Westchester School District 92 1/2

Handbook

Extracurricular/Enrichment Activities

Westchester Intermediate School and Westchester Middle School provide activities before and after school in addition to the regularly scheduled school program. The extracurricular program offers additional opportunities for the development of desirable qualities and special abilities. Clubs may focus on various topics and special interests. Extracurricular activities are engaged in voluntarily by the student providing the student's conduct and application to studies is acceptable. Intramural and interscholastic athletic programs are available for both boys and girls.

Parents should be aware of their child's extracurricular schedule and make special note of meeting dates/practices and conclusion time of such programs. A late bus will drop the students off at the public school sites in their neighborhood (Westchester Primary School, Westchester Intermediate School, Westchester Middle School and Britten School). Parents are responsible for the safety of their children if the parents allow them to walk home after an extracurricular activity ends instead of taking the late bus.

The Westchester Intermediate School Art Club meets from 3:15 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Transportation is not provided for students who attend Art Club.

WMS Specific Extracurricular/Enrichment Activities and Responsibilities

Students attending the Westchester Middle School are strongly encouraged to participate in athletics, co-curricular or extracurricular activities.  To be eligible to participate or attend these activities, students must maintain a minimum standard with their grades.  Students must be passing all of their classes with a D or above to be permitted entrance into or be able to participate in an activity.  Students who are ineligible are encouraged to use this time to work with their teacher to improve their grade in the class in which they are not passing. 

Student eligibility is checked weekly and the list of ineligible students is sent to all teachers.  Students will be informed by their teacher that they are ineligible and they will be required to have a red eligibility form signed acknowledging that their parent is aware of this grade.  During this time students will be asked to leave the school when trying to attend any activities.  When a student raises their grade and is passing, the teacher will give them a green eligibility form which requires a parent signature.  Students are eligible to participate the day they turn in the form to the office with all required signatures.  This cannot be the same day they received the form.

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Athletics

Westchester Intermediate School
An intramural program is available for all 4th and 5th grade students. Various activities take place throughout the year. They may include softball, basketball, gymnastics, soccer, floor hockey, and volleyball. Transportation is not provided for students who participate in intramurals. A physical examination and proof of insurance is required prior to participation in any activity. Please refer to the District calendar for physical examination due dates.

Westchester Middle School
Intramural Sports
Intramural sports are provided for boys and girls in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. All students are eligible to participate in any of the activities offered. Activities may include flag football, soccer, basketball, floor hockey, volleyball, and softball. Program time is from 2:50 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. and a late bus is provided. Students are dropped off at Britten School, Westchester Intermediate School, and Westchester Primary School sites. A physical examination and proof of insurance is required prior to participation in any activity. Please refer to the District calendar for physical examination due dates.

Interscholastic Sports
Interscholastic sports are available for both boys and girls at the 7th and 8th grade levels. Students compete in softball, basketball and volleyball against area schools. Squads are limited to numbers which the coaches feel they can adequately handle. Tryouts are held and the students are chosen on their abilities, talents and performance. Students are charged a fee for each interscholastic sport in which they compete. Uniforms are provided. Team members must furnish their own shoes. A physical examination is required prior to the start of tryouts. Please refer to the District calendar for physical examination due dates.

Practice sessions normally last from 2:50 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. District transportation is not provided following practices.

Cheer and Dance Team
Cheer and Dance Teams are available for both boys and girls at the 7th and 8th grade levels. Squads are limited to numbers which the coach feels he/she can adequately handle. Tryouts are held and the students are chosen on their abilities, talents and performance. Students are charged a fee for participation on this team. Uniforms are provided. Team members must furnish their own shoes. A physical examination is required prior to the start of tryouts. Please refer to the District calendar for physical examination due dates.

Practice sessions normally last from 2:50 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. District transportation is not provided following practices.

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Awards/Celebrations

Student achievements are celebrated at the end of the school year.

Westchester Intermediate School
Presidential Award of Academic Excellence: Fifth grade students attaining an accumulative 3.50 average who meet criteria on the District’s local assessment in reading and math, and who receive two teacher recommendations are eligible to receive this award from the President of the United States.

Presidential Award for Educational Improvement: Students who earn a B.U.G. award and have teacher recommendations are eligible to receive this award for improvement from the President of the United States.

Citizenship: All students who consistently follow school rules for an entire grading period are named to the citizenship honor roll and receive a certificate following the conclusion of the grading period. Students who have achieved citizenship honor roll all three grading periods will be awarded a citizenship ribbon.

Activity Awards: Students are recognized for participating in extracurricular activities.

Westchester Middle School
Presidential Award of Academic Excellence: Eighth grade students attaining an accumulative 3.50 average, who meet criteria on the District’s local assessment in reading and math, and who receive two teacher recommendations are eligible to receive this award from the President of the United States.

Activity Awards: Students participating in any activity may be presented with certificates.

Richard T. Crohn Award: This award is presented to the student who has achieved the highest overall grade point average over three years, grades 6 - 8.

Matthew P. Geraldi Award: This is the highest band award that an eighth grade student can receive. Requirements include superior ratings in solo and ensemble contests, sitting first chair in the instrument section, and the recommendation of the band director.

Larry J. Meyers Award: Presented to an 8th grade girl and boy. These awards recognize outstanding effort and attitude in the field of athletics.

Marlyn Shawky Award: This award is presented to the eighth grade boy or girl who has achieved the highest science grades in the 7th and 8th grades.

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Student Safety

There are many ways in which safety rules are emphasized. The homeroom teachers stress the need for observance of safety rules in the school, on the school grounds, on the street, and at home.

Children should walk on the sidewalks and cross at the corner crosswalks. Parents can aid the efforts of the school by giving instructions to the children at home. Parents can further assist by encouraging their children to cross only at the crosswalks even when being picked up or dropped off at school.

Children should go directly home as soon as they are dismissed from school or the school bus. Parents should be aware of their children's schedules and know the time they should arrive home and the route they take from school or the bus stop.

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Bus Transportation

Bus transportation is provided for all students who must cross Roosevelt Road, Mannheim Road, or Cermak Road in order to get to school. Due to the large number of riders per bus, special transportation requests (such as scout meetings, birthday parties, playtime at a friend's house) cannot be honored.

Proper student behavior while riding the school bus is essential for the safety of all students. Students are under the jurisdiction of the school bus driver while riding the bus unless the Superintendent designates another adult to supervise the riders. Cameras are installed on all District buses that record video and audio to enhance student safety and promote appropriate behavior.

Electronic devices will be permitted on middle school bus routes only, provided that they are not a distraction to the driver or other passengers on the bus. Students are expected to keep their phones “powered off” as outlined in Board Policy 7:190, #10. The District reserves the right to confiscate any electronic devices brought on the bus that distract the driver or other passengers. The District is not responsible for any items that are lost, damaged, or stolen.

Please note that students being transported elsewhere for school activities must depart and return on the school bus.  Parent transportation for students in these activities is not permitted, except as authorized by a school administrator.

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Rules and Regulations for School Bus Riders

Listed below are the rules and regulations to be followed by all students who, at some time or other, will be passengers on a school bus, whether traveling between home and school, going on a field trip, or attending an extra-curricular activity before or after school. Proper student bus behavior is essential for the safety of all students.

Please review these rules periodically with your child:

1. Be at the designated school bus stop five (5) minutes before the scheduled pick-up time. When you walk to and from the bus remember to follow these safety rules: check for oncoming cars when crossing the street when you get on or off the bus. Always walk on the sidewalk. Look both ways before crossing the street. Cross only at crosswalks. Obey all traffic signals. Always cross in front of the bus and wait for the driver’s signal.
2. Wait for the bus in an orderly manner. Be mindful of the rights of property owners. Playing in the road can be dangerous. Students should wear weather-appropriate clothing.
3. Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus. Do not move toward the bus until it has been brought to a complete stop.
4. Drivers may assign seats to students for safety or disciplinary reasons. Students must not stand or leave their seats while the bus is moving.
5. Remain in the bus in the event of a road emergency until instructions are given by the bus driver.
6. Be absolutely quiet when approaching a railroad crossing.
7. Keep hands and head inside the bus at all times. Do not throw anything out of the bus windows.
8. Assist in keeping the bus safe and sanitary at all times. Never tamper with the bus or any of its equipment.
9. Food and drinks are not allowed to be consumed on the bus.
10. Keep books, packages, coats, and other objects out of the aisles. Do not leave books, lunches, or other articles on the bus.
11. Be courteous to fellow students and the bus driver. Help look after the safety and comfort of younger children.
12. Do not ask the bus driver to stop at places other than the regular bus stop. The driver is not permitted to do this.
13. Observe safety precautions when leaving the bus. If necessary to cross the street, proceed to a point at least 10 feet in front of the bus on the right shoulder of the street where traffic may be observed in both directions. Wait for the signal from the bus driver allowing you to cross.
14. Observe the same rules and regulations on other trips under school sponsorship as you observe between home and school.

Students not complying with these rules and regulations may forfeit transportation privileges.

For the safety of the children, the District cannot accommodate requests for changes in bus pick-up or drop-off locations from the regular stop. 

Consequences for Transportation Discipline Offenses

School bus safety is very important!  When a student is not following good safety rules and procedures, the student will be sent to meet with the school administrator.  A bus referral will be sent home for parent signature.  It is to be returned to the office the next day.

First Offense

The student meets with the school administrator and a bus referral is sent home for parent signature.

Second Offense – Loss of Transportation for One Day

The student meets with the school administrator and loses bus privileges for one school day. A bus referral is sent home for parent signature. The school administrator and bus driver will conference to determine appropriate measures to assist the student in the improvement of behavior.

Third Offense – Loss of Transportation for Three Days

The student meets with the school administrator and loses bus privileges for three school days. A bus referral is sent home for parent signature. The student, his/her parent and the school administrator will conference before the student resumes riding the bus. The school administrator and bus driver will conference as necessary to implement strategies to improve student behavior.

Fourth Offense – Loss of Transportation for One Week

The student meets with the school administrator and loses bus privileges for one week. A bus referral is sent home for parent signature. The student and his/her parent will also be required to have a meeting with the school administrator and bus driver before bus privileges are allowed to resume.

Fifth Offense – Loss of Transportation

The student’s parent is notified by letter that the student’s transportation has been stopped for the remainder of the year and a meeting with the school administrator, bus driver, and Director of Finance and Operations is held.

Any serious violation such as fighting or vandalism will result in immediate suspension from bus transportation, and a meeting is held as outlined in the Fifth Offense. The student’s parent/guardian is responsible for the cost of repairing any damage to the bus caused by the student.

 

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Special Bus Runs

After School:
Westchester Intermediate School: 3:50 p.m. - Late Bus
Westchester Middle School: 3:45 p.m. - Late Bus (club activities, detention hall, student help)

Note: All students are dropped off at the public school sites in their neighborhood (Westchester Primary School, Westchester Intermediate School, Westchester Middle School, and Britten School).

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Health Services

There is a health service office and a registered nurse on duty at the Westchester Primary School, the Westchester Intermediate School, and the Westchester Middle School.

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Health Service Office Hours/Phone Numbers

Westchester Primary School - 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. - 562-1509, ext. 20
Westchester Intermediate School - 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. - 562-1011, ext. 115
Westchester Middle School - 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. - 450-2735, ext. 638

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School Health Program

1. First aid is administered.
2. Parents are called to pick up an ill or injured child.
3. Health records are maintained for all students. When a student transfers from our district, the entire health record is sent to the new school upon written request of that school.
4. Periodic vision and hearing tests are given. Parents are notified when results indicate a need for a more complete examination.
5. Heights and weights are regularly recorded.
6. Schools furnish a dental examination form to be completed by the family dentist as part of the dental program.
7. A special physical examination by your own physician is required each year for students who plan to participate in intramural and/or extra-curricular activities of the physical education department. Please refer to the District calendar for physical examination due dates.
8. A statement from the doctor is required for any student to be excused from physical education classes for more than five consecutive days.
9. Information regarding epidemics of contagious diseases is furnished to parents ONLY when the local health officer declares the contagion to be an emergency.
10. Students transferring into the district will not be allowed to participate in physical education until their health records are received from the previous school or evidence of a current examination is received from a physician.

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Parent Participation in Program

1. See that the child receives the physical examination as required by law. The physical examinations along with tb tests are due for kindergarten students and returning sixth grade students by the first day of school or student attendance. New students have 30 calendar days to turn in the physical examination prior to a student being excluded from school. All children in kindergarten and the second and sixth grades must present proof of having been examined by a licensed dentist before May 15 of the current school year in accordance with rules adopted by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
2. Notify the registered nurse when the child has a contagious disease.
3. Cooperate with the school when a doctor's certificate is required.

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Illness or Injury at School

If a child becomes ill or is injured while at school, the parents, or other responsible adult designated by the parents, will be notified immediately. Therefore, it is extremely important that we have up-to-date emergency information on each student.

Whether one or both parents of children enrolled in the school are at work, it is important that all working parents register their business phone number with the health office. If the phone number changes, register the change with the health office. Also, please furnish the school with the name and telephone number of a responsible adult to be contacted in the event that a parent cannot be reached.

Parents are expected to use their personal insurance coverage benefits for accidental injuries to students that occur on school property. The District is not responsible for such injuries.

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Defibrillator

Each school has an automated external defibrillator (AED) located in the gym for use in a cardiac emergency. When the AED is used, 911 will be called immediately.

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After Surgery

Pupils returning to school after surgery or broken bones shall be restricted in activity until directed by the family physician. A medical statement is required to reenter the physical education program.

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Health, Eye, and Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students

(Board of Education Policy 7:100)

Required Health Examinations and Immunizations
A student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) shall present proof that the student received a health examination and the immunizations against, and screenings for, preventable communicable diseases, as required by the Illinois Department of Public Health, within one year prior to:

1. Entering kindergarten or the first grade;
2. Entering the sixth and ninth grades; and
3. Enrolling in an Illinois school, regardless of the student’s grade (including nursery school, special education, Headstart programs operated by elementary or secondary schools, and students transferring into Illinois from out-of-state or out-of-country).

As required by State law:

1. The required health examinations must be performed by a physician licensed to practice medicine in all of its branches, an advanced practice nurse who has a written collaborative agreement with a collaborating physician authorizing the advanced practice nurse to perform health examinations, or a physician assistant who has been delegated the performance of health examinations by a supervising physician.
2. A diabetes screening must be included as a required part of each health examination; diabetes testing is not required.
3. Before admission and in conjunction with required physical examinations, parents/guardians of children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years must provide a statement from a physician that their child was “risk-assessed” or screened for lead poisoning.
4. The Department of Public Health will provide all female students entering sixth grade and their parents/guardians information about the link between human papilloma virus (HPV) and cervical cancer and the availability of the HPV vaccine.

As required by District 92½:

1. A tuberculosis skin test screening.

Unless the student is homeless, failure to comply with the above requirements by the first day of student attendance of the current school year will result in the student’s exclusion from school until the required health forms are presented to the District. New students who register mid-term shall have 30 days following registration to comply with the health examination and immunization regulations. If a medical reason prevents a student from receiving a required immunization by the first day of student attendance, the student must present, by the first day of student attendance, an immunization schedule and a statement of the medical reasons causing the delay. The schedule and statement of medical reasons must be signed by the physician, advanced practice nurse, physician assistant, or local health department responsible for administering the immunizations.

Eye Examination
Parents/guardians are encouraged to have their children undergo an eye examination whenever health examinations are required.

Parents/guardians of students entering kindergarten or an Illinois school for the first time shall present proof before October 15 of the current school year that the student received an eye examination within one year prior to entry of kindergarten or the school. A physician licensed to practice medicine in all of its branches or a licensed optometrist must perform the required eye examination.

If a student fails to present proof by October 15, the school may hold the student’s report card until the student presents proof: (1) of a completed eye examination, or (2) that an eye examination will take place within 60 days after October 15. The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that parents/guardians are notified of this eye examination requirement in compliance with the rules of the Department of Public Health. Schools shall not exclude a student from attending school due to failure to obtain an eye examination.

Dental Examination
All children in kindergarten and the second and sixth grades must present proof of having been examined by a licensed dentist before May 15 of the current school year in accordance with rules adopted by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

If a child in the second or sixth grade fails to present proof by May 15, the school may hold the child’s report card until the child presents proof: (1) of a completed dental examination, or (2) that a dental examination will take place within 60 days after May 15. The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that parents/guardians are notified of this dental examination requirement at least 60 days before May 15 of each school year.

Exemptions
In accordance with rules adopted by the Illinois Department of Public Health, a student will be exempted from this policy’s requirements for:

1. Religious or medical grounds if the student’s parents/guardians present to the Superintendent a signed statement explaining the objection;
2. Health examination or immunization requirements on medical grounds if a physician provides written verification;
3. Eye examination requirement if the student’s parents/guardians show an undue burden or lack or access to a physician licensed to practice medicine in all of its branches who provides eye examinations or a licensed optometrist; or
4. Dental examination requirement if the student’s parents/guardians show an undue burden or a lack of access to a dentist.

Homeless Child
Any homeless child shall be immediately admitted, even if the child or child’s parent/guardian is unable to produce immunization and health records normally required for enrollment. School Board Policy 6:140, Education of Homeless Children, governs the enrollment of homeless children.

Adopted: September 3, 1998
Revised: January 21, 2010

Homeless Liaisons for the schools and the District:
Westchester Primary School—Akemi Sessler, Principal
Westchester Intermediate School—Mary Leidigh, Principal
Westchester Middle School—Gregory Leban, Principal, and Erin Dwyer, Assistant Principal
District Liaison—Lynn Novak, Director of Curriculum

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Communicable Disease

The child will be excluded from school for the following communicable diseases and may be required to bring a health certificate from a doctor to be readmitted: measles, regular and German; mumps; chicken pox; streptococcal sore throat; scarlet fever; pneumonia; influenza; poliomyelitis; infections; rashes; impetigo; scabies; infectious hepatitis; pediculosis (head lice); or salmonella. In addition to the ones listed, there may be other illnesses that will require a health certificate and/or exclusion (e.g., H1N1). This will be determined by the principal and/or registered nurse in accordance with Illinois public health guidelines. The certificate should state that the child is free from disease. The child will not be admitted to class without a health certificate when one is required.

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Procedure for Handling Cases of Communicable and Chronic Infectious Diseases Students

General Conditions

1. Each case of known communicable and chronic infectious disease will be determined on an individual basis.
2. Any report that a student of the District has a communicable and chronic infectious disease or has been diagnosed as having AIDS or ARC, or as having been infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) or any other identified causative agent of AIDS, shall be made or forwarded in confidence to the Superintendent.
3. The identity of a student who has or is believed to have a contagious disease (such as hepatitis B, tuberculosis, AIDS or ARC, or has been infected with HIV or other identified causative agent of AIDS, or has a similar contagious disease) shall not be revealed by any District employee or official to anyone including other District employees except as is authorized in writing by the Superintendent. In cases where the Illinois Department of Public Health or a local health department gives notice to a Principal of the identity of a child diagnosed as having AIDS or ARC, or as having been infected with HIV or other identified causative agent of AIDS, the Principal shall disclose the identity of the child to the Superintendent of the school district in which the child resides. The Principal may, as necessary, disclose the identity of the child to the registered nurse at that school, the classroom teachers in whose classes the child is enrolled, and those persons, who, pursuant to federal or state law, are required to decide the placement or educational program of the child (i.e., the multi-disciplinary team). Further, in such cases, the Principal may inform such other persons as may be necessary that an infected child is enrolled at that school so long as the child's identity is not revealed.
4. The Superintendent or his designee shall notify the Department of Public Health if any student of the District has a condition for which reporting is required by the Department.
5. Decisions regarding the type of educational setting for infected children should be based on the behavior, neurologic development, and physical condition of the child and the expected type of interaction with others in that setting. These decisions are best made using the team approach which may include the child's physician, public health personnel, the child's parents or legal guardians, and school personnel. In each case, risks and benefits to both the child and others in the setting shall be weighed.

Specific Procedures

1. Once the Superintendent has been notified that a student in the District has a communicable and chronic infectious disease, the Superintendent shall immediately contact the parent or guardian of the student and require that a letter from the student's physician be submitted indicating whether or not the student is able to continue in his educational program without endangering himself or others. The opinion of the student's physician will be considered but not controlling.
2. The principal may invite the student's teacher(s) to participate or provide input.
3. The Superintendent will notify the Department of Public Health when an infected student enrolls in another school.
4. In the case of a student in the district who has AIDS or ARC:
   1. The Superintendent shall convene a meeting of the Review Committee which shall consist of the Superintendent, principal of the student's school, the registered nurse, the child's parents or legal guardian, the child's physician, and personnel from the County Health Department.
   2. The Review Committee shall maintain a protocol file in the Office of the Superintendent for case management purposes, which file shall not become a part of the student's permanent record. The file shall contain all recommendations and reports to the Review Committee, and any conclusions or decision of the Committee. The file shall also contain a list identifying any and all individuals who have been made aware of the identity of a student who has AIDS or ARC, or has been infected with HIV or other identified causative agent of AIDS.
   3. If the Review Committee finds at any point that the health and safety of the child or others would be endangered by the student's continued presence in his current educational program, the Superintendent may direct a temporary exclusion or an interim alternative placement pending the completion of these procedures.
   4. The Review Committee shall investigate the student's case and shall make a recommendation to the School Board whether or not the student should be permitted to continue in his current educational program. This recommendation shall be based on the following considerations:
      • The nature of the risk (how the disease is transmitted);
      • The duration of the risk (how long is the carrier infectious);
      • The severity of the risk (what is the potential harm to third parties; what is the affected person's physical condition, behavior and ability to control bodily functions and secretions); and
      • The probabilities that the disease will be transmitted and will cause varying degrees of harm.
   5. If the Review Committee determines that a change in the student's current educational placement is warranted in order to reasonably accommodate the student, a case study evaluation of the student shall be commenced and an individualized education program developed, as may be necessary to address special education needs in accordance with Reauthorized IDEA, Article 14 of the Illinois School Code and their respective rules and regulations. Participation in case study evaluations shall be had on a "need to know" basis.
   6. If the Review Committee determines that no change is warranted in the student's educational program, the Superintendent shall so advise the student's parent or guardian. The Review Committee may designate a person to monitor the student's condition and behavior and to inform the student's parent or guardian and the student's physician in the event there is an outbreak of contagious disease in the District. The Review Committee may reevaluate the student's case at any time but not less than once every six (6) months.
   7. The Review Committee will advise the Board of Education of its finding and make recommendations about arrangements for the afflicted person. The final decision on all recommendations and arrangements will be made by the Board.
   8. The Review Committee will recommend to the Board of Education if any public forum(s) are necessary.

Adopted: December 1, 1998
Revised: 2001

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Administering Medicines to Students

(Board of Education Policy 7:270)

The Board of Education recognizes that it is necessary for the critical health and well-being of students in certain circumstances to take medication during school hours or school-related activities. The Board authorizes school personnel to administer to students, or to allow the self-administration of, both prescription and over-the-counter medication during the school day when students require such medication in an emergency, in order to attend school, or in order to gain access to the educational programs of the District.

A student may possess an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®) and/or medication prescribed for asthma for immediate use at the student's discretion, provided the student's parent/guardian has complied with District procedures.

Nothing in this policy shall prohibit any school employee from providing emergency assistance to students, including administering medication.

The Superintendent is authorized to establish rules and regulations to implement this Policy, which rules and regulations shall include a designation of employees authorized to administer medication, the manner in which both prescription and over-the-counter medication will be administered to students,students, and procedures for self-administration by students. This policy shall be included in the Student Handbook and shall be provided to the parents/guardians of students.

Adopted: September 3, 1998
Revised: April 17, 2008

The following are rules and regulations for administering medicines to students:

1. Authorization for the Administration of Medication and Emergency Medical Assistance
   1. School employees shall not administer prescription or over-the-counter medication such as Tylenol, Advil, or cough medicine to students in non-emergency situations unless the following authorizations have been obtained:
      1. A written order from the student's physician, dentist, or other person legally authorized to prescribe medication. The written order shall contain:
         1. the student's name;
         2. date of birth;
         3. licensed prescriber's name, signature, and phone number;
         4. name of the medication;
         5. dosage of the medication;
         6. route of administration of medication;
         7. frequency and time of administration of medication;
         8. date of prescription and order;
         9. discontinuation date;
         10. diagnosis requiring medication;
         11. intended effect of medication;
         12. possible side effects;
         13. other medications the student is receiving; and
      2. A written request and waiver of liability from the parents and/or guardian requesting the administration of medication by school employees. Students may not use cough drops in school due to the possibility of choking.
   2. Emergency medical assistance shall be provided, during the school hours or at school sponsored activities, to all students whose parents have signed a written authorization for the provision of such assistance.
   3. Authorizations required by this Section shall be placed in the student's health file with a copy placed in the student's temporary records file.
2. Administration of Medication
   When the conditions contained in Section A of these Rules and Regulations are satisfied, medication shall be administered to the students in the following manner:
   1. Prescription medications shall be brought to school in the original container which shall display:
      1. the student's name;
      2. prescription number;
      3. medication name, dosage, route of administration and other required directions;
      4. licensed prescriber's name;
      5. date and refill instructions;
      6. pharmacy name, address, and phone number;
      7. name or initials of the pharmacist.
   2. Over-the-counter medications shall be brought to school in their unopened original container with the seal unbroken and the student's name affixed to the container.
   3. All medications shall be stored in a separate locked or secure area. Medications requiring refrigeration shall be refrigerated in a secure area. Students requiring asthma medication or an EpiPen® with them at all times require a physician's statement to that effect.
   4. The principal shall designate the employee or employees authorized to dispense the medications including employees who are required to administer medications in an emergency situation. Teachers or other non-administrative school employees, except registered nurses, shall not be required to administer medication to students. However, such employees may be so designated if they agree or volunteer to administer the medication. When necessary, a registered nurse shall instruct these employees concerning the manner in which the medication shall be administered, and the circumstances requiring the administration of medication and the possible side effects.
   5. Each dose of medication shall be documented for the student's health records. Documentation shall include date, time, dosage and route and signature or initials of the person administering the medication. In the event the medication is not administered as ordered, the reasons therefore shall be entered in the record.
   6. When requested by the student's physician, the medication's effectiveness and side effects shall be assessed and documented.
3. Discretionary Administration of Medicine
   If a parent consents to the administration of medication on a discretionary basis, the registered nurse shall provide the necessary information and instructions for the administration of the medication including defining any side effects to the designated personnel. The administration of medication on a discretionary basis shall be done only by a registered nurse or by a previously designated and instructed employee after consultation with and approval of the parents with written instruction from the physician, pharmacist, or health care specialist.
4. Emergency Medical Treatment
   School personnel shall render medical assistance to any student whose parents have authorized such assistance when paramedical or licensed physicians are not available or have not arrived and such assistance is necessary to protect the student's health, safety or welfare. The school personnel providing emergency medical assistance shall attempt to contact the principal as soon as possible and contact a licensed physician or certified paramedical personnel to provide or assist in providing emergency medical assistance.
   The student's parent or guardian shall be contacted as soon as possible after the injury giving rise to the need for emergency medical assistance.
5. Self Administration of Medication
   If a parent requests assistance from school personnel in the student's self-administration of medication, the procedures set forth in these Rules and Regulations concerning the administration of medication by school personnel shall be followed.
6. The parent or guardian of a student will be responsible at the end of the treatment period for removing from the school any unused medication which was prescribed for their child. If the parent or guardian does not pick up and dispose of the medication, the registered nurse shall dispose of the medication and document that the medication was discarded. Medications will be discarded in the presence of a witness.

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Special Education

Westchester Public Schools, District 92½, ensures that a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) is available to each child with a disability who is between the ages of three and fifteen, who legally resides in the District and is enrolled in the District and requires special education and related services to address the adverse effects of a disability on his or her education. These services are mandated by Article 14 of the School Code of Illinois, its implementing regulations and the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504).

Westchester Public Schools, District 92½, provides a variety of special education services with our own staff and, in some cases, through our special education cooperative, the LaGrange Area Department of Special Education (LADSE). Upon request, we will provide you with written materials that indicate the specific policies, procedures, rules and regulations regarding the identification, evaluation, or educational program/placement of children with disabilities pursuant to the IDEA and Section 504.

In addition, the District may provide special education and related services to children between the ages of three and fifteen, who legally reside in the District but are enrolled in a non-public school. Any person interested in more information about our special education and related services should contact the Special Needs Office at 450-2700, extension 609.

Identifying Children with Disabilities
Non discriminatory screening and identification procedures are used to identify all children three to fifteen with disabilities who legally reside in the District. Appropriately credentialed personnel who participate in ongoing staff development perform such procedures. Any concerned person, including school district personnel, the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the child, an employee of a community service agency, another professional having knowledge of a child's problems, a child, or an employee of the Illinois State Board of Education, may initiate referrals for an individual and full evaluation.

Referrals are considered when a child is suspected of having a disability which adversely affects their education and performance. Requests for a referral should be made by contacting the Special Needs Office at 450-2700, extension 609. When making a request for a referral, one must provide the following information to the District: the child's name, age and reason for the referral. We will provide assistance to enable persons making referrals to meet these requirements. All parents/legal guardians will be provided notice with respect to their procedural safeguards upon the child's initial referral for evaluations, along with each notification of an IEP meeting, along with each request for consent for the re-evaluation of the child and upon receipt for request for due process pursuant to the Illinois State Board of Education regulations.

If the District determines the referral for an individual and full evaluation of possible IDEA eligibility is warranted, the child's parent/guardian will be contacted to obtain their informed written consent before proceeding with the evaluation. If the parent/guardian refuses consent for an initial evaluation, the District may continue to pursue the evaluation via due process or mediation. If the District determines not to proceed with the evaluation, it will provide the parent(s)/guardian(s) with written notice of the date of the referral, the reasons for which the evaluation was requested, and the reasons for the decision to deny the request. The school shall also provide written notice of the decision to deny the request to the person making the referral, if not the parent(s)/guardian(s), and the reason(s) for the denial of the request subject to Illinois Student Records Act and its implementing regulation. The team will also advise the parent(s)/guardian(s) of their right to seek an impartial due process hearing to review the decision of the team.

Eligibility/Placement/Services
Westchester Public Schools, District 92½, provides a continuum of placement options to address the educational needs of students with disabilities. They include: consultative, resource, instructional, home/hospital and preschool special education. Related services are also provided if necessary to assist a child eligible for special education.

Eligibility for and the provision of special education for a child is based upon an individualized education program (IEP) developed at an IEP meeting, involving a child's parent(s)/guardian(s) and other members of the IEP team. The IEP is reviewed at least annually. Parent(s)/guardian(s) may also request a meeting to review the IEP.

Westchester Public Schools, District 92½, provides a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment for students with the following disabilities:

• hearing impairments
• speech and language impairments
• visual impairments
• mental retardation
• emotional disturbances
• orthopedic impairments
• autism
• traumatic brain injury
• specific learning disability
• deaf-blindness
• other health impairments including, but not limited to, attention deficit disorder
• multiple disabilities
• deafness
• developmental delay

If parent(s)/guardian(s) object to identification evaluation or placement of their child they have the right to request a due process hearing. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are encouraged to discuss their concerns with the school principal and other staff working with their child. Further, parent(s)/guardian(s) may request a mediator from the Illinois State Board of Education before requesting a due process hearing.

The Board of Education has adopted a policy and procedures related to the use of behavior interventions for students with disabilities. All of the procedural safeguards available to students with disabilities and their parent(s)/guardian(s) under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), including notice and consent, opportunity for participation in meetings, and rights to appeal are observed when developing and/or implementing behavioral interventions.

The District furnishes a copy of its local policies and procedures to parent(s)/guardian(s) of all students with individualized education plans, within fifteen (15) days of amending such policies and procedures, or at the time an individualized education plan is first implemented for a student. In addition, at the annual individualized education plan review, the District explains the local policies and procedures, furnishes a copy of the local policies to parent(s)/guardian(s), and makes available upon request of any parent(s)/guardian(s), a copy of local procedures. Each school also annually informs its students of the existence of the policies and procedures through this handbook.

For more information about the District's Behavioral Interventions Policy/Procedures, contact the Special Needs Office at 450-2700, extension 609.

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Student Discipline

(Board of Education Policy 7:190)

The Westchester Public Schools, District 92½, operate under definite discipline procedures that reflect the discipline policy as established by the Board of Education and the School Code of Illinois, and in conjunction with recommendations made by the Parent-Teacher Advisory Committee in compliance with SB730.

Discipline is a means of fostering the growth of students toward maturity and responsibility. The educational environment of the district shall be such that the school personnel shall demonstrate fair, just and flexible attitudes and disciplinary efforts toward all students.

One of the basic goals of the Westchester Public Schools is to teach self-control and self-reliance. Good discipline results when the students and the teacher recognize their responsibilities and do their utmost to carry them out. High standards of discipline are not only conducive to learning, but they are also essential to order and good citizenship.

Since the influence of the home is very important, the parents can assist the schools in periodically reviewing and encouraging the essentials of good discipline and good citizenship with their children.

Each school administrator, with the participation of staff, shall develop a disciplinary plan, under this policy guideline, that is appropriate to the student population of the school and to fully carry out this policy.

Suspension will generally be imposed in cases of grave and/or frequent misconduct of the same nature.  When a student serves an in-school suspension, the student completes the work assigned in his/her classes and full credit is given.  When a student must serve an out-of-school suspension, daily work assigned in classes missed is averaged into grades as a zero, no credit.  Tests and long-term projects can be made up and full credit will be received.  Students may not participate in or attend extra-curricular activities while under either type of suspension.

The Westchester Public Schools and the Westchester Police Department have engaged in a reciprocal reporting agreement as mandated by Section 10-20.14 of The School Code.

General Disciplinary Authority
Because the Board of Education is entrusted with protecting the safety, health, and welfare of the students, staff and property of the School District, it may be necessary at times to discipline students whose conduct affects the well-being of the schools. The Board of Education hereby authorizes the use of discipline in accordance with this Policy. In accordance with constitutional due process and statutory requirements, the Board of Education may suspend or expel students from school and from the school bus for acts of gross disobedience or misconduct and otherwise maintain discipline in the schools. Only the Board of Education may determine to expel a student from school or from the school bus. The Superintendent and Principal may suspend students from school or the school bus for up to ten (10) school days.

Suspensions or expulsions of students shall occur in compliance with procedural regulations to be promulgated and implemented by the administration of the District. Disciplinary measures other than suspension or expulsion shall be determined by the administration and established in general regulations governing student discipline.

Mandatory Expulsion for Bringing Weapons to School
Pursuant to the federal Gun-Free Schools Act and Section 10-22.6 of The School Code, it is the policy of this Board of Education to expel from school for at least one calendar year (but no longer than two calendar years) any student who has possession or control of or uses or transfers a "weapon" at school, any school sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event which bears a reasonable relationship to school. The term "weapon" in this context is defined in the Rules and Regulations implementing this Policy. The Superintendent may modify the expulsion period, and the superintendent’s recommendation may be modified by the Board of Education on a case by case basis. Students eligible for special education and related services shall be considered for expulsion or other discipline for bringing weapons to school pursuant to the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act and as set out in the procedures set forth in the Rules and Regulations accompanying this Policy.

Reporting Firearm, Drug and Other Criminal Incidents
If a school official observes any person to be in possession of a firearm on the property comprising the school, on any conveyance used by the school to transport students to or from school-related activities, or on any public way within 1000 feet of the property comprising the school, the school official will immediately notify the office of the principal. Such notification may be delayed if necessary to avoid endangering students or the school official, but must be completed as soon as there is no longer immediate danger. (This provision does not apply when the school official knows the person to be a law enforcement official conducting official duties.)

Once the principal receives such a report from a school official or from any other person, the principal or his or her designee will immediately notify a local law enforcement agency. If the person found to be in possession of a firearm is a student, the principal or his or her designee also will immediately notify the student’s parent or guardian. If the person found to be in possession of a firearm is a minor, the law enforcement agency will detain the person as required by law.

In addition, upon receipt of a report from any school personnel regarding a verified incident involving a firearm in a school, on school grounds, or on conveyance used to transport students, the Superintendent or his or her designee will report the incident immediately to local law enforcement authorities and to the Department of State Police in a form, manner and frequency as prescribed by the State Police.

For purposes of these reporting requirements, a “firearm” shall be as defined in the Rules and Regulations accompanying this Policy.

Upon receipt of a written complaint from any school personnel, the superintendent must report all incidents of battery committed against teachers, teacher personnel, administrative personnel or educational support personnel to the local law enforcement authorities immediately after the occurrence of the attack and to the Department of State Police’s Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program no later than three (3) days after the occurrence of the attack.

Further, any incident of manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to deliver cannabis, a controlled substance or a look-alike occurring in a school, on school property, on a public way within 1000 feet of a school, or in a vehicle used to transport students must be reported to the police or the county sheriff by the Principal or designee within 48 hours of its occurrence.

If the District reports to a law enforcement agency any crime committed by a special education student, the District shall ensure that copies of the special education and disciplinary records of the student are transmitted for consideration by the appropriate agency authorities, to the extent permitted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, with prior written notice to the parents and in accordance with the Board of Education’s Policy on Student Records.

Maintenance of Discipline by Teachers and Other Employees
Teachers, other certificated employees, and any other person, whether or not a certificated employee, providing a related service for or with respect to a student may use reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for other students, school personnel or persons, or for the purpose of self-defense or the defense of property. Teachers may remove students from the classroom for disruptive behavior.

Behavioral Interventions for Students with Disabilities
Consistent with Section 14-8.05 of The School Code, it is the intent of the Board of Education that, when behavioral interventions are used with students eligible for special education and related services, they be used in consideration of the students' physical freedom and social interaction, and be administered in a manner that respects human dignity and personal privacy and ensures the students' right to placement in the least restrictive educational environment.

Definition of Gross Disobedience and Misconduct
The Board of Education defines gross disobedience or misconduct to include any behavior that is of such egregious nature as to constitute, on its face, gross disobedience or misconduct. Gross disobedience or misconduct also is any conduct, behavior or activity, as defined by the Board of Education in its policies, that causes, or may reasonably cause, school authorities to forecast substantial injury or disruption or material interference with school-related activities or the rights of other students or school personnel or the risk of same.

Gross disobedience or misconduct may occur on school grounds, on a school bus or at a school activity or activity reasonably related to school. It also may occur in a situation other than on school grounds or at a school-related activity, provided, however, that a reasonable relationship exists between the conduct of the student and a potential impact on the school, its processes or student environment.

Gross disobedience and misconduct also shall include, but is not limited to, the following types of conduct and such other conduct as may be designated from time to time by policy of the Board of Education or the administration:

1. Insubordination to school personnel, including failure to follow directions or to produce student identifica¬tion passes.
2. Possession, use, or distribution of, or any attempt to use or distribute, any illegal or controlled substance, including alcohol, drugs or any look-alike drug or tobacco product, or drug paraphernalia.
3. Bullying, harassment, hazing, or intimidation, or any attempt to bully, harass, haze, or intimidate, school personnel or other students.
4. Participation in gang, gang-like or gang-related activities.
5. Fighting with, or any assault of, school personnel or other students, or any use of violence, force, coercion, threats, intimidation, fear, electronic-bullying or other such conduct, or urging other students to engage in such conduct.
6. Theft of or intentional damage to, destruction of, or any attempt to damage or destroy, school property or property of school personnel or other students.
7. Verbal abuse of school personnel or other students, or use of profane or obscene words or gestures.
8. Endangering of the physical or psychological well-being of school personnel or other students by conduct or actions, including, but not limited to:
   • Improper release of a school fire alarm or tampering with fire extinguishers;
   • Starting, or any attempt to start, a fire on school property; or
   • Setting off, or any attempt to set off, explosive devices on school property.
9. Possession, use or display, control or transfer of a firearm, weapon, or any reasonable facsimile.
10. Use of an electronic communication device (e.g. cellular phone, PDA) while in any school building or on any school bus, during regular school hours or during any school sponsored activity. Exceptions may be made wi