Student Handbook

Student Handbook

Dear Students and Families,

Welcome back to another exciting school year at River Valley Intermediate School! As we begin our second year as River Valley Intermediate, we are proud of the strong foundation we have built together and look forward to continuing our journey of growth, learning, and success.

Our staff is eager to welcome students back and help them make this year their best yet. We believe that every student can thrive when we work together to create a positive, supportive learning environment focused on our core expectations: Be Ready, Be Respectful, Be Responsible, and Be Safe.

Be Ready
Students come prepared to learn each day by arriving on time, bringing necessary materials, completing assignments, and maintaining a positive attitude toward learning.

Be Respectful
We value kindness, empathy, and understanding. Students are expected to treat classmates, staff, visitors, and school property with respect and consideration.

Be Responsible
Taking ownership of actions, choices, and learning helps students develop independence and confidence. We encourage students to do their best, make good decisions, and contribute positively to our school community.

Be Safe
A safe school environment is essential for learning. Students are expected to follow school procedures, make safe choices, and help create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels secure and valued.

We are excited to continue building a school culture that reflects these values every day. Together, we can ensure that every student feels connected, challenged, and supported throughout the year.

Thank you for your partnership and commitment to our school community. We look forward to celebrating achievements, creating memorable experiences, and helping every student reach their full potential.

Have a wonderful start to the school year!

Sincerely,

James Radtke
Principal
River Valley Intermediate School

NONDISCRIMINATION/EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
The River Valley School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following people have been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Business Manager, 660 W. Daley, Street, Spring Green, WI 53588, 608-588-2551, and Pupil Services Director, 660 Varsity Blvd., Spring Green, WI 53588, 608-588-2554.   See Board Policy 411 for full disclosure.

River Valley School Board of Education

Aaron Maes | Representative (Area 1)
Pam Gauger | Treasurer (Area 2)
Jeff Maier | Representative (Area 3)
Jenna Poad | Representative (Area 4)
Elisabeth Minich | Representative (Area 5)
Emily Beck | Representative (Area 6)
Frederic Iausly | President (Area 7)
Kiley Cates | Representative (Area 8)
John Bettinger | Vice President (Area 9)

Administrative Contacts

Loren Glasbrenner | District Administrator
Vacancy | Business Manager
Claire Knoll | Pupil Services Director/McKinney Vento Liaison
Savannah Johnson | School Psychologist
Jaime Hegland | Activities Director/Director of Academic Services
Kaile Wellner | Food Service Director


River Valley Intermediate School Office Staff

James Radtke | Principal
Holly Lochner | School Counselor
Brittiney Belche | Nurse
Trisha Larson | Secretary
Maria Enerson | Office/Library Assistant

2026-2027 CALENDAR AT A GLANCE

EARLY RELEASE WEDNESDAYS, EXCEPT JUNE 2
Elementary Student Dismissal: 1:45pm
Intermediate, Junior High, High School Dismissal: 2:00pm

August
25: District-Wide Open House

September
1: First Day of School
7: Labor Day (NO SCHOOL)
25: Homecoming/School Fair (NO SCHOOL)

October
15: P/T Conferences 3:30-7:30pm
16: P/T Conferences 7:30-11:30am (NO SCHOOL

November
25-27: NO SCHOOL

December
23-25, 28-31: NO SCHOOL

January
1: NO SCHOOL
18: Teacher Inservice (NO SCHOOL)

February
15: Staff Inservice (NO SCHOOL)

March
11: P/T Conferences 3:30-7:30pm
12: P/T Conferences 7:30-11:30am (NO SCHOOL)
26, 29-31: NO SCHOOL

April
1-2: NO SCHOOL

May
29: GRADUATION 11:00AM
31: Memorial Day, NO SCHOOL

June
3: LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

STUDENT ATTENDANCE
River Valley Intermediate School Hours are 8:00am – 3:28pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday,
and 8:00am – 2:00pm every Wednesday. Students will be allowed to enter the building at 7:40am daily.
If your student is unable to attend school due to illness, medical, or personal reasons, please contact the school office at 608-588-2556. If leaving a message, please provide detailed information regarding the absence so we may record the absence appropriately. If your student will be arriving late/leaving early due to an appointment or other reason, please have them stop in the office to sign in/out upon arrival/departure.

Students are allowed 5 illness days per semester, and 10 personal days per school year. Any days beyond those are considered unexcused unless a medical provider or administrator provide an excuse. If your student is sent home from school by nursing staff due to illness, that absence is considered medically excused, as is any time instructed by a nursing staff or medical provider.

Parents/guardians will be contacted when student attendance becomes a concern. Student attendance is available to view in Skyward Family Access. Contact the office if you have any questions.

SCHOOL CANCELLATION
School delays/cancellations will be sent via electronic notification to your phone and/or email. If you would like to opt out of receiving non-emergency notifications, you may do so in Skyward Family Access. School cancellations will also be broadcast on local news and radio stations.

CLOSED CAMPUS
River Valley Intermediate School is a closed campus. Students are not allowed to leave school grounds at any time without the permission of a parent or guardian.

 

DAILY SCHEDULES  (MON, TUES, THUR, FRI)  

Grade 3 Schedule

• 7:40 AM – 7:57 AM: Breakfast / Recess
• 8:00 AM – 8:25 AM: Morning Meeting
• 8:25 AM – 9:45 AM: Core Classes
• 9:45 AM – 10:00 AM: Snack / Recess
• 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM: Core Classes
• 10:45 AM – 11:22 AM: Blackhawk Period
• 11:25 AM – 11:59 AM: Lunch / Recess
• 12:02 PM – 2:02 PM: Core Classes
• 2:05 PM – 3:28 PM: Specials

Grade 4 Schedule

• 7:40 AM – 7:57 AM: Breakfast / Recess
• 8:00 AM – 8:25 AM: Morning Meeting
• 8:25 AM – 9:45 AM: Core Classes
• 9:45 AM – 10:00 AM: Snack / Recess
• 10:00 AM – 11:22 AM: Core Classes
• 11:25 AM – 11:59 AM: Recess / Lunch
• 12:02 PM – 12:36 PM: Blackhawk Period
• 12:39 PM – 2:02 PM: Specials
• 2:05 PM -3:28 PM: Core Classes
  
   

Grade 5 Schedule

• 7:40 AM – 7:57 AM: Breakfast
• 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: AM Blackhawk
• 8:33 AM – 9:56 AM: Core Classes
• 9:59 AM – 11:22 AM: Specials
• 11:25 AM – 11:59 AM: PM Blackhawk / Band / Choir
• 12:02 PM – 12:36 PM: Lunch / Recess
• 12:39 PM – 3:28 PM: Core Classes

Grade 6 Schedule

• 7:40 AM – 7:57 AM: Breakfast
• 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: AM Blackhawk
• 8:33 AM – 9:56 AM: Specials
• 9:59 AM – 11:22 AM: Core Classes
• 11:25 AM – 11:59 AM: PM Blackhawk / Band / Choir
• 12:02 PM – 12:36 PM: Recess / Lunch
• 12:39 PM – 3:28 PM: Core Classes

⚠️ Note: There is an alternative schedule and a 2:00 PM Early Release every Wednesday (except June 2).

FRONT OFFICE
The Intermediate school office is open daily from 7:30am-4:00pm during the school year. Students and/or parents may call or stop in the office to handle the following:

• Set an appointment to see the Principal
• See the nurse or counselor
• Put money in a lunch account or pay other fees
• Use the phone for emergency purposes, as determined by office staff
• Take medication
• Sign in/out for the day

 

RVIS welcomes visits from guardians at any time, but if a conference is desired with a teacher or principal, it is best to make an appointment. All adult visitors will undergo a background check through our Verkada Security System to secure an admittance badge in the front office. Student guests are not encouraged.

BREAKFAST & LUNCH AT SCHOOL

All students who wish to eat breakfast at school should report to the cafeteria upon arrival to ensure they make it to class on time. Lunch hours are designated by student class schedules. All students are expected to go outside for recess except in the event of inclement weather. 

CAFETERIA PROCEDURES

• Courtesy is expected in the lunch line and eating area. 

• Noise should be kept to a minimum as there are classes in session.
• Keep the floor and tables clean.  Be sure all waste is taken care of properly.
• Return your tray, dishes, and silverware to the return service window.
• If you bring lunch from home, eat in the cafeteria.

For monthly menus and information on Free & Reduced Meals, visit the Food Service Page on our district website.
The District uses an automated accounting system to record food service payment & food purchase transactions. Families are expected to maintain their lunch account in a positive status.

SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS & CHAPERONES
In an attempt to ensure the safety of all students and staff members, the River Valley School District requires any adult wishing to volunteer time in our schools or chaperone a field trip to complete a background check. All information collected is strictly confidential. The District appreciates your understanding and cooperation in our attempt to ensure a safe school environment.

PROGRESS REPORTS
Progress reports indication to students and parents the progress for a student in a given class for a specific grading period. Progress reports are issued at the midpoint of each grading period. The reports are posted to student portfolio in Skyward Family Access.

PROGRESS STUDY TEAM (PST)
RVIS has a Progress Study Team composed of the principal, administrative building coordinator, school counselor, and two or three staff persons. When there are recurring concerns about a student (academic, social, or emotional), the student will be referred. The goal is to provide necessary assistance to the student to ensure success in school. Parents have a right to request program or curriculum modifications. The PST team will take the requests into consideration and make modifications as necessary.

PLAGIARISM/ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
Students taking, doing, or providing others with answers on tests, quizzes, homework, lab work, or any other work that is assessed or scored, and any form of plagiarism may be subject to, but not limited to no credit for the assignment/project/exam involved, disciplinary action, and parent notification by classroom teacher.

CHANGE OF INFORMATION
Please report any change in family, residence, phone numbers, employment to the office as the change occurs so that we always have the most up to date contact information.

LOCKERS
The school provides lockers for use by the students. These lockers are the property of the River Valley School District and are subject to the rules of the school. Periodic inspections for cleanliness, missing school property, violation of school, district, or state policies, and vandalism may be conducted.  Special searches for contraband material may also be made.   Students should use only the locker that has been assigned to them.  Students should not keep items of value in the locker. The school is not liable for losses.  If your locker does not work properly report it to the office. 
Board Policy 445

PERSONAL PROPERTY OF STUDENTS
The River Valley School District will not be responsible for any item of property left in or at a River Valley School building, whether with or without the knowledge of school district employees.  The school district does not carry a non-ownership policy on these items.  Any loss suffered, directly or indirectly, will be at the owner’s own risk.  Please refrain from leaving money or valuables in lockers or rooms.  When it is necessary to bring large and valuable items to school, you are encouraged to check these into the office. 

MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOL
Whenever possible, medications should be taken at home rather than at school. School personnel, designated by the school nurse, may administer medications to students under established conditions and appropriate training required by the Department of Public Instruction. The following guidelines are used at the Intermediate school:

1. Medication (prescription and non-prescription) will not be administered by school district personnel without a Medication Administration form on file. Prescription medication requires a form to be completed by the prescribing physician. The medication must be in original container with the label. The medication form is available on the district website under Nursing Services, as well as in the school office.

2. No prescribed medication may be carried by the student. An exception would be an inhaler or epi-pen with a medical order, and after the student has been assessed by the School Nurse as having the appropriate self-management skills. All other prescribed medication at school must be locked in the medication cabinet and only given by school district personnel.

3. A student cannot carry any non-prescription medication. If a bottle or pills are found in the student’s locker, further disciplinary action may result.  Board Policy 452.4 & 452.4-Rule

STUDENT ILLNESS AT SCHOOL
Students who are ill should report to the office.  Office or nursing staff will contact a parent/guardian or another individual listed in emergency contacts if the action needed is for the student to leave school.  For liability reasons the school policy states no students shall leave a school without permission of the parent/guardian or emergency contact. 

STUDENT DRESS
Generally, students may dress in any style they desire if their choice does not reveal intimate body parts or pose a safety risk to the student or others. The following examples are intended to represent these limitations:

• Students may not wear multi-fingered rings, large metal chains or other jewelry that may be used as a weapon.
•  Students may not wear clothing with vulgar or obscene statements or statements or pictures promoting illegal drugs, alcohol, sex, violence, tobacco or gang activities.
• Students may not wear clothing with words, pictures or caricatures based on negative stereotypes.
• Students must wear shoes or footwear.

Students who are dressed in a manner that does not fit within these guidelines may be asked by school staff to change their clothing or address the dress code violation. Board Policy 433.1

STUDENT USE OF PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES
In accordance with River Valley School District Board Policy 443.6, cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, laptops, gaming devices, and all other personal electronic devices will not be allowed during school hours. All devices must be powered off/silenced and kept inside student backpacks for the entirety of the school day.
If an emergency arises or you need to contact your child before the end of the school day, contact the office and your message will be passed along in a timely manner.
This policy does not apply to school-issued devices, and exceptions include; use authorized by administration, use needed to manage student’s healthcare, use included in a student’s IEP, and use authorized by a teacher during instructional time.

Related conduct that occurs away from school that creates a threat to someone while attending school and/or conduct that is likely to cause a disturbance at school is subject to discipline, including possible law enforcement involvement.

COUNSELING
If you need to talk to an adult for any reason, our school counselor is available to help. Mrs. Lochner is available to talk with you, and conversations are confidential. Parents are also welcome to contact the counselor to discuss issues relating to their student. Teachers often also talk with the counselor when they have a concern about a student. If you’d like to speak with the counselor, follow these steps:
àSee the counselor before school, after school, or during your lunch period
àIf you need to see the counselor during class time, ask your teacher for a pass to the office
àIf the counselor is not available, ask the secretary to give the counselor a message

At River Valley Intermediate School, we are committed to working with our students and staff to create a respectful, safe, and productive school-wide learning community that is free from disruption.  We strive to help every student be ready, respectful, responsible, and safe. The goals of our approach to student behavior are to teach students self-control, hold students accountable for their behavior, and facilitate the reparation of harm that may have occurred to other students, staff members, and the greater school community. Ultimately, we want students to take ownership over their actions and learn and grow from their mistakes. This positive approach to helping our students meet these expectations is based on the research based Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports framework and the field of Restorative Practices.

SCHOOL-WIDE APPROACH TO POSITIVE BEHAVIOR

The RVMS discipline philosophy regarding student behavior includes the following beliefs:

• Foster awareness: Most young people are so absorbed with the daunting task of growing up and finding themselves that they often don’t realize how their behavior affects others. Staff members ask students restorative questions to foster awareness of how others are affected by the inappropriate behavior or they may just express their own feelings to the student.
• Encourage empathy & avoid lecturing: We all may react defensively when lectured – and may see ourselves as victims. Students are no exception. We try to refrain from lecturing to give students room to notice how others are affected by their behavior and to allow them to feel empathy for the others involved.
• Involve students actively: Punishment alone allows students to remain completely passive and to assume the role of victim. We try to involve students in the process as much as possible, asking them to think about how they can repair the harm done and how they plan to keep their commitment to changing inappropriate behavior.
• Accept ambiguity: Sometimes the answer to the question, “Who is at fault here?” is unclear and we simply have to accept this uncertain state and move forward, encouraging students to accept as much responsibility for the situation as possible.
• Separate the deed from the doer: We always start from the initial position that our students do not mean to harm anyone. We want to be clear that we recognize our students’ worth as individuals and disapprove only of their inappropriate behavior.
• See every instance of inappropriate behavior as an opportunity for learning: We understand that many of our students have things to learn about appropriate behavior. We view school problems and incidents as opportunities to teach our young people what they need to know to be successful at school and in the future.
• Differentiated discipline: We recognize that the behavior of two students may look the same, yet the causes for this behavior and the subsequent interventions may be different. We believe in order for a student to learn and grow from her or his mistakes, the intervention must fit the needs of the individual student.  Fair is not always equal.  Consistency in handling behavior situations will be considered. 
• Connect behavior and interventions: We believe as often as possible the disciplinary interventions should be logically connected to the students’ behavior.

 

Acceptable Use of Networked Computers, Electronic Mail, and Internet Safety Policy Board Policy #743

The River Valley School District network and Internet access enables district students and staff to explore thousands of libraries and databases and connect with other people in the District and throughout the world. The Board believes that the benefits to users from access in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration exceed the disadvantages. When connecting to the network on a personal device, the user is subject to the rules and regulations in this policy.

Students and staff shall be trained on the use of Internet Safety to include communicating with other individuals on social networking websites and chat rooms as well as cyber bullying awareness and response. Principals will be responsible for informing students and staff of the District’s policies, procedures, and rules annually.

 

The network is provided for users to conduct research and communicate with others. Users are responsible for good behavior on school computer networks just as they are in a classroom or a school hallway. Communications on the network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply. All activity through the River Valley network is subject to the right of the River Valley School District to monitor, access, read, and review.

CIPA and N-CIPA

The School District must comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act (N-CIPA), which protect students from prohibited material.

Prohibited Use of District Computers

The following activities are prohibited for all users of the RVSD computer network:

• Sending or displaying messages that defame, slander, or libel another person
• Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures including, but not limited to, pornographic or erotic images or racial, sexual, or religious jokes
• Using obscene language and/or racial slurs
• Harassing, insulting, or attacking others
• Cyber bullying or cyber harassment of others
• Damaging computers, computer systems, or computer networks
• Use of or downloading unauthorized software
• Violating copyright laws
• Disclosing one’s password to anyone else, or using another’s password
• Trespassing in another’s folder, work, or files
• Intentionally wasting limited resources and/or spending an unusual or extraordinary amount of time on personal e-mail conversation or Internet “surfing”
• Employing the network for unapproved commercial purposes
• Engaging in criminal activity
• Use of social networking sites deemed to be inappropriate
• Unauthorized access, including “hacking” and other unlawful activities
• Unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification and/or confidential information (such as student records, employment records, health information)
• Any other activity inappropriate for an educational setting

 

Violations may result in a loss of access, as well as other disciplinary or legal action.  A summary of this policy is contained in student handbooks for each building level.

 

Management, Administration, Monitoring, and Privacy

1. The District may at any time put software and systems in place that monitor and record all computer usage to ensure the systems are being used for educational purposes, consistent with the District’s goals.  The District wants users to be aware that our security systems are capable of recording, for each and every use, each World Wide Web site visit, attempts to reach World Wide Web sites, the amount of time spent actively using the World Wide Web, each chat, newsgroup access, e-mail message, and every file and/or program transfer into and out of our internal networks to the Internet, and we reserve the right to do so at any time, without advance notice or warning to the user. No District user should have any expectation of privacy as to his or her Internet usage, or the privacy or any electronic mail message, file, download, note, or other data stored on or transmitted or received through any District computing facility. The District will review computing activity and analyze usage patterns, and may choose to publicize this data to assure that the District’s computing resources are devoted to maintaining the highest standards of educational benefit and employee productivity.
2. The District, through appropriate management personnel to include the district network administrator and/or members of administration, reserves the right to inspect any and all data stored in public or private areas of networked and individual storage systems of any kind, without notice or warning, and at any time or for any purpose.
3. The District uses independently supplied facilities to identify and block Internet content that is inconsistent with the educational and professional development goals of the District.  We will block access from within our networks to all such sites that we know of or that our facilities identify. To be clear, these facilities endeavor to block use of the network to create, view, send, receive, store, display, or print text or graphics that may reasonably be construed to be obscene, disruptive or harmful to the educational or working environment, but we acknowledge that no blocking or filtering mechanism is capable of blocking all inappropriate content all of the time.  Offensive, disruptive, or harmful data include, but are not limited to any messages or files, or data that contain the following:
   • Pornographic or erotic images
   • Sexual implications, nudity
   • Racial slurs, discriminatory comments
   • Derogatory gender-specific comments and/or other inappropriate language
   • Information or instructions designed to cause physical harm to another person
   • Comments that offensively address a person’s age, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, political beliefs, national original, or disability
   • Any comment which in any way defames, slanders, or libels another person
   • Any comment intended to frighten, intimidate, threaten, abuse, annoy, or harass another person
   • Those data or activities that invade the privacy of another person
   • Drugs, violence, crime and/or the encouragement thereof
   • Auction sites that don’t monitor for weapons or other sexual items or illegal items

If a user finds that he/she is connected to a site that contains any of the above material, he/she must disconnect from that site immediately, regardless of whether that site has been previously deemed acceptable by any screening or rating program, and inform the teacher or supervisor of the incident. Similarly, a user is encouraged to inform his or her supervisor if he or she becomes aware that another user is accessing or has accessed material prohibited above.  The District’s goal in creating the above standards and reporting requirement is not to create an environment of fear and apprehensiveness for users accessing the Internet and internal networks, but to affirmatively set forth content standards for users to be mindful of when accessing these resources on their own.

4. The District will fully cooperate with requests from law enforcement and regulatory agencies.
5. The District will charge students/families for negligent use resulting in computer damage.

 

Filtering

1. With the completion of the Digital Citizenship instruction, the District will lessen the stringent Internet filtering in the Middle School and High School providing students with greater access. This greater access comes with the expectation of proper conduct in Internet use.

2. The District reserves the right to block sites that do not enhance classroom activities and/or career development.

3. Students should contact their instructor should any one inadvertently access a site that is inappropriate for the school setting.

4. Staff should contact their supervisor should any one inadvertently access a site that is inappropriate for the school setting.

 

Removing a Filter
Anyone wanting a filter removal will submit a request in writing to the building principal.

 

All students and parents will sign an agreement/consent form annually. (Policy #743-Exhibit). The policy will be included annually in each building Faculty/Staff Handbook.

 

The Board authorizes the Administration to prepare appropriate procedures for implementing this policy and for reviewing and evaluating its effect on instruction and student achievement.  Approved 9/14/2023.

 

STUDENT ATTENDANCE (Board Policy #431)

The Board and staff of the River Valley School District believe that a student’s education is one of the most important things in his/her life and that the quality of the student’s education depends upon the student’s physical attendance at school.  Because each day of school missed can never be fully made up, it is essential that students attend school regularly.

In accordance with state law, all children between 6 and 18 years of age must attend school full-time, unless they have a legal excuse.  Any student who has reached the age of 16 may excused from school attendance by the Board provided:

a.  The student has requested permission to withdraw.

b.  The school has received written approval of the student’s parent or guardian.

c. The student and his/her parent or guardian agrees, in writing, that the student will pursue further education in accordance with state law requirements.

d.  The written agreement is approved by the Board.

e.  The student complies with the written agreement.  If the agreement is suspended due to noncompliance, the student will be expected to resume attendance at school on a regular basis in accordance with state law and Board policy.

Procedures shall be developed by the administration to enhance the full attendance requirement and to determine appropriate action to serve as a deterrent to truancy.  These procedures shall be in accordance with recommendations of the respective County Truancy Committee and state law, and shall be approved by the Board.

This policy, along with its implementing procedures, shall be included annually in student and staff handbooks and shall be reviewed with students and staff at the beginning of each year by the building principal/unit leader, or his/her designee.  The policy will also be published prior to the beginning of each school year in the Home News.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE GUIDELINES (Board Policy #431-Rule (1))

A.  Student Absences and Excuses

     1.  Regular attendance is a responsibility that should be shared by parents, students, and the school.

     2.  Students will be required to attend all their scheduled classes, activities, and study halls, unless they have legal permission and a pass approved by a building administrator.

     3.  A student may be excused from school attendance as follows:

          a.  Absences that DO count toward the “10 day rule” related to state law

              Absences authorized solely by parent/guardian:  A student is excused from school attendance if his/her parent/guardian notifies the school prior to the student’s absence from school.  A student may be excused under this provision for not more than 10 occurrences in a school year.  Examples include:

1) All personal/family vacations

2) Attendance at special events of educational value not sponsored by the school (i.e. college visits).

3) Appointments (All/any out of school appointments, except appointments due to personal illness or injury)

4) Court appearances or other legal proceedings or related matters

A student that has 10 or more days absent as authorized by the parent/guardian must do the following for absence beyond 10 occurrences to be excused:

A prearranged absence must be completed in advance for any additional absences for personal/family vacations.  In addition the student must be in good academic standing.  For students leaving for health related appointments, administration reserves the right to require a written appointment card from the Clinic or Doctor before the student leaves or when the student returns.

          b.  Absences that DO NOT count toward the “10 day rule” related to state law

              The school attendance officer or designee is empowered to approve a legal excuse to any student for the following reasons:

              1) Personal illness or injury. 

              2) Illness or injury of the student resulting in hospitalization or medical ordered home rest for mental health or AODA issues.  Administration reserves the right to require a note from the student’s health care provider or treatment director for more than 5 days of absence in a semester.

              3) Accidents or death in the immediate family.

              4) Suspension from school.

              5) Religious observances.

              6) School-sponsored activities.

              7) A quarantine as imposed by a public health officer.

              8) Special circumstances that show good cause.  Such circumstances shall be considered on a case by case basis by the school attendance officer or their designee.

4.  Students whose absence from school does not fall under the reasons listed above shall be considered unexcused (truant).

5.  When a student is absent, his/her parent(s), guardian, or the student, if he/she is 18 or an emancipated student, shall contact the school prior to 9:00 a.m.  Failure to contact the school will result in a school contact to the home or place of employment before the end of the second day of absence.

6.  Parents/guardians will be expected to provide a written explanation of absences at the time the student returns to school, or in the case of absences authorized by the parent, prior to absence.

7.  Students with excused absences shall be entitled to make up the work missed, including examinations, and shall be responsible for doing so.  Examinations and work missed shall be completed at a time mutually agreed upon by the student and the teacher, but within the number of days absent plus one-day.

8.  Students that leave school grounds without notification and authorization will be considered as unexcused absence/truant.

9.  Students with unexcused absences will not be allowed to make up work missed.  Major examinations including semester examinations must be made up on the day the student returns to school.

10.         Four unexcused tardies will be treated as an unexcused absence.  (Administration can consider these unexcused absences as truancy.)

11.         Students who are absent as a result of a suspension shall be permitted to take any quarterly, semester or grading period examination missed during the period of suspension and shall be permitted to make up course work missed during a period of suspension under the following conditions:

          a.  A quarterly, semester or grading period examination missed as a result of a suspension shall be made up on the first day on which the student returns from suspension unless a different date is established by the teacher.

          b. Course work and examinations missed during a period of suspension shall be completed at a time mutually agreed upon by the student and the teacher, but within the number of days absent plus one day.

B.  School Attendance Officer

     1.  The building principal, or designee, will serve as the school attendance officer for each school in the district and deal with all matters relating to school attendance and truancy.

     2.  The school attendance officer shall determine daily which students enrolled in the school are absent and whether that absence is excused in accordance with Board policy and established procedures.

     3.  The school attendance officer shall notify the parent or guardian of a child’s truancy and direct the parent or guardian to return the child to school no later than the next day on which school is in session or to provide an excuse.  The notice under this paragraph must be given before the end of the second school day after receiving a report of an unexcused absence and may be made by personal service, mail or telephone call on which a written record is kept.

          “Truancy” means any absence of part or all of one or more school days during which the school attendance officer, principal, or teacher has not been notified of the legal cause of such absence by the parent or guardian of the absent student, and also means intermittent attendance carried on for the purpose of defeating the intent of the compulsory attendance law.

     4.  The school attendance officer shall notify the parent or guardian of a child who is a habitual truant at the time the child becomes a habitual truant.  This will be done by registered or certified mail.  “Habitual truant” means a student who is absent from school without an acceptable excuse for part or all of five days.  The notice shall include the following:

          a.  A statement of the parent’s or guardian’s responsibility under state law to cause the child to attend school regularly.

          b.  A statement that the parent, guardian or child may request program or curriculum modifications for the child and that the child may be eligible for enrollment in a program for children at risk.

          c.  A request that the parent or guardian meet with the appropriate school personnel to discuss the child’s truancy.  The notice shall include the name of the school personnel with whom the parent or guardian should meet; a date, time and place for the meeting; and, the name, address and telephone number of a person to contact to arrange a different date, time, or place.

          d.  A statement of the penalties under state law that may be imposed on the parent or guardian if he/she fails to cause the child to attend school regularly as required by state law and Board policy.

     5.  The school attendance officer may visit any place of employment in the school district to ascertain whether any minors are employed there contrary to state law.  He/she shall require that school certificates and lists of minors who are employed there, be produced for inspection, and shall report all cases of illegal employment to the proper authorities and to the Department of Industry, Labor and Human Relations.

     6.  The school attendance officer may have access to information regarding the attendance of any child between the ages of six (6) and eighteen (18) years who is a resident of the school district and claims to be in attendance at a private school located in the school district, including home-based private educational programs.

     7.  Annually, on or before August 1, the school attendance officer shall determine how many students enrolled in each school in the district were absent in the previous year and whether the absences were excused.  This information will be forwarded to the Department of Public Instruction.

     8.  The school attendance officer shall furnish student attendance information to the county welfare agency as requested for implementation of Wisconsin’s Learnfare Program.  Student attendance information shall only be released if appropriate “release of confidentiality” forms have been filed with the district in accordance with provisions of state law and the district’s student records policy.

     9.  The school attendance officer shall provide parents and students with information regarding program and curriculum modifications, including the types of modifications available, the procedures to be used in requesting and obtaining approval for modifications, their rights to request that the school board review decisions made in response to such requests and the time lines and procedures applicable to such board review.

C.  Truancy Prevention Procedures

Upon a student’s return to school after a truancy or repeated truancies, school personnel will take positive measures to help prevent additional truancies by the student.  These measures may include:

     1.  A student conference with the school attendance officer in regards to truancy.

     2.  A student conference with guidance staff, psychologist, social worker or other designated personnel in regards to personal or social problems that may be influencing nonattendance or truancy.

     3.  A parental conference set up with the student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) to discuss the problem of truancy.

     4.  Enrollment of the student(s) in the district’s children at risk program.

     5.  Evaluation of the student to discover if he/she is in need of special educational support services.

     6.  A meeting with the student and his/her parent(s) or guardian to discuss alternative education programs that are available within the district and county.

D. Procedure Toward Legal Referral

     Prior to any legal proceeding being brought against a student or against the student’s parent or guardian, the school attendance officer shall provide evidence that the appropriate school personnel in the district have, within the school year during which the truancy occurred:

     1.  Met with the student’s parent(s) or guardian to discuss the student’s truancy, or attempted to meet with the student’s parent(s) or guardian and has been refused.

     2.  Provided an opportunity for educational counseling to the student to determine whether a change in the student’s curriculum would resolve the student’s truancy, and considered curriculum modifications.

     3.  Evaluated the student to determine whether learning problems may be a cause of the student’s truancy and, if so, taken appropriate action or made appropriate referrals.

     4.  Conducted an evaluation to determine whether social problems may be a cause of the student’s truancy and, if so, taken appropriate action or made appropriate referrals.

E.  Legal Referral

     1.  Following receipt of evidence that activities under Section D have been completed, the school attendance officer may make a referral to the county authorities in which the student resides.  This will be in accordance with each respective county truancy policy.

     2.  The school attendance officer may make referrals for prosecution of misdemeanor actions related to school truancy directly to the district attorney’s office.  Any referral should contain as complete and clear a statement of supporting facts as is possible and identify the author of the referral, telephone number and address at which he/she may be contacted for further information. 

          a.  Referrals may be made to the district attorney’s office for prosecution of children and/or their parents under state law (section 118.15(5).  These referrals must include documentation that the activities required in Section D above have been completed by the school.  In addition, the referral must indicate that the evidence unequivocally shows that the disobedience of the child has not rendered the parent(s), guardian(s), legal custodian(s) or other allegedly responsible party unable to comply with the law.  This proceeding may not be pursued against a person with regard to a child who has been sanctioned under Wisconsin’s Learnfare law.

          b.  Referrals may be made to the district attorney’s office for persons contributing to a child’s truancy.  Any person eighteen years of age or older who, by any act or omission, knowingly encourages or contributes to the truancy of a child may be subject to a fine not to exceed $500, imprisonment not to exceed thirty (30) days, or both.  Referrals containing allegations of evidence supporting such a charge may be referred directly to the district attorney’s office, reported to local law enforcement agencies for further investigation, or included with information referred to the Department of Human Services in conjunction with other referred matter.

 

TRUANCY (State Statute 118.15)

A student is considered truant if he/she is absent without an acceptable excuse for all or part of one or more days during which school is held.  A student qualifies to be habitually truant when he/she is absent without an acceptable excuse all or part of five or more days in a school semester, s. 118.16 (1) (a) and (c), Wis. Stats.

 

FIRST/SECOND OFFENSE    a.    Detention or restorative solution.

                                      b. Make-up of work missed (no credit).

                                      c. Parent notification.

                                      d. Conference with truancy officer (Police Liaison Officer).

 

THIRD/FOURTH OFFENSE     a.       Same as first two offenses.

                                      b. Conference with guidance staff, psychologist, social worker.

                                      c. Evaluation as to need for education support services.

                                      d. Discussion of alternative education program available within the district and counties.

                                      e. Village citation (Police Liaison Officer).

 

FIFTH OFFENSE            a. Detention or restorative solution.

                                      b. Make up of work missed (no credit).

                                      c. Parent notification of habitual truancy.

 

CODE OF CLASSROOM CONDUCT – Board Policy #443 Rule 1

The District recognizes and accepts its responsibility to create, foster, and maintain an orderly and safe class environment, conducive to teaching and to the learning processes. Every member of the school community is expected to cooperate in this central mission. Staff, including administrators and teachers, must use their training, expertise, and authority to create schools and classes where effective learning is possible.

Parents should be aware of their children's activities, performance and behavior in school, and are asked to cooperate and consult with the school to prevent or address problems. Additionally, students are expected to come to school, and every class, ready and willing to learn. Student behavior that is dangerous, disruptive, or unruly or that interferes with the teacher's ability to teach effectively will not be tolerated. Any student who engages in such behavior may be subject to removal from class and placement as outlined below. In addition, the student may be subject to other disciplinary action in accordance with established Board policies and school rules.

This code of classroom conduct applies to all students in grades Pre-K-12.

1. Student Removal Fro m Class
   1. Each teacher shall analyze his/her own discipline cases and attempt to apply corrective measures before removing a student from class, when appropriate.
   2. A student with a disability may be removed from class and placed in an alternative educational setting only to the extent authorized by state and federal laws and regulations.
   3. Dangerous, disruptive, or unruly behavior or behavior that interferes with the ability of the teacher to manage class appropriately and teach effectively may result in removal of a student from class.

Examples of such behavior may include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:

• Possession or use of a weapon or other item that might cause bodily harm to persons in the classroom.
• Being under the influence of alcohol or other controlled substances or controlled substance analogs, or otherwise in violation of district student alcohol and other drug policies.
• Behavior that interferes with a person's work or school performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive classroom environment.
• Fighting.
• Taunting, baiting, inciting, and/or encouraging a fight or disruption.
• Disruption and intimidation caused by gang or group symbols or gestures; gang or group posturing to provoke altercations or confrontations.
• Pushing or striking a student or staff member.
• Obstruction of classroom activities or other intentional action taken to attempt to prevent the teacher from exercising his/her assigned duties.
• Interfering with the orderly operation of the classroom by using, threatening to use or counseling others to use violence, force, coercion, threats, intimidation, fear or disruptive means.
• Dressing or grooming in a manner that presents a danger to health or safety, causes interference with work or creates classroom disorder.
• Restricting another person's freedom to properly utilize classroom facilities or equipment.
• Repeated classroom interruptions, violation of rules, confronting staff argumentatively, defiance of authority, making loud noises, or refusing to follow directions.
• Throwing objects in the classroom.
• Excessive or disruptive talking.
• Behavior that causes the teacher or other students fear of physical or psychological harm.
• Physical confrontations or verbal/physical threats.
• Violation of classroom rules as established by the teacher and approved by the building administrator.
• Damage to school property.
• Repeatedly reporting to class without bringing necessary materials to participate in class activities.
• Possession of personal property prohibited by school rules and otherwise disruptive to the teaching and learning of others.
• Repeated use of profanity.

When a student is removed from class, the teacher will first contact the office staff and then send the student to the building administrator and inform him/her of the reason for the student's removal from class. A written explanation of the reasons is preferred to be given to the building administrator by the end of the workday on which the incident occurred and is required within 24 hours of removal.

The building administrator shall inform the student of the reason(s) for the removal from class and shall allow the student the opportunity to present his/her version of the situation. The building administrator shall then determine the appropriate educational placement for the student who has been removed from a class by a teacher.

The parent/guardian of a minor student shall be notified of the student's removal from class as outlined below.

2. Placement Procedures
   1. The building administrator or designee shall place a student who has been removed from a class by a teacher in one of the following alternative educational settings:

1. The class from which the student was removed if, after weighing the interests of the removed student, the other students in the class and the teacher, the building administrator determines that readmission to the class is the best or only alternative.
2. Another class in the school or another appropriate place in the school.
3. Another instructional setting.
4. An alternative education program approved by the Board. State law defines this as an instructional program approved by the school board that utilizes successful alternative or adaptive school structures and teaching techniques and that is incorporated into existing, traditional classrooms or regularly scheduled curricular programs or that is offered in place of regularly scheduled curricular programs.

 

2. The building administrator should consult with other appropriate school personnel as the building administrator deems necessary when making or evaluating placement decisions. A student's parent/guardian may also be consulted regarding student placement decisions when determined by the building administrator to be in the best interests of the persons involved or required by law. When making placement decisions, the building administrator shall consider various factors. Examples of factors to consider are:
   • The reason the student was removed from class (severity of the offense).
   • The type of placement options available for students in that particular school and any limitations on such placements (costs, space availability, location).
   • The estimated length of time of placement.
   • The student's individual needs and interests.
   • Whether the student has been removed from a teacher's class before (repeat offender).
   • The relationship of the placement to any disciplinary action (e.g. if student suspension from school is required as a result of the student's conduct.
   • Whether the placement is applicable before and/or after the suspension.

3. All placement decisions shall be made consistent with established Board policies and in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations.

3. Parent/Guardian Notification Procedures
   1. The building administrator shall notify the parent/guardian of a minor student, in writing, when a teacher has removed a student from a class. This notification shall include the reasons for the student's removal from class and the placement decision involving the student. The notice shall be given as soon as practical after the student's removal from a class and placement determination.
   2. If the removal from class and change in educational placement involves a student with a disability, parent/guardian notification shall be made consistent with state and federal laws and regulations.
   3. If the student removed from a class is also subject to other disciplinary action for the particular classroom conduct (i.e. suspension or expulsion), the student's parent/guardian shall also be notified of the disciplinary action in accordance with legal and policy requirements.

4. Definitions

A "class" is defined as anywhere within or beyond the walls of the school of attendance where the District is responsible and liable for the safety of the child and/or acts in loco parentis.

A "teacher" is defined as any certified instructor, substitute teacher, counselor, nurse, paraprofessional, support staff, or administrator in the employ of the District or acts as the District's designee in authority.

A "building administrator" means a principal of a school or other individual duly designated by the building administrator or District Administrator.

This policy includes staff members who hold a DPI license.

*Disciplinary measures may be imposed based upon classroom behavior in addition to student code of classroom conduct placements outlined above.

CODE OF CLASSROOM CONDUCT VIOLATIONS

 

FIRST OFFENSE  
a.  Detention or restorative solution
b.  Parent notification
c.  Payment of estimated damages if any
d.  Possible law enforcement notification
e.  Counseling
f.   Peer mediation
g.  Community service

SECOND OFFENSE
a.  Restorative solution
b.  Parent notification
c.  Payment of estimated damages if any
d.  Suspension 1-3 days (in or out of school)
e.  Parent conference.
f.   Possible law enforcement notification

THIRD OFFENSE 
a.  Restorative solution
b.  Parent notification
c.  Payment of estimated damages      if any
d.  Suspension (1-3 days)
e.  Possible expulsion procedures
f.   Possible law enforcement notification

STUDENT SUSPENSION – Board Policy #446.2

A student may be suspended from school (out of school-OSS) or in school (ISS) for a violation of reasonable school rules; or for knowingly conveying any threat or false information concerning an attempt or alleged attempt being made or to be made to destroy any school property by means of explosives, or for conduct by the pupil while at school or while under the supervision of a school authority which endangers the property, health or safety of others, or for conduct while not at school or while not under the supervision of a school authority which endangers the property, health or safety of others at school or under the supervision of a school authority or endangers the property, health or safety of any employee or school board member of the River Valley School District or for any other reason permitted by law.

The district administrator and building principals/administrative building coordinators shall be authorized to suspend a student for a period not to exceed five school days as provided by law. Except as otherwise specifically provided by law, a student may be suspended for up to fifteen school days when an expulsion hearing notice has been sent and an expulsion hearing is pending. Students may be assigned to in- or out-of-school suspensions.  Prior to any suspension, the student shall be advised of the reason for the proposed suspension. The student’s parent or guardian shall be given prompt notice of the suspension in accordance with state law and established procedures.  Suspended students shall be allowed to make up any quarterly, semester or grading period examinations and to complete course work missed during a suspension period in accordance with established policy.

STUDENT discrimination and harassment Complaint Procedures – Board Policy #411-Rule

The following complaint procedures apply to complaints of discrimination or harassment filed under School Board Policy 411 – Student Nondiscrimination and Equal Educational Opportunity and 411.2 – Student Anti-Harassment. For reports or complaints alleging sexual harassment occurring before August 1, 2024, refer to the Title IX complaint procedures in Board Policies 411.3 and 511.2. For reports or complaints of discrimination based on sex, including sex-based harassment, occurring on or after August 1, 2024, refer to the Title IX grievance process in Policies 411.5 and 511.3.

The River Valley School District does not discriminate against students on the basis of sex, race, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation or physical, mental, emotional or learning disability, or any other basis prohibited by state or federal law, in any of its programs or activities.

Definitions

Complainant: The individual who is alleged to have been subjected to discrimination or harassment in violation of Board Policies 411 or 411.2.

Day(s): For the purposes of these procedures, “days” means calendar days.

Respondent: The individual who allegedly engaged in discrimination or harassment in violation of Board Policies 411 or 411.2.

Reports and Complaints of Discrimination or Retaliation

Employees are required to promptly report incidents of discrimination or harassment that they witness or that are reported to them to their supervisor, other administrator, or the Compliance Officers (COs) listed in Policies 411 and 411.2. Administrators shall promptly report incidents of discrimination or harassment that they witness or that are reported to them to one or both COs. Any question regarding whether conduct potentially constitutes discrimination and should be reported as such shall be promptly referred to one or both COs.

If a student or their parent/guardian believes the student has been discriminated against or harassed in violation of Board Policies 411 or 411.2, they may file a complaint with one or both COs. The complaint may be filed orally or in writing, but written complaints are strongly encouraged. If the complaint is oral, the COs will reduce the complaint to writing and ask the employee to indicate their agreement by signing the document. The complaint should include the following information, to the extent known: the name of the complainant; the name of the respondent; a description of the alleged discrimination or harassment; the date or timeframe in which the alleged discrimination or harassment occurred; the names of any witnesses; and the requested resolution or remedy.

Upon receiving a complaint, the COs shall consider whether any interim measures should be taken while the investigation is pending to prevent further discrimination or harassment from occurring while the investigation is pending.

Complaint Investigation Procedures

The timelines in these procedures may be extended by the CO for good cause (e.g., large number of witnesses, lack of witness availability, concurrent law enforcement investigation, or other extenuating circumstances), and with written notice to the parties. Notwithstanding any extensions granted by the CO, a determination of the complaint must occur within ninety (90) days of receipt of the complaint, unless both parties agree to an extension.

Within five (5) days of receiving the complaint, the CO shall confirm receipt of the complaint, provide the Respondent with notice of the complaint, and assign an investigator, who may be but is not required to be the CO. The written notice of the complaint shall include the nature of the allegations and a copy of or link to applicable Board policies and procedures, including these procedures.

The investigator will normally complete the investigation within thirty (30) days. The investigation will include:

• Interview with the Complainant
• Interview with the Respondent
• Interviews with any witnesses who may reasonably be expected to have relevant information, as determined by the investigator;
• Review of relevant physical evidence or other documentation (e.g., photographs, videos, emails or other correspondence), as determined by the investigator.

 

At the conclusion of the investigation, the investigator shall prepare a written report summarizing the evidence gathered during the investigation, findings of fact, conclusions regarding whether discrimination or harassment occurred, and recommendations for addressing any discrimination or harassment, remedying its effects, and preventing it from recurring. The report shall be submitted to the District Administrator.

Within five (5) days of receiving the report, the District Administrator will issue a written decision, which will simultaneously be provided to the Complainant and Respondent. The District Administrator’s written decision shall include a summary of the investigation, a determination regarding whether discrimination or harassment occurred, and the action that will be taken to address any substantiated discrimination or harassment, remedy its effects, and prevent it from recurring.

If either party disagrees with the District Administrator’s decision, they may file an appeal with the School Board. The appeal must be filed, in writing, within five (5) days of receiving the District Administrator’s decision. The appeal must be sent to the District Administrator and Board President, and it must describe the area(s) of disagreement with the decision. If an appeal is filed, the District Administrator will provide the Board with the record of the investigation. The Board will review the record, and, at its discretion, the Board may meet with the parties before issuing a decision. The Board will issue a decision within thirty (30) days of receiving the appeal. The decision will be in writing and will be simultaneously provided to the District Administrator and the parties. The Board’s decision will inform the parties of the right to appeal discrimination complaint decisions to the State Superintendent within thirty (30) days of the Board’s decision.

In the event a complaint involves the District Administrator, the complaint shall be referred to the School Board President, who will assign an outside investigator to conduct an investigation and submit a written report to the Board pursuant to the complaint procedures above. The Board will issue a decision within thirty (30) days of receiving the report. The decision shall include a summary of the investigation, a determination regarding whether discrimination or harassment occurred, and the action that will be taken to address any substantiated discrimination or harassment, remedy its effects, and prevent it from recurring. The Board’s decision will inform the parties of the right to appeal discrimination complaint decisions to the State Superintendent within thirty (30) days of the Board’s decision.

Retaliation
Complaints alleging retaliation in violation of Policies 411 or 411.2 will be investigated pursuant to the complaint procedures above.

Confidentiality
Reasonable efforts will be made to protect the confidentiality and privacy of the parties and witnesses participating in the investigation, subject to the District’s obligation to conduct a thorough and fair investigation. Confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.

Sanctions and Discipline A respondent who is found to have engaged in discrimination or harassment is subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination from employment and suspension or expulsion from school.

Records Retention
The District Administrator or designee will maintain investigation records in accordance with the applicable records retention schedule(s). “Investigation records” include, but are not limited to, formal complaints, evidence gathered during the investigation, investigation reports, complaint and appeal decisions, and documentation of sanctions imposed or other corrective action taken.

STUDENT CELL PHONES AND PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES

Due to 2025 Wisconsin Act 42 and to maintain an educational environment focused on learning and free from digital distractions, student use of a Personal Communication Device (PCD) is generally prohibited on school grounds during the school day.  If a student brings a PCD to school, it must be powered off and stored in the student’s locker or vehicle for the entirety of the school day.  Students who choose to bring a device to school do so at their own risk. The District is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices.  This policy does not apply to school-issued devices.

 

DEFINITIONS
“Personal Communication Device (PCD)” is defined as a portable wireless device that has the capability to provide voice, message, or other data communication between two or more parties. Examples of PCDs include, but are not limited to:
● Cell phones
● Tablet computer (e.g., iPad)
● Laptop computer
● Gaming devices
● Smartwatches
“School day” is defined as start-time through dismissal, according to the official school schedule.

VIOLATIONS AND DISCIPLINE
Violations of this policy may result in the student’s PCD being confiscated for the rest of the school day, disciplinary action, and referral to law enforcement if the violation involves possible illegal activity (e.g., distributing a “private or intimate representation,” as defined by Wis. Stat. § 949.09).

EXCEPTIONS
Student use of PCDs in the following circumstances will not be considered a violation of this policy:
• Use authorized by administration, in the event of an emergency or perceived threat.
• Use needed to manage the student’s healthcare, if included in an individual health plan or with the approval of the school nurse or building administration. Medical documentation may be requested prior to approval.
• Use included in a student’s individual education program (IEP) or Section 504 plan.
• Use authorized by a teacher for educational purposes during instructional time.

CAMERA AND RECORDING CAPABILITIES PROHIBITIONS
Notwithstanding the above exceptions, the use of PCDs with cameras or recording capabilities in restrooms and locker rooms is strictly prohibited at all times, including on school grounds outside of the school day and at school-sponsored events and activities off school grounds.

SCHOOL PHONE USAGE
Students may not use the school's phones or extensions throughout the building unless it is for school business or is in an emergency, and they have obtained permission from a staff member to use the phone. Students may use the phone in the office should they need to contact home.

MESSAGES
Only messages from parents/guardians will be given to students. Students will not be called out of class or Blackhawk Period for phone calls except for family emergencies. To avoid classroom interruptions, the office staff will take pertinent messages from incoming calls and relay them to the student as soon as possible. It is the student’s responsibility to listen for announcements and pick up messages in the office.

 

STUDENT SEARCHES – Board Policy #445

The River Valley School District recognizes its responsibility to provide students and staff with a safe environment that is conducive to learning. Students are entitled to the guarantees of the fourth amendment, and they are subject to reasonable searches and seizures. When necessary and appropriate, School Officials are empowered to conduct searches of students and/or their property (including automobiles) when they have reasonable suspicion that students hay be in possession of drugs, weapons, alcohol and other materials (“contraband”) in violation of district policy, school rules, or state law. (Full Policy available online)

A. Lockers and Other School Property:  The school board retains ownership and possessory control of all pupil lockers at all times and thus retains the right to conduct searches. Students should not expect privacy regarding items placed in school property.  The District expressly reserves the right to search lockers with or without reasonable suspicion of a violation of the District's substance abuse policy, other school policies, or state law. Student lockers and other school property are subject to search at any time by school officials, without the consent of the student, without notifying the student, and without obtaining a search warrant.

B. Personal Searches:  Searches of a student or the student’s personal belongings (e.g. backpack) may be made when there is reasonable suspicion that the student has in his/her possession items that violate the law, Board policies, or school rules. The search shall be conducted in a reasonable manner and must not be overly intrusive in light of the age and gender of the student and nature of the infraction. Searches of a student’s person or personal belongings should be conducted outside the presence of other students to the extent possible. This search shall be conducted by a school official and at least one other person. C. Strip Searches:  Strip searches are not allowed under any circumstances.

C. Strip Searches are not allowed under any circumstances.

D. Searches of Vehicles:  District parking lots are the property of the district, and parking in District lots subjects students using them to District rules. Vehicles parked on school property, including non-motorized vehicles or bicycles, may be subject to searches. A vehicle search may be conducted by school officials where reasonable suspicion exists that the vehicle may contain items or substances which violate school rules, polices, or the law.

STUDENT RECORDS – Board Policy #347

Student records shall be maintained in the River Valley School District to aid the educational process in the elementary and secondary schools.

The Board recognizes the need for confidentiality of student records.  Therefore, student records shall be available for inspection or release only with prior approval of or notification to the parent/guardian or adult student, except in situations where legal requirements specify release of records without such prior approval or notification.

Each building principal shall be responsible for the supervision of student records management in their respective building(s).   Specific procedures for student records management shall be developed by the district administrator which:

     a. Comply with state and federal laws and regulations; and

     b. Are of maximum use to the professional staff and of greatest educational benefit to the students.

     c. Student record notices shall be published annually in accordance with State and Federal Law.

GUIDELINES FOR MAINTENANCE AND CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS-Board Policy #347-Rule

“Student records” are all records relating to individual students maintained by the elementary or secondary school other than  notes or records maintained for personal use by teachers or other certified personnel which are not available to others, and records necessary for and available to persons involved in the psychological treatment of a student.

1. TYPES OF RECORDS

     There are several kinds of student records:

a.  Student Directory Data 
As allowed by law, the District provides student records considered “Student Directory Data to interested persons, unless the adult student, parent, legal guardian, or guardian ad litem of any student specifically requests that the Student Directory Data may NOT be released without the prior consent of the adult student, parent, legal guardian, or guardian ad litem.

Such request for nondisclosure must be made annually within 14 days after student registration (use Policy #347-Exhibit 2).

There are three categories of “Student Directory Data” as follows:

General Profile Data
-Name
-Address
-Telephone Number
-Date of Birth
-Place of Birth
-Date of attendance
-Name of the previous school most recently attended

School Activity Data
-Name as part of their participation in officially recognized activities/programs and/or sports
-Weight and height, if a member of an athletic team
-Photographs and associated name
-Degrees and awards received and associated name
-Major field of study and associated name

Data for Institutions of Higher Education and Military Recruiters
-To institutions of higher education: a high school student’s name, address, and telephone number.

-To military recruiters: a high school student’s name, address, telephone number, and electronic mail address.

     b.  Progress Records:  Progress records are as follows:
-Courses taken
-Grades awarded
-Attendance records
-Extracurricular activities

     c.  Behavioral Records:  Behavioral records are all other student records, excluding Student Directory Data and Progress Records. Behavioral records are as follows:
-Tests relating to achievement or measurement of ability
-Psychological tests
-Personality evaluations
-Physical health records (other than lead screening and immunization records)
-Health care records
-Teacher evaluations
-Recorded comments other than grades
-Law Enforcement Agency Records
Law enforcement agency records include records obtained from a law enforcement agency relating to use, possession, or distribution of alcohol or a controlled substance by a student, illegal possession of a dangerous weapon, certain acts for which a student was taken into custody or for which the student was found to be delinquent.

-Court Records
Court records include records provided by a court with respect to students involved in certain delinquency proceedings.

    2.  CONFIDENTIALITY

     All student records shall be confidential, with access thereto limited to the following conditions:

     a.  Access to student records shall be available to school district officials who have been determined by the Board to have legitimate educational or safety interests in the records.  A “school official” is any person employed by the District, a person employed by or working on behalf of the District such as an auditor, health care provider, attorney, police liaison, or a school board member.

     b.  An adult student, or the parent or guardian of minor student, shall upon request be shown the student’s progress records and be provided with a copy thereof if requested.                                                                

     c.  Upon the written permission of an adult student, or the parent or guardian of a minor student, the school shall make available to the person named in the permission form the student’s progress records or such portions of the behavioral records specified by the person authorizing the release.  A qualified person from the River Valley school staff shall be present to interpret the behavioral records.

     d.  An adult student, or the parent or guardian of a minor student, shall upon request be shown the student’s behavioral records and shall be provided with a copy of the behavioral records, or specified portions thereof, if requested.  A qualified person from the River Valley school staff shall be present to interpret behavioral records.

     e.  The judge of any court of Wisconsin or of the United States shall, upon request, be provided by the person in charge of records with a copy of the progress records of a student who is the subject of any court proceeding.

     f.   Student records shall be provided to a court in response to a subpoena by parties to an action for in camera inspection, to be used only for purposes of impeachment of any witness who has testified in the action.  The adult student, or the parent or guardian of minor student, shall be notified in writing prior to release of any records to a court, and on request shall be provided with a copy of such records.

     g.  The Board may provide the DPI or any public officer with any information required under Chapters 115 to 121 of the state statutes.  The Board shall provide the DPI with any student record information that relates to an audit or evaluation of a federal or state-supported program or that is required to determine compliance with state law provisions.  Information reported shall be kept confidential by the DPI.  Notwithstanding their confidential status, student records may be used in suspension and expulsion proceedings and by the multidisciplinary team under Chapter 115 of the statutes.

     h.  Information from students’ immunization records shall be made available to state and local health officials to carry out immunization requirements.

     i.   The district board of Madison Area Technical College (MATC), the department of workforce development, or a county department under section 46.215, 46.22 or 46.23 for verification of eligibility for public assistance shall, upon request, be provided by the Board Clerk with the names of students who have withdrawn from school prior to graduation.

     j.   Except as provided in items 1 and 2 below, directory data may be disclosed to any person, if the school has given public notice of the categories of information which it has designated as directory data and has allowed a reasonable time of no less than 14 days thereafter for the adult student, parent, legal guardian or guardian ad litem of any student to inform the school that all or any part of the directory data may not be released without the prior consent of the parent, legal guardian or guardian ad litem.

          1.  If the school has given public notice that a student’s name and address has been designated as directory data, has allowed a reasonable time thereafter for the parent, legal guardian or guardian ad litem of the student to inform the school that the student’s name and address may not be released or has not informed the school, the Board Clerk, upon request, shall provide the district board of MATC with the name and address of each student who is expected to graduate from high school in the current school year.

          2.  An adult student, parent, legal guardian, or guardian ad litem who wishes to inform the school that all or any part of the directory data should not be released to entities or agencies from outside of the district should use Policy #347-Exhibit 2 (attached) as the form to make this request.

     k.  Any part of a student health care record that concerns the results of a test for the presence of HIV (the virus which causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome - AIDS) shall be confidential and may be disclosed only with the informed written consent of the test subject.

     l.   A school board may disclose personally identifiable information from an adult student’s records to the student’s parent(s) or guardian, without the adult student’s written consent, if the adult student is a dependent of his/her parent(s) or guardian under the Internal Revenue Code.  An exception shall be made when an adult student has informed the school, in writing, that the information may not be disclosed.

     m. The Board shall disclose a student’s records in compliance with a court-ordered educational plan after making a reasonable effort to notify the student’s parent or guardian.

Records shall be shown or provided to authorized persons as defined above at the earliest possible time after the request, not later than 15 school days.

A procedure for maintaining a record of the release or inspection of student records to authorized persons shall be established.  Such record of release or inspection shall be kept with the student’s records, and shall be available for inspection by only the adult student, the parent or guardian of a minor student or the school official in charge of recordkeeping.

3.  PARENT ACCESS TO RECORDS

     A parent, regardless of whether the parent has legal custody of the child, shall have access to a child’s medical, dental and school records unless the parent has been denied access to such records as outlined by state law (e.g., denied periods of physical placement with the child, ordered by the court).

4.  EMERGENCY DISCLOSURE

The District may disclose student records to appropriate parties in connection with an emergency if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of any individual. In making this determination, the District may take into account the totality of the circumstances pertaining to a threat to the health or safety of a student or other individuals. If the District determines that there is a threat to the health or safety of a student or other individuals, it may disclose information from student records to any person whose knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals. The District shall record the following information when it discloses student record information under this exception: (1) the threat to the health or safety of a student or other individuals that formed the basis for the disclosure; and (2) the parties to whom the District disclosed the information.

5.  MAINTENANCE AND DESTRUCTION OF STUDENT RECORDS

     a.  The Board appoints the district administrator as the custodian of student records.  He/she will be responsible for the overall direction and supervision of student recordkeeping in the district and will insure adherence to student record policies and procedures.

     b.  At the building level, the building principal shall have primary responsibility for implementing student records policies and procedures and shall be the person to whom all requests for inspection or transfer of records to another school shall be directed.

     c.  An official transcript will be maintained for a period of up to 35 years after a student ceases to be enrolled in the school district.

     d.  Behavioral records shall be destroyed one year after a student graduates from or leaves school for other reasons, except that an adult student or the parent or guardian of a minor student may give the school written permission to retain them for a further specified period of time.

5.  TRANSFER OF STUDENT RECORDS

     Student records relating to a specific student shall be transferred to another school district upon receipt of written notice from an adult student or the parent or guardian of a minor student that the student intends to enroll in a school in another school district; from the other school district that the student has enrolled; or, from a court that legal custody of the student has been placed in a secured residential care center for children and youth.

6.  HEARINGS

     An adult student, or the parent or legal guardian of a minor student, shall have an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the content of the student’s records to insure that the records are not inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the privacy of the student.  Opportunities for such hearings will be directed to the district administrator.

7.  NOTICES

Indoor Environmental Quality Management Plan

School buildings kept in good repair, suitably equipped and in safe and sanitary condition promote a positive learning environment. In accordance with the requirements identified under Wisconsin Statutes 120.12 (5) and 121.02 (1) (i) and Wisconsin Administrative Code PI 8.01 (2) (i), the River Valley School District’s designated officials will take appropriate steps to provide and maintain safe and healthful facilities. 

As required in WI Stat. 118.075 (3) and (4), the River Valley School District will maintain indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in all district operated schools with measures that include quality heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, moisture control, integrated pest management, cleaning and maintenance schedules, appropriate materials selection, routine building inspections by maintenance personnel, appropriate training of staff, and communication.

Bus Rules and Regulations – Board Policy 751.3

The River Valley School District Board of Education's primary concern in transporting its students is the safety of the children. 

MISCONDUCT reports will be completed by the bus driver, and copies will be sent to the Building Principal and the parent.  All misconduct reports will be made a part of the child's school record.

Misconduct may result in suspension of bus riding privileges, depending upon the seriousness of the misbehavior. Continued misconduct may result in permanent removal from the bus.

1. Previous to loading (at home and at school):
   1. Be on time at the designated school bus stops. This is mandatory if schedules are to be kept.
2. :  Children should be at point of pickup when bus arrives or in view of the driver. If not, the bus will not wait for them.
   2. Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus. Bus riders should conduct themselves in a safe manner while waiting.
   3. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to enter the bus. Line up in an orderly fashion, in single file.
   4. Do not move toward the bus at the school loading zone until the buses have been brought to a complete stop. There should be no pushing or shoving. Remember to line up in single file.

2. While on the bus:
   1. Keep the hands and the head inside the bus at all times.
   2. Assist in keeping the bus safe and sanitary at all times.
   3. Remember that loud talking, laughing or unnecessary confusion diverts the driver's attention and may result in a serious accident.
   4. Treat bus equipment as you would treat valuable furniture in your own home. Damage to seats, etc., must be paid for by the offender.
   5. Never tamper with the bus or any of its equipment.
   6. Leave no books, lunches or other articles on the bus. If an item is lost, please notify the bus company as soon as possible.  Drivers do clean out the buses after every route and turn in lost articles.  These lost articles are held for several months and then donated to charity.
   7. Keep books, packages, coats, and all other objects out of the aisles.
   8. Eating on the bus is at the driver's discretion. This includes candy, popcorn, ice cream, fruit, nuts, sandwiches, etc. Wrappers, bags, etc. should be disposed of in proper receptacles. If abused, the privilege may be removed.
   9. Selling of candies, food items, etc. will not be permitted on the bus.
   10. Follow the direction of the bus driver in case of emergency.
   11. Do not throw anything out of the bus window.
   12. Always remain in your seats while the bus is in motion.
   13. Be courteous to fellow pupils, the bus driver, the driver's assistant, and to passersby.
   14. Keep absolutely quiet when approaching a railroad crossing stop, while the bus is stopped, and until the bus is safely across the tracks.
   15. Profane or indecent language will not be tolerated.
   16. The driver is responsible for controlling the bus riders. The students must obey the driver and the driver assistants promptly and cheerfully.
   17. Inform the driver, if possible, when a rider will be absent.
   18. No live animals of any kind are allowed on the bus.
   19. Electronic devices will be permitted if sound is controlled.
   20. If a musical instrument is to be brought on the bus, it must be small enough for the student to hold in his/her lap or to stand on end on the floor between their seat and the seat in front of them (no tubas or drums).
   21. No skateboards are allowed on the bus.
   22. Carrying of weapons of any type shall not be permitted at any time on buses.
3. After leaving the bus:
   1. When it is necessary to cross the road to get on or off the bus, cross at least ten feet in front of the bus, but only after receiving the signal to do so from the driver. Also, the child should check to be sure that no traffic is approaching.
   2. Help look after the safety and comfort of small children.
   3. Be alert to the danger signal from the driver, which is a steady blast on the horn. Such a signal will be used only when the child could be in possible danger after starting to cross the road. When hearing the horn, the child should return to the spot where they were waiting for the driver’s signal.
   4. Riders are not permitted to leave the bus at other than regular stops unless proper authorization has been given in advance by parent and school officials.
   5. Students shall not go to the mail box to sort or gather mail until the bus has left its stop, as the driver cannot move the bus until the students have safely cleared the drop-off point.
   6. If there is no parent/responsible person present at the bus stop to greet the kindergartner (or younger student), the student will not be allowed to exit the bus.

     The bus driver will then notify the bus company that he/she is keeping the student on the bus and will continue on with the bus route. In the meantime, the bus company will try to contact the parent by phone. If the parent cannot be contacted by phone, the emergency contact person listed for the student will be contacted by phone. Arrangements will be made during this phone conversation as to where the parent/emergency contact person can safely receive the student.  The meeting point might be:

• the school; OR
• the bus company (located on Hwy. 23 in Spring Green); OR
• another location determined during the phone conversation.

4. Co-curricular activity trips:
   1. The above rules and regulations will apply to any trip made under school sponsorship.
   2. Pupils shall respect the directions of chaperones appointed by the school officials to accompany the bus riders.
   3. Students making a co-curricular or special activity trip must return on the same bus, unless written authorization has been presented to the supervising employee in advance by the parent or guardian of the student to go with a student's parent.
   4. Windows shall remain closed at the discretion of the bus driver.
   5. Electronic devices are permitted if sound is controlled.
   6. Violation of any of the above rules will be reported to the Building Principal of the school the student attends.

Bus Rules and Regulations Discipline Procedures – Board Policy 751.3 Rule 1

1. To handle cases of misconduct as outlined in School Board Policy #751.3 "Bus Rules and Regulations," the following procedures will be followed:

1. Bus drivers will fill out misconduct reports. The report will be turned in to the school office no later than the next school day following the offense. Each misconduct report will be investigated by both the bus company and the school administration.
2. The following actions will follow the issuance of a misconduct report:
   1. FIRST OFFENSE The bus company will inform the parent or guardian and school official responsible for handling the situation.
   2. SECOND OFFENSE - The Building Administrator or designee will inform the parent or guardian of the offense, and the student will be denied transportation for a maximum of up to five (5) days.
   3. THIRD OFFENSE - The Building Administrator or designee will inform the parent or guardian of the offense, and the student will be denied transportation for a maximum of up to ten (10) days. Parent and student will be required to meet with the Building Administrator to be informed of possible Board action on future misconduct reports.
   4. FOURTH OFFENSE - The Building Administrator will inform the parent or guardian of the offense and recommend to the District Administrator that the offense be referred to the School Board for a hearing, as provided in the School Board Policies, for a maximum of up to a thirty (30) day suspension of riding privileges.
   5. FIFTH OFFENSE - The Building Administrator will inform the parent or guardian of the offense and recommend to the District Administrator that the offense be referred to the School Board for a hearing, as provided in the School Board policies for suspension from the bus for the remainder of the year.

Note: The second and third offense procedures may be waived depending on the seriousness of the incident.

2. Parents or guardians and students are hereby advised to be aware that in any of the above actions, they have the right of due process.
3. A school administrator, chaperone, or bus driver has the authority to assign riders to designated seats.
4. Cameras may be activated on buses, other authorized vehicles, and viewed by administration, bus management, parent or guardian, and/or police authorities for gathering facts and evidence. 3/16/15

DRUg & alcohol PROHIBITIONS, alcoholic beverage possession and/or use on school premises

Board Policy 443.3 and Board Policy 835

The River Valley School District prohibits the possession, use and distribution or delivery of alcohol and controlled substances by students on school property or at any school sponsored event. For purposes of this policy “drugs and/or controlled substances” shall mean:

A. All controlled substances as designated and prohibited by Wisconsin Statute;

B. All chemicals which release toxic vapors;

C. All alcoholic beverages;

D. Any prescription or over the counter drug, except those for which permission to use in school has been granted pursuant to board policy;

E. “Look-alikes” including but not limited to controlled substance analogs and any substance represented to be a drug, controlled substance or controlled substance analog;

F. Anabolic Steroids;

G. Any other illegal substance so designated and prohibited by law. Therefore, any student who is found to have used alcohol, drugs or a controlled substance or to be (under the influence of alcohol, drugs or a controlled substance), found to have drugs, controlled substances or alcohol in his or her possession, or found to have delivered or distributed alcohol, drugs or a controlled substance at school or at a school sponsored event shall be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with established procedures and state or federal law. In addition, any student found to be in possession, using or delivering drug paraphernalia on school property or at a school sponsored event shall be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with established procedures and state or federal law. These prohibitions shall not apply to a student who is taking medication prescribed by a properly licensed health care provider in the manner and at the times prescribed.

Intermediate school guidelines for offenses of this policy:

FIRST OFFENSE   a.  Parent or guardian will be contacted to pick up student.

                             b.  Student will be suspended 1-5 days out of school.

                             c.  Student will be enrolled in the Student Assistance Program.

                             d.  Law enforcement agency will be notified.

                             e.  Possible review for expulsion.

SECOND OFFENSE    a.  Parents or guardian will be contacted to pick up student.

                             b.  Student will be suspended from school for 1-5 days.

                             c.  Suggestion will be made to the student/family for referral to an outside agency for professional consultation.

                             d.  Student will be re-enrolled in the Student Assistance Program.

                             e.  Law enforcement agency will be notified.

                             f.   Possible review for expulsion.

THIRD OFFENSE  a.  Parents or guardian will be contacted to pick up student.

                             b.  Student will be suspended from school for 3-7 days, pending on school board hearing for possible expulsion from school.  The student will be encouraged to obtain professional assessment and/or treatment.

                             c.  Law enforcement agency will be notified.

                             d.  Possible review for expulsion.

Vandalism/Theft - State Statute 943

Assault and Battery - State Statute 940

FIRST / SECOND OFFENSE a. Suspension in or out of school 1-5 days b. Parent notification c. Law enforcement notification d. Payment of damages

THIRD OFFENSE a. Suspension in or out of school 1-5 days b. Parent notification c. Law enforcement notification d. Payment of damages  and e. possible expulsion procedures

DANGEROUS WEAPONS IN SCHOOL – BOARD POLICIES 443.4 AND 837

No one shall use or possess a firearm, whether loaded or unloaded, any destructive device, or other dangerous weapon (as defined under section 948.61 of the state statutes) in school buildings and other buildings owned, occupied or controlled by the school district, on school premises, in school provided transportation, or at any school- sponsored or school-supervised activity, except as otherwise specifically authorized in this policy. Any object which could be used to cause bodily injury or property damage and which has no school-related purpose for being in school or on school grounds, will be considered a weapon for purposes of this policy.

Weapon – means:

(a) a device, instrument, material or substance, animate or inanimate, that is used for or is readily capable of causing death, bodily injury, or property damage or that readily can be used to intimidate others;

(b) any device, realistic toy, inoperable weapon, or fake replica that is readily perceived or believed to be an actual working weapon;

(c) any device designed as a weapon and capable of producing death or great bodily harm;

(d) knives and cutting instruments; or

(e) any electric weapon or any other device or instrumentality which, in the manner it is used or intended to be used, is calculated or likely to produce death or great bodily harm.

“Weapon” also includes BB and pellet guns and look alike or facsimile devices that can be interpreted or believed to be a weapon and/or can be used to intimidate or threaten others.

The following is an exception to the policy prohibition:

• The District Administrator may allow a weapon on school premises for purposes of demonstration, educational presentations, or other pre-approved educational programming. This approval must be in writing and granted prior to the weapon being brought to the school. The weapon shall be maintained in the possession of the principal or the principal’s designee except during the actual demonstration, presentation, or program.

A student who possesses a weapon, firearm or destructive device in violation of this policy may be suspended from school, referred for an expulsion hearing, and may be expelled from school. Students possessing other weapons in violation of this or any other policy or rule shall be subject to appropriate school disciplinary action, up to and possibly including suspension and expulsion from school. A parent or guardian with access to student records will be notified of student weapons violations in all cases. A law enforcement or juvenile justice referral may also be made for all students violating this policy
For possession of a firearm as defined in sec. 921 of Title 18 of the U. S. Code by a student, expulsion is mandatory for a period of not less than one year unless the school board modifies the expulsion as permitted under Wis. Stat. sec. 120.13(1)(g).

 

Chromebook Program: Policy, Procedures, & Information

Device Purpose: The focus of the Chromebook program is to provide digital tools and resources for the 21st century learner. The Chromebook is the property of River Valley School District. The supplied device is an educational tool not intended for gaming or social media. Teachers may set additional or alternative requirements for use in their classrooms.

1. GENERAL INFORMATION

Students are responsible for the general care of the Chromebook, two-piece charger, and peripherals issued by River Valley School District. Chromebooks, charger, and peripherals that are broken or fail to work properly must be reported and taken to school staff.

• Program Overview: This policy identifies as many eventualities as possible regarding the Chromebook 1:1 program at River Valley School District. This policy is intended for all students using Chromebooks as part of the 1:1 initiative as well as the Acceptable Use of Networked Computers, Electronic Mail, and Internet Safety Policy (Board Policy #743).

1.2. Receiving Chromebook

• Parents and students must acknowledge the Chromebook Policy and Procedures Agreement as well as the Acceptable Use of Networked Computers, Electronic Mail, and Internet Safety Policy (Board Policy #743). The Chromebook and peripherals are school property; users must follow the policies.
• Administration may view computer log history at any time.
• Chromebooks will be assigned during the first week of school.

1.3. Chromebook Check-In

• Students will return Chromebooks and chargers to homerooms at the end of each school day or to the designated building location at the end of the school year, depending on grade level and usage, unless directed otherwise.
• If a student transfers out of River Valley School District, withdraws, is expelled, or terminates enrollment, s/he must return his/her individual Chromebook, charger, and any other peripheral devices provided upon the date of termination of enrollment.
• Students will be subject to criminal prosecution or civil liability and district records may be withheld if a student fails to turn in the Chromebook, charger, and any other peripheral devices provided at the end of the school year or upon termination of enrollment. Students will pay replacement costs of the Chromebook, charger, and any other peripheral devices provided. Failure to return the Chromebook, charger, and any other peripheral devices provided will result in a theft report being filed with local law enforcement.
• Students will be responsible for any damage to the Chromebook and must return the Chromebook and peripheral devices in good working condition. Students will be charged a fee for any needed repairs, not to exceed the replacement cost of the Chromebook.
  
  

1.4. General Precautions: Chromebook screens can be damaged if subjected to rough treatment. The screens are sensitive to damage from excessive pressure on the screen.

• No food or drink should be next to chromebooks.
• Use only a clean, soft dry cloth or anti-static cloth to clean the screen; no cleansers of any type.
• Charging cable or any peripherals must be inserted carefully in the Chromebook ports to prevent damage.
• Writing, drawing, attaching stickers and labels are prohibited. (Barcodes will be adhered by River Valley School District Staff).
• Chromebooks must never be left in an unsupervised area (unlocked locker, gymnasium, lunchroom, etc.). When Chromebooks are not being used, they should be stored in locked lockers or charging station.
• Students are responsible for keeping their Chromebook’s battery charged if taken home.
• Do not stack books, heavy materials, etc. on top of the Chromebook as the device may break.
• Do not lean on top of the Chromebook when it is closed.
• Do not place anything that will press against the Chromebook cover when carrying the Chromebook (including pens/pencils/books, etc...).
• Never lift or carry a chromebook by the screen.
• Do not bump the Chromebook against lockers, walls, car doors, floors, etc. as damage may occur.
• Chromebooks are sensitive to extreme heat/cold; do not leave device in a car, direct sunlight, etc.
   

1.5. Chromebook Incidents

• Student must contact school staff immediately if Chromebook or peripheral devices are damaged, lost or stolen.. Chromebooks will be repaired through the River Valley School District.
• Any technical issue with the Chromebook or peripheral must be reported to school staff immediately; this includes but is not limited to the Chrome operating system, battery issues, loss of Internet connectivity, failures of apps to launch, etc.
• Any hardware or software repairs that are not due to misuse will be covered without cost to the student; however, any accidental or intentional damage to the device or peripherals will incur a cost. Costs will be imposed in accordance with the chart below or at the discretion of school administration.
• After two incidents of accidental damage, the student may lose some Chromebook privileges. This may also result in disciplinary action. All reports will be investigated on a case-by-case basis.

INCIDENTS, ACTIONS, AND COSTS

• Accidental Damage (1st instance) - Report immediately to school staff. Another device may be assigned. No cost dependent on investigation/cause
• Accidental Damage (2nd instance) - Report immediately to school staff. Another device may not be assigned. Student may need to wait until the original device is returned from service. Cost = Minimum $20
• Accidental Damage (3rd instance) - Report immediately to school staff. Another device may not be assigned. Student may need to wait until the original device is returned from service. Loss of privileges may occur such as:
  • Limited participation in Chromebook 1:1 program, Device remains at school, Discipline referral
  • Cost=Minimum $20, Maximum=Full replacement cost of device $275
• Intentional Damage - Report immediately to school staff. Device must be returned to school. Deliberate damage will be referred to school administration. Any and all appropriate discipline for damage to school property as set forth in School Board policy and building policies. Cost: Repair or replacement cost $275
• Loss - Report immediately to school staff. Cost=Full cost of device $275 Theft - Report immediately to school staff. A police report must be filed with local law enforcement; a copy of the report must be turned into school administration. Cost= Full cost of device $275
• Damage/Loss of charger, extension cable, etc. - Report immediately to school staff; charger, extension cable, etc. must be returned to school. Cost=Repair or replacement cost $25
• Damaged Screen/Keyboard - Report immediately to school staff. Cost=Maximum $90
   

2. CHROMEBOOK USE AT SCHOOL

Chromebooks are intended for use at school each day. It is the student’s responsibility to bring his/her Chromebook to all classes unless specifically instructed not to do so by his/her teacher. Assignments, school messages, announcements, calendars, and schedules are accessible on the Chromebook.

2.1. Unavailable Chromebooks and/or left at home

• If a student’s Chromebook is unavailable, uncharged, or left at home, they are still responsible for getting the coursework completed as if they had their Chromebook present. Students may be allowed to check out a Chromebook from the school library for a class period based on availability, or may be required to complete assignments with paper/pencil.
• If a student’s Chromebook is unavailable for two consecutive days, s/he may be required to check the device in for inspection.

2.2. Chromebooks Undergoing Repair

• Replacement Chromebooks may be issued to students when they leave their Chromebooks for repair. (Please note there may be a delay in getting a Chromebook.)
• Replacement Chromebooks may not be issued for use until all fines have been paid.

2.3. Charging Chromebooks

• Chromebooks need to be fully charged each evening for use the next day at school.
• Chargers should be kept at home. Labels on chargers should NOT be removed. Extra chargers may be available for checkout in the library if needed.

Photos, Screensavers, and Backgrounds

• Inappropriate media should not be on the device and may not be used as a screensaver or background photo.
• Photos/videos require a large amount of storage space on the device; only photos that are intended for educational purposes should be saved to the device. No other photos are allowed. Sound, Music, Games, or Programs
• Sound must be muted at all times unless permission is obtained from the teacher for instructional purposes.
• Personal music is not allowed on the Chromebook. Any music added to the device should be at the request of a teacher.
• Internet games are not allowed on the Chromebook; game apps should not be installed.
• All software/Apps must be district provided or requested in writing to school administration for approval. Any instance of Apps downloaded will be deleted and may result in disciplinary action.
• Data storage is limited and should be carefully managed by the student.

Printing

• Printing will not be available from the Chromebook. Students will be given instructions on how to print at school using existing Windows devices.
• Students will be encouraged to digitally publish and share their work with teachers and peers when appropriate. Home Internet Access
• Students are allowed to set up access to home wireless networks on their Chromebooks. This will assist in the ability to access and complete classroom assignments when needed.
• Off-site filtering is in place in accordance with federal CIPA laws.
•  

3. MANAGING YOUR FILES
Saving to Chromebook

• Students should save work to their Google Drive accounts.
• Storage space will be available on the Chromebook but will be limited and must be used for educational content. It is important to note that Chromebooks will not be backed up by the district in cases of re-setting or re-imaging.
• It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that their work is backed up and therefore not lost due to mechanical failure or accidental deletion.
• Chromebook malfunctions are not an acceptable excuse for not completing or turning in assignments. Internet Connectivity
• The River Valley School District makes no guarantee that their network will be up and running 100 percent of the time. In the rare case that the network is down, the District will not be responsible for lost or missing data.
• Students will not be penalized if the school network is down and a completed assignment cannot be accessed for class projects, presentations, etc. as this type of network outage will affect all students and staff in the school building.
• Lack of home internet access or connectivity issues are not an acceptable excuse for not completing assignments. Proper procedures should be followed to assure accessibility to documents offline.
   

4. APPS AND EXTENSIONS
4.1. Originally Installed Software

• The Operating System and Extensions/Apps originally installed by River Valley School District must remain on the Chromebook. River Valley School District may add software/Apps for use in a particular course.
• Any attempt to change the configuration of the device will result in disciplinary action.

4.2. Inspection

• Students may be selected at random to provide their Chromebook for inspection. Reasons for Chromebook inspection may include but are not limited to: maintenance, functionality, and various violations of student acceptable responsibilities when using the Chromebook.

4.3. Procedures for Re-loading Software

• If technical difficulties occur or illegal software is discovered, the Chromebook may be restored to original factory settings. The School District does not accept responsibility for the loss of any software or documents deleted due to a need to reformat/re-image the device.

4.4. Software Upgrades

• Each time the Chromebook is turned on, the system automatically checks for and applies any updates. Chromebooks should be turned off at the end of each day to allow for updates the next time the Chromebook is turned on.
• Students are encouraged to upgrade the Apps on the Chromebook if prompted. Chromebooks run the Chrome OS (Operating System) Web browser. OS upgrades are conducted automatically. Updated 7/8/2026JK

In an effort to “Go Green” and maintain parent communication and involvement, we are notifying you how we distribute progress reports and report cards for your student.

We no longer mail progress reports or report cards unless you request a hard copy. These documents will be viewable through Skyward Family and Student Access on the student’s Portfolio tab.  As always, your child’s full gradebook is viewable at any time during the school year in Family Access. Please do not hesitate to call the Intermediate school with any questions or concerns regarding your child’s progress.

In addition, the Intermediate School News updates are sent via email to parents.  Other information such as lunch menus, athletics, schedules, calendar of events, and district information is also available on the website. 

Yes, I will view progress reports and report cards through Skyward Family Access and there is no need to mail me a copy.

No, I do not have internet access and would like to have progress reports mailed to my home. Report cards will be sent home with my child.

Board Policy 744-Exhibit

I hereby grant permission to the River Valley School District (District) to use or publicly display my child’s photograph, video image (including streaming video), or audio clip on the District’s Web site(s), individual school Web pages, on RVTV or in other official District publications without further notice.  I acknowledge the District's right to crop, edit, or treat the photograph, video, or audio clip at its discretion.

I also understand that once my student’s photograph, video image, or audio clip is published on a Web site, it can be downloaded by any computer user, at or away from school. I understand a student’s name may be published along with the student’s picture.

I also understand that if I elect not to grant permission to use or publicly display my student’s photograph, video image (including streaming video), or audio clip on the District’s Web site(s), individual school Web pages, on RVTV or in other official District publications, my student, in the case of classroom or academic activities in which photographs, videos (including streaming video) or audio recordings are being taken or made, may be required to participate in an alternate activity.

Videotaping and/or photographing may be used in and by the District as a facet of instruction for enhancing learning, to assist in providing a safe and secure learning environment, and to monitor/record student achievement/behavior. Such videotaping/photography may be announced or unannounced on a random basis.

 

Note any exceptions here:                                                                                              

2026-2027 RECOGNITION OF REVIEW BY STUDENT AND PARENTS/GUARDIAN

By signing below, you agree to the following policies, guidelines, and procedures:

This form indicates that you have reviewed the River Valley Intermediate School Student Handbook with your son or daughter.  By having you and your child review the student handbook, a greater understanding will be acquired of what is expected of students at RVMS. 

Student Agreement/Consent Form

I understand and will abide by the RVSD Acceptable Use of Networked Computers, Electronic Mail, and Internet Safety Policy. I further understand that any violation of these guidelines may result in loss of access to the network, as well as other disciplinary or legal action. I consent to the District intercepting or reviewing any communication to me or from me through the RVSD computer network. I understand that RVSD has a web site (www.rvschools.org), and that my work may be published on this site if it is deemed exemplary by a teacher.

Parent or Guardian Agreement/Consent

As the parent or guardian of this student, I have read the RVSD Acceptable Use of Networked Computers, Electronic Mail, and Internet Safety Policy. I understand that access to the RVSD computer network is provided for educational purposes. I understand that the RVSD computer network is connected to the Internet, and I recognize that although the District attempts to monitor and filter inappropriate Internet sites, some controversial materials still exist on the Internet that may be accessed by my child. I will not hold RVSD responsible for materials retrieved from the Internet. I hereby give permission for my child to use the Internet at school. I further give my permission and consent for RVSD to intercept or review any communication made by or to my child through the RVSD computer network. I understand that RVSD has a web site (www.rvschools.org), and that my child’s work may be published on this site if it is deemed exemplary by a teacher.

 

CHROMEBOOK USE AGREEMENT

I (parents and student) understand and will abide by the Chromebook 1:1 Program Policies and Procedures. I understand the Chromebook is issued to student for school use and will be returned at the end of each academic year.  I understand the proper care and requirements of Chromebook use and agree to pay for damages as listed in the Program outline.

 

Family Access is the school’s personalized secure website that gives students and parents access to weekly updates of student progress within all of their classes.  Other information available includes assignment and grade book information, student schedules, attendance, conduct, lunch account purchases and payments, and contact information.  By signing the signature page, I am requesting a username and password for RVSD's "Family Access" portal and agree to the terms of Policy #745 – Web-Based Parent Access to Student Records and Grades.

 

In an effort to reduce repetitive permission slips, we ask that you sign permission below for the following occurrences.  You will continue to be notified of activities, but will no longer be required to sign permission for each event. 

 

PARENT PERMISSION is given for your child to participate in any of the following programs/activities that are under the supervision of the school.

• School supervised field trips (walking or transportation via bussing) on or off campus
• Permission to video tape and show
• Permission to photograph and publish participation in school sponsored activities
• Permission to publish above video and/or photographs on the River Valley webpage or news media
• Access to school-wide library books and materials

By signing below, we acknowledge we have reviewed the River Valley Intermediate School Student Handbook and understand the expectations of students at RVIS.  We also agree to the Acceptable Computer Use Policies, the Chromebook 1:1 Program Policies and Procedures, request Family Access for parents/guardians of student, grant Parent Permission and grant Web/RVTV Consent with any exceptions noted above.

 

                                                                                                                                      

       Student Signature                                                 Parent Signature

                                                                                                                                     

                                      Grade                                                                   Date