, and thestudent's parents/guardians, gather to identifythe problem and design an intervention thatwill allow the student to achieve to his/herpotential.

Extended Learning ProgramStudents who score well on their ITBS tests andare recommended by their teachers are eligibleto participate in the Oak View Talented andGifted (TAG) Program. Topics of study relate tostudent interests and abilities.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTERThe media center is a place for all students andstaff. We welcome and encourage everyone touse it as often as possible.Students may check out books and othermaterials from the media center before andafter school, between class periods, and duringstudy hall.Students may check out books for two weeksand renew for additional time, if necessary.It is the student’s responsibility to check thedate stamped on the date due slip at the front ofthe book and to return the book on time.

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