Northwest Community Schools

2025-26 Student Handbook

This handbook is intended for use by students, parents, and staff as a guide to the rules, procedures, and general information about the District. The use of the word “parent” in this handbook means a student’s natural or adoptive parent or legal guardian. Students and their parents are responsible for familiarizing themselves with this handbook, and parents should use the handbook as a resource to assist their students with following its rules and procedures.

Students must comply with all school policies, regulations, rules, and expectations. The use of the word “Policy” in this handbook includes bylaws or policies adopted by the Board of Education. Although the information in this handbook is comprehensive, it is not intended to address every situation that may arise during a school day or school year. This handbook does not create a contract between the District and parents, students, or staff. The administration is responsible for interpreting the rules contained in the handbook to ensure the implementation of the school’s educational program and well-being of all students. If a situation arises that is not specifically addressed by this handbook, the administration may respond based on applicable law and policy.

The rules and information provided in this handbook may be supplemented or amended by the administration at any time, consistent with applicable law and policy.

Northwest Community Schools

Vision

“The Direction of Greatness”

Mission

“To provide a positive culture that inspires students to achieve greatness”

Table of Contents

Important Information        7

2025-2026 District Calendar        7

2025-2026 Daily Schedule        8

Emergency School Closing Procedures        9

Notice of Non-Discrimination        10

Section I: District-Wide Policies and Procedures        12

Attendance        12

Absences due to illness        13

Planned absences        13

Students are expected to:        13

Books and Supplies        13

Bulletin Boards        14

Bullying        14

Cell Phone Use        14

Cheating, Plagiarism, and Academic Dishonesty        15

Children’s Protective Services Investigations        16

Classroom Behavior        16

Closed Campus        16

Communicable Diseases        16

Damage to School Property        16

Dress and Grooming        16

Dress Code        17

Driving and Parking Personal Vehicles        17

Emergency Contact Information        18

Fees        19

Food Services        19

Field Trips        19

First Aid, Illness, or Injury at School        19

Head Lice        20

Homeless Children and Youth        20

Immunizations        20

Law Enforcement Interviews        21

Limited English Proficiency        21

Locker Use        21

Lost and Found        21

Media Center        22

Medication        22

Asthma Inhalers and Epinephrine Auto-Injectors/Inhalers        22

Parties        22

Playground/Recess Rules        23

Protection of Pupil Rights        23

Public Display of Affection        23

Rights of Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents        23

Search and Seizure        23

Student Education Records        24

Right to Request Explanation or Interpretation        24

Right to Request Amendment of Education Records        24

Directory Information        25

      Address Confidentiality Program        24

Technology        25

Threat Assessment and Response        27

Transportation Services        27

School Vehicle Rules        27

School Vehicle Misconduct Consequences        28

Video Surveillance and Photographs        28

Withdrawal From School        29

Section II: Academics        30

Academic Awards        30

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses        30

Alternative Education Program        31

Commencement        31

Credits and Graduation Requirements        31

Dropping or Adding a Class        32

Dual Enrollment        32

Grades        33

Homework        34

Personal Curriculum        34

Placement        35

Students with Disabilities        35

Summer School        35

Testing Out        35

Work Permits        35

Section III: Student Clubs, Activities, and Athletics        36

Extracurricular Activities        36

Student-Initiated Non-Curricular Clubs        36

Transportation To/From Extracurricular Activities        36

Section IV: Discipline and Code of Conduct        37

Discipline Generally        37

Forms of School Discipline & Applicable Due Process        37

After-School Detention        37

Saturday School        37

In-School Suspension        37

Snap Suspension - Suspension from Class, Subject, or Activity by Teacher        38

Removal for 10 or Fewer School Days        38

Removal for More than 10 School Days        38

Mandatory Permanent Expulsion        39

Student Code of Conduct        39        

Appendix A: Non-Discrimination, Anti-Harassment, and Non-Retaliation (Including Title IX and Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act)        41

Appendix B: Anti-Bullying        44

Appendix C: Protection of Pupil Rights        48

Appendix D: Directory Information and Opt Out Form        49

Appendix E: Acceptable Use Agreement        51

Appendix F: Athletic Code of Conduct        59

Appendix G: Media Center Parent Permission Form        62

Important Information

District Website

www.nwschools.org

Board Policies

Board Policies are available at: BoardDocs

Administration

2025-20265 District Calendar

Northwest Community Schools establishes a calendar that is compliant with local and state law as well as negotiated with the Northwest Education Association.  All school calendars can be found on the district website. www.nwschools.org

2025-2026 Daily Schedule

Secondary Campus [NWHS, & NWC]

        Full Day: 7:30 am- 2:30 pm

        Half Day: 7:30 am - 11:00 am

        Early Release: 7:30 am - 1:30 pm

Secondary Campus [NWMS]

        Full Day: 7:30 am- 2:25 pm

        Half Day: 7:30 am - 11:00 am

        Early Release: 7:30 am - 1:25 pm

Elementary Campus [NWEE & NWEL]

        Full Day: 8:24 am- 3:40 pm

        Half Day: 8:24 am - 12:20 pm

        Early Release: 8:24 am - 2:35 pm

School staff will supervise students on school grounds 15 minutes before the school day begins and 15 minutes after the school day ends. Unless students are participating in a school activity, school staff will not provide supervision before or after these times.  

Emergency School Closing Procedures

In the event of an emergency school closure, such as a bad weather day or when school is unexpectedly closed early, the District will notify students, parents, and the general public about the closure in the following manner:

        District Website

        Mobile App

        Call

        Text

        Email

        Social Media

Notice of Non-Discrimination

The District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex (including gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, or a related condition), age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, military service, veteran status, genetic information, disability, or any other legally protected basis, and prohibits unlawful discrimination, including harassment and retaliation, in any education program or activity that it operates, including in admission and employment.

Inquiries about unlawful discrimination, including unlawful harassment and retaliation, may be referred to the District’s applicable Coordinator and/or an agency with jurisdiction, such as the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, or the Department of Justice.

Designated Title IX Coordinator

Shannon Watts, Director of Compliance & Communications

6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, MI 49201

(517) 817-4970

shannon.watts@nwschools.org

Second Title IX Coordinator

Julie Lawless, Director of Human Resources

6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, MI 49201

(517) 817-4758

julie.lawless@nwschools.org

Designated Section 504 Coordinator

Caitlin Williams, 504/Tier 3/McKinney-Vento Coordinator

6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, MI 49201

(517) 817-4921

caitlin.williams@nwschools.org

Designated Civil Rights Coordinator/Employment Compliance Officer

Julie Lawless, Director of Human Resources

6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, MI 49201

(517) 817-4758

julie.lawless@nwschools.org

The District’s Non-discrimination, Anti-Harassment, and Non-Retaliation Policy and Grievance Procedures is available at this link on the Northwest Community Schools website.

To report information about conduct that may constitute unlawful discrimination, including unlawful harassment and retaliation, or make a complaint of such conduct, please contact the applicable Coordinator listed above.

Any student who witnesses an act of unlawful discrimination, including unlawful harassment or retaliation, is encouraged to report it to District personnel. No student will be retaliated against based on any report of suspected discrimination. A student may also anonymously report an incident of unlawful discrimination. The District will investigate anonymous reports pursuant to its investigation procedures described by Policy. Minor students do not need parent permission to file complaints or participate in the Grievance Process described by Policy.

A student found to have engaged in unlawful discrimination, including unlawful harassment or retaliation, may be subject to discipline, including suspension or expulsion, consistent with Policy 5206.

The District provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups as required by law.

Examples of Unlawful Harassment

“Unlawful harassment” is verbal, written, or physical conduct that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward a person because of the person’s membership in a Protected Class that has the purpose or effect of: (1) creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment; or (2) unreasonably interfering with the person’s ability to benefit from the District’s educational programs or activities.

• Race, color, and national origin harassment can take many forms, including, but not limited to, slurs, taunts, stereotypes, or name-calling, as well as racially motivated physical threats, attacks, or other hateful conduct. Harassment based on ethnicity, ancestry, or perceived ancestral, ethnic, or religious characteristics is considered race, color, and national origin harassment. Policy 3115 is attached to this handbook as Appendix A.
• Disability harassment can take many forms, including, but not limited to, slurs, taunts, stereotypes, or name-calling, as well as disability-motivated physical threats, attacks, or other hateful conduct. Policy 3115 is attached to this handbook as Appendix A.
• Sex-based harassment can take many forms. For the definition of sex-based harassment, including sexual harassment under Title IX, see Policy 3118, attached to this handbook as Appendix A.

Section I: District-Wide Policies and Procedures

Attendance

Students are expected to attend school every day school is in session. Students are to arrive before the first class and stay until the scheduled end of their school day. If a student is unable to attend school, the student or parent must report that absence to the appropriate building’s front office staff.

If a student arrives late, the student must sign in at the office. A student may only leave school early if the student’s parent notifies the office or the student is an emancipated minor or 18 years old.

The following absences will be considered excused if they are confirmed by communication to the school from the student’s parent:

• Illness (Requires a doctor’s note) or is sent home by the school nurse
• medical appointments for the student;
• death or serious illness of the student’s family member;
• appearance at court or for other legal matters.

Attendance Code Definitions

Tardiness

NWEE/NWEL

A student who is not in their assigned location by 8:35 shall be considered tardy.  Any student arriving late to school is to report to the school office before proceeding to class. The tardy will be excused if the student has a doctor’s note.

Students who arrive after 9:00 AM will be considered absent.

Early dismissals are discouraged.  Students leaving early often miss important academic instructions and this also disrupts the end-of-day classroom routines for all students.  Please make every effort to schedule appointments outside of school hours.  Students leaving 30 minutes or less prior to dismissal will be marked as early out.

NWMS/NWHS/NWC

Attendance at NWHS

Each student is expected to be in their assigned location throughout the school day.  If a student is late in arriving at school, they must report to the school office before proceeding to their first assigned location.  Any student who is late up to 10 minutes after the 1st hour has started and up to 5 minutes after every other period of the school day shall be considered tardy. Arrival after the tardy period will be considered absent.  

When a high school or middle school student has been tardy to a class on 3 occasions, a consequence will be assigned. Additional discipline will be assigned for every tardy thereafter based on the Behavior Rubric.

A student who violates attendance expectations may be subject to discipline and any other applicable consequences.

Absences due to illness

The school will contact parents if a student becomes ill at school and may ask that the parent pick up the student. Excused Illnesses - specify that illnesses are excused only when they are “severe injury or illness too severe for the student to attend class with supporting documentation from a physician.”  This specificity can help parents from excusing minor illnesses, physical complaints, or things like sleeping in. (How Sick is Too Sick for School)

Students with a health condition that causes repeated absence are to provide the school office with documentation of the condition from a registered physician.

Planned absences

Parents who know in advance that a student will be absent must contact the school at the earliest possible date. Students who will be absent for reasons that can be anticipated, such as routine medical appointments and school activities, must complete any work required by the teacher before the absence unless alternative arrangements are approved by the teacher in advance. Parents should make every attempt to schedule medical and other appointments outside of school hours.

Students are expected to:

• Complete all class work in advance for any absence that can be anticipated or make alternative arrangements with their teacher in advance of the absence.
• Sign out of school at the office if leaving school during the school day.
• Make up all work that is assigned by teachers for the instructional time that has been missed.

For more information, see Policy 5301.

Northwest Community Schools Attendance Drop/Transfer Guideline

Drops

10‐Consecutive School Day District Drop Policy

1. In-Person Students may be dropped from PowerSchool 10 consecutive school days after no contact with any school district personnel and completion of the following:  

1. Those responsible, as assigned by building Administrators, should make every effort to retain students by making phone calls to all contacts in the district Student Information System, sending attendance letters, attendance plan, doing home visits and any other method the building uses for retaining students. All steps of the Northwest Truancy Process must be completed prior to dropping a student.

2. Virtual Students may be dropped from PowerSchool 2 weeks with no contact via 2-way communication and no school work completed within those 10 days. All steps of the Northwest Truancy Process must be completed prior to dropping a student.
3. Special Education Students can only be dropped with a records request from another district.

Transfers

1. The school for which the student is departing must transfer the student records to their new school as soon as a records request is received.
2. In District- The destination school should not pull the student from their previous school unless it is communicated to and agreed upon by both school buildings.

Books and Supplies

The District will provide free instruction to all students and will not charge a fee for materials necessary to complete required or elective courses. Students and parents may purchase additional supplies at their own expense. The District may charge a reasonable and refundable deposit to cover damage to textbooks and supplies. A teacher may provide a list of suggested materials that students and parents may purchase. Purchasing materials is voluntary and not required for curricular activities.

Students must take care of books and other supplies provided by the District. The District may assess fees to repair or replace District property that is lost, damaged, stolen, returned in a different condition, or not returned on time.

Bulletin Boards

Space may be provided within school buildings or on school electronic media for students and student organizations to post notices about student groups. Rules for posting on bulletin boards are found in Policy 5503.

Bullying

All types of student-on-student bullying, including cyberbullying, without regard to subject matter or motivation, are prohibited. The District’s Anti-Bullying Policy is attached to this handbook as Appendix B.

Cell Phone Use

Students may use cell phones or other electronic devices while at school, so long as they do so safely, responsibly, and respectfully, and comply with all other school rules while using the devices.

Students are personally and solely responsible for the security of their cell phones and other electronic devices. The District is not responsible for theft, loss, or damage of any cell phone or other electronic device.

Students may not use cell phones or other electronic devices while they are in locker rooms, restrooms, or any other area in which others may have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing obscene, pornographic, lewd, or otherwise illegal photographs, video, audio, or other similar data, whether by electronic data transfer or otherwise (including via cell phone or other electronic device), may constitute a crime under state or federal law. A student engaged in any of these activities at school, at a school event, or on school-provided transportation, may be subject to discipline. A student engaged in any of these activities outside of school may be disciplined if the student’s activities substantially disrupt or negatively affect the school environment.

Teachers may also develop classroom rules for use of cell phones and other electronic devices.

School administrators and teachers may confiscate a student’s cell phone or other electronic device if the student’s use or possession of a cell phone or electronic device violates Board Policy, the student code of conduct, or any applicable building or classroom rule. The building principal or designee may require a meeting with the student’s parent to discuss the rule violation before returning the cell phone or electronic device.

Northwest Kidder Middle School Cell Phone Use

• Students may use an Electronic Communication Device (ECD: This includes devices such as smart watches, cell phones, radios, etc.) before entering the building and after leaving the building at the end of the school day.

• During the school day, students should place ECDs in their lockers and lock them up.  If an ECD is in their pocket, they must be silenced to prevent distractions.

• ECD use in restrooms and locker rooms is prohibited at all times.

• Students may not exit the building during the school day in order to use an ECD. Phones are available in the office to contact parents.

• Students that participate in extracurricular activities must abide by the ECD use rules determined by the coach, advisor, or sponsor. Coaches, advisors, and sponsors will enforce the consequences involving misuse of these devices during practices, meetings, or competitions.

• The school district is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage to ECDs. Students are encouraged to leave the devices in secure locations. A school district employee that stores an ECD for a student is not responsible for its loss, theft, or damage.

• Violation of the policy will result in disciplinary action in accordance with the school building code of conduct.

Cheating, Plagiarism, and Academic Dishonesty

Students may not cheat, plagiarize, or otherwise participate in academic dishonesty in any form. Unless specifically authorized by a teacher, prohibited behavior may include, but is not limited to:

• Obtaining, attempting to obtain, or aiding another person in obtaining credit for work by any dishonest or deceptive means.
• Copying another person’s work or answers.
• Discussing with other students the answers or questions on a test or assignment before the test or assignment has been submitted for a grade.
• Taking or receiving copies of a test.
• Using or displaying notes, “cheat sheets,” or other sources of unauthorized information.
• Using the ideas or work of another person as if they were your own without giving proper credit to the source.
• Using artificial intelligence to assist or complete an assignment or test.
• Submitting work or any portion of work completed by another person.

A student who cheats, plagiarizes, or otherwise participates in any academic dishonesty may receive no credit on that assignment or class and will be subject to discipline, up to and including expulsion.

Children’s Protective Services Investigations

The District will cooperate with Children’s Protective Services (CPS) during an investigation of suspected child abuse or neglect. Cooperation may include allowing CPS access to a student without parent consent if CPS determines access is necessary to complete the investigation or prevent abuse or neglect. As a matter of law, the identity of an individual who makes a report of suspected child abuse or neglect is confidential and will not be disclosed.

Classroom Behavior

Teachers may establish classroom conduct rules that students must follow.

Closed Campus

The school campus is a closed campus. All students must remain on campus during school hours. Students who leave campus without authorization are subject to disciplinary action.

Communicable Diseases

The District, in conjunction with local health department officials, may exclude students who:

• Are suspected of having a communicable disease until a physician or local health department official determines the student is no longer a risk; or
• Lack documentation of immunity or are otherwise considered susceptible to a communicable disease until the local health department officials determine the risk of spreading the disease has passed.

Communicable diseases include, but are not limited to, diphtheria, scarlet fever, strep infections, whooping cough, mumps, measles, rubella, COVID-19, and other conditions indicated by the local and state health departments. Any removal will only be for the contagious period or as directed by the local health department.

Concussion Protocol

Before allowing a student to participate in any athletic activity, including physical education, the District will annually:

1. Provide the MHSAA- or state-approved educational materials on concussion awareness to each student and to the student’s Parent; and
2. Obtain a statement signed by each student and respective Parent acknowledging receipt of the MHSAA- or state-approved concussion awareness educational materials. The District will maintain this signed statement for 5 years or until the student is 18, whichever is longer.

The District’s complete concussion protocol is in Policy 5712 including information on student removal from activity for possible concussion and return-to-play requirements.

Damage to School Property

Students who damage school property either intentionally or unintentionally may be subject to discipline and required to pay to replace or restore the property.

Dress and Grooming

In general, clothing should be clean and appropriate for the climate and the situation. Student dress, cleanliness, or personal appearance that is a threat to the safety, health, or welfare of others; violates any statute, Policy 5101, or the Dress Code; or substantially disrupts the educational environment or that school officials reasonably forecast will substantially disrupt the educational environment, is grounds for remedial or disciplinary action.

The final decision in any situation involving inappropriate attire rests with building administrators.

Students who are dressed inappropriately will be asked to change clothing immediately. If necessary, parents will be called to bring appropriate clothing, students can use extra clothing provided by the District, or the student may be sent home to change. Repeated dress code violations may result in more severe consequences.

Dress Code

Tops must have straps or sleeves and must cover the student’s entire torso from armpit to armpit. Pants, shorts, and skirts must cover buttocks completely. Sleepwear, hats and hoods are not permitted. Coats and jackets are to be secured in the building’s designated area (i.e lockers). Clothing may not display material that:

• Is materially and substantially disruptive or that school officials can reasonably forecast will create a substantial disruption;
• Is obscene, sexually explicit, indecent, or lewd;
• Promotes the use of or advertises illegal substances, including but not limited to substances illegal for minors;
• Incites violence;
• Contains “fighting words”;
• Constitutes a true threat of violence;
• Demonstrates hate group association/affiliation or uses hate speech targeting groups based on their membership in a protected class, including, but not limited to, swastikas or Confederate flags; or
• Displays nipples, genitals, buttocks or undergarments.

Students who represent the District at an official or school-sponsored function or public event (e.g., athletic teams, bands, choirs, and other groups) may be required to follow specific dress requirements as a condition of participation or attendance.

Driving and Parking Personal Vehicles

Student driving and parking on District property is a privilege, not a right, that may be revoked at any time. Students who drive to school must obey the following rules:

1. Students may not move their vehicles, sit in, or be around their vehicles during the school day without permission from administration.
2. Students may not drive carelessly or with excessive speed on school grounds.
3. By driving to school and parking on school grounds, students and parents consent to having that vehicle searched when school officials have reasonable suspicion that a search will reveal a violation of school rules, Board Policy, or law.  
4. Unauthorized students may not enter the parking lot area during the school day unless permission is obtained in the office.

5. Students are not to leave the school grounds for lunch

6. Cars and other vehicles are to be parked in designated student areas.
7. All vehicles are to be locked.  Do not loan your vehicle to any other student.  You are responsible for your vehicle remaining at school once you arrive.

8. While on school grounds, all driving will be in a safe and prudent manner.  Students should not deliberately squeal tires or make loud muffler noise.

9. All vehicles driven to school must be registered in the office.  Vehicles without a registration tag will be followed up with and a fee will be charged.  Further offenses may result in loss of driving privileges. If students lose bus privileges temporarily, they must be driven to the Career Center by their parents or an adult nominated by the students’ parent.

10. Continued offenses of failing to register will be classified as insubordination.

Students are not permitted to leave the school grounds at any time during the school day without a permit from the school office.  If you must leave the building because of parent permission, illness, or any emergency, you must sign out in the office prior to leaving.  Failure to follow the proper procedure will be considered an unexcused absence, skip, a violation of driving rules, and result in disciplinary action according to the behavior rubric.

When the school provides transportation, students shall not drive to school-sponsored activities unless written permission is granted by their parents and approved by the principal. Approved student drivers may not transport other students to a school sponsored activity without written permission from the parents of passenger students and approval by the principal.

Failure to comply with these rules will result in loss of privileges and/or disciplinary actions for the student.

Driving to the Career Center

Students are not to drive to the Career Center unless they have been authorized by an administrator prior to leaving campus.  Administrators can give authorization to drive if students have an extended career center day, if they have to drive in order to get to an authorized co-op position, or for other reasons deemed necessary by the administration.  Otherwise, students are expected to ride the regular Career Center bus provided by the school district.  If a student drives, without authorization, or rides with another student, without authorization, they will receive an automatic 2-day suspension from school.

Emergency Contact Information

Parents must provide emergency information for each student enrolled in the District. The information should include the family physician’s name, contact information for parents or a responsible adult, and any necessary emergency instructions. Parents must promptly inform the school if this contact information changes.

Fees

The District will not charge students a fee to participate in curricular activities. The District may charge students a fee to participate in extracurricular and noncurricular activities to cover the District’s reasonable costs. The District may require students to furnish specialized equipment and clothing required for participation in extracurricular and noncurricular activities or may charge a reasonable fee for the use of District-owned equipment or clothing. The activity’s coach or sponsor will provide students with information about the fees charged and the equipment or clothing required.

Food Services

Menus are available on the school district’s website at www.nwschools.org.  

The school participates in the National School Lunch Program and makes lunches available to students.  All students at Northwest Community Schools will receive free breakfast and lunch for the 2024-2025 school year as long as the meal meets the federal requirements of a reimbursable meal. A’ la carte items are available at a cost and may not be charged.  Students may also bring their own lunch to school to be eaten in the school's cafeteria. No student shall be allowed to leave school premises during the lunch period without specific written permission granted by the principal.

All families will be asked to fill out and sign the Education Benefit Form, which is needed for administrative purposes, not to determine eligibility. All information on the survey submitted is confidential. Without your assistance, the school cannot maximize utilization of available State and Federal funds.

Field Trips

Classes occasionally take field trips off school property for educational enrichment. Each student must submit a completed permission form signed by the student’s parent before being allowed to attend a field trip.

A student’s failure to comply with Board Policy, the Student Code of Conduct, or any other applicable rules or behavioral expectations while on a field trip may result in disciplinary action and removal or exclusion from the trip or future field trips.

Students who have not met academic or behavioral expectations may not be allowed to attend field trips.  

First Aid, Illness, or Injury at School

Students who feel ill or are hurt while at school should seek immediate assistance from their classroom teacher or the nearest staff member.

When the building principal or designee determines that a student is too ill or injured to remain at school, school staff will contact the student’s parent or other designated responsible adult to pick up the student from school. If the student requires immediate medical attention, the District will first attempt to contact a parent or other designated responsible adult when reasonably possible. If contact cannot be made, the building principal or designee will take any reasonable action necessary on the student’s behalf, consistent with state law.

Students showing symptoms of a communicable disease may be sent home. The District may require a statement from a licensed physician or local health official before allowing the student to return to school.

Head Lice

A student with nits within ¼ inch of the scalp or live lice may remain at school until the end of the school day. The student will be restricted from activities that involve close head-to-head contact or sharing of personal items. The District will notify the student’s parent and provide educational materials on head lice prevention and treatment.

The student will be readmitted to school after treatment so long as the parent consents to a head examination and the examining District official does not find live lice on the student. If the District official finds nits within ¼ inch of the student’s scalp, the student may return to class, but the District must inform the student’s parent about the need to remove the nits. District personnel will not ostracize or embarrass a student with lice or nits and will maintain student confidentiality.

If a student has a persistent infestation after 6 weeks or 3 separate cases within 1 school year, the District will form a team that may include the student’s parents, teacher, social workers, or administrators to determine the best approach to resolve the issue.

Homeless Children and Youth

The District will provide a free public education to homeless children and youth who are in the District and will afford them the educational rights and legal protections provided by federal and state law. Homeless children and youth will not be stigmatized or segregated based on their homeless status and will have the same access to services offered to students who are not homeless.

A student or parent in a homeless situation who requires assistance should contact the District’s homeless liaison:

CAITLIN WILLIAMS

6900 RIVES JUNCTION ROAD

(517) 817-4841

CAITLIN.WILLIAMS@NWSCHOOLS.ORG

For detailed information about Homeless Children and Youth, see Policy 5307.

Immunizations

For a student entering the District for the first time and entering 7th grade, a parent must provide the building principal or designee with a certificate stating that the student has received at least 1 dose of an immunizing agent against each disease specified by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) or other responsible agency or documentation of an applicable approved exemption.

The student’s parent must provide the certificate or documentation at the time of registration, or no later than the first day of school. A parent of a student who has not received all doses of any required immunizing agent must provide the District an updated immunization certificate demonstrating that the immunizations have been completed as required by the MDHHS. The updated certificate must be provided within 4 months of the student entering the District for the first time or upon entering 7th grade. The District will not permit a student to attend school unless the parent provides evidence of immunizations or exemptions consistent with Policy 5713 and state law.

Law Enforcement Interviews

Law enforcement officers may be called to the school at the request of school administration. Students may be questioned by law enforcement consistent with Policy 5201. Students may be questioned by school officials at any time, without parent notice or consent, consistent with the District’s obligation to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment.  

Limited English Proficiency

Limited proficiency in the English language should not be a barrier to a student’s equal participation in the District’s instructional or extracurricular programs. Those students identified as having limited English proficiency will be provided additional support and instruction to assist them in gaining English proficiency and in accessing the educational and extra-curricular programs offered by the District.

Locker Use

Pursuant to Policy 5102, lockers are District property and may be made available for student use. Lockers are assigned to students on a temporary basis, and District administration may revoke a student’s locker assignment at any time. The District retains ownership of lockers notwithstanding student use.

Students have no expectation of privacy in their lockers. The building principal or designee may inspect lockers without any particularized suspicion or reasonable cause and without advance notice. Upon the request of the building principal or designee, law enforcement may assist with searching lockers.

During a locker search, student privacy rights will be respected for any items that are not illegal or violate Board Policy or building rules.

Students must keep all personal belongings, including coats, backpacks, and bags in their lockers during the school day.

Lost and Found

All lost and found items are to be taken to the building front office. Students may claim lost articles there. Unclaimed items may be donated to a local charity or otherwise disposed of at the conclusion of each semester.

Media Center

Students must check out materials from the media specialist or designee on duty. Each borrower is responsible for all materials checked out in the borrower’s name. Each student is responsible for any fine that accumulates on materials charged to the student. If materials are lost and not returned by the end of the semester, the student must pay for the replacement cost. Students must also pay for any damage they cause to materials.

Medication

Whenever possible, parents should arrange student medication schedules to eliminate the need for administration of medication at school. When a student requires prescription or over-the-counter medication at school, the following procedures apply:

• The student’s parent must annually submit a written request and consent form as required by the District.
• A building principal or designee must request that the parent supply medications in the exact dosage required whenever feasible.
• The building principal or designee will notify the student’s parent of any observed adverse reaction to medication.
• All medications must be in the original container.

For additional information and requirements, see Policy 5703.

Asthma Inhalers and Epinephrine Auto-Injectors/Inhalers

A student may possess and use an asthma inhaler or epinephrine auto-injector or inhaler with written approval from the student’s healthcare provider and consistent with Policy 5703. A minor student must also have written permission from the student’s parent. The required documentation must be submitted to the building principal or designee. If a student is authorized to self-possess or self-administer an asthma inhaler or epinephrine auto-injector or inhaler, the building principal or designee will notify the student’s teachers and other staff as appropriate.

Additionally, the school must maintain a written emergency care plan drafted by a physician in collaboration with the student’s parent. The emergency care plan will contain specific instructions related to the student’s needs. The physician and parent should update the emergency care plan as necessary to address any changes in the student’s medical circumstances.

Parties

Classes may have seasonal or curriculum-related parties during the year. Students must follow all expectations and rules established by the teacher or other relevant staff during the party. Invitations for private parties and non-school-sponsored events may not be distributed in the classroom.

Playground/Recess Rules

Students must comply with the Student Code of Conduct during recess or while using the playground.

Students who violate the Student Code of Conduct may be disciplined.

Staff will supervise students when the students use the playground or recess area during the school day or as part of a school activity. At all other times and circumstances, the District does not provide supervision of its playgrounds, equipment, or surrounding areas.

Protection of Pupil Rights

The District respects the rights of parents and their children and has adopted a Protection of Pupil Rights policy as required by law. The policy is available on the District’s website or upon request from the District’s administrative office. Parents may opt their child out of participation in activities identified by the Protection of Pupil Rights policy by submitting a written request to the Superintendent. Parents may have access to any survey or other material described in the Protection of Pupil Rights policy by submitting a written request to the Superintendent. A copy of the District’s annual notice to parents regarding the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment is attached as Appendix C.

Public Display of Affection

Students may not engage in public display of affection that are disruptive to the school environment or distracting to others.

Rights of Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents

Unless a parent has provided the building principal or designee with a court order that provides otherwise, District personnel will treat each parent, regardless of custody or visitation rights, the same as to accessing student records, meeting and conferring with District personnel, visiting a child at school, and transporting a child to or from school. District personnel are not responsible for enforcing visitation or parenting time orders.

Parents, regardless of custodial status, will be provided information about conference times so both parents may attend a single conference. The District is not required to schedule separate conferences if both parents have been previously informed of scheduled conference times.

If either or both parents’ behavior is disruptive, staff may terminate a conference and reschedule it with appropriate modifications or expectations.

Search and Seizure

To maintain order and discipline in school and protect the safety and welfare of students and school personnel, school authorities may search a student or the student’s personal effects (e.g., purse, book bag, athletic bag) as permitted by law and may seize any illegal, unauthorized, or contraband materials discovered in the search. As noted in “Locker Use,” student lockers and desks are school property and remain at all times under the District’s control. Student lockers and desks are subject to search at any time for any reason and without notice or consent.

School officials may use canines, metal detectors, wands, or other tools to conduct searches.

A student’s failure to permit a search and seizure may be grounds for disciplinary action. A student’s person and personal effects may be searched whenever a school official has reasonable suspicion to believe that the student possesses illegal or unauthorized materials. If a properly conducted search yields illegal or contraband materials, these items may be turned over to law enforcement or stored in a secure place at school until a disciplinary hearing.

Student Education Records

The District may collect, retain, use, and disclose student education records consistent with state and federal law. See Policy 5309 for an overview of the District’s collection, retention, use, and disclosure of student records.

Parents may inspect and review their minor child’s education records, regardless of custody status, unless a court order specifies otherwise. An eligible student (i.e., a student who is 18 years or older or an emancipated minor) may also inspect and review their education records.

Right to Request Explanation or Interpretation

A parent or eligible student may request, in writing, an explanation or interpretation of a student’s education records. School officials will respond to any reasonable request.

Right to Request Amendment of Education Records

A parent or eligible student may request that a student’s education record be amended if the parent or eligible student believes the record is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights as explained in Policy 5309.

Directory Information

The District designates the following information as directory information:

1. student names, addresses, and telephone numbers (except for students participating in the address confidentiality program act);
2. Parent and/or Guardian email address
3. photographs, including photographs and videos depicting a student’s participation in school-related activities and classes;
4. date and place of birth;
5. major field of study;
6. grade level;
7. enrollment status (e.g., full-time or part-time);
8. dates of attendance (e.g., 2013-2017);
9. dates of graduation;
10. participation in officially recognized activities and sports;
11. weight and height of athletic team members;
12. degrees, honors, and awards received; and
13. the most recent educational agency or institution attended.

School officials may disclose “directory information” without the prior written consent of a parent or eligible student unless the parent or eligible student specifically notifies the District that the parent or eligible student does not consent to the disclosure of the student’s directory information for 1 or more of the uses for which the District would commonly disclose the information.

A Directory Information Opt Out Form is attached to this handbook as Appendix D. This form allows the parent or eligible student to elect not to have the student’s directory information disclosed for 1 or more of the listed uses. Upon receipt of a completed Directory Information Opt Out Form, school officials may not release the student’s directory information for any of the uses selected on the form.

Address Confidentiality Program

The District will not disclose a student’s or parent’s phone number or address or the parent’s employment address to another person who is the subject of a court order that prohibits disclosure of the information if the District has received a copy of the order. The District will not disclose a confidential address, phone number, or email address in violation of the Address Confidentiality Program Act if the student or the student’s parent notifies the District that the student or the student’s parent has obtained a participation card issued by the department of attorney general.

Technology

Use of District technology resources is a privilege, not a right. Students are expected to use computers, the Internet, and other District technology resources for school-related educational purposes only. Students and their parents are required to sign and return the Acceptable Use Agreement attached as Appendix E before they may use or access District technology resources. Students who violate the District’s Acceptable Use Agreement may have technology privileges terminated or suspended and may be subject to discipline, up to and including expulsion.

Threat Assessment and Response

The Board of Education is committed to providing a safe environment for all members of the school community.  Our commitment to security includes creating and maintaining a safe school climate and supportive culture as a foundation for preventing violence and mitigating risk.

Students are encouraged to report any threat immediately. Threats may be reported to any District employee in-person, by e-mail, or by telephone. Students may also report threats through the OK2SAY program.

Transportation Services

School Vehicle Rules

Riding in school vehicles is a privilege, not a right. Students must comply with the following rules and all school conduct rules and directives while riding in school vehicles. In addition, students must comply with the Student Code of Conduct while in school vehicles.

When in school vehicles, the following rules apply:

1. Students must promptly comply with any directive given by the driver.
2. Students must wait in a safe place for the vehicle to arrive, clear of traffic and away from where the vehicle stops.
3. Students may not fight or engage in bullying, harassment, or horseplay while riding or waiting for school vehicles.
4. Students must enter the vehicle without crowding or disturbing others and go directly to a seat.
5. Students must remain seated and keep aisles and exits clear while the vehicle is moving.
6. Students may not throw or pass objects on, from, or into vehicles.
7. Students may not use profane language, obscene gestures, tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or any other controlled substance on the vehicles.
8. Students may not carry weapons, look-a-like weapons, hazardous materials, nuisance items, or animals onto the vehicle.
9. Students may converse in ordinary tones and volumes but may not be loud or boisterous and should avoid talking to the driver while the vehicle is moving. Students must be absolutely quiet when the vehicle approaches a railroad crossing and any time the driver calls for quiet.
10. Students may not open windows without the driver’s permission. Students may not dangle body parts or other items (e.g., legs, arms, backpacks) out of the windows.
11. Students must secure any item(s) that could break or cause injury if tossed about the inside of the vehicle if the vehicle were involved in an accident.
12. Students must respect the rights and safety of others at all times.
13. Students must help keep the vehicle clean, sanitary, and orderly. Students must remove all personal items and trash upon exiting.
14. Students may not vandalize or intentionally cause damage to the vehicle.
15. Students may not leave or board the vehicle at locations other than the assigned stops at home or school unless approved prior to departure by the superintendent or designee.

Video cameras may be placed on vehicles and buses to monitor student behavior on the vehicle/bus. Exceptions or modifications to these rules may be made as necessary to accommodate a student with a disability.

School Vehicle Misconduct Consequences

Students who violate the school vehicle rules will be referred to administration for discipline. Disciplinary consequences may include parent notification, suspension of vehicle/bus riding privileges, exclusion from extracurricular activities, in-school suspension, and suspension or expulsion.

These consequences are not progressive and school officials have discretion to impose any listed consequence they deem appropriate in accordance with state and federal law and board policy.

Records of vehicle misconduct will be forwarded to the appropriate building principal and will be maintained in the same manner as other student discipline records. Reports of serious misconduct may be reported to law enforcement.

Video Surveillance and Photographs

The District may monitor any District building, facility, property, bus, or vehicle with video recording equipment other than areas where a person has a legally recognized and reasonable expectation of privacy (e.g., restrooms and locker rooms). Except in those school areas, a person has no expectation of privacy.

The District may use video recordings for any lawful purpose, including student discipline, assisting law enforcement, or investigations.

Students may not make recordings: on school property; when on a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by the District; or at a school-sponsored activity or athletic event unless otherwise authorized by Policies 5210 or 5805, applicable law, or a District employee.

Withdrawal From School

Students who are transferring from the District must submit written notice to the building principal at least 1 week before the withdrawal.

Section II: Academics

To encourage students and parents to stay apprised of student academic information, grades, attendance, and other information can be accessed via PowerSchool.

To register for PowerSchool, contact the building front office.

Academic Awards- Northwest High School

Scholastic Honors

• Summa Cum Laude (With Highest Honor) – Gold Cord
• GPA 3.75-4.00
• Magna Cum Laude (With High Honor) – Silver Cord
• GPA 3.50-3.74
• Cum Laude (With Honor) – White Cord
• GPA 3.00-3.49

Academic Awards Criteria

All classes must be completed through Northwest High School.

• The student must have earned a B- or higher in every class during the school year.
• The GPA must be a 3.0 or higher.
• All classes must meet the Michigan Merit Curriculum.

First Year – Felt Number Patch of Graduation Year

Second Year – NW Logo with the Learning Lamp

Third Year – Academic Pin

Fourth Year – Golden Tassel

PACT Certification

This certification is awarded to seniors with a 3 or 4 for their PACT grades for first and second term and who have met the attendance requirement of no more than four unexcused absences and no more than six tardies to first hour and no more than four tardies to their other classes.

P=Personal Management – Attendance, Productivity, Integrity and Responsibility, and Organization
A=Adaptability – Positive Attitude, Problem Solving, Willingness to Learn, and Initiative
C=Communication – Effective Verbal Communication, Conveys Information in Writing, and Active Listener
T=Teamwork and Collaboration – Respectful, Contributor, Team Player, and Cooperative

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses - Northwest High School

AP Class options at Northwest High School:

• AP Calculus AB
• AP Language and Composition
• AP Literature and Composition
• AP Psychology
• AP US History
• AP Computer Science Principles
• AP Chemistry

Students are given the option to select AP level courses in their sophomore, junior, and senior years. Acceptance into an AP course is determined by having met the prerequisites and teacher approval. These classes are graded on the AP grading scale. Students are expected to take the AP exam at the end of the year. Students who choose to drop an AP course after the test ordering deadline are required to pay the test cancellation fee.

Northwest Connect |  Alternative Education Program

Northwest Connect offers a variety of options for our Northwest Students.  High School students are able to complete in person learning, virtual learning, career center and early college education. Northwest High School refers students to the Connect program.  Northwest Connect also offers our Middle School an alternative placement for a small group of students who need skills to build into their academic day.

Commencement

The District may conduct a commencement ceremony for eligible students at the end of the school year. Participation in the ceremony is a privilege, not a right. Students may be prohibited from participating in the ceremony as a consequence for misconduct. A student’s disqualification from participating in the commencement ceremony does not impact the issuance of a diploma to the student, provided that all graduation requirements have been satisfied.

Credits and Graduation Requirements

A student must successfully complete all graduation requirements to earn a high school diploma.

Regular Diploma

Normally, a student will complete graduation requirements in four (4) years.  In order to receive a diploma and graduate, a student will need to meet the school requirements for basic course work, and earn the total number of minimum credits.  A student enrolled in special education may be exempted from the State mandated curriculum.  Such an exemption is made by the IEPC Team.  The student may still need to earn the required credits indicated by the IEP or in a personal curriculum.  For more information about the different methods by which credits can be earned, refer to Policy 5460 in the Board Policy manual, a copy of which is accessible either electronically at www.nwschools.org or in the administration office.

Specific course requirements are:

        English                        4 Years

        Health                        1 Credit

        Phys. Ed.                        1 Credit

        Mathematics                        4 Years

        Science                        3 Years

        Social Studies                        3 Years

        Computer Skills                        1 Credit

        Arts Electives                        2 Credits

        World Language                        2 Years

        Personal Finance (Beginning 2028)        .5 Credit

        Total Needed to Graduate:                        55 Credits

Dropping or Adding a Class - Northwest High School

At Northwest High School students are given the opportunity to request schedule changes during a defined window at the beginning of each semester, typically about a week. Students simply use a QR code that is posted outside the counseling office and shown in Focus Time to make the desired request. Students are called down by the grade level counselor in the order they were requested. Changes are made to the students schedule based on class availability, class balance, and meeting the Michigan Merit Graduation Requirements.

 If a student is requesting to drop a yearlong class, a core class, or any class after the schedule change deadline, a Course Drop Request form must be completed. The form needs to be filled out and signed by the parent, student, course teacher, grade level counselor, and finally an administrator.

Dual Enrollment

Students in grades 9 and above may be eligible to dually enroll in college classes to obtain high school and college credit. Please contact your assigned counselor for information about enrollment eligibility, charges paid by the District, eligible institutions, and other matters related to dual enrollment.

By March 1 of each year, the District will provide general information to all students in grades 8 or above about postsecondary enrollment options. In addition, the District will provide detailed information to all high-school students about postsecondary enrollment options. That information will include all of the following:

• enrollment eligibility;
• the institutions and types of courses in which students may enroll;
• the District’s decision-making process for granting academic credits;
• an explanation of the costs that the District will pay and financial arrangements for paying costs not paid by the District;
• an explanation that the District will pay the eligible postsecondary institution directly upon being billed by the postsecondary institution for those charges that are the District’s responsibility and that the student will be responsible for additional costs not paid by the District;
• available support services provided by the District;
• the need to arrange an appropriate schedule;
• consequences to the student for failing or not completing an eligible course, including the possibility of being required to repay the District for money paid by the District on the student’s behalf to the postsecondary institution;
• the effect of enrolling in an eligible postsecondary course on the eligible student’s ability to complete the required high-school graduation requirements; and
• the academic and social responsibilities that must be assumed by the eligible student and his or her parent.

The District will, to the extent possible, offer counseling services to a student and his or her parent before the student enrolls in an eligible postsecondary course to ensure that the student and his or her parents are fully aware of the benefits, risks, and possible consequences of enrolling in an eligible course. The District will also encourage eligible students and their parents to use available counseling services from the postsecondary institution.

Grades

Report cards will be issued at least once each semester. Grades are calculated using the following grading scale:

Grades 6-8 Grading Scale

Grades 9-12 Grading Scale | General Courses

Grade Point Average

To calculate a grade point average (GPA), assign a point value to each course grade and divide by the total number of credits.  For partial-credit courses use the fractional value of the grade.  For example, a half credit course with an earned grade of C would be .5 x 2=1. Then add this to the other grades earned for total points earned.  This total is then divided by the total credits earned for the GPA.  

Grading Periods

Students shall receive a report card at the end of each grading period indicating their grades for each course of study for that portion of the academic term.

When a student appears to be at risk of failure, notification will be provided to the parents so they can talk with the teacher or counselor about what actions can be taken to improve poor grades.

Homework

Classroom teachers may assign homework. Parents who have questions about homework or concerns about class work should contact their student’s teacher.

Each student is expected to spend time preparing for classes outside of school hours. The amount of time that is needed will depend upon each student and each class.

Personal Curriculum

For some students, it may be appropriate to modify the Michigan Merit Curriculum through implementation of a personal curriculum. All students who have completed 9th grade are entitled to a personal curriculum, and the District will implement a personal curriculum for a student if requested by a parent or by the student if the student is age 18 or older. A parent with a student with a disability under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act may request a personal curriculum before the student has completed grade 9. Any modification to the Michigan Merit Curriculum must be consistent with Michigan law and must incorporate as much of the Michigan Merit Curriculum content standards as practicable for the student. The District retains discretion to determine what modifications to the Michigan Merit Curriculum are appropriate for a particular student through a personal curriculum. A student who successfully completes an approved personal curriculum will earn a regular high school diploma.

To request a personal curriculum, please contact the Director of Instruction at cari.bushinski@nwschools.org.

For additional information about the Michigan Merit Curriculum and Personal Curriculum, see Policy 5409.

Placement

The District has the sole discretion to make promotion, retention, and placement decisions for its students, consistent with state and federal law. The District may consider parent requests that a student be placed in a particular classroom, building, educational program, or grade. The District’s placement decision is final.

Students with Disabilities

Eligible students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act are entitled to a free appropriate public education. The District will follow state and federal law and applicable rules and regulations in identifying, locating, evaluating, and educating students with disabilities.

A parent who believes their student is eligible for special education or accommodations due to a disability or suspected disability should contact The Director of Instruction at cari.bushinski@nwschools.org or the Special Education Supervisor at courtney.weckesser@jcisd.org.

Summer School

Summer school procedures can be provided by contacting nw.media@nwschools.org

Testing Out

A student may test out of high school classes and earn credit. Students interested in testing out of a class should review Policy 5409 and make arrangements with their assigned counselor.

Work Permits

Information about work permits is available at the Northwest High School main office.

Section III: Student Clubs, Activities, and Athletics

Students are encouraged to participate in the various student clubs, activities, and athletics offered by the District.

For the 2024-2025 school year, the District offers the following student clubs, activities, and athletics:

• Student Clubs
• Athletics

A student’s failure to comply with Policy, the Student Code of Conduct, or any other applicable rules or behavioral expectations while participating in or attending a student club, activity, or athletic competition, meeting, event, or practice, may result in disciplinary action.

Extracurricular Activities

Participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege, not a right. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities. Participation is open to students who meet the eligibility requirements established by the District and any applicable governing body.

The District has exclusive control over extracurricular activities including, but not limited to, formation, naming, structure, operation, financing, and discontinuance.

Student athletes are also subject to the Athletic Code of Conduct (see Appendix F) and any applicable team rules.

For more information, see Policy 5507.

Student-Initiated Non-Curricular Clubs

Students may voluntarily form clubs that are not directly related to the school curriculum. Membership in a student-initiated, non-curricular club must be open to all interested and eligible District students, and the club may not refuse membership to a student based on any protected classification under state or federal law.

For more information about student-initiated non-curricular clubs, including how to form a club, see Policy 5510.

Transportation To/From Extracurricular Activities

The District may provide transportation to students who participate in school-sponsored events. If District-provided transportation is available, students must ride to and from those events in a school vehicle unless otherwise excused by the activity sponsor.

Section IV: Discipline and Code of Conduct

Discipline Generally

The District may discipline students who engage in misconduct, up to and including suspension or expulsion from school.

The District will take steps to effectively discipline students in a manner that appropriately minimizes out-of-school suspensions and expulsions. The District will comply with applicable laws related to student discipline, including the consideration of specific factors and possible use of restorative practices.

If an administrator determines that an emergency requires the immediate removal of a student from school, the administrator may contact the student’s parent or local law enforcement or take other measures to have the student safely removed from school.

Students who are involved in extracurricular activities and engage in misconduct may face consequences related to the activity in addition to the consequences provided in this handbook.

The District reserves the right to refer to an appropriate non-school agency any act or conduct which may constitute a crime. The District will cooperate with those agencies in their investigations as permitted by law.

The District’s rules and policies apply to any student who is on school property or school-affiliated transportation, who is in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity or function, or whose conduct at any time or place directly interferes with the operation, discipline, or general welfare of the school, regardless of location, date, or time.

Forms of School Discipline & Applicable Due Process

After-School Detention

Teachers and administrators may require students to stay after school to serve a detention when the student violates any of the rules contained in this handbook or violates classroom-specific conduct rules set by individual teachers.

Students who ride the bus home from school will be given a 24-hour notice of a detention so that parents may make transportation arrangements for the student the following day.

Saturday School

The building administrator may require a student to attend Saturday School. Students follow strict rules and must work on assignments the entire time, except for short breaks. Students who do not follow Saturday School rules will be removed and will face further disciplinary action.

In-School Suspension

The building administrator may require a student to serve in-school suspension, during which students follow strict rules and must work on assignments the entire time, except for short breaks. Students not completing their In-School Suspension will face further disciplinary action.

Snap Suspension - Suspension from Class, Subject, or Activity by Teacher

A teacher may suspend a student from any class, subject, or activity for up to 1 full school day if the teacher has good reason to believe that the student:

• intentionally disrupted the class, subject, or activity;
• jeopardized the health or safety of any of the other participants in the class, subject, or activity; or
• was insubordinate during the class, subject, or activity.

Any teacher who suspends a student from a class, subject, or activity must immediately report the suspension and its reason to the building principal or designee. If a student is suspended from a class, subject, or activity, but will otherwise remain at school, the building principal or designee must ensure that the student is appropriately supervised during the suspension and, if the student is a student with a disability, that all procedures applicable to students with disabilities are followed.

Any teacher who suspends a student from a class, subject, or activity must, as soon as possible following the suspension, request that the student’s parent attend a parent/teacher conference to discuss the suspension. The building principal or designee must attend the conference if either the teacher or the parent requests the building principal’s attendance. The building principal or designee must make reasonable efforts to invite a school counselor, school psychologist, or school social worker to attend the conference.

Removal for 10 or Fewer School Days

Before a student is suspended for 10 or fewer school days, an administrator will: (1) provide the student verbal notice of the offense the student is alleged to have committed, and (2) provide the student an informal opportunity to respond and explain what happened. Except in emergency circumstances, an administrator will not suspend the student unless, after providing the student notice and an opportunity to explain, the administrator is reasonably certain that the student committed a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and that suspension is the appropriate consequence. The building administrator will consider the 7 factors provided in the Student Code of Conduct before suspending a student.

Removal for More than 10 School Days

Before a student is suspended for more than 10 school days, the Superintendent or designee will provide the parent or student with: (1) written notice of the offense the student is suspected to have committed; (2) an explanation of the evidence relied upon by the District in arriving at the conclusion that disciplinary action may be warranted; and (3) an opportunity for a hearing at which the student may present evidence and witnesses to show that the student did not commit the alleged offense or that suspension is not an appropriate consequence.

The Superintendent or designee will provide the parent or student at least 3 calendar days’ notice before the hearing. The parent and student may be represented, at their cost, by an attorney or another adult advocate at the hearing.

The Superintendent or designee will not suspend the student unless, following the hearing, he or she is convinced by a preponderance of the evidence that the student committed a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and that suspension is the appropriate consequence. The Superintendent or designee will consider the 7 factors noted in the Student Code of Conduct before suspending a student.

Mandatory Permanent Expulsion  

A student who is alleged to have engaged in misconduct that may lead to a mandatory permanent expulsion from all public schools will have a hearing before the board. Before the Board suspends or expels a student, the Superintendent or designee must provide the parent/guardian or student with: (1) written notice of the offense the student is suspected to have committed; (2) an explanation of the evidence relied upon by the District in arriving at the conclusion that disciplinary action may be warranted; and (3) an opportunity for a Board hearing at which the student may present evidence and witnesses to show that the student did not commit the suspected offense or that suspension or expulsion is not an appropriate consequence.

The Superintendent or designee will provide the parent or student at least 3 calendar days’ notice before the hearing. The parent and student may be represented, at their cost, by an attorney or another adult advocate at the hearing.

The Board will not suspend or expel the student unless, following the hearing, a majority of the Board finds by a preponderance of the evidence that the student committed misconduct that should result in suspension or expulsion under either the Student Code of Conduct or Board Policy and that suspension or expulsion is the appropriate consequence. The Board will consider the 7 factors noted in the Student Code of Conduct before suspending or expelling a student. The Board’s decision is final.

Student Code of Conduct

This Student Code of Conduct is meant to be a guide and is subject to the discretion of administration and the Board.

Administration will, as required or permitted by state law, always consider the use of restorative practices as an alternative to, or in addition to suspension or expulsion. Nothing in the following table limits the District’s ability to impose more or less severe disciplinary consequences depending on the situation’s unique circumstances and the following factors:

1. the student’s age;
2. the student’s disciplinary history;
3. whether the student has a disability;
4. the seriousness of the behavior;
5. whether the behavior posed a safety risk;
6. whether restorative practices will be used to address the behavior; and
7. whether a lesser intervention would properly address the behavior.

Nothing in this handbook limits the District’s authority to discipline a student for conduct that is inappropriate in school, but that is not specifically provided in this table. Depending on the circumstances of a particular situation, separate athletic or extracurricular sanctions may be imposed, in accordance with the applicable handbook or rules.

Behavior Rubrics/Code of Conduct

Northwest High School

Major Behavior Rubric

Minor Behavior Rubric

Northwest Kidder Middle School

Admin Managed Behavior Rubric

Staff Managed Behavior Rubric

Northwest Elementary School

Major/Minor Behavior Rubric

Northwest Early Elementary School

Major/Minor Behavior Rubric

Northwest Connect

Major Behavior Rubric

Minor Behavior Rubric

Northwest Transportation

Major Behavior Rubric

Appendix A: Non-Discrimination, Anti-Harassment, and Non-Retaliation (Including Title IX and Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act)

3115 NON-DISCRIMINATION, ANTI-HARASSMENT, AND NON-RETALIATION

The District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, military service, veteran status, genetic information, disability, or any other legally protected basis in admission, access to District programs and activities, or employment. Unlawful discrimination, including unlawful harassment and retaliation, in District programs, services, and activities is prohibited.

3115B Designation of Coordinators

The District designates the following person(s) to serve as non-discrimination Coordinators:

Designated Title IX Coordinator
Shannon Watts, Director of Compliance & Communications
6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, MI 49201
(517) 817-4970
shannon.watts@nwschools.org

Second Title IX Coordinator
Julie Lawless, Director of Human Resources
6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, MI 49201
(517) 817-4758
julie.lawless@nwschools.org

Designated Section 504 Coordinator
Caitlin Williams, 504/Tier 3/McKinney-Vento Coordinator
6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, MI 49201
(517) 817-4921
caitlin.williams@nwschools.org

Designated Civil Rights Coordinator/Employment Compliance Officer
Julie Lawless, Director of Human Resources
6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, MI 49201
(517) 817-4758
julie.lawless@nwschools.org

A Complaint against one of the Coordinators listed above may be made to the Superintendent or Board President. A Complaint against the Superintendent may be made to the Board President. A Complaint against the Board President may be made to the Board Vice President.

3118 Title IX Sexual Harassment

Consistent with Policy 3115, the District prohibits unlawful sex discrimination, including harassment and retaliation, in any of its education programs or activities in accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and its implementing regulations.

Appendix B: Anti-Bullying

5207        Anti-Bullying Policy 

All types of bullying, including cyberbullying, without regard to subject matter or motivating animus, are prohibited.

1. Prohibited Conduct

1. Bullying, including cyberbullying, a student at school is prohibited. Bullying is any written, verbal, or physical act, or electronic communication that is intended to or that a reasonable person would know is likely to harm one or more students directly or indirectly by doing any of the following:

1. substantially interfering with a student’s educational opportunities, benefits, or programs;
2. adversely affecting a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the District’s educational programs or activities by placing the student in reasonable fear of physical harm or by causing substantial emotional distress;
3. having an actual and substantial detrimental effect on a student’s physical or mental health; or
4. causing substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the District’s orderly operations.

2. Retaliation or false accusations against the target of bullying, anyone reporting bullying, a witness, or another person with reliable information about an act of bullying, are prohibited.

2. Reporting an Incident

If a student, staff member, or other person suspects there has been a bullying incident, the person must promptly report the incident to the building principal or designee, or to the Responsible School Official(s), as defined below.

A report may be made in person, by telephone, or in writing (including electronic transmissions). If a bullying incident is reported to a staff member who is not the building principal, designee, or a Responsible School Official, the staff member must promptly report the incident to the building principal, designee, or a Responsible School Official.

To encourage reporting of suspected bullying or related activities, each building principal, after consulting the Responsible School Official(s), will create, publicize, and implement a system for anonymous reports. The system must emphasize that the District’s ability to investigate anonymous reports may be limited.

Complaints that the building principal has bullied a student must be reported to the Superintendent. Complaints that the Superintendent has bullied a student must be reported to the Board President.

3. Investigation

All bullying complaints will be promptly investigated. The building principal or designee will conduct the investigation, unless the building principal or Superintendent is the subject of the investigation. If the building principal is the subject of the investigation, the Superintendent or designee will conduct the investigation. If the Superintendent is the subject of the investigation, the Board President will designate a neutral party to conduct the investigation.

A description of each reported incident, along with all investigation materials and conclusions reached, will be documented and retained.

4. Notice to Parent/Guardian

If the investigator determines that a bullying incident has occurred, the District will promptly notify the victim’s and perpetrator’s parent/guardian in writing.

5. Annual Reports

At least annually, the building principal or designee, or the Responsible School Official, must report all verified bullying incidents and the resulting consequences, including any disciplinary action or referrals, to the Board.

The District will annually report incidents of bullying to MDE in the form and manner prescribed by MDE.

6. Responsible School Official

The Superintendent is the “Responsible School Official” for this Policy and is responsible for ensuring that this Policy is properly implemented. This appointment does not reduce or eliminate the duties and responsibilities of the building principal or designee as described in this Policy.

7. Posting/Publication of Policy

The Superintendent or designee will ensure that this Policy is available on the District’s website and incorporated into student handbooks and other relevant school publications.

The Superintendent or designee will submit this Policy to the MDE within 30 days after its adoption.

Training. The Responsible School Official will provide and require annual training opportunities for District personnel who have significant contact with students on preventing, identifying, responding to, and reporting incidents of bullying.

8. Definitions

1. “At school” means in a classroom, elsewhere on school premises, on a school bus or other school-related vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or event whether it is held on school premises. “At school” also includes any conduct using a telecommunications access device or telecommunications service provider that occurs off school premises if the device or provider is owned by or under the control of the District.
2. “Telecommunications access device” means any of the following:

1. any instrument, device, card, plate, code, telephone number, account number, personal identification number, electronic serial number, mobile identification number, counterfeit number, or financial transaction device defined in MCL 750.157m (e.g., an electronic funds transfer card, a credit card, a debit card, a point-of-sale card, or any other instrument or means of access to a credit, deposit, or proprietary account) that alone or with another device can acquire, transmit, intercept, provide, receive, use, or otherwise facilitate the use, acquisition, interception, provision, reception, and transmission of any telecommunications service; or
2. any type of instrument, device, machine, equipment, technology, or software that facilitates telecommunications or which is capable of transmitting, acquiring, intercepting, decrypting, or receiving any telephonic, electronic, data, internet access, audio, video, microwave, or radio transmissions, signals, telecommunications, or services, including the receipt, acquisition, interception, transmission, retransmission, or decryption of all telecommunications, transmissions, signals, or services provided by or through any cable television, fiber optic, telephone, satellite, microwave, data transmission, radio, internet based or wireless distribution network, system, or facility, or any part, accessory, or component, including any computer circuit, security module, smart card, software, computer chip, pager, cellular telephone, personal communications device, transponder, receiver, modem, electronic mechanism or other component, accessory, or part of any other device that is capable of facilitating the interception, transmission, retransmission, decryption, acquisition, or reception of any telecommunications, transmissions, signals, or services.

3. “Telecommunications service provider” means any of the following:

1. a person or entity providing a telecommunications service, whether directly or indirectly as a reseller, including, but not limited to, a cellular, paging, or other wireless communications company or other person or entity which, for a fee, supplies the facility, cell site, mobile telephone switching office, or other equipment or telecommunications service;
2. a person or entity owning or operating any fiber optic, cable television, satellite, internet based, telephone, wireless, microwave, data transmission, or radio distribution system, network, or facility; or
3. a person or entity providing any telecommunications service directly or indirectly by or through any distribution systems, networks, or facilities.

Legal authority:        MCL 380.1310b; MCL 750.157m, 750.219a

Appendix C: Protection of Pupil Rights

PPRA Notice and Consent/Opt-Out

The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) requires that the District notify you and obtain your consent, or allow you to opt your student out of, participating in any school survey, analysis, or evaluation that involves one or more of the following 8 subjects (“protected information surveys”): 

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom the student has close family relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parents; or
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

The notification and opt-out requirement also applies to the collection, disclosure, or use of a student’s personal information for marketing purposes (“marketing surveys”) and certain physical exams and screenings.

Below is a list of the protected information or marketing surveys that require parental notice and consent or opt-out for the upcoming school year. You have the right to review a protected information or marketing survey before it is given to your student to determine whether you want your student to participate. If you want to review materials that will be used in a protected information or marketing survey please submit your request to The Director of Instruction at 6900 Rives Junction Road, Jackson, MI 49201. The Director of Instruction will let you know where and when you may review those materials.

If the District schedules a protected information or marketing survey after the school year starts, the District will notify you within a reasonable amount of time and give you an opportunity to consent or opt your student out. The District also will give you an opportunity to review the newly scheduled surveys or instructional materials.

NWEE Informational Parent Letter

NWEL Informational Parent Letter

NWMS Informational Parent Letter

NWHS Informational Parent Letter

Appendix D: Directory Information and Opt Out Form

5309- Directory Information and Opt-Out

Appendix E: Acceptable Use Agreement

3116-F-2        Agreement for Acceptable Use of Technology Resources

Middle School/High School

The purpose of this Agreement is to grant access to and define acceptable use of the school’s technology resources (“Technology Resources”).

Technology Resources are any type of instrument, device, machine, equipment, technology, or software that is capable of transmitting, acquiring, or intercepting any telephone, electronic, data, Internet, audio, video, or radio transmissions, signals, telecommunications, or services and include without limitation: (1) internal and external network infrastructure, (2) Internet and network access, (3) computers, (4) servers, (5) storage devices, (6) peripherals, (7) software, and (8) messaging or communication systems.

In exchange for the use of the school’s Technology Resources either at school or away from school, you understand and agree to the following:

1. Your use of the school’s Technology Resources is a privilege that may be revoked by the school at any time and for any reason.
2. You have no expectation of privacy when using the school’s Technology Resources. The school reserves the right to monitor and inspect all use of its Technology Resources, including, without limitation, personal email and voicemail communications, computer files, databases, web logs, audit trails, or any other electronic transmissions accessed, distributed, or used through the Technology Resources. The school also reserves the right to remove any material from the Technology Resources that the school, in its sole discretion, chooses to including, without limitation, any information that the school determines to be unlawful, obscene, pornographic, harassing, intimidating, disruptive, or that otherwise violates this Agreement.
3. The Technology Resources do not provide you a “public forum.” You may not use the Technology Resources for commercial purposes or for political positions or candidates unless expressly authorized in advance by a teacher or administrator as part of a class project or activity. You may, however, use the Technology Resources to contact or communicate with public officials provided you follow all other rules.
4. The school’s Technology Resources are intended for use only by registered users. You are responsible for your account/password and any access to the Technology Resources made using your account/password. Any damage or liability arising from the use of your account/password is your responsibility. Use of your account by someone other than you is prohibited and may be grounds for suspension from the Technology Resources and other disciplinary consequences for both you and the person(s) using your account/password. Likewise, using or accessing another person’s account is prohibited and may be grounds for suspension from the Technology Resources and other disciplinary consequences for both you and the person whose account or password you used or accessed.
5. You may not use the Technology Resources to engage in bullying, including cyberbullying. Bullying and cyberbullying are defined as:

Any written, verbal, or physical act, or any electronic communication, that is intended or that a reasonable person would know is likely, to harm one or more pupils either directly or indirectly by doing any of the following:

1. Substantially interfering with educational opportunities, benefits, or programs of one or more pupils;
2. Adversely affecting the ability of a pupil to participate in or benefit from the educational programs or activities by placing the pupil in reasonable fear of physical harm or by causing substantial emotional distress;
3. Having an actual and substantial detrimental effect on a pupil’s physical or mental health; or
4. Causing substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.

Use of other communication/messaging devices (including devices not owned by the school) to engage in bullying or cyberbullying may be grounds for discipline under the school’s student code of conduct.

6. If you misuse the Technology Resources, your access to the Technology Resources may be suspended and you may be subject to other disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion. Misuse includes, but is not limited to:

1. Accessing or attempting to access material that is “harmful to minors.” Material that is “harmful to minors” includes any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that: (1) taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion; (2) depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; and (3) taken as a whole lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors.
2. Accessing or attempting to access material that is unlawful, obscene, pornographic, profane, or vulgar.
3. The use of Virtual Private Networks (VPN) or any other tool that prevents the district from monitoring network traffic on the district's devices or network.
4. Accessing or attempting to access material that is inappropriate for minors. Material that is inappropriate for minors includes all material described in Sections F.1 and F.2 of this Agreement.
5. Bullying and cyberbullying (as defined in paragraph E).
6. Sexting, which includes, without limitation, possessing, sending, or distributing nude, sexually explicit, or sexually suggestive photographs, videos, or other visual depictions of yourself or another person.
7. Vandalism, which includes, without limitation, any malicious or intentional attempt to harm, steal, destroy, or disrupt user data, school material, or school hardware or software.
8. Hacking, which includes, without limitation, gaining or attempting to gain access to, modifying, or obtaining copies of information belonging to others or information you are not authorized to access.
9. Unauthorized copying or use of licenses or copyrighted software.
10. Plagiarizing, which includes the unauthorized distributing, copying, using, or holding out as your own, material that was written or created by someone else, without permission of, and attribution to, the author/creator.
11. Posting or distributing confidential or inappropriate information meant to harass, intimidate, or embarrass others.
12. Allowing someone else to use your account or password or not preventing unauthorized access to Technology Resources when leaving them unattended.
13. Using or soliciting the use of or attempting to use or discover the account information or password of another user.
14. Attempting to or successfully disabling security features, including technology protection measures required under the Children’s Internet Protection Act (“CIPA”).
15. Misusing equipment or altering system software without permission.
16. Commercial for-profit activities, advertising, political lobbying, or sending mass mailings or spam. You may contact a public official, however, to express an opinion on a topic of interest.
17. Copying, recording, or sharing any information received or obtained via the school’s Technology Resources that includes personally identifiable information about any other student including, without limitation, videos, audio, documents, or other records that identify another student by name, voice, or likeness.
18. Using the Technology Resources in any way that violates any federal, state, or local law or rule, Policy, or the school’s codes of conduct, or student handbooks.

7. You must promptly disclose to your parent/guardian or teacher any content you view or receive over the Technology Resources that is inappropriate or that makes you feel uncomfortable, harassed, threatened, or bullied, or that contains sexually explicit content. You should not delete such content until instructed to do so by a school employee.
8. It is the policy of the school, as a recipient of certain federal funds, to monitor the online activities of its minor students and provide technology protection measures on its computers with Internet access designed to prevent minors from accessing visual depictions that are: (1) obscene, (2) child pornography, or (3) harmful to minors.
9. It is the policy of the school to prohibit its minor students from: (1) accessing inappropriate matter on the Internet; (2) engaging in hacking or other unlawful online activities; and (3) accessing materials that are harmful to minors. It is also the policy of the school to educate students about cyberbullying awareness and response and about appropriate online behavior, including disclosing, disseminating, or using personal information and safely and appropriately interacting with other individuals in social networking websites, chat rooms, by email, and other forms of direct electronic communications.
10. The school does not guarantee that measures described in paragraphs H and I will provide any level of safety or security or that they will successfully block all inappropriate material from the school’s students. You agree that you will not intentionally engage in any behavior that was intended to be prevented by paragraphs H and I.
11. The school does not warrant or guarantee that its Technology Resources will meet any specific requirement or that they will be error free or uninterrupted; nor will the school be liable for any damages (including lost data, information, or time) sustained or incurred in connection with the use, operation, or inability to use the Technology Resources.
12. You will return all Technology Resources to the school in good working order immediately on request.
13. You are responsible for the proper use of the Technology Resources and will be held accountable for any damage to or replacement of the Technology Resources caused by your inappropriate use.
14. The following Google services will be accessible and monitored for students enrolled in the district:

• Chrome Web Store
• Feedburner
• Google Bookmarks
• Google Books
• Google Earth
• Google Groups
• Google Maps
• Google Photos
• Google Play
• Google Search Console
• Google Translate
• Looker Studio
• Managed Google Play

I agree to follow this Agreement and all rules and regulations that may be added from time to time by the school or its Internet Service Provider. I also agree to follow all rules in the applicable student code of conduct and handbook. As a condition of using the Technology Resources, I agree to release the school and its board members, agents, and employees, including its Internet Service Provider, from all liability related to my use or inability to use the Technology Resources.

I understand that data I send or receive over the Technology Resources is not private. I consent to having the school monitor and inspect my use of the Technology Resources, including any electronic communications that I send or receive through the Technology Resources.

I have read this Acceptable Use Agreement and agree to its terms.

3116 Agreement for Acceptable Use of Technology Resources Students

Grades K-5

I understand that I may be permitted to use the school’s computers, electronic devices, and Internet at school and at home under the following school rules for computer and Internet use. I promise that:

• I will only use the computers, electronic devices, and Internet for schoolwork.
• I will only use the computers, electronic devices, and Internet as directed by my teacher or other school employee.
• I will not use the Internet to try to look at websites that I know are for adults only or that I know I should not access.
• If I accidentally access a website that I know I should not look at, I will tell my parent/guardian or teacher right away.
• If someone sends me something on the Internet that I know is inappropriate, I will tell my parent/guardian or teacher right away.
• I will not use the school’s computers, electronic devices, or Internet to bully or harm any other person.
• If someone else uses the computers, electronic devices, or Internet to bully or harm me, I will tell my parent/guardian or teacher right away.
• I will not damage the school’s computers, electronic devices, or cause problems with the computers, electronic devices, or Internet on purpose.
• I will give the school’s computers and other electronic devices back to the school at the school’s request.
• I will not use the school’s computers, electronic devices, or Internet to cheat on my schoolwork.
• I will not copy anything that I see on the school’s computers, electronic devices, or Internet and pretend that it is my own work.
• I will keep my password secret from everyone except my parent/guardian.
• I understand that the school can see everything that I do on the school’s computers, electronic devices, and Internet.
• I understand that the school has filters on its computers, electronic devices, and Internet, which means I might not be able to see some information. I will not try to interfere with those filters.
• I will follow all of these rules. I will also follow any directions that my teacher or other school employee gives me about my use of the school’s computers, electronic devices, or the Internet.
• The following Google services will be accessible and monitored for students enrolled in the district:

• Chrome Web Store
• Feedburner
• Google Bookmarks
• Google Books
• Google Earth
• Google Groups
• Google Maps
• Google Photos
• Google Play
• Google Search Console
• Google Translate
• Looker Studio
• Managed Google Play

I understand that if I break any of these rules, I may be disciplined, and I may also lose my computer, electronic device, and Internet privileges.

I have read this Agreement and agree that as a condition of my child’s use of the school's Technology Resources, which include: (1) internal and external network infrastructure, (2) Internet and network access, (3) computers, (4) servers, (5) storage devices, (6) peripherals, (7) software, and (8) messaging or communication systems, I release the school and its board members, agents, and employees, including its Internet Service Provider, from all liability related to my child’s use or inability to use the Technology Resources.  I also indemnify the school and its board members, agents, and employees, including its Internet Service Provider, for any fees, expenses, or damages incurred as a result of my child’s use, or misuse, of the school’s Technology Resources.

I have explained the rules listed above to my child.

I authorize the school to consent to the sharing of information about my child to website operators as necessary to enable my child to participate in any program, course, or assignment requiring such consent under the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act.

I understand that data my child sends or receives over the school’s Technology Resources is not private. I consent to having the school monitor and inspect my child’s use of the Technology Resources, including any electronic communications that my child sends or receives through the Technology Resources.

I understand that the school does not warrant or guarantee that its Technology Resources will meet any specific requirement or that they will be error free or uninterrupted; nor will the school be liable for any damages (including lost data, information, or time) sustained or incurred in connection with the use, operation, or inability to use the Technology Resources.

I agree that I will not copy, record, or share, or allow my child to copy, record, or share, any information sent to my child via the school’s Technology Resources that includes personally identifiable information about any other child including, without limitation, videos, audio, documents, or other records that identify another student by name, voice, or likeness.

I understand and agree that my child will not be able to use the school’s Technology Resources until this Agreement has been signed by both my child and me.

I agree that my child will return all Technology Resources to the school in good working order immediately on request and that I am responsible for any damage to the Technology Resources beyond normal wear and tear.

I have read this Agreement and agree to its terms.

cc: parent/guardian, student file

Appendix F: Athletic Code of Conduct

Participation in Northwest Community School’s (the “District”) athletics is a privilege, not a right. Student-athletes are students first. When participating in District athletics, student-athletes are District representatives and are held to the highest standards. Accordingly, this Athletic Code of Conduct applies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Student-athletes and parents should be familiar with this Athletic Code of Conduct. By participating on any school-sponsored athletic team both student-athletes and parents agree to abide by these terms.

Athletic Director: Chris Galloway

(517) 817-4701 ext. 1

chris.galloway@nwschools.org

Available Sports

https://nwmounties.com/

Communication Protocol

The District has full faith in its coaches to make decisions that are in the best interest of their teams. If parents have questions or concerns about their student-athletes’ sports participation, use the following protocol:

1. Wait 24 hours before contacting the coach.
2. Schedule a time to speak with the coach, either via phone or in-person, at the coach’s discretion.
3. If the issue is unresolved, schedule a time to speak with the Athletic Director, either via phone or in-person, at the Athletic Director’s discretion.

Concussion Protocol

Before allowing a student to participate in any athletic activity, the District will annually:

1. Provide the MHSAA- or state-approved educational materials on concussion awareness to each student and to the student’s Parent; and
2. Obtain a statement signed by each student and respective Parent acknowledging receipt of the MHSAA- or state-approved concussion awareness educational materials. The District will maintain this signed statement for 5 years or until the student is 18, whichever is longer.

Athletic Code of Conduct

A student-athlete must:

1. Learn and understand the rules and regulations of your sport.
2. Unless otherwise approved by your coach, if school is in session, attend school for the full day to be eligible to practice or play in an event on the same day.
3. Comply with the law, Board Policy, the Student Code of Conduct, the Athletic Code of Conduct, and all team rules. Failure to comply with this provision may result in suspension or removal from a team.
4. Not possess, use, or consume alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, nicotine (including a vape), or controlled substances (other than those prescribed by a physician for the student-athlete).
5. Not engage in conduct that is unbecoming of student-athletes.
6. Maintain academic eligibility as required by the Michigan High School Athletic Association.

1. Northwest High School and Northwest Kidder Middle School make an intentional decision to maintain stricter eligibility standards than the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA).
2. The Rules and regulations of the MHSAA are on file in the office of the Athletic Director at Northwest High School.
3. Northwest Community Schools recognizes the rights of parents to impose more stringent academic standards for their own family members.

High School Eligibility Standards

1. Each student-athlete must have passed four of five classes from the previous semester, and be passing four of five classes during the current semester (Those who did not pass four classes the previous semester, would be ineligible for 1 semester)  
2. Each student-athlete that meets the above requirements must have achieved a grade point average of at least 2.00 for the semester previous to the season of competition and have a 2.00 gpa at any and all grade check times.
3. Student-athletes who have failed a class or who have failed to establish a grade point average of 2.00 during the previous semester will be placed on probationary status. To maintain eligibility these student-athletes must demonstrate academic progress on a weekly basis indicating that they are achieving grade point averages of at least 2.00 and passing all their classes. After the semester, their probationary status will be reviewed.

 Middle School Eligibility Standards

1. Each student-athlete must have passed five of six classes from the previous semester, and be passing five of six classes during the current semester (Those who did not pass five classes the previous semester, would be ineligible for 1 semester).
2. Each student-athlete that meets the above requirements must have achieved a grade point average of at least 2.00 for the semester previous to the season of competition.
3. Student-athletes who have failed a class or who have failed to establish a grade point average of 2.00 during the previous semester will be placed on probationary status. To maintain eligibility these student-athletes must demonstrate academic progress on a weekly basis indicating that they are achieving grade point averages of at least 2.00 and passing all their classes. After the semester, their probationary status will be reviewed.

7. Notify your coach or District athletic trainer of any injury or medical condition that may affect your athletic participation.

If a student-athlete violates any provision of the Athletic Code of Conduct, practice, game, team, or complete athletic suspension may result. Any disciplinary consequences will be at the sole discretion of the Athletic Director or designee.

If a student-athlete is suspended or expelled from school, the student-athlete is prohibited from participating in any practice or game during the suspension or expulsion.

Appendix G: Media Center Check Out: Parent Permission Form

Dear Parents:

Library material selection policies require our libraries to provide materials that stimulate growth and knowledge, literary appreciation, support the curriculum, and provide materials on both sides of opposing issues.  Our school libraries have a responsibility to serve all of the readers in our care.  Students are not only different ages; they arrive at school with different reading levels, different backgrounds, and different experiences that have shaped their lives.  We have a responsibility to offer a wide range of book choices that meet all of their diverse needs.  Some of the materials in our media center would have content some individuals or families find offensive or outside of their families’ moral values and philosophies.

We respect your right to help your student choose reading material.  Your student’s ability to check out library materials or access their classroom teacher’s personal library can be provided freely with your consent or only after you are consulted on what your child is checking out.  Please indicate your preference below:

_____ Yes, my child may check out library materials freely and without prior consent.  I can request a record of my child’s checked out materials at any time.

_____ No, my child may not check out library materials without my prior consent. I can request a record of my child’s checked out materials at any time.

If you check “yes”, your child will be able to continue to check out library materials without your consultation.  If you check “yes”, you may also request a student checkout list at any time.  If you check “no” your child will not be able to check out materials from the media center or classroom without prior contact from the school librarian or your child’s teacher.

*Please note that until the school is notified otherwise, each student will be able to check out library materials freely and without prior consent.

Student Name                                        Grade                        School

Parent Name                                  Date

Parent Signature