Website:  www.cannonfallsschools.com

E Mail:  hsoffice@cannonfallsschools.com

                msoffice@cannonfallsschools.com

 

   

820 East Minnesota Street

Cannon Falls, MN  55009

Phone: (507) 263-6800

High School office – Option 6

Middle School office - Option 5

Fax:  (507) 263-2555

 

Todd Sesker, Superintendent
sesker.todd@cannonfallsschools.com
 

Stephen Fredrickson, Principal

fredrickson.stephen@cannonfallsschools.com

 

 

 

 

WELCOME TO

CANNON FALLS SCHOOLS!

 

 

Dear Students, Parents, Staff and Community Members:

 

This handbook is intended to offer its’ readers an explanation and clarification of the educational programs at the middle and high school.  Please retain this copy and use it for reference.

 

Students live and function in the general community as well as the school community.  As school and community citizens, you are expected to act and conduct yourself responsibly. The guidelines set forth in this handbook apply to conduct on school premises, school buses, at school activities, or involving any school property. These rules also apply to conduct outside school, a premise that directly affects other students or the school.  The Board of Education sets forth policies, rules and regulations to help each student citizen conduct him/herself in a manner considered to be appropriate for the school and community at large.

 

Students and staff benefit from actively involving themselves in the academic and co-curricular activities offered through Cannon Falls schools.  Staff and student leaders are here to assist you in getting the most of what our school program has to offer.  We welcome the opportunity to help you in making your experience here a successful one.

 

Best of luck with your school year!

 

 

 

Cannon Falls Board of Education

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

Academics…………………………………………………………….Page 5

      Academic Honesty

      Awards and Scholarships

      Course Add/Drop Policy

      Curriculum/Course Requirements

      Grading System

      Graduation Requirements

      High School Graduation Incentives Program

      Honor Roll

      Incompletes

      Report Card/Progress Reports

      Schedule Changes

      Top 5 Achievers

      Work Programs

 

Co-Curricular Activities……………………………………………..Page 8

      Dances

      Eligibility

      Fees and Admissions

      Sportsmanship Policies

      Student Organizations

 

Emergency Procedures……………………………………………...Page 12

      Evacuation

      Drills

      Nuclear Incident

 

Expectations, Responsibilities and Rights………………………….Page 12

      Academic Success and Attendance

      Behavior Expectations

      Cell Phone Use

      Data Privacy

      Discipline, Due Process and Consequences

      Dress Code

      Food

      Gang/Threat Group Activity

      Harassment and Hazing Policy

      Lunch Periods

      Lyceum Periods

      Neighborhood Relationship

      Search & Seizure

      Substance Use/Abuse Policy (Smoke-Free/Drug-Free School)

      Visitor Policy

     

Student Services…………………………………………………..….Page 27

      Building Hours

Cashier’s Office

Chemical Health and Violence Prevention Support Services

      Clerical Staff

      Community Ed.

      District Office

      Education Foundation

      Food Service

Guidance Office

Insurance

Lockers

      Nurse’s Office

      Parking

      Phone Use/Cell Phone Use

      Principal’s Office

      Transportation

      Tutoring

 

School Policy’s……..………………………………………………Page 31

 

ACADEMICS

 

AWARDS/SCHOLARSHIPS/FINANCIAL AID

CFHS is extremely fortunate to award approximately $50,000 is local scholarships each year to its graduating seniors.  The package of information on local scholarships is mailed to seniors and their parents on Feb. 1st.  The application is due back in early March to the Guidance Office.  These scholarships, along with department awards and academic letters are presented at the

Academic Awards program in mid-May.  Other local, state and national scholarships are posted in the Guidance Office.  Please check this area frequently to see what is available for you to apply for.  Check with your parent’s employers and insurance agents to see what they

offer for scholarships.  Two good internet sources to research scholarships are www.fastweb.com and www.schoolsoup.com

 

You can apply for financial aid through the site www.fafsa.ed.gov after Jan. 1st.  The web site to apply for reciprocity (tuition agreement between neighboring states) is www.getreadyforcollege.org

 

The Guidance Office manages applications and information about available scholarships and application processes.  Students having interest in scholarships should inquire with the guidance office.

 

COURSE ADD/DROP POLICY

Students are discouraged from dropping courses they selected through registration. The add/drop policy, found in the high school guidance office, outlines the criteria acceptable for changing a student’s schedule.

 

CURRICULUM AND COURSE REQUIREMENTS

The Cannon Falls Board of Education establishes curriculum and course requirements. A handbook on requirements and course offerings is available during registration and orientation.  A copy may also be obtained in the high school or guidance offices.

 

GRADING SYSTEM

Cannon Falls Schools utilizes a 4.0 point grading system.  There are no “weighted” classes.  All grade values are listed in the following “Honor Roll” section.

 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

A student must have earned a minimum of 24 credits during the 9th through 12th grades and passed the Basic Skills Reading, Mathematics and Writing tests and completed the MCA’s in reading and math to graduate from Cannon Falls High School, All credits consist of required and elective courses as outlined by the Cannon Falls Board of Education, Minnesota Department of Education and Federal government.

 

Students earning fewer than 22 credits may not participate in the graduation ceremony.

 

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION INCENTIVE PROGRAMS

The traditional high school setting is not the only option available to students in obtaining a high school diploma.  The Minnesota Legislature authorizes a number of “options” for students.  Some of these options include: Open Enrollment, Post-Secondary Options, Alternative Learning Center, Area Learning Centers, Age 21 and Over, and Early Graduation. Contact the Guidance Counselor or Principal for further information or questions about any of these options.

 

HONOR ROLL

At each quarter’s end, two lists for academic achievement are published:

 

“A” Honor Roll – GPA of 3.666 or above

“B” Honor Roll – GPA of 3.00 to 3.665

 

When calculating a current GPA, earned letter grades are converted to the corresponding numeric value below. Add the values and divide by the total number of course credits attempted to determine a grade point average.

Please carry 3 decimal places

 

A = 4.0      A- = 3.666       B+ = 3.334      “P”= Pass = 0

B = 3.0      B- = 2.666      C+ = 2.334      “N” = No Pass = 0

C = 2.0      C- = 1.666      D+ = 1.334       D = 1.0       D- =  .666   F  = 0

 

ACADEMIC HONESTY

Cannon Falls students are expected to achieve success with integrity.  Academic dishonesty is a serious violation of scholarship standard at Cannon Falls High School.  Any act that misrepresents a student’s schoolwork or that abridges the rights of other students to fair competition is forbidden.  Academic dishonesty includes, but it not limited to, cheating on assignments or exams, plagiarizing (misrepresenting another’s work as one’s own original creation), sabotaging another student’s work and using without attribution a computer concept of program. 

 

Any faculty member may make written reports of academic dishonesty.  A substantiated report of academic dishonesty will result in one of the following consequences:

First Offense:  Grade of “F” on assignment/test/activity/project on which academic dishonesty occurred.

Second Offense:  Quarter grade of “F” for the class in which the incident of academic dishonesty occurred.

Third Offense:  Failure of the semester in the class in which the incident of academic dishonesty occurred.  On the event of a third offense, the student will be immediately removed from the class or activity involved and a final grade of “F” will be assigned.  A student may not enroll in another class or activity until the semester following the removal.  Students may appeal such action to the department group within three school days of the notice of removal.

 

All written, substantiated reports of academic dishonesty shall become a part of the student’s disciplinary file.  Incidents of academic dishonesty shall be cumulative across and including all classes and activities, all semesters, and all years of enrollment at Cannon Falls High School.  Parents will be informed of each incident and its consequences at the time the report is received.

 

INCOMPLETES

All incomplete quarterly grades must be made up within ten calendar days of the end of a marking period to receive a grade/credit.  Fourth Quarter incompletes must be made up no later than ten (10) days into the upcoming academic year. The administration may grant an approval for extended time in emergency situations.

 

REPORT CARDS/PROGRESS REPORTS

Report cards are issued at each quarter’s end or approximately every nine weeks.  Mid-quarter reports are issued to high school students between the fourth and fifth week of the quarter, middle school reports are issued every three weeks during each quarter to notify students and parents of academic progress. Students are encouraged to share these reports with parents.

           

SCHEDULE CHANGES

Students who find it necessary to make a schedule change must meet with the principal or guidance counselor. When in doubt as to a procedure, students are urged to see their advisor.

 

Schedule changes may be granted under at least one of the following criteria:

To select a higher-level course if enrollment permits and there is a teacher recommendation.

 

To select a lower level course if the student is doing poorly or failed a similar course and there is a teacher recommendation.

 

To meet the requirements of an Individualized Education Plan or 504 Plan.

 

To accommodate any Post Secondary Options Enrollment issues.

 

To find another section that is available to the student, due to maximum

Enrollment being reached in a course.

 

TOP 5 ACHIEVERS

At each quarter’s end, students achieving a GPA within the top 5 in their class have their names and pictures displayed in the Academic Showcase located in the lobby of the school.

 

Since this recognition effort is intended to include all students achieving top five status, it is common that more than five students per grade are recognized if more than five students fall within the top five GPAs.  For example, 3 students might have a GPA of 3.888.  All three students would be recognized for the accomplishment.

 

WORK PROGRAMS

The State Board of Education Ed. 44 currently states:  In all classified secondary schools, the minimum length of the school day for each pupil, exclusive of the noon intermissions, shall be six hours.  Students involved in school-approved work programs such as Agri-business, etc. are excused from school to work. 

 

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

 

DANCES

Student Councils consider applications from school organizations for approving school dance dates.  The organization sponsoring the dance completes a dance request form and files it with the Principal at least one week prior to the dance. Rules and guidelines for dances and sponsoring are available through the Student Council, its’ advisor or the middle and high school offices.  Following are guidelines specifically regarding who

may attend dances and any restrictions that apply to guests and grade levels.

 

1.      High School dances are open to Cannon Falls students in grades 9 through 12 and their guests unless designated a “grade” specific dance. (i.e. Spring Prom is for grades 11and 12 – their guests may be in grades 10 through 12).

 

2.      Guests must be registered by a Cannon Falls student by noon on the school

day prior to the dance in the high school office.  Only one guest is permitted per student and is subject to the approval of administration.  The guest must accompany the Cannon Falls student.

 

3.      All participants are expected to honor the same social standards and

school regulations as required during the school day.  (Exception:  Appropriate caps and coats may be worn outside the normal school hours.)

 

4.      Cannon Falls students are responsible for the behavior and/or actions of

their guest.

 

5.      Guests who cause problems will be excluded from all future dances and the

Cannon Falls student from the next dance.

 

6.  Students who leave or are removed from a dance do not receive an admission

refund.  Those who leave will not be permitted to return to the dance.

 

7.  Students who are excluded from the school day due to sickness, suspension or removal are not eligible to attend a school dance occurring that day.

 

CO-CURRICULAR ELIGIBILTY-HIGH SCHOOL

The Minnesota State High School League established eligibility standards for athletics and other co-curricular activities.  These standards are the minimum basis for eligibility for all co-curricular activities at Cannon Falls schools.

 

MID-QUARTER GRADES:

Students have a 10-day period from the time grades are released from the Athletic Director’s office to get his/her grades up to passing.  A “passing status” form must be signed by the teacher(s) and turned into the AD office on or before the end of the 10th day.  If after the 10th day a student still has an “F”, then he/she is ineligible until the student raises the “F” to passing.  If the student fails to raise the grade to passing, he/she is ineligible until the next grading period.

 

QUARTER GRADE POLICY:

At each quarter’s end, grades are issued and an automatic ineligibility period *** takes place when the AD receives the “failure list”.  The following penalty scale is applied:

PENALTY SCALE:

 

 One (1) “F” equals suspension from one game/meet/dance competition or 2 contests of every other sport or activity.  The penalty is assigned immediately on the next contest.

 

Two (2) “F’s” equal 2 games, meets, dance competitions or 4 of anything else;

 

Three (3) “F’s” equals 3 games, meets, dance competitions or 6 of anything else, and so on.

 

*** Ineligible students cannot compete in games, contests or performances, but

may practice.

 

MIDDLE SCHOOL ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY FOR CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Academic eligibility for co-curricular participation will be checked at each progress reporting time (every three weeks) and at the end of each quarter.  Any student who receives one or more failing grades will be ineligible to compete in co-curricular games, events, matches or contests until they obtain passing status and provide proof of such status by following the procedure outlined in #’s 4 and 5 below.  Students are allowed to continue to practice and/or attend meetings during their ineligibility.

 

1.      Teachers will submit to the middle school office a list of all students with a failing grade for a grading reporting period.  The office staff will provide the athletic director with a copy of a comprehensive list.

2.      The office shall notify coaches and advisors of these individuals.  He/She is ineligible to compete effective immediately until the student obtains passing status.  There is no grace period.  The student should immediately focus attention on regaining passing status.

3.      As soon as the student returns the grade(s) to passing status, the student will secure a “Passing Status” form from the office and have the teacher validate the passing grade by signing the form.  In the event the student is in more than one activity, the student will be required to get a form for each activity in which he/she participates.  The student will take the signed passing status form to the office to have them validate it and then turn the form into their coach/advisor and be immediately eligible to participate.  However….#4

4.      If a student has one or more failing grades at the end of the quarter, he/she is ineligible until the next progress reporting date.

5.      The coach /advisor is encouraged to advise the student of best methods of reaching that objective.  It is the sole responsibility of the student to take appropriate steps needed in order to raise the grade to a passing status and follow the procedures required to become eligible.

 

FEES AND ADMISSION

An activity fee structure is established annually, for all co-curricular activities, to cover or subsidize the expense of the activity.  Each activity has set rates and a maximum amount is set per family. Activity fees vary based on the nature of the activity.

 

Cannon Falls schools charges admission to certain activities.  Season passes are available for individual students, adults and families. Additional information regarding these fees can be found at the Cashier’s Office or the cannonfallsschools.com website.

 

SPORTSMANSHIP POLICIES

Activities are intended to provide enjoyment, entertainment and/or information to all spectators.  Therefore, the following standards are established:

            No pop is allowed in the gymnasium.

           

            Spectators are expected to remain in the gym while an activity is in progress.

 

            Students are not re-admitted after leaving the building.

 

Students are expected to abide by the same social standards and school regulations as required during the school day.  (Exception:  appropriate caps and coats may be worn outside of normal school hours.)

 

Consequences for not observing the Sportsmanship Policy are as follows:

 

1st Step – Warning.

2nd Step – Exclusion from next home activity.

3rd Step – Exclusion from next five home activities.

4th Step – Exclusion from next ten home activities.

 

SEVERE CLAUSE – Fighting, insubordination, vandalism, and/or stealing results in disciplinary consequences such as exclusion from all home activities for the remainder of the school year and prosecution, if appropriate.

 

Any student violating an imposed exclusion is placed on the next step.

 

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

The following is a list of some of the co-curricular activities and organizations available at Cannon Falls Schools.  Students interested in participating in any of the following should see the Activities Director or coach/advisor for more details.

 

Participation in any (co-curricular) activities is dependent on maintaining a passing grade status in all academic areas. (Co-curricular) activities are intended to augment academic experiences, not replace them.

 

Annual (Yearbook) Staff

Knowledge Bowl

Band

The Lantern (student newspaper)

Baseball

National Honor Society

Business Professionals of America

One-Act Play

 

Cable Television Operators

Peer Mediators

Cheerleading

Pep Band

Choir

Science Club

Cross Country

Softball

Debate

Speech Activities

Dance Team

Wrestling

Drumline

Student Council

Empower

Tech-Masters

Football

Tennis

Future Farmers of America 

Track

Future Leaders of America 

Volleyball

Golf

Weightlifting

 

Cannon Falls High School is an active member of the MSHSL and conducts its curricular and co-curricular activities in compliance with their rules and regulations.

 

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Drills

Fire and tornado drills are held during the school year.  An exit plan is posted in each classroom.  Students are responsible for knowing specific directions for leaving classes.

 

Evacuation

Students are expected to familiarize themselves with evacuation procedures.  All evacuations should be treated as a real situation.  Failing to evacuate the building is considered a disciplinary offense.

 

Code Blue

If there is a medical emergency a “Code Blue” page will go out across the intercom.  The code blue team, which is made up of staff members, will respond and all staff and students are asked to remain in the classroom until the all clear is sounded.

 

Nuclear Incident

In the event of a nuclear incident, an evacuation procedure is in place that involves transporting students out of Cannon Falls to Northfield. These procedures are consistent with state and federal guidelines and with practices of other school districts in the area.  Further information on these procedures may be obtained from the school district office.

 

School Map- Refer to map on page .

 

Staff Directory-Refer to directory on page.

 

ACADEMIC SUCCESS AND ATTENDANCE

 

ATTENDANCE:   Student, Parent and School Responsibility

Regular attendance is very important for successful schoolwork.  While a student is enrolled in school, his or her number one job is attending classes regularly and fulfilling all the class requirements.  Regular and prompt attendance is a habit and should be cultivated as such.  Minnesota State Law governs the attendance of pupils and obligates schools to ensure regular attendance.  The Minnesota Law (MA 120.10) provides that every child between seven and eighteen years of age shall attend a public school or private school for not less than nine months during any school year.

 

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU ARE ABSENT?

Parents/guardians are to call the attendance office (507.263.6800) each day your son or daughter is absent.  You may call the attendance line 24 hours a day the voice mail is always on.  Please call before 9:00 a.m. each day.  Your prompt telephone call greatly assists us in maintaining accurate attendance records.  When your son/daughter returns to school following an absence or tardy, if no contact has been made, you are to send a signed note with him/her stating his/her name, grade, date(s) of absence, and reason (s) for absence.  The note must be presented to the attendance office before 8:05 a.m.  If a note is not available at check in, one must be turned in before school on the following day.  Failure to bring a note will result in an unexcused absence.  Students must report to the attendance office to get an admit slip.  You must then show this slip to each classroom teacher in order to be admitted to class.  The slip will tell teachers whether your absence was excused or unexcused.

 

THE 24-HOUR ATTENDANCE OFFICE LINE PHONE NUMBER IS 507.263.3331 OPT. 5

 

WEATHER-RELATED SCHOOL CLOSING

Announcements regarding school closing due to inclement weather and/or hazardous conditions will be announced on WCCO radio (830 AM), KDHL 920 AM (Faribault), KCUE 1250AM (Red Wing), KRDS 95.5 (Northfield). And the following television stations:  WCCO 4 * KSTP 5 * KARE 11 * KMSP 9 *.  The district will make a decision to close the schools by 6:30 a.m., and pass this information on to WCCO at that time.  Be sure to listen and/or watch the above listed stations for an announcement on days when the weather is not good.

 

ABSENCES

A. EXCUSED

1.      Excused absences are those absences that both the school and the parent/guardian approve.  Absences because of illness or appointments, which cannot be made outside the school day, may be excused if a parent calls in requesting this absence be excused.  The school must be notified by phone or written note the day of or following the absence.

Excused Absences:

 

a.       Students whose absences are excused are required to make up all assignments missed or to complete alternative assignments as deemed appropriate by the classroom teacher.  A minimum of one day for each day missed may be extended upon teacher determination.

b.      If the excused absence is a family vacation, then the teacher may request assignments to be made up prior to the vacation.  Students, upon the teachers discretion, may lose daily points if work is not finished before the family vacation.

c.       Any work not completed within the time period stated in #1, shall result in “no credit” for the missed assignment.  However, the building principal or the classroom teacher may extend the time allowed for completion of make-up work in the case of an extended illness or other extenuating circumstances.

d.      Students will not lose daily points if assignments are made up within the parameters stated above.

Absences for family trips requested by parent or guardian and approved by a principal will be excused.  Arrangements of this type must be made in advance by securing the proper form from the office and making up work before the absence occurs.

B.  UNEXCUSED

Unexcused absences are those, which cannot be classified in the above categories and/or are not approved by school.  In addition, the following absences are unexcused regardless whether they are approved by the parent/guardian:  Class time missed due to car trouble, missed buses, rumored skip days, personal reasons, baby sitting, visiting, alarm malfunction, work, oversleeping, no note, leaving school at any time for any reason without notifying the principal, attendance office, or nurse’s office and any absence the principal feels would be clearly detrimental to the continuing education of the students.  Any unexcused tardiness, which results in a student missing more than 15 minutes of the period, will be reported by the teacher to the attendance office as an unexcused absence.

 

MAKE-UP WORK

Excused absences will not arbitrarily result in reduction in grades, but failure to compete work usually will affect grades.  Students and/or parent or guardian are responsible for requesting make-up work for each day’s absence.  The responsibility for completing this work rests with the student.  It must also be understood that a large amount of what happens in the classroom cannot be replicated and is lost whether the absence is excused or unexcused. However, students will have one day for each day missed due to illness or a school sponsored activity. Students will not have their grades reduced in any way, if the excused absence is due to illness or a school sponsored activity. Teachers are responsible for providing assignments after student or parent/guardian request.  No credit will be given from work missed due to unexcused absences.

 

NURSES OFFICE

The Health Office is located in the middle and high school office complex.  A nurse is available every day during school hours.  Students who become injured or ill are referred to this office, where a determination is made regarding the student’s status.  Students may leave the building on the recommendation of the nurse, and after parent or guardian permission has been obtained.

 

Any medication that needs to be taken at school should be stored in the health office during school hours. Prescription medication taken daily, or to be available for longer than two weeks, will need both parent and physician authorization signatures.  This includes emergency medications such as Epi Pens, and inhalers.  Students whose parents and physician agree that the medication may be carried with the student will need to inform the nurse of their medication and sign a Self Carry Medication Contract.  Students who carry their medication are asked to keep a back up medication in the health office.

 

Students who wish to keep an over the counter medication in the health office will need to bring in the medication in the original container, along with a signed note from their parent or guardian. Medication authorization forms may be used for these, but over the counter medication does not need a physician signature.  Medications will not be given if they are expired, and only within the dosage guidelines on the container. Students from one family can share the same bottle of an over the counter medication such as acetaminophen, but each family member needs signed permission. Medication authorization forms are available in the health office, high school and middle school offices, and local health clinics.

 

Cough drops may be kept in lockers or backpacks.  All other medication needs to be kept in the health office.

 

All students must have immunizations, or exemptions on file with the school, in accordance with Minnesota law.  Students who do not have immunization paperwork in to the school health office may be excluded from classes until their immunizations are complete.

 

Vision and hearing screening will be conducted in the fall for 7th and 10th grades.  Scoliosis screening is conducted in the spring for 7th grade girls, and 8th grade boys.  Parents and guardians will be notified if follow up is indicated.

 

Questions about health or medications should be directed to the school health office, 263-6800. If a student has a known health need, or history, we ask that you notify the school nurses who will discuss with you treatment, care, and notification to staff as needed. 

 

LEAVING SCHOOL

If you become ill during the day, or if you must leave school for any reason, you must receive permission from the office.  If you leave school for any reason without notifying the office prior to leaving, your absence will be regarded as unexcused.

 

ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION

A student must be in attendance a full day in order to participate in after school activities that day.

 

When a student’s absences become excessive and a student is not meeting the necessary requirements to pass a course, the following may result:

 

Teacher(s) requesting that an Academic Success Plan be developed in collaboration with the student, principal, and guidance counselor.

 

A student may be removed from class, receiving no credit for the semester.

 

APPEAL PROCESS

An appeal process for extenuating circumstances is available to any student.

 

If a student, parent/guardian feels extenuating circumstances caused the excessive absences; an appeal may be filed with the Principal. 

     

A School Attendance Appeals Committee consisting of an administrator, the classroom teacher where excessive absences occurred, a second teacher, and the guidance counselor, evaluates the student and parent/guardian’s request.

 

Students absent more than three (3) consecutive days, due to illness, may be required to bring a doctor’s note excusing the absence.

 

OTHER ATTENDANCE CONCERNS

Tardiness

 

Tardiness to school is excused only for illness or family emergency. Students must have a note from a parent/guardian.  Students who are tardy to school must report to the office for admittance to class.

 

Unexcused tardiness may result in consequences.  Tardies are accumulated per semester. 

 

Five (5) tardies to school in the morning results in a detention.

           

Three (3) unexcused tardies to any hour of class results in an unexcused absence.

 

Individual teachers submit a referral to the office for unexcused tardies.

 

Field Trips

Students are occasionally afforded opportunities to participate in course-content related field trips.  Field trips are an integral part of the Cannon Falls High School learning experience.

 

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS

Seniors are granted a “non-school day” on the last day of the school year.  Seniors participating in a group “skip day”, prior to the last day of school, are required to attend school on the last student day.

 

Truancy

Unexcused absences and patterns of continual absences without a significant health problem border on truancy.  Parents and school officials have the responsibility to ensure that students attend school.  Minnesota Statute 120A.22, sub-division 5 (a) requires every child up to age sixteen (16) to attend school daily. Unexcused absences for full or partial days are considered truancies.

 

Students absent more than three (3) consecutive days, due to illness, may be required to bring a doctor’s note excusing the absence.

 

ADULT STUDENTS

Minnesota laws, rules and regulations are enforced on all students, regardless of their age. 

 

Students, regardless of age, should verify their absences through their parents. Similarly, parents of adult students are contacted if a student’s behavior is deemed inappropriate, as is the case for minor students.  Parents are also kept informed of academic progress of their students.

 

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Students have the responsibility to respect the rights of all persons involved in the educational process, exercising the highest degree of self-discipline in observing and adhering to legitimate rules and regulations. Further, students are expected to comply with all school, local, state and federal policies and laws.

 

CITIZENSHIP

Cannon Falls students are responsible for their own actions and behavior.  Students are expected to be courteous, respectful and cooperative.  Students are to respect others at all times and to follow school rules.

The administration of Cannon Falls High School recognizes that it is all but impossible to list behaviors that are unacceptable in a learning community such as ours.  By necessity the administration must reserve the right to disallow any behaviors or dress that, in our best judgment, are not acceptable.  Student conduct must show respect for the differences in others.

Cannon Falls High School students are not only expected to show respect for others but also for the property of others.  Students are expected to solve individual differences in a non-violent manner.  Physical confrontation of any type will not be tolerated.

Students who violate this code of conduct are subject to school disciplinary action including detention, exclusion and/or expulsion, as well as referral to local authorities for possible criminal prosecution.

 

LOCKER POLICY

Cannon Falls High School provides each student with a locker.  Some students may voluntarily share a locker. 

It is the policy of District #252 that school lockers are the property of the School District.  At no time does the District relinquish its exclusive control of lockers provided for the convenience of students.  School authorities for any reason may conduct inspections of the interior of lockers at any time, without notice, without student consent and without search warrant.  The personal possessions of students within a school locker may be searched when school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover evidence of a violation of law or school rules.  Valuable items should not be kept in lockers.  Students who do not clean out their locker by the last day of school or who have damaged the locker will be assessed fines as determined by the custodians.

 

STUDENT BEHAVIOR

The following behaviors are considered unacceptable at Cannon Falls High School:

1.      Gambling/Card playing is prohibited

2.      Inappropriate clothing

3.      Public displays of affection

4.      Students must not tease, harass, humiliate or ridicule others

5.      Student games, like hacky sack and others, which can be disruptive to the educational process, are prohibited in the school building.

6.      Shouting or yelling

7.      Using obscene or foul language

8.      Using language that is threatening or demeaning

 

PROM

Prom is a school activity and a privilege extended to juniors, seniors, and their guests in grades 10, 11 and 12 only.  All 10th graders and guests who are not students of Cannon Falls Secondary School must fill out a registration form and the principal must approve their attendance.  Former students, who may have been in good standing while they attended Cannon Falls, may be prohibited from attending.

 

In addition to the above restrictions, truancy and behavior issues on or about prom week may result in students losing their prom privileges regardless of what grade they are in.

 

INSUBORDINATION

“Insubordination” is refusing to comply with a reasonable request of directive of a staff member.  Consequences may include a conference with staff member principal, parent notification, detention, suspension or other appropriate disciplinary action.

CLASSROOM/BUILDING DISRUPTIONS

In order to maintain an environment conductive to learning, student behavior must not interfere with the orderly operation of the classroom or building.  Items causing a disruption may be confiscated.  Examples of items are, but not limited to, pagers, cell phones, and laser pointers.  Student behavior resulting in a building disruption is subject to school disciplinary action as well as referral to local authorities.

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

The Cannon Falls High School learning community will regularly recite The Pledge of Allegiance.  However, Minnesota Statutes 121A.11 mandates the following:

 

"Anyone who does not wish to participate in reciting the pledge of allegiance for any personal reason may elect not to do so.  Students must respect another person's right to make that choice."

 

OFF CAMPUS/OFF LIMITS

Students leaving campus or in an off limits area without permission from the student services office are subject to consequences of the attendance/discipline policies.  Students are not to go to the parking lot during school hour’s without permission from a principal.  Students outside of the building in non-designated areas may be considered off limits and are subject to discipline policies.

 

DETENTION AND SATURDAY SCHOOL

Classroom teachers or administrators may assign students to after-school detention, before school detention and Saturday school.  After school detention will begin at 3:05 p.m. and end at 4:05 p.m. Morning detention will begin at 7:00 a.m. and end at 8:00 a.m.  Saturday school will begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 11:00 a.m.  Students will not be excused from detention for participation in any extracurricular activity after school or weekend work.  Missing Saturday school will result in an automatic one day out of school suspension.

 

DISPLAY AND DISTRIBUTION OF POSTERS, CHARTS, PICTURES AND ANNOUNCEMNTS

In order to provide a safe and orderly environment, protect school property, and maintain an attractive building, posters, pictures and similar material must have the principal authorization before being posted or distributed.  Those posted without the principal’s authorization will be removed.

 

DISCIPLINE, DUE PROCESS AND CONSEQUENCES

DETENTION

Detention must be served in a timely manner of its assignment.  Consequences for unserved detention range from additional time to a one-day out-of-school suspension. Students may complete community service to make restitution for detention, if pre-approved by the principal.

 

There are standards of conduct that most people think are reasonable.  Students are expected to adhere to these standards. Cannon Falls students are responsible for their own actions and behavior. Students are expected to be courteous, respectful and cooperative. Students are to respect others at all times and to follow school rules.

 

The administration of Cannon Falls Secondary School recognizes that it is all but impossible to list all behaviors that are unacceptable in a learning community such as ours.  By necessity, the administration must reserve the right to disallow any behavior or dress that, in our best judgment, are not acceptable. Office Detention is a primary consequence for behavior violations. Students choosing to engage in inappropriate behaviors are typically subject to consequences assigned by a teacher or principal using the following guidelines:

 

Aggressive physical behavior/ Hostile pushing = warning, detention to 1 day OSS

 

Dress code violation = warning and remedy the violation; possible surrender of item(s)

 

Failure to follow absence procedure =  detention

 

Failure to serve classroom teacher’s detention = detention

 

False activation of fire alarm = 3 days OSS to expulsion

 

Fighting (hostile striking, pushing or kicking) = 1 to 5 days OSS

 

Forgery =  detention

 

Inappropriate language =  detention; suspension

 

Inappropriate use of passes = no pass privileges for the duration of the term

 

Inappropriate use of vehicle = campus parking and driving privileges revoked

 

Insubordination = detention; suspension

 

Parking violation = vehicle ticketed and/or towed at owner’s expense

 

Possession of controlled substance = parent notification, 3-5 days OSS and police referral.

 

Possession of paraphernalia used with a controlled substance = confiscation, 3 day OSS, and police referral.

 

Threats to cause injury to other students = 1 day OSS to expulsion

 

Tobacco or tobacco look alike possession –(first offense)= 1 day OSS, (second offense) = 3 days OSS (third offense) = 5 days OSS, police referral.

 

Under the influence of controlled substance = parent notification, up to 5 days OSS and police referral

 

Unexcused absence from class = detention or Saturday School; referral to county attorney

 

Vandalism or theft = Parent notification, restitution, suspension, police referral

 

 

DRESS CODE

Student appearance reflects the quality of the school, students’ behavior, and schoolwork. Therefore, only attire deemed as appropriate is acceptable for school.

 

Violations of the school dress guidelines results in penalties ranging from verbal warning to Out of School Suspension (OSS).  Parents/guardians must meet with school administration prior to a student being readmitted after OSS. The following are guidelines for dress at Cannon Falls schools:

 

Clothing cannot promote or encourage something that is gang-related, obscene, offensive, or advertises tobacco, alcohol or other drugs.

“Obscene” means clothing that shows or hints at sexually explicit acts or objects.  “Offensive” means clothing that shows or hints at ideas or attitudes that put down groups or individuals because of who they are or what they believe.

Students will not be allowed to wear caps, bandannas, head bands, etc or other head coverings in Cannon Falls High School during the school day, which is considered to be 8:05-2:55.

 

No hats worn or carried from class to class during the school day.  Backpacks, purses and bags may not be carried during school hours and are not allowed in classrooms.

 

Immodest clothing is not permitted during school hours. This includes, but is not be limited to shirts that display stomach skin, halter-tops, overly tight clothing, visible undergarments including brassiere straps and boxer short elastic bands.

 

Clothing accessories, which are likely to cause others to feel intimidated or typically associated with gang activity are not permitted during school or at school functions.

These items include, but are not limited to, gloves, bandanas, single pant leg rolled up, wristbands, studded necklaces and bracelets, and chains.

 

 Coats, jackets and hats may be worn into the building but must remain in lockers during school hours. During the winter, students are permitted to wear jackets if their classroom is particularly cold but hats must remain in lockers.

Final discretion on dress code decisions is left to the school principal.

 

FOOD IN THE BUILDING

Consumption of food in classrooms is considered acceptable, when part of the educational experience. Water is permitted in classrooms with the exception of the Media Center, all computer labs or the discretion of a classroom teacher. Consumption of beverages is allowed in school hallways.  Students may store beverages in their lockers and should properly dispose of containers.  Students observed leaving a mess or not disposing of containers properly are assigned appropriate consequences.  Students may not take beverages into any part of the building other than hallways.  This includes unopened and re-closed containers.

 

A policy of no beverages in the hallways may result if students do not comply with the above expectations, to the point, where it is deemed a problem.

 

GANG/THREAT GROUP ACTIVITY

Gang/threat group related activity such as, the use of graffiti emblems, symbolism, head gang signs, threatening language, jewelry, clothing, etc., are prohibited.  Consequences may include parent contact, police referral, and/or suspension/expulsion.

 

HARASSMENT AND HAZING

ISD 252 strives to maintain learning and working environment free from religious, racial or sexual discrimination, intimidation, hazing and/or harassment.  Harassment includes “repeated, intrusive or unwanted acts, words or gestures that are intended to adversely affect the safety, security or privacy of another, regardless of the relationship between the actor and the intended target.”  Minn.Stat 609.8748, subd.1 (a)

REPORT OF HARRASMENT

a.       Any student or employee who believes he or she is the victim of a student should report the incident to the principal and (in the case of the student) to his or her parents.

b.      The employee need not discuss the matter with the person who may have been the victim if he/she does not feel comfortable having such a discussion.

c.       When an employee receives a complaint that a student or employee has been the victim of a student, he or she will report the complaint to the principal.

d.      When a complaint is received that an employee or student has been the victim of a student, the principal will immediately and impartially conduct an investigation including meeting with the alleged perpetrator and informing the parents and will make a written report and recommendations within five working days of receipt of the complaint.  District No. 252 may take corrective measures in accordance with Policy #526.

Complaints involving criminal actions

Any student or employee who believes he or she is the victim of a criminal act should immediately contact local law enforcement officials.  If the Executive Director of Instructional Support or the Director of Human Resources believes a criminal act has been committed, he/she should immediately contact local enforcement officials.

Assistance in Resolving Complaints

The Executive Director of Instructional Support and the Director of Human Resources will be available to provide information and assistance to administrator and supervisors regarding these procedures.

 

Sexual Harassment may include unwelcome verbal abuse, pressure for sexual activity, gestures, and physical contact, including personal displays of affection beyond hand holding, other than is necessary to provide restraint of pupils by teachers, administrators or other personnel to avoid physical harm to persons or property.

 

Racial Harassment consists of unwelcome physical or verbal conduct relating to an individual’s race when the purpose is to create an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or academic environment.

                                                              

Religious Harassment consists of unwelcome physical or verbal conduct that relates to an individual’s religion when the purpose is to create an intimidating environment and interferes with performance.

 

Hazing is defined as “committing an act against a student, or coercing a student into committing an act that creates substantial risk of harm to a person or property, in order for the

student to be initiated or affiliated with a student organization, or for any other purpose.” 

 

Hazing includes, but is not limited to; beating, striking, placing a harmful substance on the body, sleep deprivation, exposure to weather, forced consumption of foods, beverages or tobacco products or drugs, or any activity that intimidates, threatens, ostracizes, embarrasses, shames or adversely affects the mental health or dignity of a student.  School officials investigate all reports and take appropriate action.

 

Hostile Environment Harassment is defined as situations created by an individual(s) where the school or work environment is saturated with sexual, racial, religious bias or discriminatory acts evidenced by demeaning verbal slurs, inappropriate pictures or publications, inappropriate jokes, or any acts that are unwelcome, pervasive and unreasonable.  Such acts cause feelings of discomfort and exclusion, interfering with a student’s right to education and are not tolerated. Students creating a hostile environment in school are subject to disciplinary action.

 

Reporting Harassment or Hazing

Any person believing he or she has been a victim of religious, racial, or sexual harassment or hazing by a student or employee of the school district should report the alleged acts immediately to an appropriate school district official. (Teacher, Counselor, or Principal)  School officials investigate all harassment or hazing reports and take appropriate action. Consequences may range from a written warning to expulsion.

 

LUNCH PERIODS

Lunch periods for students in grades 7 through 12 are closed.  Students are required to stay on school grounds during lunch.  Any student leaving school grounds without permission is subject to disciplinary action.  Students bringing their lunch should eat in the cafeteria.  Students may remain inside during inclement weather and be outside when the weather is nice.  The cafeteria must be kept neat and clean in order for lunch to be pleasant.  Every student must do his/her part to clean up after eating.  The lunchroom management and other students appreciate cooperation with the following:

 

Be orderly in the serving line.

Be courteous and respectful to food servers.

Keep all food in the cafeteria.

Leave the table and floor around your space in a clean condition.

Return trays and utensils to proper place.

Cooperate with supervisors.

 

 

LYCEUM PROGRAMS

Lyceums are part of the educational curriculum and usually held in the gymnasium.  Students are required to attend all programs, be attentive and courteous of all speakers.

 

NEIGHBORHOOD RELATIONSHIP

Cannon Falls Schools is a part of a neighborhood.  Our neighbors have every right to expect that their property (house, yard, cars, business, etc.) be treated with respect.  Therefore, Cannon Falls students should not trespass on neighborhood businesses or private property. Trespassing is illegal.

 

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

Pursuant to Minnesota statutes, school lockers are the property of the school district.  At no time does the district relinquish its exclusive control of lockers provided for the convenience of students.  Inspection of the interior of lockers may be conducted for any reason at any time, without notice, student consent, or a search warrant.  The personal possessions of students in a school locker may be searched when school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that a search will uncover evidence of a violation of law or school rules.  School officials must provide notice of the search to students whose lockers were searched unless disclosure would impede an ongoing investigation by police or school officials.

 

Personal possessions of students and/or a student’s person may be searched when school officials have a reasonable suspicion the search will uncover a violation of law or school rules. 

 

Note:    School officials operate under the standard “reasonable suspicion,” while law enforcement operates under the search standard of  “probable cause.”

 

SUBSTANCE USE/ABUSE POLICY (SMOKE FREE/DRUG FREE SCHOOL)

Cannon Falls Schools is a Smoke Free and Drug Free facility.  Students found in possession of, or under the influence of mood-altering chemicals (including tobacco) will be suspended from school.  This includes violations in or on school property, or away from school property while participation in a school-sponsored activity and/or on school owned, leased, or contracted vehicles.  Police are called at the time of the violation and all paraphernalia and substances are turned over to the authorities and the incident recorded.  Parents are notified and asked to come to school immediately to remove the student.  If the student is under the influence and parents cannot come to school or refuse to come to school, transportation to a detoxification unit by police is arranged.

 

Note:    Minnesota “Drug-Free Zone” laws allow that anyone convicted of selling or holding illegal drugs within 300 feet or one city block of the school is subject to severe penalties that could include treating a high school student as an adult in court.

 

Consequences:

 

                        First Violation:  Three (3) to five (5) day suspension

                                                            Re-entry meeting with parents and student

                                                            Chemical pre-assessment administered by the Chemical

                                                                        Health Educator.

                                                            Education program provided by the Chemical Health

Educator for student (and parents—optional).  This may

 included alcohol and drug screenings.

 

                        Second Violation:         Five (5) day suspension

                                                            Re-entry meeting with parents and student.

                                                            Recommendation for chemical assessment at a chemical

 treatment center will be made.

                                                            Chemical assessment recommendations are expected to be

 followed including alcohol and drug screenings.

                                                            Police citation issued.

 

                        Third Violation: Five (5) day suspension

                                                            Re-entry meeting with parents and student.

                                                            Recommendation for chemical assessment at a chemical           

                                                                        treatment center will be made.

Chemical Health Educator provides education program

 options to the student and parent.

                                                            The school administration makes a recommendation to

 the superintendent regarding the expulsion of the

 student from school for the remainder of the school year.

                                                            Police citation issued.

 

                        Subsequent                   Violations beyond the third violation are treated

                        Violations:                    as a third violation.

 

Possession with Intent to Distribute

Selling, distributing, delivery, exchanging alcohol or drugs results in a five-day suspension, police referral and recommendation for expulsion.

 

Students who take prescription medication during the school day must have a Medication Authorization Form on file with the School Nurse.  All medications must be distributed through the Nurse’s office.

 

UNAUTHORIZED AREAS

Students should refrain from being in unauthorized areas which include, but are not limited to the following: storage rooms, mechanical and custodian areas, roofs, unassigned classrooms, faculty rooms, the TV studio, faculty bathrooms, teacher work areas, and teacher/staff offices. If a student is asked to leave an unauthorized area, they should comply immediately.

 

VISITOR POLICY

Cannon Falls students are NOT permitted to bring guests to schools.  Any persons, other than Cannon Falls students, staff or Board of Education members are considered visitors and must report to the office, sign in and obtain a Visitor’s Pass before going anywhere within the building.

 

STUDENT SERVICES

 

BUILDING HOURS

The school facilities are open for operation and supervision during the hours of 7:30 AM and 3:30 PM.  Students utilizing the building outside of these hours may do so only under the supervision of a teacher or coach.  Students having no legitimate reason to be in the building before/after hours are not allowed in the building.

 

CASHIER’S OFFICE

The cashier’s office is staffed for students from 7:30 AM to 8:05 AM, the middle and high school lunch periods in order to receive cash payments from students for activities such as lunches, ticket sales, or field trips. The cashier’s office also generates account balance letters nine times per year for students.

 

CHEMICAL HEALTH & VIOLENCE PREVENTION SUPPORT SERVICES

The Chemical Health Support Services at Cannon Falls Schools intend to provide the necessary support for students and families experiencing adverse effects from drugs/alcohol use or the impact of someone else’s chemical use.  A staff person exists to provide K-12 education and support to Cannon Falls students for drug, alcohol and violence education. Parents or students interested in making a contact or referral should speak with the school principal or guidance counselor.

 

CLERICAL STAFF

The guidance, middle and high school office areas are staffed with secretarial support from the hours of 7:30 AM to 4 PM.  These staff members do a wide variety of tasks in serving students, parents, teachers and administration.  It is expected these staff members be treated with the same respect and consideration afforded all adults in authority.

 

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

Community Education is a district wide program providing opportunities for learners of all ages to come together as active partners in the life-long learning process.  Whether it is Driver’s Education or a Ski Trip, the Community Education office is always open to new and creative ways to educate the Cannon Falls community.  The office is located immediately inside the School District entranceway to the right. The phone number is 507-263-3331, extension 8.

 

DISTRICT OFFICE

The district office houses the District Superintendent and support staff such as the Administrative Secretary, Payroll Bookkeeper, and Accounts Payable Bookkeeper.

Community members with district level/Board of Education concerns should bring their concerns to this office. The phone number is (507) 263-6800.

EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Cannon Falls Education Foundation is a non-profit organization supporting the Cannon Falls School system’s educational efforts.  Grants are provided for educational activities by making application and submitting the application to a building principal.  Donations to the Foundation can be made in a variety of ways.  There are also several fundraisers throughout the year. The phone number is (507) 263-6800.

FOOD SERVICES

Balanced nutrition has a direct impact on learning. The Cannon Falls Food Service program attempts to offer balance and selection in its’ middle and high school meal programs.  Program costs are adjusted annually and are indicated on the cannonfallsschools.com website or by contacting the Cashier’s Office at 263-6800. All students are issued a specific numbered lunch account and ID card.  Payments for lunch are made at the Cashier window.

 

Please be informed that there will be a slight change in the way we serve students whose lunch accounts show a negative balance.  Once a student’s account shows a maxiumum negative balance of $10.00, he/she will not be able to pick up any items from our regular or a la carte lunch lines.  Instead, so that the student does not go without eating, a peanut butter sandwich (jelly for those who are allergic to peanuts), fruit and a milk will be provided until the student’s account shows a positive balance.

 

Charging to another individual’s account is not permitted.  Lunch cards are provided to the students free of charge. If a card is lost or destroyed, a charge of $3.00 is issued for the cost of the duplicate card. Meals costs are set annually and found on the cannonfallsschools.com website or by calling the Cashier’s Office.

 

GUIDANCE OFFICES- HIGH SCHOOL

The high school guidance counselor is available daily to assist anyone needing information, help with a personal concern, class schedules, selection of a college or technical school, or wanting to share an idea.  Please request an appointment and a pass from the counseling office or by calling (507) 263-6800.

 

The following are some examples of the many services provided by Guidance Counselors:

 

Career Planning

Individualized and Group Counseling

College and Vo-Tech Visits

Referral Resources

Course Selection

Scholarship Information

Credit Tracking

Standardized Test Interpretation

 

INSURANCE

Cannon Falls School District DOES NOT provide any type of health or accident insurance for injuries incurred by students at school, any sports or school-sponsored activities.  The District has an excess accident insurance policy available.  Information is available in the Middle and High School and District offices.

 

LOCKERS

Students are assigned hallway and gym lockers and are accountable for their contents. Lockers are the school district property and under state law; can be inspected without notice or student consent.  Students are strongly encouraged to lock their lockers and not bring valuables to school, to reduce chances of theft.  Students are encouraged to check money or items of significant value in, at the office, for safekeeping.

 

PARKING

Student parking is available for a nominal user fee. Parking is a privilege that can be revoked if abused by students.  Upon purchasing a permit at the Cashier’s Office, students receive a program brochure and sign a parking agreement, which includes expectations and guidelines.

 

PHONE USAGE

Students are provided with a telephone located near the main office for use before/after school and during lunch.  Students are not released from class to use the phone.  Telephone messages are posted in the office and students are notified daily for messages in the office.

 

PRINCIPAL’S OFFICES

The middle and high school principal offices are located immediately left of the high school’s center entrance doors. Principals maintain standard office hours and are most easily reached by asking for an appointment through the office secretarial staff or by calling (507) 263-6800.

 

TRANSPORTATION

Bus transportation is provided to all students living in Cannon Falls School District #252.  Parents must arrange for transportation by calling the Bus Garage at 263-3597.   Student bus riders are responsible to their parents/guardians, the bus driver, and other passengers for their behavior.  Students interfering with a driver doing his/her job or causing an unsafe environment for other students may be disallowed from riding the bus.  The rules set forth for student safety are distributed to all bus riders at the beginning of the school year.

 

TUTORING

Students are available to provide services as volunteer tutors.  These services can be coordinated in several ways.  The best way to arrange for tutoring is to contact a guidance counselor or principal who will make an appropriate referral.

 

SCHOOL POLICYS

Please see the school web page on contact the school for the complete policy.

 

ANNUAL PUBLIC NOTICE

Independent School District No. 252 gives notice to parents of students and students currently in attendance in the School District of their rights regarding pupil records.

 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. 1232g, and the Minnesota Governmental Data Practices Act, Minn. Stat. 13.01, et seg., provide parents and students who are over 18 years of age (eligible student) with certain rights with respect to the student’s education records.  These rights include:

 

1.  Parents and eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student’s educational records.  The School District will attempt to honor a request for access to a students education records immediately, if possible, or within five days.  If the School District needs additional time to respond to a request for access to education records, the School District may request an additional five days to comply with the request.

 

  a. If a parent or eligible students wants to make a request for access to   the student’s education records, the parent or eligible student must submit a written request to inspect and review education records to the District Data Practices Compliance Official.  The request should identify as precisely as possible the record or records the requesting party would like to inspect and review.

 

2.  Parents and eligible students have the right to request the amendment of the student’s records that the parent or eligible student believes are incomplete, inaccurate or misleading.

 

a.       If a parent or eligible student wants to amend an education record (s) that they believe are incomplete, inaccurate or misleading, the parent or eligible student must request an amendment in writing to the District Data Practices Compliance Official.  The request must identify the record (s) that the parent or eligible student seeks to amend and identify the items contained therein that are believed to be incomplete, inaccurate or misleading and specify the correction that is being requested.

 

b.      If the School District does not amend the record(s) as requested by the parents or eligible student, the School District will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

 

3.  Parents and eligible students have the right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the students education records prior to such disclosure, except to the extent the FERPA, the Minnesota Data Practices Act, or other state or federal law expressly provides for disclosure without prior consent.

 

a.       One exception, which permits disclosure without prior consent, is disclosure to school officials who have legitimate educational interests.  A school official is a person employed by the School District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the School District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant or therapist); or a person or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

 

b.      Generally, a school official has a legitimate educational interest if the individual needs to review an education record or have the educational information in order to fulfill his or his professional responsibilities.

 

c.       Upon request, the School District discloses a student’s education records, without prior consent, to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.  The School District forwards education records on request to a school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll; the School District does not provide further notice to parents or eligible students prior to such a transfer.

 

4.   Parents and eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School District to comply with the requirements of FERPA.  The name and address of the federal office that administers FERPA and receives complaints is:

 

            Family Policy Compliance Office

            U.S. Department of Education

            400 Maryland Avenue

            Washington, D.C.  20202-4605

 

5.  “Directory Information” concerning students is public information and may be disclosed by the School District without prior consent.

 

a.       “Director information” includes the following information relating to a student:  the student’s name; telephone number; date of birth; sex; major field of study; dates enrolled in Cannon Falls Area Schools; height and weight of members of athletic teams; extra-curricular activities; special achievements and honors.  “Director information” does not included identifying information on a student’s religion, race, color, social position or nationality.

 

b.      Should the parent of a student or the student so desire, any or all of the director information listed above will not be disclosed without the parent’s or student’s prior written consent except to school officials as provided under federal law.  This also includes requests by branches of the military for directory information, which we are required to provide.

 

c.       In order to make any or all the directory information listed above “private” (i.e. subject to consent to prior to disclosure), the parent or student must make a written request to the building principal within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication of this notice.  This written request must include the following information.

 

1.      Name of student;

2.      Home address;

3.      School presently attended by student;

4.      Parent’s legal relationship to student, if applicable;

5.      Specific category or categories of directory information, which is not to be made public without the parent or student’s prior written consent.

 

6.      Copies of the School Board’s Policy 515 regarding the protection and privacy of student records and accompanying procedures are available to parents and students upon written request at the Office of the Superintendent of Schools.

 

COMPUTER LABS/ACCEPTABLE USE AGREEMENT

INTERNET, NETWORK AND COMPUTER ACCEPTABLE USE AND SAFETY POLICY

[Note:A one page signed summary of this policy will be kept on file by the school district indicating a willing compliance and understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the stakeholders.]

I.          PURPOSE

 

The purpose of this policy is to set forth policies and guidelines for access to the school district computer system and acceptable and safe use of the Internet, including electronic communications.

 

II.        GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

 

In making decisions regarding student and employee access to the school district computer system and the Internet, including electronic communications, the school district considers its own stated educational mission, goals, and objectives.  Electronic information research skills are now fundamental to preparation of citizens and future employees.  Access to the school district computer system and to the Internet enables students and employees to explore thousands of libraries, databases, bulletin boards, and other resources while exchanging messages with people around the world.  The school district expects that faculty will blend thoughtful use of the school district computer system and the Internet throughout the curriculum and will provide guidance and instruction to students in their use.

 

501      SCHOOL WEAPONS POLICY

            [Note:  School districts are required by statute to have a policy addressing these issues.]

I.          PURPOSE

 

The purpose of this policy is to assure a safe school environment for students, staff and the public.

 

II.        GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

 

No student or nonstudent, including adults and visitors, shall possess, use or distribute a weapon when in a school location except as provided in this policy.  The school district will act to enforce this policy and to discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, school employee, volunteer, or member of the public who violates this policy.

 

521      STUDENT DISABILITY NONDISCRIMINATION

[Note: School districts are required by statute to have a policy addressing these issues.]

I.          PURPOSE

 

The purpose of this policy is to protect disabled students from discrimination on the basis of disability and to identify and evaluate learners who, within the intent of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, need special services, accommodations, or programs in order that such learners may receive a free appropriate public education.

 

II.        GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

 

            A.        Disabled students are protected from discrimination on the basis of a disability.

 

            B          It is the responsibility of the school district to identify and evaluate learners who, within the intent of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, need special services, accommodations, or programs in order that such learners may receive a free appropriate public education.

 

C.        For this policy, a learner who is protected under Section 504 is one who:

 

                        1.         has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, including learning; or

 

                        2.         has a record of such impairment; or

 

                        3.         is regarded as having such impairment.

 

            D.        Learners may be protected from disability discrimination and be eligible for services, accommodations, or programs under the provisions of Section 504 even though they are not eligible for special education pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

 

522      STUDENT SEX NONDISCRIMINATION

[Note: School districts are required by statute to have a policy addressing these issues.]

I.          PURPOSE

 

Students are protected from discrimination on the basis of sex pursuant to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and the Minnesota Human Rights Act.  The purpose of this policy is to provide equal educational opportunity for all students and to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex.

 

II.        GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

 

A.        The school district provides equal educational opportunity for all students, and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of sex.  No student will be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity operated by the school district on the basis of sex.

 

B.         It is the responsibility of every school district employee to comply with this policy.

 

C.        The school board hereby designates Todd Sesker, Superintendent of Schools, 820 East MN St, 507 263-3331 as its Title IX coordinator.  This employee coordinates the school district’s efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under Title IX.

 

D.        Any student, parent or guardian having questions regarding the application of Title IX and its regulations and/or this policy should discuss them with the Title IX coordinator.  Questions relating solely to Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the United States Department of Education. In the absence of a specific designee, an inquiry or complaint should be referred to the superintendent or the school district human rights officer.

 

503      STUDENT ATTENDANCE

[Note: The provisions of this policy substantially reflect statutory requirements.]

I.          PURPOSE

 

            A.        The school board believes that regular school attendance is directly related to success in academic work, benefits students socially, provides opportunities for important communications between teachers and students and establishes regular habits of dependability important to the future of the student.  The purpose of this policy is to encourage regular school attendance.  It is intended to be positive and not punitive.

 

            B.         This policy also recognizes that class attendance is a joint responsibility to be shared by the student, parent or guardian, teacher and administrators.  This policy will assist students in attending class.

 

II.        GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

 

            A.        Responsibilities.

 

                        1.         Student’s Responsibility

 

It is the student’s right to be in school.  It is also the student’s responsibility to attend all assigned classes and study halls every day that school is in session and to be aware of and follow the correct procedures when absent from an assigned class or study hall.  Finally, it is the student’s responsibility to request any missed assignments due to an absence.

 

                        2.         Parent or Guardian’s Responsibility

 

It is the responsibility of the student’s parent or guardian to ensure the student is attending school, to inform the school in the event of a student absence, and to work cooperatively with the school and the student to solve any attendance problems that may arise.

 

                        3.         Teacher’s Responsibility

 

It is the teacher’s responsibility to take daily attendance and to maintain accurate attendance records in each assigned class and study hall.  It is also the teacher’s responsibility to be familiar with all procedures governing attendance and to apply these procedures uniformly.  It is also the teacher’s responsibility to provide any student who has been absent with any missed assignments upon request.  .

 

                        4.         Administrator’s Responsibility

 

                                    a.         It is the administrator’s responsibility to require students to attend all assigned classes and study halls.  It is also the administrator’s responsibility to be familiar with all procedures governing attendance and to apply these procedures uniformly to all students, to maintain accurate records on student attendance and to prepare a list of the previous day’s absences stating the status of each. Finally, it is the administrator’s responsibility to inform the student’s parent or guardian of the student’s attendance and to work cooperatively with them and the student to solve attendance problems.

 

                                    b.         In accordance with the Minnesota Compulsory Instruction Law, Minn. Stat. § 120A.22, the students of the school district are REQUIRED to attend all assigned classes and/or study halls every day school is in session, unless the student has been excused by the school board from attendance because the student has already completed the studies ordinarily required to graduate from high school, has withdrawn, or has a valid excuse for absence.

 

            B.         Attendance Procedures.

 

Attendance procedures shall be presented to the school board for review and approval.  When approved by the school board, the attendance procedures will be included as an addendum to this policy.

 

                        1.         Excused Absences

 

                                    a.         The following reasons shall be sufficient to constitute excused absences:

 

                                                (1)        Illness.

 

                                                (2)        Serious illness in the student’s immediate family.

 

                                                (3)        A death in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative.

 

(4)               Medical or dental treatment.

 

                                                (5)        Court appearances occasioned by family or personal action.

 

                                                (6)        Religious instruction not to exceed three hours in any week.

 

                                                (7)        Physical emergency conditions such as fire, flood, storm, etc.

 

                                                (8)        Official school field trip or other school-sponsored outing.

 

(9)          Removal of a student pursuant to a suspension.  Suspensions are to be handled as excused absences and students will be permitted to complete make-up work.

 

(10)           Vacation with families (Must have parent permission).

 

                                    b.         Consequences of Excused Absences

 

(1)   Students whose absences are excused are required to make up all assignments missed or to complete alternative assignments as deemed appropriate by the classroom teacher. A minimum of 1 day for each day missed may be extended upon teacher determination.

 

(2)   If the excused absence is a family vacation, then the teacher may request assignments to be made up prior to the vacation. Students, upon the teacher’s discretion, may lose daily points if work is not finished before the family vacation.

 

(3)   Any work not completed within the time period stated in #1, shall result in “no credit” for the missed assignment.  However, the building principal or the classroom teacher may extend the time allowed for completion of make-up work in the case of an extended illness or other extenuating circumstances.

 

(4)    Students will not lose daily points if assignments are made up within the parameters stated above.

 

                        2.         Unexcused Absences

 

                                    a.         The following are examples of absences, which will not be excused:

 

                                                (1)        Truancy.  An absence by a student which was not approved by the parent and/or the school district.

 

                                                (2)        Any absence in which the student failed to comply with any reporting requirements of the school district’s attendance procedures.

 

                                                (3)        Work at home.

 

                                                (4)        Work at a business, except under a school-sponsored work release program.

 

(5)         More than two personal trips to schools or colleges.  (Philosophy – there are plenty of other non-school days that students may use to visit colleges)

 

                                                (7)        Absences resulting from cumulated unexcused tardyies (__3__ tardies equal one unexcused absence).

 

                                                (8)        Any other absence not included under the attendance procedures set out in this policy.

 

                                    b.         Consequences of Unexcused Absences

 

                                                (1)        Absences resulting from official suspension will be handled in accordance with the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56.

 

                                                (2)        Days during which a student is suspended from school shall not be counted in a student’s total cumulated unexcused absences.

 

                                                (3)        In cases of recurring unexcused absences, the administration may also request the county attorney to file a petition with the juvenile court, pursuant to Minnesota statutes.

(4)      Students with unexcused absences shall be subject to

discipline in the following manner at the secondary level (7- 12):

 

a.       From the first through all cumulated unexcused absences in a quarter or semester the student will not be allowed to make up work missed due to such absences.

b.      Before, after or Saturday school detention will be assigned to the student with unexcused absences.

c.       The loss of points due to unexcused absences may result in a reduction in grade or loss of credit.

d.      If the loss of credit has the effect of an expulsion, the school district will follow the procedures set forth in the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minnesota Statute 121A.40-121A.56

 

                                   

            C.        Tardiness.

 

                        1.         Definition:  Students are expected to be in their assigned area at designated times.  Failure to do so constitutes tardiness.

 

                        2.         Procedures for Reporting Tardiness

 

                                    a.         Students tardy at the start of school must report to the school office for an admission slip.

 

                                    b.         Tardiness between periods will be handled by the teacher.

 

                        3.         Excused Tardiness

 

                                    Valid excuses for tardiness are:

 

                                    a.         illness;

 

                                    b.         serious illness in the student’s immediate family;

 

                                    c.         a death in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative;

 

                                    d.         medical or dental treatment;

 

                                    e.         court appearances occasioned by family or personal action;

 

                                    f.          physical emergency conditions such as fire, flood, storm, etc;

 

                                    g.         any tardiness for which the student has been excused in writing by an administrator ,faculty member, or parent/guardian.

 

                        4.         Unexcused Tardiness

 

                                    a.         An unexcused tardiness is failing to be in an assigned area at the designated time class period commences without a valid excuse.

 

                                    b.         Consequences of tardiness may include detention after __3__ unexcused tardies.  In addition __3__ unexcused tardies are equivalent to one unexcused absence.

 

            D.        Participation in Extracurricular Activities and School-Sponsored On-the-Job Training Programs.

 

                        1.         This policy applies to all students involved in any extracurricular activity scheduled either during or outside the school day and any school-sponsored on-the-job training programs.

 

                        2.         School-initiated absences will be accepted and participation permitted.

 

                        3.         A student may not participate in any activity or program if he or she has an unexcused absence from any class during the day.

 

                        4.         If a student is suspended from any class, he or she may not participate in any activity or program that day.

 

                        5.         If a student is absent from school due to medical reasons, he or she must present a physician’s statement or a statement from the student’s parent or guardian clearing the student for participation that day.  The note must be presented to the coach or advisor before the student participates in the activity or program. The Activities Director or Administration will make final decisions on a case-by-case basis.

 

 

419      TOBACCO-FREE ENVIRONMENT

[Note: School districts are required by statute to have a policy addressing these issues.]

I.          PURPOSE

 

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a learning and working environment that is tobacco free.

 

II.        GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

 

A.        It shall be a violation of this policy for any student, teacher, administrator, other school personnel of the school district or person to smoke or use tobacco or tobacco-related devices in a public school.  This prohibition extends to all facilities, whether owned, rented, or leased, and all vehicles that a school district owns, leases, rents, contracts for, or controls.  In addition, this prohibition includes vehicles used, in whole or in part, for work purposes, during hours of school operation, if more than one person is present.  This prohibition includes all school district property and all off-campus events sponsored by the school district.

 

B.         It shall be a violation of this policy for any elementary school, middle school, or secondary school student to possess any type of tobacco or tobacco-related device in a public school.  This prohibition extends to all facilities, whether owned, rented, or leased, and all vehicles that a school district owns, leases, rents, contracts for, or controls and includes vehicles used, in whole or in part, for work purposes, during hours of school operation, if more than one person is present.  This prohibition includes all school district property and all off-campus events sponsored by the school district.

 

C.        The school district will act to enforce this policy and to discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, school personnel, or person who is found to have violated this policy.

 

423      EMPLOYEE-STUDENT RELATIONSHIPS

 

I.          PURPOSE

The school district is committed to an educational environment in which all students are treated with respect and dignity.  Every school district employee is to provide students with appropriate guidance, understanding and direction, while maintaining a standard of professionalism, and acting within accepted standards of conduct.

 

II.        GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

 

A.        This policy applies to all school district employees at all times, whether on or off duty and on or off of school district locations.

 

B.         At all times, students will be treated by teachers and other school district employees with respect, courtesy and consideration and in a professional manner.  Each school district employee is expected to exercise good judgment and professionalism in all interpersonal relationships with students.  Such relationships must be and remain on a teacher-student basis or an employee-student basis.

 

C.        Teachers must be mindful of their inherent positions of authority and influence over students.  Similarly, other school district employees also may hold positions of authority over students of the school district and must be mindful of their authority and influence over students.

 

D.        Sexual relationships between school district employees and students, without regard to the age of the student, are strictly forbidden and may subject the employee to criminal liability.

 

E.         Other actions that violate this policy include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

1.         Dating students.

 

2.         Having any interaction/activity of a sexual nature with a student.

 

3.         Committing or attempting to induce students or others to commit an illegal act or act of immoral conduct which may be harmful to others or bring discredit to the school district.

 

4.         Supplying alcohol or any illegal substance to a student, allowing a student access to such substances, or failing to take reasonable steps to prevent such access from occurring.

 

F.         School district employees shall, whenever possible, employ safeguards against improper relationships with students and/or claims of such improper relationships.

 

[Note such safeguards may include the following:  avoiding altogether or minimizing physical contact, keeping doors open when talking or meeting with students one-on-one and/or making sure that such meetings with a student take place in rooms with windows and/or others nearby.]

 

G.        Excessive informal and social involvement with individual students is unprofessional, is not compatible with employee-student relationships, and is inappropriate.

 

H.                 School district employees will adhere to applicable standards of ethics and professional conduct in Minnesota

 

514      BULLYING PROHIBITION POLICY

            [Note:  School districts are required by statute to have a policy addressing bullying.]

I.          PURPOSE

 

A safe and civil environment is needed for students to learn and attain high academic standards and to promote healthy human relationships.  Bullying, like other violent or disruptive behavior, is conduct that interferes with students’ ability to learn and teachers’ ability to educate students in a safe environment.  The school district cannot monitor the activities of students at all times and eliminate all incidents of bullying between students, particularly when students are not under the direct supervision of school personnel.  However, to the extent such conduct affects the educational environment of the school district and the rights and welfare of its students and is within the control of the school district in its normal operations, it is the school district’s intent to prevent bullying and to take action to investigate, respond, remediate, and discipline those acts of bullying which have not been successfully prevented.  The purpose of this policy is to assist the school district in its goal of preventing and responding to acts of bullying, intimidation, violence, and other similar disruptive behavior.

 

II.        GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

 

A.        An act of bullying, by either an individual student or a group of students, is expressly prohibited on school district property or at school-related functions.  This policy applies not only to students who directly engage in an act of bullying but also to students who, by their indirect behavior, condone or support another student’s act of bullying.  This policy also applies to any student whose conduct at any time or in any place constitutes bullying that interferes with or obstructs the mission or operations of the school district or the safety or welfare of the student, other students, or employees.  The misuse of technology including, but not limited to, teasing, intimidating, defaming, threatening, or terrorizing another student, teacher, administrator, volunteer, contractor, or other employee of the school district by sending or posting e-mail messages, instant messages, text messages, digital pictures or images, or Web site postings, including blogs, also may constitute an act of bullying regardless of whether such acts are committed on or off school district property and/or with or without the use of school district resources.

 

B.         No teacher, administrator, volunteer, contractor, or other employee of the school district shall permit, condone, or tolerate bullying.

 

C.        Apparent permission or consent by a student being bullied does not lessen the prohibitions contained in this policy.

 

D.        Retaliation against a victim, good faith reporter, or a witness of bullying is prohibited.

 

E.         False accusations or reports of bullying against another student are prohibited.

 

F.         A person who engages in an act of bullying, reprisal, or false reporting of bullying or permits, condones, or tolerates bullying shall be subject to discipline for that act in accordance with school district’s policies and procedures.  The school district may take into account the following factors:

 

1.         The developmental and maturity levels of the parties involved;

 

2.         The levels of harm, surrounding circumstances, and nature of the behavior;

 

3.         Past incidences or past or continuing patterns of behavior;

 

4.         The relationship between the parties involved; and

 

5.         The context in which the alleged incidents occurred.

 

Consequences for students who commit prohibited acts of bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension and/or expulsion.  Consequences for employees who permit, condone, or tolerate bullying or engage in an act of reprisal or intentional false reporting of bullying may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination or discharge.  Consequences for other individuals engaging in prohibited acts of bullying may include, but not be limited to, exclusion from school district property and events and/or termination of services and/or contracts.

 

G.        The school district will act to investigate all complaints of bullying and will discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, volunteer, contractor, or other employee of the school district who is found to have violated this policy.

 

[Note: As the purpose of the policy is to ensure the safety and well-being of students, school districts should review those individuals in their district who may have responsibility for its students, whether formal or informal, to ensure that this purpose is met. Accordingly, school districts may wish to exclude or add certain individuals as being subject to its policy. For example, if a school district is providing visitors with extensive contact with students, the school district may wish to include visitors as individuals subject to the policy to ensure the access the school district has permitted is not being abused.  Alternatively, a school district may wish to remove contractors from the policy if the individuals with whom it contracts have little or no contact with students to avoid unnecessary application of the policy.]

 

TENNESSEN WARNING TO STUDENTS AND PARENTS

Students and parents are advised that:

1.      Students attending school in the school district will be asked to supply information to school personnel.  Examples of such information requests include homework assignments, test questions, and questions during the course of classroom activities.

2.      The information will be collected by the school district in order to evaluate the students current level of performance with respect to his or her education program, to maintain discipline within the school, and to determine the students need’s and preferences relating to his or her education program.

3.      Students are not required by any law or regulation to supply data.  However, the school district expect and required that students will participate fully in their educational program by completing homework assignments and tests.  Moreover, the student’s refusal to supply data may prevent the school district from assessing the student’s needs and incorporating the student’s preferences in the students educational program.  Refusal to supply information used to evaluate a student including homework assignments and tests, will result in a failing grade being given for the assignment.  Continued failure to supply information will result in a failing grade for a particular course and a failing grade for the year.  Refusal to supply information to a school district employee investigating an alleged rule violation may result in action being taken without benefit of information the student could have provided.

4.      Data collected will be provided to school personnel having a legitimate educational interest in obtaining access to the data, and to state and federal authorities having statutory rights of access to the data.

 

FREE AND REDUCED SCHOOL LUNCH POLICY

 

Dear Parent/Guardian:

Our school provides healthy meals each day. Breakfast costs $ 1.10; lunch costs $2.00  AND $1.90 ELEM.
Your children may qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Reduced price is [$.40] for lunch. “Reduced-price” breakfasts are served at no charge. To apply for free or reduced-price school meals, complete the enclosed Application for Educational Benefits following the enclosed instructions. This also helps our school qualify for additional education funds and discounts.
Return your completed Application for Educational Benefits to:  [insert district information]

 

Who can get free or reduced-price meals? Children in households participating in Food Support (Stamps), Minnesota Family Investment Plan (MFIP), or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) and most foster children can get free school meals without reporting household income. Also, children can get free or reduced-price meals if their household income is within the income shown for the household size. An application cannot be approved if any required information is missing.

I get WIC. Can my children get free meals? Children in households participating in WIC may be eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Please fill out an application.  

Should I fill out an application if I got a letter this school year saying my children were “directly certified” for free meals? Do not fill out an application if all of your children have been directly certified for free school meals based on data from the Minnesota Department of Human Services. If only some of your children were directly certified, you can fill out an application for your children who were not directly certified.

Will the information I give be checked? Yes, we may ask you to send written proof.

If I don’t qualify now, may I apply later? Yes. You may apply at any time during the school year if your income goes down, household size goes up or if you start getting Food Support (Stamps), MFIP, or FDPIR benefits.

May I apply if someone in my household is not a U.S. citizen? Yes. You or your children do not have to be U.S. citizens for your children to qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

Do I need to provide my Social Security number? When household income is reported on an application, the National School Lunch Act allows meal benefits to be approved only if the person signing the application provides his/her Social Security number or does not have a Social Security number. A Social Security number is not needed when public assistance case numbers are provided, or when the application is for a foster child.  

(Social Security numbers are maintained by the school as private data and are not used for any other purpose.)

Who should I include as members of my household? Include yourself and all other people living in the household, related or not (such as grandparents, other relatives or friends). Include a household member who is temporarily away, such as a college student.

What if my income is not always the same? List the amount that you normally get. If you normally get overtime, include it, but not if you get it only sometimes. 

How will the information I provide be kept? Information you provide on the form, and your child’s approval for school meal benefits, will be protected as private data. See the back page of the  application for details on data privacy.

What if I disagree with the school’s decision about my application? You should talk to school officials. You also may ask for a hearing.

Do I need to notify school officials if my income increases or my household size decreases after I have qualified for free or reduced-price meals? No. Approval for free or reduced-price meals is good for the school year.

If you have other questions or need help, call 263.6800.

 

Sincerely,

Lori Hanson

 

Instructions for Completing

APPLICATION for EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS

 

If your household participates in FOOD SUPPORT (STAMPS), MFIP or FDPIR, follow these instructions:

Part 1:  Check the box if this is the first time a school meal application is being completed for any child.

Part 2:  Check the box labeled “All children in the household.” List each child’s name, date of birth, grade, school and case number. Medical Assistance case numbers do not qualify.

Part 3:  Skip this part.

Part 4:  If your children are approved for meal benefits, this information may be shared with Minnesota health insurance programs to identify eligible children. Leave the boxes blank to allow sharing of information.

Part 5:  An adult household member must sign the form. The Social Security number is not needed.

 

If you are applying for a FOSTER CHILD, follow these instructions:

Use a separate application for each foster child.

Part 1:  Check the box if this is the first time a school meal application is completed for this child. 

Part 2:  Check the box labeled “One foster child.” Check the box to indicate that the foster child receives no income for personal use, or write in the amount of personal use income to the foster child. Write in the foster child’s name, date of birth, grade and school.

Part 3:  Skip this part.

Part 4:  If your child is approved for meal benefits, this information may be shared with Minnesota health insurance programs to identify eligible children. Leave the boxes blank to allow sharing of information.

Part 5:  An adult household member must sign the form. Social Security number is not needed.

 

ALL OTHER HOUSEHOLDS, including WIC households, follow these instructions:

Complete an Application for Educational Benefits if your household income is less than or equal to the amount shown for your household size in this chart. These amounts are effective July 1, 2009, through June 30, 2010.

Total Household Income – Maximum

Household

Size

$

Per Year

$

Per Month

$ Twice

Per Month

$

Per 2 Weeks

$

Per Week

1

20,036

1,670

835

771

386

2

26,955

2,247

1,124

1,037

519

3

33,874

2,823

1,412

1,303

652

4

40,793

3,400

1,700

1,569

785

5

47,712

3,976

1,988

1,836

918

6

54,631

4,553

2,277

2,102

1,051

7

61,550

5,130

2,565

2,368

1,184

8

68,469

5,706

2,853

2,634

1,317

For each additional household member add:                               

6,919

577

289

267

134

 

 

Part 1:  Check the box if this is the first school meal application for any child in your household.

Part 2:  Check the box labeled “All children in the household.” List each child’s name, date of birth, grade and school. If a child receives regular income, such as SSI payments or wages from a job, list the amount and how often it is received in the last column. Do not list occasional earnings like babysitting.

Part 3:  Report all incomes for all adult household members.

Names: List the first and last name of each adult living in your household, related or not (such as grandparents, other relatives or friends), including yourself. Include a household member temporarily away from home, such as a college student. Attach another page, if necessary.

No Income: Check this column if a person has no income.

Gross Monthly Wages and Salaries: Next to each adult’s name list the gross income earned from work before taxes and other deductions (not take-home pay). Next to each amount, write in how often the income is received (for example, weekly, every two weeks, twice per month, monthly). 

All Other Incomes: List all other amounts received on a regular basis from any source. For self-employment, list net income (after business expenses).

Part 4:  If your children are approved for meal benefits, this information may be shared with Minnesota health insurance programs to identify eligible children. Leave the boxes blank to allow sharing of information.

Part 5:  An adult household member must sign the form and provide their Social Security number. If the person signing the form does not have a Social Security number, they may indicate this by checking the box.


 


 Application for Educational Benefits

Free and Reduced-Price School Meals     —  School Year 2009-10  —    State and Federally Funded Programs for Schools

1.  Check here if this is the first school meal application for any child listed below. o          

I have listed below (check one):
 
2.                              o All children in the household except foster children, from birth through high school. Attach an additional page, if necessary.  

o One foster child in my care (who is the legal responsibility of a social services agency or court). Write in the foster child’s name, date of birth, grade and school below. Does this foster child receive foster care funds that are designated specifically for the child’s personal use?  £ No  £ Yes - $________.

      Complete a separate application for each foster child. Do not combine foster children and other children on this form.

 

Names of all Children in Household except Foster Children

 

(or Name of One Foster Child)

  First Name                            Last Name

 

 

Date of Birth

Month/Day/Year

 

 

Grade

 

 

 

School

 

If applicable

Case Number for each child

(MFIP, Food Stamps or FDPIR )

If applicable

SSI or

Other Regular

Income to Child

1

 

____/____/____

 

 

 

$________ per________

2

 

____/____/____

 

 

 

$________ per________

3

 

____/____/____

 

 

 

$________ per________

4

 

____/____/____

 

 

 

$________ per________

5

 

____/____/____

 

 

 

$________ per________

3. List all adults in the household, all incomes and how often each income is received. Attach an additional page, if necessary. The instructions page shows the maximum income to qualify for school meal benefits. Do not complete Section 3 if all children applying for school meal benefits in Section 2 have case numbers, or if this application is for a foster child.                                          

 

 

Names of all Adults in Household

(all household members not listed in Section 1)

 

First Name                             Last Name

 

Check this column if person has NO INCOME                      ü

Incomes

Write in each gross income and how often it is received: weekly, bi-weekly (every two weeks), twice per month, monthly or yearly.  Do not write in hourly pay.  If income fluctuates, write in the amount normally received.

Gross Wages and Salaries

from all jobs

- before deductions -

Pension, SSI, Retirement,

Social Security

Public Assistance, Child Support, Alimony

Unemployment, Worker’s Comp,

Strike Benefits

Any Other Income, including net Farm/

Self-Employment

1

 

 

$______  per ______

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

2

 

 

$______  per ______

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

3

 

 

$______  per ______

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

4

 

 

$______  per ______

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

$_____ per _____

4. If your children are approved for school meal benefits, this information may be shared with MinnesotaCare and General Assistance Medical Care programs to identify children eligible for Minnesota health insurance programs. See back page for more information. Leave the boxes blank to allow sharing of information.

o Do not share my information with the MinnesotaCare health insurance program.   o Do not share my information with the General Assistance Medical Care program.

5. I certify that the information provided on this application is true and correct.  Because federal and state funds may be paid on the basis of this information, I understand that school and state officials may verify the information, and that deliberate misrepresentation may subject me to prosecution under applicable laws.       

 

Signature of Adult Household Member (required) ___________________________________    Print Name: _________________________________ Date: ________                                                                                                        

Social Security number (required if Part 3 is completed): ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___   OR  o  I don’t have a Social Security number

Address: _________________________________________ City ___________________________Zip__________ Home Phone: ________________ Work Phone: ________________