SVHS Student Handbook

Endeavor Program

School begins at 8:00am and ends at 2:30pm, Monday through Thursday. The school is open to students starting at 7:30am. If you are not involved in pre-approved, staff supervised activities, you must leave the building by 3:30 PM.

Academy Program

There are several cohorts of students with specified days and times. Students may arrive up to 15 minutes before their scheduled class time and must leave once their class is over. Students are welcome to attend additional support times, make up classes, breakfast, lunch, and office hours if approved by their teacher.

Core Program

Students have designated days and times when they meet with the core teacher.  Students may arrive up to 15 minutes before their scheduled class time, and must leave once their class is over unless they have arranged with their teacher to stay. If a student cannot attend during their designated time, it is their responsibility to contact their teacher and reschedule. Depending on the timing of their appointment, Core Program students can also access breakfast and lunch services.

Fridays

There are no regularly scheduled classes on Fridays, however, they may be reserved for field trips, extra support, and attendance makeups. SVH also reserves the right to include Fridays when creating an intervention plan for students around absences, behavior, community service, and/or academic support needed to ensure each student is successful. Friday school may be assigned to students with excessive tardies or unexcused absences at the discretion of the teacher and administrator.

Spokane Valley Tech is a collaborative enterprise among Central Valley, West Valley, East Valley and Freeman School Districts. It focuses on career readiness and college preparation among high school students. Areas of focus are STEM fields such as aerospace and advanced manufacturing, sports medicine, biomedical sciences, engineering and other related fields. While major emphasis is on workforce development, college-bound students will also have the opportunity to engage in experiential education, problem-based learning, and group learning.

Up to two (2) elective credits may be earned. To qualify for work-based learning you must meet the following requirements:

• You must be 16 years of age and legally employed.
• Complete Career Choices or a Career Unit to demonstrate proficiency at financial education standards.
• Complete a minimum of 180 hours of participation at your worksite during the learning period for .5 pass/fail credit.
• Turn in copies of your pay stubs or time sheets at least once per semester.
• Work with your advisor and the school guidance counselor to guarantee enrollment.
• Complete a student narrative that connects learning at work to better understanding educational goals, work expectations/performance, finance, and future opportunities.

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)

Advisor: Sarah Magney

Theater & Improv

Advisor: Delvone Bullis

Dungeons and Dragons

Advisor: Evan Hanson

Sports

SVH students can participate in school sports through West Valley High School. For information on how to register please visit the Eagles Athletics page. For a full list of sports and coaches, please examine the WVHS handbook.

Yearbooks can be purchased online or in person. Prices will be updated yearly and posted to our school website. The last day to purchase a yearbook will be the last day before winter break. 

Senior photos and baby pictures are DUE before winter break.

Requirements

The best place to find up to date information about graduation requirements is The Washington State Board of Education website or OSPI’s Official Graduation webpage. Select your graduation year for a list of course requirements, pathway options, and non-credit requirements. 

High School & Beyond Plan

The High School & Beyond Plan, a graduation requirement, helps students get the most out of high school and think about their future. Students work with school counselors and advisors to create their own individual plan, the “personalized pathway", throughout high school and revise their plan annually to accommodate changing interests or postsecondary goals on what they expect to do the year following graduation from high school.

The postsecondary aspirations may include pathways for application to four-year colleges or universities, two-year community or technical colleges, apprenticeship programs, industry standard certificate programs, military training, or on-the-job training.

For additional information about the High School & Beyond Plan check The Washington State Board of Education website listed above or the OSPI website. 

Cords

• Gold Cord: Highest Academic Honor - Minimum GPA at or above 3.85 to qualify. Students who attend school full-time and/or have college credits included on their transcript will be weighed more heavily in this selection. Selections decided by Principal, Dean of Students, and Counselor
  
  
• Silver Cord: Academic Honors - Cumulative GPA at/above 3.50
  
  
• Crimson Cord: Phoenix Impact - Extraordinary, Positive Impact as citizens of our community, nominated by graduating class and SVH staff
  
  
• PACE Cord: Seniors who receive a PACE award during their senior year and consistently demonstrate PACE Character Traits.

Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)

The ASVAB measures developed abilities and helps predict future academic and occupational success. Participation in the ASVAB career exploration program is voluntary. If you participate, you are not obligated to the military in any way. ASVAB is designed to help young people explore their options and make a plan. The ASVAB can potentially serve as a graduation pathway option.

Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) 

English language arts (ELA) and math tests for students in grade 10 for federal and state accountability. Both the ELA and math assessments can be used to meet a student's graduation pathway requirement. 

Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science (WCAS)

Science test for students in grade 11 required for federal and state accountability.

Testing Schedule

Fall

• ASVAB - Juniors

Spring

• WCAS - Juniors (rqrd)
• SBA - Sophomores (rqrd), offered to other grades as a make-up or retake

C.A.J.I.E Award

Throughout the school year, students can be honored for their display of Spokane Valley High’s core values: commitment, adaptability, joy, integrity, and empathy.

Most Notable Student

Before the seniors graduate, the staff reflects on the positive attributes of each senior and selects one student who they believe has made a positive difference in our lives at Spokane Valley High School. This remarkable student is honored in the Spokesman Review and at the graduation ceremony. They will also receive a Crimson Cord.

PACE Award

Our district is a member of Partners Advancing Character Education (PACE) which is a Spokane Valley initiative to promote the importance of good character. Working from a common list of monthly character traits, WVSD promotes and integrates each trait into the educational experience. The PACE Awards are an opportunity to honor and celebrate students who demonstrate the importance of good character. Throughout the year, PACE awards are given according to each of the traits listed below. 

• SEPTEMBER - Respect
• OCTOBER - Responsibility
• NOVEMBER - Citizenship
• DECEMBER - Caring
• JANUARY - Fairness
• FEBRUARY - Honesty  
• MARCH - Diligence
• APRIL - Trustworthiness
• MAY - Courage
• JUNE - Integrity
• JULY - Generosity
• AUGUST - Gratitude

Honor Roll

At the end of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd quarters, students will be acknowledged for their academic achievements. Honor roll requires a 3.2 GPA or higher for the quarter.

West Valley School District provides bus transportation for all students living in the West Valley School District. Students living outside West Valley School District can apply for a free Rider Pass from Spokane Transit Authority (https://www.spokanetransit.com/youth/). Our office can provide emergency bus tickets for special situations.

The safe and efficient transportation of students to and from school is the primary goal of the West Valley School District Transportation Department.  In order to effectively maintain a safe environment, rules and procedures need to be implemented to deal with incidents that distract the driver and cause disruption on the bus.  The following list outlines expectations of student behavior and is posted in all school buses:

1. Do not distract driver through misbehavior.
2. The driver has the right to assign seats.
3. Use quiet voices and no profane language.
4. Keep the bus clean; no food or drink.
5. Keep your hands to yourself - no violence.
6. Remain in your seat, keep the aisle clear.
7. Be kind to others.
8. Keep your hands and head inside the bus.
9. No smoking or tobacco products.
10. Do not destroy property. 

Failure to follow the expectations outlined above may result in transportation or building progressive discipline.

All visitors must check in at the Spokane Valley High School Office to receive a Visitor’s Pass. Any person found on the school grounds without permission is trespassing and subject to arrest by police authorities.

Students can visit you if they are thinking about enrolling here or if they are visiting from out of town. If you want to bring a student visitor to school, you must do the following:

• Have parent/guardian permission.
• Get approval from the Principal or Dean of Students PRIOR to the visit.
• A pass must be obtained from the office and worn while on campus.
• Visitors must follow the same regulations established for our students or they will be asked to leave.
• Student Visitor Passes will not be issued during state testing or other times during which administration deems inappropriate to issue a pass.

A school nurse is available in the building one afternoon per week (Wed for 2024-2025) or is available by email/phone when needed. The student must check in with one of the secretaries before entering the sick room. Students are not allowed to stay in the sick room for long periods of time. After 20 minutes if the student does not feel well enough to return to class, he/she must call a parent/guardian and arrange to go home. It is very important that the parent/guardian submits current information regarding home and work phone numbers and names and phone numbers of persons to contact if parents cannot be reached regarding student illness or injury. Any changes in a student's health status that occur during the school year should be reported to the school nurse:  Angie Whitacre: [email protected]

West Valley School District Policy/Procedure requirements for Administration of Medication:

Under normal circumstances medication should be given at home, however if there exists a valid health reason, medication may be applied under the supervision of personnel - this includes prescription and over the counter drugs. 

• Parent must submit a written request with written directions from a licensed health professional
• Request is valid only during the duration indicated on the request form; this will not exceed current school year
• Medication must be kept in the school office
• Medication is to be administered as dictated in the student’s health plan
• Schedule 2 medications (Ritalin, Dexedrine) must be delivered by parent, counted initially and counted weekly, and recorded on medication sheet
• Medications are returned to parents at the end of the year. Medication will be disposed of by the school nurse if not picked up by the parent at the end of the year
• Parent has the right to personally administer medication during school hours
• Adult-age students who have medication administered by the school may sign the form
• Inhalers are considered oral medication
• If it is deemed that the student must carry his/her own medication they must have detailed written information to be reviewed by the school nurse
• Medication such as eye or ear drops, ointment, suppositories, nasal sprays, or injections can only be given by family members, licensed nurses, or self-administered
• Students with diabetes must have a care plan dictating conditions for administration of insulin and glucagon at school. Please note: SVHS does not have a full time nurse on-site.

The Homeless Education and Resource Team (HEART) helps students and families who don’t have a stable place to live. The program ensures students can stay at the same school, even if their living situation changes. This includes students and families who are staying with friends or relatives, living in motels, shelters, or even in cars and RV's. If you’ve been kicked out of your home, no matter the reason, you also qualify. Once you're in the program, you can stay in it for the rest of the school year, even if your living situation becomes stable. If you think you might qualify, reach out to Elise Barlow ([email protected]) or your Advisory teacher, even if you don’t need help right now.

You can also learn more about HEART at our District’s HEART, homeless assistance page.

It is unlawful for a person under eighteen years old, unless the person is at least fourteen years old and has the permission of a parent or guardian, to purchase or possess a personal protection spray device. Such devices may only be used in a manner consistent with the authorized “use of force” statute. i.e. “whenever used by a party about to be injured, or by another lawfully aiding him or her, in preventing or attempting to prevent an offense against his or her person, or a malicious trespass…the force is not more than is necessary.” (Board Policy 4210)

The West Valley School District agrees that persons may possess protection spray devices on school property for their protection as long as they meet the requirements of the law and have a valid permission slip on file at school. This form must be on file in the school office in order to carry a personal protection device. Ask our office staff if you need this form.

Students are allowed access on the Internet with parental approval.  Students are responsible for good behavior on school computer networks, just as they are in any other aspect of school life. The network is provided as a privilege for students to conduct research, complete classroom tasks, and communicate with others.

The school reviews files and communications without prior notice in order to maintain system integrity and ensure students are utilizing the network appropriately.  Failure to comply with district and school rules may result in a loss of network access, disciplinary action by the school administration, and referral to law enforcement agencies.  School equipment cannot be used for personal business.

Spokane Valley High School is designated as a Title I school that operates within a schoolwide model. Our goal is to provide all students a significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high quality education and close any potential achievement gaps. A well-rounded education is provided for all students to access enriched curriculum and a rigorous standards based educational experience.

At any given time, any student can need additional support to be and do their very best. As a school wide model, we have varied resources, staff experience, and data we use to determine what enrichment, intervention and supports best fit each student throughout the school year. At SVH, staff often provide the following supports:

• Curriculum compacting and acceleration
• Small group and individualized instruction
• Flexible, personalized interventions
• Differentiated instruction and scaffolding
• Focused behavioral strategies and instruction
• Social and emotional learning tools

If you have any questions about the Title I School Wide Program, please contact our Categorical Programs Administrator: Tania Johnson - [email protected]

EMERGENCY CLOSURES

School bus schedules or routes are changed only during the most severe weather or emergency conditions. If it is necessary to run limited school bus schedules or close schools for any reason, information will be shared through ParentSquare and broadcast on local radio and television stations.

All students who ride the school bus will receive information from their bus driver noting the changes in bus schedules and routes in severe weather or other emergencies.  District buses are equipped with chains and the drivers have been trained to drive on slippery roads.

Reminders:

• Please ensure your contact information is up-to-date in Skyward and sign up for the ParentSquare App. This will ensure you receive the most accurate and up-to-date communications from the District during emergency situations.
  
• Between 6:00 and 7:00 am, area radio and TV stations will announce any school cancellations or delays of starting times.

• If no announcements about West Valley Schools are sent from ParentSquare or broadcast on the radio and TV stations, schools are open.
  
• If schools are closed for emergency reasons for one day, they will be open the following day unless information to the contrary is announced by ParentSquare, radio or TV.

EMERGENCY DRILLS and PROCEDURES

Fire/Evacuation Drills

The signal used in the event of a fire or fire drill is a distinct alarm signal.  At the signal, students should check their surroundings for signs of fire. If fire is detected, students should move quickly in an orderly manner out of the building according to the exit plan posted in each classroom. Windows and doors should be closed before the room is evacuated. If there is no fire detected, students should follow the procedure outlined for lockdown drills.

Lockdown Drills 

Lockdown drills may be signaled several ways: PA announcement, phone or ParentSquare alert, or via the lockdown flashing light indicators located throughout campus.  At the signal, students should move immediately into the nearest classroom and follow the instructions of staff present in the room. In general, students should aim to be unseen and unheard during lockdowns.

SVH conducts a drill approximately once per month which may also include Earthquake and Shelter In Place procedures. We confer with District Security to evaluate our efficiency and to improve our procedures. A complete copy of our emergency plans will be provided upon request.

SVH Attendance Hotline: (509) 922-5475, extension 3001 or 3002

Every time you are absent, you lose the educational opportunities planned for that day.  Many times it is impossible to make up for the "missed" experience. Washington State Law specifies that a student shall be regular and punctual in their attendance (BECCA Bill).  We, at SVH, know that regular and prompt attendance is essential for success.

In 1995 the Washington State Legislation passed a compulsory attendance law known as the "BECCA Bill."  The legislature's intent is to ensure that all students master the educational program provided by the state.  Under the state law, the school district is obligated to take steps to eliminate absences.  According to Washington State law, a Stay petition has to be filed with the Spokane County Court when a student has "seven unexcused absences in a given month" or “10 unexcused absences in a year."  Students will be referred to a Community Engagement Board for excessive absences as a mechanism to provide support and remove barriers to improve attendance.

Referenced: See RCW 28A.225.020

Excused Absences

Absences due to the following reasons must be excused: 

1. Illness, health condition or medical appointment; family emergency; religious or cultural purposes; court, judicial proceeding, court-ordered activity, or jury service; post-secondary, technical school or apprenticeship program visitation, or scholarship interview; state-recognized search and rescue activities consistent with RCW 28A.225.055; directly related to the student's homeless or foster care/dependency status; directly related to deployment activities of a parent or legal guardian who is an active duty member consistent with RCW 28A.705.010; due to suspensions, expulsions or emergency expulsions; due to student safety concerns; due to a student's migrant status; due to an approved activity that is consistent with district policy and is mutually agreed upon by the principal or designee and a parent, guardian, or emancipated youth; and due to the student's lack of necessary instructional tools, including internet access or connectivity.

In the event of emergency school facility closure due to a communicable disease outbreak, natural disaster, or other event when districts are required to provide synchronous and asynchronous instruction, absences due to the following reasons must be excused:

1. Absences related to the student's illness, health condition, or medical appointments due to a communicable disease;
2. Absences related to caring for a family member who has an illness, health condition, or medical appointment due to a communicable disease, or other emergency health condition related to school facility closures;
3. Absences related to the student's family obligations during regularly scheduled school hours that are temporarily necessary because of school facility closures, until other arrangements can be made; and
4. Absences due to the student's parent's work schedule or other obligations during regularly scheduled school hours, until other arrangements can be made.

Unexcused Absence

An "unexcused absence" means that a student has failed to attend the majority of hours or periods in an average school day (Academy/Endeavor Programs) or missed a scheduled learning appointment with their advisor and failed to attend a scheduled makeup within one week (Core Program). Unexcused absences occur when:

1. The parent, guardian or adult student submits an excuse that does not meet the definition of an excused absence as defined above; or 
2. The parent, guardian, or adult student fails to submit any type of excuse statement, whether by phone, e-mail or in writing, for an absence. 

What should students do:

1. Arrive at school at your assigned starting time.
2. If you are going to be late or absent, please call or have your parent/guardian call 509-922-5475. You can leave a voice message at any time. If you are leaving a message, please give your name, reason for absence, and a contact phone number.
3. If you arrive at school late, you need to check in to the attendance office and get a pass before you go to class.
1. If you arrive 10 minutes after the start of a class, you will be marked for an unexcused absence for that class period.
4. If you are 17 or younger, you are required to have telephone or written verification of your absence or late arrival from your parent or guardian. Students who are 18 or older, living with their parents, need to have their parent call to excuse their absence unless there is an "Adult Status" form on file in the office.
5. Before you leave campus for an appointment or if you are ill, make sure that you check out in the attendance office.  Failure to do so is considered being truant.

Unexcused Absence Policy

After 1 unexcused absence, the school will inform the student’s parent/guardian in writing, by phone or through ParentSquare. The notification shall include the potential consequences of additional unexcused absences.

After 2 unexcused absences within a 30-day period, the school will arrange a conference to identify the barriers to the student’s regular attendance and the supports and resources that are available to the family. If the parent does not attend the conference, the parent shall be notified of the steps the school has decided to take to reduce the student's absences.

Between the 2nd and 5th unexcused absences during a school year, the counselor or dean of students will apply the Washington Assessment of Risks and Needs of Students (WARNS) or similar assessment and, where appropriate, provide the student with best practice or research-based interventions consistent with WARNS. If the student has an IEP or 504, advocates of those programs will also convene to consider adjustments to their plan. As appropriate, the district will also consider: 

• adjusting the student's course assignments;
• providing the student more individualized instruction;
• providing appropriate vocational courses or work experience;
• requiring the student to attend an alternative school or program;
• assisting the parent or student to obtain supplementary services; or 
• referring the student to a community truancy board. 

Not later than than the student’s 5th unexcused absence in a 30-day period, at least ONE of the following will take place:

• The school will enter into an agreement with the student and parent establishing attendance requirements and a plan to correct the current pattern.
• The school will refer the student to a Community Engagement Board or other means of coordinated intervention.
• The School will prepare and provide a Stay Petition to District Truancy Officer to be filed in Spokane County Juvenile Court under subsection (1) of RCW 28A.225.030

Not later than a student’s 7th unexcused absence within a 30-day period, or 10th cumulative unexcused absence within a school year, if the district’s attempts to substantially reduce a student’s absences have not been successful and if the student is under the age of 18, the district will prepare and provide a Stay Petition to District Truancy Officer to be filed in Spokane County Juvenile Court under subsection (1) of RCW 28A.225.030 and refer the parent and child to a Community Engagement Board or other coordinated means of intervention if not already completed before the Stay Petition.

If unexcused absences continue, the District Truancy Officer will be notified to “lift” the Stay and file an Amended Petition for Order Requesting a Court Hearing. The Truancy Court will receive, review and file the Amended Petition. A court date will be set. The District Truancy Officer will communicate with the school to request and/or provide information throughout the court process.

Please contact our office (509-922-5475) if you have any questions about attendance codes as they appear in Skyward. Our office can help you determine whether they are excused, unexcused, or if there is some other problem that needs attention.

Note: When parents phone in an absence/tardy it is generally excused and posted as E-PE. The exception is when a student has a truancy petition. Students who have a current truancy petition on file must have a doctor's note for any absence or they need to meet with our school nurse or a designated staff member in order for their absence to be excused.

The primary responsibility for a student’s attire resides with the student and parents or  guardians. 

Dress Code Overall Goals

• Maintain a safe learning environment in classes where protective or supportive clothing is needed, such as chemistry/biology (eye or body protection), dance (bare feet, tights/leotards), or PE (athletic attire/shoes).
• Allow students to wear clothing of their choice that is comfortable.
• Allow students to wear clothing that expresses their self-identified gender.
• Allow students to wear religious attire without fear of discipline or discrimination.
• Prevent students from wearing clothing or accessories with offensive images or language, including profanity, hate speech, and pornography.
• Prevent students from wearing clothing or accessories that denote, suggest, display or reference alcohol, drugs or related paraphernalia or other illegal conduct or activities.
• Prevent students from wearing clothing or accessories that will interfere with the operation of the school, disrupt the educational process, invade the rights of others, or create a reasonably foreseeable risk of such interference or invasion of rights.
• Prevent students from wearing clothing or accessories that reasonably can be construed as being or including content that is racist, lewd, vulgar or obscene, or that reasonably can be construed as containing fighting words, speech that incites others to imminent lawless action, defamatory speech, or threats to others.
• Ensure that all students are treated equitably regardless of race, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, cultural observance, household income or body 
• Note: Funds are available to support students with purchasing appropriate clothing if they do not have the financial means.

The SVH Dress Code

Students Must Wear, while following the basic principles outline above:

• A Shirt (with fabric in the front, back, and on the sides under the arms), AND
• Pants/jeans or the equivalent (for example, a skirt, sweatpants, leggings, a dress or shorts), AND
• Shoes.
• Clothes must be worn in a way such that genitals, buttocks, breasts, and nipples are fully covered with opaque fabric. Cleavage will not have coverage requirements. Please refer to Dress Code goals above.

Students May NOT Wear:

• Violent language or images, or clothing that suggests violence or gang affiliation.
• Images or language depicting drugs or alcohol (or any illegal item or activity).
• Hate speech, profanity, pornography.
• Images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class or consistently marginalized groups.
• Any clothing that reveals visible undergarments (visible waistbands and visible straps are allowed)
• Swimsuit
• Accessories that could be considered dangerous or could be used as a weapon.

Dress Code Corrective Actions 

Students will only be removed from spaces, hallways, or classrooms as a result of a dress code violation as outlined above. Students who are found in violation of the dress code will be provided three (3) options to be dressed more to code during the school day:

• Students will be asked to put on their own alternative clothing, if already available at school, to be dressed more to code for the remainder of the day.
• Students will be provided with temporary school clothing to be dressed more to code for the remainder of the day.
• If necessary, students’ parents may be called during the school day to bring alternative clothing for the student to wear for the remainder of the day.

Refusal to take corrective action will trigger progressive disciplinary action.

Spokane Valley High School’s discipline policy is designed to provide a safe and healthy learning environment for our students, staff and visitors. Established standards of behavior protect the rights of all students to learn in an orderly, positive climate that is conducive to individual and group success. The student behavior we expect at Spokane Valley High School is none other than the behavior demonstrated by good citizens at work, in the home, and in the community.

Positive Behavior Expectations 

Spokane Valley High School staff expect the students to demonstrate the following traits in and out of the classroom:

Be Respectful

• Demonstrate kindness, courtesy and empathy for yourself and others.
• Demonstrate care for books, technology, materials and school facilities.

Be Responsible

• Arrive to class on time, bring the required materials, and commit to the learning experience.
• Communicate with your teacher, attendance office, or group members if you are absent.

Be Safe

• Adhere to school/classroom rules and promote safety for others.
• Be aware of your surroundings: See something, say something.

Be a Team Player

• Participate to the best of your abilities in the classroom, during school-wide activities, and during experiences beyond the four walls. 
• Collaborate with SVH staff and students and engage meaningfully with course materials.

Positive and Restorative Approaches to Behavior & Progressive Discipline 

To discipline means to teach. When a student is sent to the office, administrators will discuss the circumstances, listen to the student's perspective, investigate the facts, and counsel the student about expected behavior. We will always address minor behavior situations with a positive approach and seek to help the student learn from and restore their relationship with others. If corrective action is deemed necessary, it will be assigned using a progressive discipline approach. Progressive discipline means that we first try to modify behavior using the least severe corrective action. Each successive time we meet with a student, the corrective action will be progressively more severe. A sample model of progressive discipline follows:

Level 1: Teacher attempts to help the student modify their behavior using strategies such as: a warning, a private conversation, a calm down break, or a communication with a parent or guardian.

Level 2: After several attempts to help the student in a reasonable time frame, the student is referred to the administration/counseling team. This team will work with the student to better understand the circumstances of their behavior situation and coach them on ways to align with expectations. A parent or guardian will be contacted during this step sometimes as a partner in problem solving and other times just to follow up with information for awareness.

Level 3: If offenses continue, the administration will assign corrective action including community service or other restorative actions, lunch detentions, parent conferences, in-school suspension, or out of school suspension depending on circumstances and severity. 

Students who create a dangerous or disruptive environment for themselves or other students may be removed from classes without warning.

Discipline Guidelines

Schools are meant to be safe and inclusive environments where all students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities. This section defines HIB, explains what to do when you see or experience it, and our school’s process for responding to it.

What is HIB?

HIB is any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act of a student that:

• Physically harms another student or damages their property;
• Has the effect of greatly interfering with another student’s education; or,
• Is so severe, persistent, or significant that it creates an intimidating or threatening education environment for other students.

HIB generally involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated. HIB is not allowed, by law, in our schools.

How can I make a report or complaint about HIB?

Talk to any school staff member (consider starting with whoever you are most comfortable with!). You may use our district’s reporting form to share concerns about HIB but reports about HIB can be made in writing or verbally. Your report can be made anonymously, if you are uncomfortable revealing your identity, or confidentially if you prefer it not be shared with other students involved with the report. No disciplinary action will be taken against another student based solely on an anonymous or confidential report. To find forms, navigate to www.wvsd.org. Click on “Family Resources” and then “Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Resources”.

If a staff member is notified of, observes, overhears, or otherwise witnesses HIB, they must take prompt and appropriate action to stop the HIB behavior and to prevent it from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer (Vicki Leifer, [email protected] that supports prevention and response to HIB.

What happens after I make a report about HIB?

If you report HIB, school staff must attempt to resolve the concerns. If the concerns are resolved, then no further action may be necessary. However, if you feel that you or someone you know is the victim of unresolved, severe, or persistent HIB that requires further investigation and action, then you should request an official HIB investigation.

Also, the school must take actions to ensure that those who report HIB don’t experience retaliation.

What is the investigation process?

When you report a complaint, the HIB Compliance Officer or staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved with the complaint and must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 5 school days, unless you agree on a different timeline. If your complaint involves circumstances that require a longer investigation, the district will notify you with the anticipated date for their response.

When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must provide you with the outcomes of the investigation within 2 school days. This response should include:

• A summary of the results of the investigation
• A determination of whether the HIB is substantiated
• Any corrective measures or remedies needed
• Clear information about how you can appeal the decision

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

For the student designated as the “targeted student” in a complaint:

If you do not agree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal the decision and include any additional information regarding the complaint to the superintendent, or the person assigned to lead the appeal, and then to the school board.

For the student designated as the “aggressor” in a complaint:

A student found to be an “aggressor” in a HIB complaint may not appeal the decision of a HIB investigation. They can, however, appeal corrective actions that result from the findings of the HIB investigation.

For more information about the HIB complaint process, including important timelines, please see the district’s HIB webpage or the district’s HIB Policy 3207 and Procedure 3207P.

Our School Stands Against Discrimination

Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because they are part of a protected class, including their race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, creed, disability, use of a service animal, or veteran or military status.

What is discriminatory harassment?

Discriminatory harassment can include teasing and name-calling; graphic and written statements; or other conduct that may be physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Discriminatory harassment happens when the conduct is based on a student’s protected class and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when conduct is so severe, pervasive, or persistent that it limits a student’s ability to participate in, or benefit from, the school’s services, activities, or opportunities.

To review the district’s Nondiscrimination Policy 3210 and Procedure 3210, visit www.wvsd.org and click on “Our District” then “School Board” and finally “Policies and Procedures”.

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct or communication that is sexual in nature and substantially interferes with a student's educational performance or creates an intimidating or hostile environment. Sexual harassment can also occur when a student is led to believe they must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or communication to gain something in return, such as a grade or a place on a sports team.

Examples of sexual harassment can include pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors; unwelcome touching of a sexual nature; graphic or written statements of a sexual nature; distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures; making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks; and physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.

Our schools do not discriminate based on sex and prohibit sex discrimination in all of our education programs and employment, as required by Title IX and state law.

To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy 3205 and Procedure 3205, visit www.wvsd.org and click on “Our District” then “School Board” and finally “Policies and Procedures”.

What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?

When a school becomes aware of possible discriminatory or sexual harassment, it must investigate and stop the harassment. The school must address any effects the harassment had on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and make sure that the harassment does not happen again.

What can I do if I’m concerned about discrimination or harassment?

Talk to a Coordinator or submit a written complaint. You may contact the following school district staff members to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns.

Concerns about discrimination:

Civil Rights Coordinator: Sabre Dahl, Executive Director of Human Resources

2805 N Argonne Rd., Spokane Valley WA 99212

[email protected]

509-924-2150

Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment:

Title IX Coordinator:  Sabre Dahl, Executive Director of Human Resources

2805 N Argonne Rd., Spokane Valley WA 99212

[email protected]

509-924-2150

Concerns about disability discrimination:

Section 504 Coordinator: Dan Andrews, Special Services Director

2805 N Argonne Rd., Spokane Valley WA 99212

[email protected]

509-922-5478

Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity:

Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Vicki Leifer, Assistant Superintendent

2805 N Argonne Rd., Spokane Valley WA 99212

[email protected]

509-924-2150

To submit a written complaint, describe the conduct or incident that may be discriminatory and send it by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery to the school principal, district superintendent, or civil rights coordinator. Submit the complaint as soon as possible for a prompt investigation, and within one year of the conduct or incident.

What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?

The Civil Rights Coordinator will give you a copy of the school district’s discrimination complaint procedure. The Civil Rights Coordinator must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that require a longer investigation, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing with the anticipated date for their response.

When the investigation is complete, the school district superintendent or the staff member leading the investigation will send you a written response. This response will include:

• A summary of the results of the investigation
• A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws
• Any corrective measures or remedies needed
• Notice about how you can appeal the decision

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

If you do not agree with the outcome of your complaint, you may appeal the decision to the School Board and then to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). More information about this process, including important timelines, is included in the district’s Nondiscrimination Procedure 3210 and Sexual Harassment Procedure 3205.

I already submitted an HIB complaint – what will my school do?

Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) can also be discrimination if it's related to a protected class. If you give your school a written report of HIB that involves discrimination or sexual harassment, your school will notify the Civil Rights Coordinator. The school district will investigate the complaint using both the Nondiscrimination Procedure 3210  and the HIB Procedure 3207 to fully resolve your complaint.

Who else can help with HIB or Discrimination Concerns?

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)

All reports must start locally at the school or district level. However, OSPI can assist students, families, communities, and school staff with questions about state law, the HIB complaint process, and the discrimination and sexual harassment complaint processes.

OSPI School Safety Center (For questions about harassment, intimidation, and bullying)

• Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/health-safety/school-safety-center
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 360-725-6068

OSPI Equity and Civil Rights Office (For questions about discrimination and sexual harassment)

• Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/policy-funding/equity-and-civil-rights
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 360-725-6162

Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO)

The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds works with families, communities, and schools to address problems together so every student can fully participate and thrive in Washington’s K-12 public schools. OEO provides informal conflict resolution tools, coaching, facilitation, and training about family, community engagement, and systems advocacy.

• Website: www.oeo.wa.gov
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 1-866-297-2597

U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR)

The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces federal nondiscrimination laws in public schools, including those that prohibit discrimination based on sex, race, color, national origin, disability, and age. OCR also has a discrimination complaint process.

• Website: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 800-421-3481

Our School is Gender-Inclusive

In Washington, all students have the right to be treated consistent with their gender identity at school. Our school will:

• Address students by their requested name and pronouns, with or without a legal name change
• Change a student’s gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records
• Allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity
• Allow students to participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips in accordance with their gender identity
• Keep health and education information confidential and private
• Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and apply dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender
• Protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity

To review the district’s Gender-Inclusive Schools Policy 3211 and Procedure 3211, visit www.wvsd.org and click on “Our District” then “School Board” and finally “Policies and Procedures”. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator:

Vicki Leifer

Assistant Superintendent

[email protected]

509-924-2150

For concerns about discrimination or discriminatory harassment based on gender identity or gender expression, please see the information above.

Evidence of use, delivery, possession or being affected in any degree by alcoholic beverages, controlled substances or illegal drugs on school property or at school sponsored events is prohibited. Use or possession of paraphernalia that may be used, or is intended to be used, with illegal drugs or controlled substances are also prohibited. 

Tobacco products and delivery devices include, but are not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, snuff, smoking tobacco, smokeless tobacco, nicotine, electronic smoking/vapor devices, “vapor pens”, non-prescribed inhalers, nicotine delivery devices or devices that produce the same flavor or physical effect of nicotine substances and any other smoking equipment, device, material or innovation. Any use of such products and/or delivery devices by staff, students, visitors and community members shall be prohibited on school district property. Possession by or distribution of tobacco products to minors is prohibited. This will include all district buildings, grounds, and district owned vehicles.

This information is further described in School Board Policy #3200 and #4215 which can be found on our school district website. Visit www.wvsd.org and click on “Our District” then “School Board” and finally “Policies and Procedures” or use this link directly to the Policy and Procedure page.