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Back to School Information

2024-2025

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After reviewing all of the following slides, click link for the Google Form for Sign Off HERE

*Yellow Highlight = New information/changes

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Welcome Back for 2024-2025

Dear Evergreen Employees,

I am thrilled to have the opportunity to join this incredible team. I am excited to work with our dedicated and caring staff to create a learning environment for our students that lives up to our strategic plan’s tagline: “Belonging for each, Success for all.”

Every school day, each one of us has the opportunity to positively impact student lives. This is the reason we all chose to work here at Evergreen Public Schools and I can’t wait to see all the wonderful ways that we as staff members will support our children.

Thank you for the warm welcome I have already received. I am confident that, with your continued passion and expertise, our students' 2024-25 school year experience will be filled with opportunities, learning, and success.

Dr. Christine Moloney

Interim Superintendent

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EPS Strategic Plan

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Teaching, Learning and Equity

Section Includes:

  • Instructional Materials
  • Digital Resources
  • Printshop Information

Strategic Plan Pillar

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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Website

Our vision is to be a diverse and inclusive community of schools that provides each member with the opportunities, access, resources and support they need to be successful.

Our mission is to eliminate the predictability of outcomes by demographic group.

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Instructional Materials: Video Excerpts in classroom

  • Video excerpts may be used for purposes of augmenting or enhancing the curriculum; they are not to be used for entertainment, recreation, filler or non-instructional purposes.
  • Elementary schools (video excerpts): G rating may be shown without parent notification; PG rating requires principal consultation and parent permission slip (see Procedure 2020P). Nothing beyond PG allowed.
  • Secondary schools (video excerpts): G rating may be shown without parent notification; PG rating requires principal consultation and parent notification and opportunity to request their student not view; PG-13 same as PG but only at High School (see Procedure 2020P). Rated R or NC-17 videos will not be shown.
  • Alternative assignments must be provided for students whose parents have requested they not view the video excerpts.

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Instructional Materials: Controversial Topics

Controversial issues may arise in the instructional program when related to the subject matter of the curricular field at the given grade level. When presented with a controversial issue, educators will make a reasonable effort to effect a balance of biases, divergent points of view, and opportunity for exploration of conflicting viewpoints of the issue by students. Policy 2331

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Instructional Materials

For more information on definitions of instructional materials and Instructional Materials Committee, follow recently updated Policy 2020 and Procedure 2020P.

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Printing Materials through the Print Shop

WebCRD is the software we use to enter print jobs with the Print Shop.

For information to enter print jobs more efficiently, here is a link to a “How To” video (8 minutes): WebCRD “How To” Video

If you have additional questions, please contact the Print Shop at x4130.

If you need to cancel an order, please email DL-PrintShop@evergreenps.org.

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Print Shop: Elementary Curriculum

FPC Materials: Most of the online printables have been migrated to Google folders to allow quick access. The printables are hyperlinked onto the teacher’s plans to easily locate exact resources. Teachers will need to upload printing for FPC themselves to allow teachers to be responsive to student’s needs. Cutting will also be available through the print shop.

IM Materials: Materials will be pre-printed by unit of instruction. The first unit will be sent to the buildings by August 18, the second unit will be sent to the buildings in mid-September, etc.

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Copyright Compliance

  • Staff must comply with copyright law. Unauthorized reproduction of copyrighted materials must fall under the “fair use” doctrine:
    • The purpose and character of the use
    • The nature of the copyrighted work
    • The amount and substantiality of the portion used
    • The effect of the use upon the potential market for or value of the copyrighted work
  • It is your responsibility to follow the law.
  • For more information, see Policy 2025.

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Digital Learning Resources

For consistent access to resources for students and families, our district uses the following Learning Management Systems:

    • Canvas in Secondary Classrooms
    • Seesaw in Elementary Classrooms

*NEW* for 2024-25: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policies and Guidance

    • Policy 2023 Updated Digital Citizenship and Media Literacy with AI
    • Policy 2023-1 Artificial Intelligence Classroom Protocol

*Replacement* ParentSquare replaces School Messenger for family communication

*Replacement* Securly Classroom replaces Hapara for student device supervision

See the Digital Learning website for tutorials and digital resources.

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Digital Resource Approval

Access EPS approved digital resources through Classlink.

  • Classlink can be found in the Evergreen Bookmark folder or by clicking the house icon next to the web address bar in the Chrome browser.

If the digital resource that staff members want to use with students is not in Classlink, they should:

  • Determine if the digital resource requires student login
  • Determine if the digital resource collects student academic record

If either of the above are true for the digital resource, then the resource must be approved prior to use with students. Request approval through SolarWinds.

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Certificated Employee Responsibilities

Section Includes:

  • Safety
  • Student Discipline
  • Restraint and Isolation
  • Evaluation
  • Certification
  • CPS Reporting
  • Code of conduct

Strategic Plan Pillars

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Responsibility to Complete Safe Schools Training

All NEW certificated employees have four hours of online Safe Schools Training assigned to them. Time to complete these two hours of training was provided on August 13 at New Teacher Orientation. The additional two hours is to be completed no later than September 30, 2024 (see next paragraph).

ALL certificated employees have two hours of online training assigned to them as part of the TRI package. Online training MUST be completed no later than September 30, 2024 by the end of the business day. If training is not completed, out of compliance staff will be removed from their assignment until training is completed and may be disciplined.

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Accident Prevention Plan/Safety Training

Evergreen Public Schools has an accident prevention plan that is available in the staff room or the main office.

  • Outlines the district’s commitment to avoid on the job injuries
  • Provides job specific information regarding Safety

Safety Training is required for all new employees. Safety training is administered through SafeSchools Training.

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Employee/Student Incident (injury) Reports

If you are injured at work, you are required to:

  • Report the injury to your supervisor immediately
  • Fill out an employee incident report prior to the end of your shift
  • Must obtain clearance from Human Resources prior to returning to work if you required medical attention or have been placed on restrictions or require accommodations by submitting a doctor’s note to Human Resources
  • It is the responsibility of employees to submit all medical information to Human Resources for review and approval prior to returning to work

Evergreen Public Schools is “self insured” and coverage is provided by ESD112 through the Southwest Washington Workers Compensation Trust. Coverage pays for state allowed medical bills and time loss when a medical provider certifies that you cannot work (provide documentation to HR and supervisor).

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Employee/Student Incident (injury) Reports: con’t

If a student or visitor is injured on school district property, a student/visitor accident report must be filled out. If a student is injured under your supervision, you are responsible to ensure the incident is documented.

Documents should be forwarded to Eliza Cornelison, Paralegal, for review and record keeping. Questions about insurance for employee or student incidents should be referred to Eliza Cornelison.

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Safety Drills and Procedures

Washington State Law requires each school to conduct one safety drill per month

  • One fire drill is required within the first ten days of school
  • Participation in safety drills is mandatory and must be documented

Schools will practice the safety protocols for Lockdown, Secure, Hold, Fire/Evacuate and Earthquake. Schools shall use Rapid Responder to practice their emergency communication. A detailed guide will be provided to every school with more specifics around emergency preparedness.

New Standard Response Protocol Rapid Responder

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Student Discipline

Evergreen Public Schools follows a progressive student discipline process.

<Insert specific information for your building regarding referrals>

In Policy 3241, the School Board demonstrates its commitment to Restorative practices. “Restorative interventions and/or options will be a primary consideration, decreasing reliance on exclusionary practices.” Examples of restorative interventions include:

  • Conferences
  • Problem Solving
  • Restorative Justice

Discipline in the district is governed by Policy 3241 and Procedure 3241P.

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Restraint and Isolation

All students in the district, including those who have an individualized education program (IEP) or plan developed under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, will remain free from the unreasonable use of restraint, restraint devices, and isolation, and other uses of physical force. Under no circumstances will these techniques be used as a form of discipline or punishment.

It is your responsibility to report any use of restraint or isolation to your building administration immediately and reported to the parent within 24 hours.

For more information see Policy 3246 and Procedure 3246P.

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Responsibility for CPS Referral/Reporting Process

  • Under state law and school board policy, all school employees are mandatory reporters of suspected abuse or neglect and are required to notify building administration after they make a report (forms available in office/counseling center) to CPS. In Clark County, the number is 1-866-764-2233. When in doubt, consult DCYF, 1-866-764-2233. The person who witnesses or the information is disclosed to must report and fill out the forms within 48 hours.
  • More information on reporting abuse, including abuse indicators for physical, emotional, sexual abuse and physical neglect:
    • Policy 3421
    • Procedure 3421P
  • Once a report is filed, DCYF has a right to interview the child at school. DCYF must show ID and sign in. You can ask the child if they want someone from school to sit in with them.
  • Notify your Principal or designee of all reports.
  • All completed DYCF forms are to be sent to Misty Gianatassio.

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Suicide Prevention

Intervention Steps:​ Protocol

  • Show You Care
  • Ask the question​, Do you have a plan to hurt yourself that includes taking your life?
  • Call for a counselor or Nurse
  • Stay with the student until help is obtained

Suicide risk is a confidentiality exception even when you’re otherwise legally or ethically bound to confidentiality. When a student declares self harm, writes or posts something on social media, staff will intervene. Trained staff will meet with the student and review the suicide screen forms with them to determine if it is a transient or substantive threat. When you have any of the above concerns about a student, keep that student under your supervision until you can connect the student with an administrator, counselor/social worker, school nurse or school psychologist.

Policy 2145

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Student Attendance Records

  • Staff are required to take accurate daily attendance.
  • In alignment with state law and Procedure 3241P, students will not be suspended or expelled from school for absences or tardiness.
  • Policy 3122 and Procedure 3122P
  • Policy 3241 and Procedure 3241P

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Counts/Enrollment/Staffing

  • Monitor student enrollment in your classes, working with your school’s registrar/secretary and district process, to account for students during the first three days of school and count days. (See also attendance.)
  • The district monitors classroom overload monthly and it is figured based on the first day of the month (October through May) and paid on the February and June paychecks.

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Grade Book/Record Keeping

  • Teachers are required to evaluate student growth and report that evaluation periodically (RCW 28A.150.240)
  • Policy 2420
  • Procedure 2420P (includes numerical value of grades)

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Field Trip Requirements + Volunteer Clearance

All field trips regardless of funding require pre-approval (allow at least 6 weeks).

  • You are responsible to locate chaperones
  • Use of private vehicles (not district funded) requires extra paperwork
  • Overnight trips (secondary only) require the approval of the superintendent
  • Field trips require parental consent (field trip form)
  • School Nurses need 2 weeks advance notice for field trip planning.
  • See Policy 2320 and Procedure 2320P for specifics

All volunteers (chaperones) on field trips must fill out a volunteer application for Human Resources and go through a criminal background check. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE!

Volunteer Coaches must complete a WSP and FBI fingerprint background check.

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Teacher Certification Renewal Changes

After July 1, 2023, teachers will need 100 clock hours or a valid National Board for Professional Teacher Standards Certificate to renew most teacher certificates. Some teachers may also need to submit completion of Issues of Abuse course and 15 clock hours on equity-based school practices. Specific endorsements also require 15 of the clock hours meet STEM requirements.

For more information, see PESB Certificate Renewal or OSPI Certification for Teachers.

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Certificated Staff Evaluation: Fall deadlines

  • Notification from building administration to certificated employee of evaluation type: Comprehensive or Focused by Sept 15 (all Provisional employees are on Comprehensive, for Continuing employees, Comprehensive every 6 years)
  • Notification from building administration to certificated employee who will be their evaluator by Sept 15
  • Classroom teachers need to be prepared to confer with their evaluator about the Student Growth Goals by November 1

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Supplemental Contracts

When an employee is issued a supplemental contract, it must be completed fully, including signatures, and returned to Human Resources within 10 days of the Issue Date to ensure payment to the employee.

It is important for all supplemental contracts to have an accurate account code and payment amount that is bargained on either the co-curricular or extra-curricular salary schedules. The employee and supervisor signatures are ensuring that work will be or has been completed.

Please see your administrator or building secretary for account code questions.

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Form A

Every Form A will need to be completed and submitted to HR for payment within 90 days of completion but before the budget year ends to ensure payment to the employee. Failure to do so will result in forfeit of pay.

The Form A is to be completed accurately and include a description of the activity, if needed, employee signature, supervisor signatures, accurate account codes and bargained rates of pay. The employee and supervisor signatures are ensuring that work has been completed.

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Payroll: Forms Cutoff Dates

In order for payroll to be processed, forms are due to payroll by 3:00 p.m. on the following dates for 2024-2025:

Sept. 4 Dec. 3 Mar. 4 Jun. 3

Oct. 2 Jan. 3 Apr. 2 Jul. 2

Nov. 4 Feb. 4 May 2 Aug. 4

Policy 5311 Payroll Disbursement

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Responsibility to adhere to the

Code of Professional Conduct

Under Chapter 181-87 WAC, certificated staff are accountable to a code of conduct. Violations of the Code of Professional Conduct shall be reported to the Office of Professional Practices at OSPI (in addition to any other consequences that may apply). The Code of Professional Conduct to include grooming behaviors towards students and inappropriate digital communications with students.

To see the full updated Code of Professional Conduct, click this link.

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Employee Absences and Benefits

Section Includes:

  • Employee Absences
  • Doctor’s notes
  • FMLA
  • Open Enrollment
  • Deer Oakes (EAP)

Strategic Plan Pillar

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Employee Absences

When an employee is absent from work, it is the employee’s responsibility to submit the absence into the Frontline Absence Management (Aesop) prior to the absence. Call the Sub Office at x4093 for any questions. Please be mindful of the following selections:

  • Verify you have the correct date
  • Select “No Substitute” needed if a substitute is not needed for your absence, otherwise it should default to substitute required
  • Select the correct absence reason and Full day or Half day
  • If you are submitting a multi-day absence, don’t add up your hours for hours Time Absent; enter the time absent for one day
  • You may upload sub plans for your substitute when submitting request.

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Employee Absences

When an employee is absent from work, it is the employee’s responsibility to:

  • Provide substitute plans
  • Monitor available leave in Employee Access in Skyward and only request leave that is available
  • Provide medical documentation to Human Resources prior to returning to work for review and approval from HR:
    • When you have been absent more than five days
    • When you have left work to seek medical attention
    • When you have medical restrictions

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FMLA

Contact your Benefits Specialist proactively regarding your need for FMLA leave. You may have an FMLA qualifying-event and your Benefits Specialist can assist you in getting the completed documentation. Additionally, you may qualify for other leaves that your Specialist can talk to you about at extension 4017.

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Open Enrollment for Benefits

All Washington school employees receive their health insurance and other benefits through the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB). For more information, go to hca.wa.gov/sebb.

NEW Certificated Employees: Enroll within first 31 days

Current Employees: Open enrollment is anticipated to take place in the fall of 2024 (October/November) and may be completed through the Benefits 24/7 portal.

All information is available on the District’s Benefits webpage.

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Deer Oaks Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

A free and confidential benefit available to employees, their dependents, and household members for all of life’s challenges. The EAP is available 24/7/365.

  • Call: (888) 993-7650
  • Email: eap@deeroaks.com
  • Logon: www.deeroakseap.com

If you have any issues with logging in or getting assistance from Deer Oaks, please contact Karina Lorentz at x4094 or karina.lorentz@evergreenps.org

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Information Technology

Section Includes:

  • Responsible User Agreement
  • Social Media
  • Phishing
  • Multi-Factor Authentication

Strategic Plan Pillars

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Responsible User Agreement

  • Returning employees completed an updated Responsible Use Agreement in previous school years. New employees will complete the agreement through Online Forms in Skyward.
  • Information includes:
    • not sharing personal email/facebook with students
    • not sharing passwords
    • acceptable/unacceptable conduct for students/staff, etc.
  • Policy 2022
  • Procedure 2022P

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Social Media

Social media presents unique opportunities/challenges for employees (including FERPA challenges). Therefore, employees should:

  • Not “friend” students until they are 18 and graduated from Evergreen Public Schools to personal social media accounts
  • Avoid posting pictures/movies of students on personal social media accounts
  • Not talk about students/families on personal social media platforms
  • Use social media platforms that are sanctioned by the district
  • Monitor the postings of students on classroom social media
  • Report inappropriate conduct (i.e. bullying) and remove from social media
  • Link classroom social media to Archive Social

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Pictures and filming in your classroom

Publication of pictures and movies to social media with students is a dangerous proposition.

  • Some student families have opted out of directory information and this would violate the opt out provisions
  • Some student families have advised the district they do not want their child’s image to be used publicly

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Personally Identifiable Information (PII)

  • In addition to being aware of Phishing scams, staff should never sign up for services involving student data.
  • Personally Identifiable Information (PII) represents data that can be used to identify an individual.
  • It’s commonly associated with direct identifiers such as SSN, but indirect information - such as ZIP code, age, and last name - can also be used.
  • 1 in 50 children were a victim of identity theft in 2021. Resolving child identity theft cases can cost families hundreds of dollars and several hours.
  • If you are unclear how to proceed regarding a student data issue, contact the Service Desk! (x4545 or servicedesk@evergreenps.org).

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Phishing

“Phishing” is an attempt, usually by email, to gather information from you under false pretenses. It is often associated with stealing passwords, but can also be much simpler, such as an email appearing to be from your principal asking for your cell phone number.

Phishing messages try to motivate you to share information or to open an attachment. DocuSign requests pretending to be from HR, overdue billing notices, and urgent messages from a manager are all common methods used. Always verify messages (usually by calling the sender) before opening unexpected attachments or responding to requests for information. Never enter your username or password if prompted from an unverified email message.

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Strong Passwords and Passphrases

  • Network passwords must be reset annually and must contain at least 12 characters
  • Substituting numbers and special characters can make it easy to obfuscate simple passwords (for example, using “W@t3rc@n” instead of “Watercan”), but can also make them hard to remember and can provide a false sense of security
  • Passphrases are almost always more secure than shorter complex passwords. “ISawAPuppyToday” would take a computer about 60 million times longer to crack than “C@t5Rul3!”

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Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA is an authentication system that requires more than one distinct authentication factor for successful authentication (NIST). An example of MFA is when your bank sends you a text code to log in to your account from a new device. MFA has become a security standard in all industries and is the best method to prevent phishing attacks and other account compromises.

MFA is required for all staff when accessing email or Microsoft 365. Allowable authentication methods are by authenticator app or SMS code. Devices can be approved for authentication for 60 days when authorizing by selecting that option.

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Highlighted Policies

Section Includes:

  • Student Records
  • Donors Choose
  • Staff Expression
  • Whistle Blowing
  • Civility
  • Staff Complaints

Strategic Plan Pillars

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FERPA

All student records are protected both under FERPA and state privacy laws. There are limited exceptions to the privacy laws that allow disclosure to the public. Examples of disclosure include:

  • Directory information (unless a parent opts out)
  • Safety reasons with law enforcement
  • Disclosure to contracted 3rd parties

Parents have access to student records and can request to review a file or copies of a file.

Unauthorized disclosure of student information is against the law; examples include telling another employee who does not have an educational reason to have that information, posts to facebook about students and discussions with friends, neighbors and your family.

Student Records: Policy 3229 and Policy 3231

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Appropriate Student Information to Share

Employees who are charged with creating, implementing and maintaining specific student records, must share those records with other employees charged with implementation. These records include:

  • IEP information, including accommodations and modifications
  • 504 Plans
  • Health Plans
  • Behavior Plans
  • Safety Plans

When a new student enrolls, records should be shared as soon as possible.

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Courts/Family Law/Restraining Orders

The district does not take sides in family law disputes or legal disputes between students.

  • Do not provide opinions to either parent regarding the other parent or either student unless under the direction of a subpoena.
  • Do not provide letters of support or statements for one parent or one student unless you are under the direction of a subpoena.
  • Do not talk to one sides’ attorney unless you are under the direction of a subpoena.
  • All court orders (ex. parent restraining orders, student-to-student restraining orders, parenting plans etc.) should be forwarded to Eliza Cornelison, Paralegal.
  • Questions about court orders need to be funneled through Eliza Cornelison, x4049.

All legal questions should be funneled through your administrator or Eliza Cornelison.

If there is an immediate family situation at your school, contact Shane Gardner, Director of School Safety and Security at x4066.

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Public Records Requests

All documents generated as part of “district business” are considered public record. It does not matter who owns the device or the means of storage.

  • Text messages that discuss district business (including on your own device) are public record
  • All district email, including email to your significant other, are public record
  • All private email that discuss district business are public record
  • Information on Social Media accounts are public record
  • Notes are public record

Keep it professional and at all times avoid inappropriate comments about students and families.

Public Records Requests should be directed to publicrecordrequests@evergreenps.org

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Student Sexual/Kidnapping Offenders

“The district recognizes its responsibility for the health and safety of all students, including students required to register as a sex or kidnapping offender enrolled within the district” Policy 3143

Information about students who are registered sex offenders will be shared at the school level in accordance with Policy 3143 and Procedure 3143P, recognizing the student’s right to education and privacy but also maintaining a safe school.

If an inquiry is made from the public regarding a student required to register as a sex or kidnapping offender, they should be directed to law enforcement.

Principals have a responsibility to work with law enforcement, parents, and appropriate staff when a student who is registered sexual or kidnapping offender is enrolled in their school--see Procedure 3143P

A safety plan will be developed and will consider the risk level classification (Level I, Level II, or Level III).

Notification of the safety plan will also consider the risk level classification of the registered student offender.

It is staff responsibility to report any violations of the plan to administration.

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Conflict of Interest

No district employee will engage in or have a direct financial interest in any activity which conflicts with his/her duties and responsibilities. Further, no district employee may employ or use any person, money, district network, or school property under the employee’s official supervision, control or direction for the private gain of that employee or another. This includes but is not limited to solicitation of any personal gift or favor from students, parents, booster clubs, parent-teacher associations (PTAs) or parent-teacher organizations (PTOs).

Policy 5251

Form 5251F

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Donors Choose

Donors Choose is the only allowable online fundraising organization that employees can use when pre-approved by an administrator because of the controls the entity places in their system for fund-raising.

Before creating a Donors Choose request, employees must follow a pre-approval process outlined in the links below:

Policy 6102

Procedure 6102P

Form 6201F

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Whistle Blowing Policy

  • The district encourages the reporting, consistent with the district’s procedures, of improper governmental actions by any district officers or employees, and will protect employees against retaliatory employment actions for reporting improper governmental actions when the reports are made in compliance with this policy and procedure.
  • Policy 5271
  • Procedure 5271P

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Staff Expression Policy

The district has an interest in maintaining an orderly and effective work environment while balancing employees’ First Amendment rights to freedom of expression and diverse viewpoints and beliefs. When employees speak within their official capacity, their expression represents the district and may be regulated. The First Amendment protects a public employee’s speech when the employee is speaking as an individual citizen on a matter of public concern. Employee expression that has an adverse impact on district operations and/or negatively impacts an employee’s ability to perform their job for the district may still result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Policy 5254 and Procedure 5254P

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Religion in Schools

  • The Board recognizes that school communities are diverse. Students possess the constitutional right to the free exercise of religion and free from sectarian control/influence by schools.
  • When instructing about religious matters, related to the curricular study, educators will use materials that are objective, neutral, non-devotional and will serve an educational purpose. Staff will avoid assigning work that emphasizes the religious aspects of a holiday.
  • For more information, see Policy 2340.

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Tobacco free/Marijuana free/Drug free Workplace

  • Evergreen Public Schools is a drug-free and tobacco-free workplace. For more information:
    • Policy 5201
    • Policy 4215
  • Use of tobacco products, alcohol, marijuana and illegal drugs is prohibited on school district property.
  • Employees who are taking a drug or medication, whether or not prescribed by the staff member's physician, which may adversely affect that staff member's ability to perform work in a safe or productive manner, are required to report such use of medication to his or her supervisor.

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Civility Policy

The board believes that a safe, civil environment of mutual respect and orderly conduct contributes to a quality educational environment. Conversely, uncivil conduct, similar to other forms of disruptive behavior, may interfere with an employee’s ability to accomplish their work and a school’s ability to educate its students.

Uncivil conduct on district property or at district-sponsored activities by school directors, staff, parents, volunteers, contractor, or visitors is prohibited.

Policy 5161 and Procedure 5161P

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Staff Complaint Form - Policy 5270

Policy 5270 addresses the resolution of staff to staff complaints.

If support is needed in resolving a complaint with a colleague or supervisor, the form can be found on the Human Resources Forms on District website and then returned to a supervisor or the Human Resource Department. Procedure 5270P

Link to form on enet (Sharepoint): Staff Complaint Form

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Employee Discipline

Certificated staff have a right to representation when meeting with a supervisor for the purpose of seeking information that may be used as the basis of a disciplinary, dismissal or non-renewal action against the certificated staff member.

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Chemicals

All chemicals in the school district are required to have a corresponding GHS sheet in the district’s online management system (MSDS Online).

The district has a chemical hygiene plan and every secondary building has a chemical hygiene officer who is responsible for managing the chemicals located in the school building.

Bringing in chemicals from outside of the district on your own is prohibited.

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Environmental Issues

Evergreen Public Schools tests and inspects buildings for environmental issues like Radon, Lead, and Asbestos.

  • All schools were tested for radon during the last four school years and will be monitored in areas that have been mitigated.
  • Water is tested for lead at drinking sources will be completed in 2024. Follow up testing will resume in accordance with our safe drinking water plan in 2029.
  • All buildings have been tested for asbestos every three years.
  • Elementary schools constructed prior to 1978 have been tested for lead paint.

Water testing results/Radon testing results:

https://sites.google.com/evergreenps.org/facilities/ Safe Drinking Water School Action Plan

Questions regarding environmental issues can be directed to martin.madarieta@evergreenps.org.

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Child Find

All students from birth to 21 years of age who reside within the boundaries of Evergreen Public Schools and who are believed to have a disability may be eligible to receive Special Education services from Evergreen Public Schools. If you suspect a child of having a disability, contact the following:

  • Children ages birth to 3 years – Educational Service District #112 (360) 750-7500
  • Children ages 3-4 – contact Special Services (360) 604-6700
  • Children ages 5-21 – Contact your Principal or School Psychologist

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Section 504 Compliance Information

A 504 Plan provides accommodations to students who are significantly impacted by a mental or physical impairment to access their education intended to equal the playing field of their non-disabled peers, 504 plans provide access not advantage.

Link to the Discipline Flowsheet for Manifestation Reviews to assist building staff when a manifestation is triggered, decision making tree, and addressing “special conditions” such as: violence, alcohol/drugs, or weapons.

Links to documents by the Department of Education to clarify the requirements of Section 504 to include medical and mental health conditions.

Link to the Evergreen Public School District 504 manual here.

Link to a summary about Section 504 created by OCR that provides quick and simple answers to many questions about what it is and what our responsibilities are.

Talk to your building administrator if you have any questions about the 504 process.

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Classroom Locations and Assignments Guidance

Please review the following guidance and use when determining classroom assignments or considering changing a classroom location: Classroom Locations and Assignment Guidance

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Unexpected Housing Changes (Homelessness)

The EPS HEART Team (Hope, Equity, Access, Resilience, Thrive) assists schools in supporting unmet basic needs of students and families. HEART Team includes our McKinney-Vento Program, Foster Care Program, and Family and Community Resource Centers.

Common signs of homelessness in schools and classrooms: attendance at multiple schools, lack of records, inability to pay fees, poor organizational skills, poor health and nutrition, chronic hunger/food insecurity, fatigue, attendance problems, inability to contact parents, poor hygiene, missing homework, lack of supplies, loses books and supplies, concern for safety and belonging, etc.

If a student/family is experiencing an unexpected housing change or homelessness, please contact your school’s McKinney-Vento point of contact and the district HEART-MV team:

Information on McKinney-Vento: Our district website includes additional information on specific processes and services available to support students and families experiencing housing instability. Policy 3115

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McKenzie (Mac) English, Liaison

Katie Greer, Clerk

MVHEART@evergreenps.org

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Unexpected Housing Changes (Foster Care)

Schools, child welfare agencies, communities, and families must work together to provide the equitable opportunities, specialized services, and useful supports that are essential for students in foster care to be successful in school and in life. If you become aware of a student who is in foster care, please immediately contact your school counselor to ensure they are properly identified in our system for receiving specific services we have in place to support their unique needs during this time in their lives.

For more information, review Policy 3116. Our district website includes additional information on specific processes and services.

HEART district Foster Care contact info:

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Liaison

Phone (external line)

Email

McKenzie (Mac) English

(360) 604-4174

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Non-

Discrimination and HIB

Section Includes:

  • Nondiscrimination statement
  • Sexual Harassment
  • Cyberbullying
  • Nondiscrimination Complaint Process

Strategic Plan Pillar

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Non-discrimination statement

Add to all publications:

Nondiscrimination Statement:

Evergreen Public Schools does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination.

Cale Piland Cate Winters Tracy Thompson

Title IX Coordinator Section 504/ADA Coordinator Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator

Director of Athletics/Activities Health Services Manager Senior Director of Human Resources

13413 NE LeRoy Haagen Memorial Drive 13413 NE LeRoy Haagen Memorial Drive 13413 NE LeRoy Haagen Memorial Drive

Vancouver, WA 98684 Vancouver, WA 98684 Vancouver, WA 98684

PO Box 8910 Vancouver, WA 98668-8910 PO Box 8910 Vancouver, WA 98668-8910 PO Box 8910 Vancouver, WA 98668-8910

Telephone: (360) 604-4430 Telephone: (360) 604-6711 Telephone: (360) 604-4014

Caleb.Piland@evergreenps.org Anna.Winters@evergreenps.org Tracy.Thompson@evergreenps.org

If you have a disability that requires you to need assistance to access school facilities, programs or services, please notify the school principal.

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Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying of Students (HIB)

Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying of students is defined as (RCW 28A.300.285):

Harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students is an intentional

electronic, written, verbal or physical act that:

  • Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property; or
  • Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education: or
  • Is so severe, persistent or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening environment; or
  • Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operations of the school.

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Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying of students (HIB) con’t

Policy 3207 prohibits harassment, intimidation, and bullying of students. Your obligation is to:

  • Stop any student HIB that you observe
  • Address any immediate safety concerns
  • Obtain reports from students (including weekend conduct)
  • Report all information to your administrator

Administration will investigate the bullying and implement discipline, interventions, and/or follow-up. In cases of sexual harassment of a student, the administrator will document the school’s response per Title IX as well as HIB Policy.

HIB Contact: Shane Gardner 360-604-4066

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What about Cyber bullying?

1. Cyber bullying is bullying.

2. Cyber bullying is willful and repeated harm inflicted through the use of computers, cell phones and other electronic devices.

3. Cyber bullying is being cruel to others by sending or posting harmful materials or engaging in other forms of social cruelty using the internet or other digital technologies.

Q: When do school officials have the authority to respond to off-campus student speech?

A: Almost universally, the federal courts have said schools have the authority to respond when that speech has caused, or could cause, substantial disruption on campus or interference with the rights of students to be secure.

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Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment means unwelcome conduct or communication of a sexual nature. Examples include:

  • Acts of sexual violence
  • Unwelcome sexual or gender-directed conduct or communication that interferes with an individual’s employment performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment
  • Unwelcome sexual advances or unwelcome requests for sexual favors
  • Sexual demands when submission is a stated or implied condition of obtaining a work opportunity or other benefit
  • Sexual demands where submission or rejection is a factor in a work or other school-related decision affecting an individual

If you have a concern regarding sexual harassment, report to your supervisor or Human Resources. For more information, see Policy 5011. Administrators may need to document the response per Title IX.

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Nondiscrimination and Gender Identity Awareness

The Washington State Law regarding freedom from discrimination states “The right to be free from discrimination because of race, creed, religion, color, national origin, sex, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability is recognized as and declared to be a civil right. See RCW 49.60.030. Policies enforcing this law include:

  • Policy 3210 (students) Policy 5010 (employees) -- Nondiscrimination
  • Policy 3211 -- Gender Inclusive
  • Procedure 3211P -- Gender Inclusive
  • Form 3211F --Gender Inclusive

RCW 28A.640 (sex discrimination); RCW 28A.642 (discrimination based on all protected classes); WAC 392-190 (discrimination based on all protected classes, discrimination complaint procedures)

HIB Compliance Officer/Gender Inclusivity, Discrimination, and Harassment: Shane Gardner

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Nondiscrimination

Evergreen School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, disability, or the use of a trained guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

You can report discrimination and discriminatory harassment to any school staff member or to the district’s Civil Rights Coordinator. You have the right to file a complaint. For a copy of your district’s nondiscrimination policy and procedure, see link on previous slide.

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Discrimination Complaint options: Con’t

Step 1. Write Out Your Complaint

In most cases, complaints must be filed within one year from the date of the incident or conduct that is the subject of the complaint. A complaint must be in writing. Be sure to describe the conduct or incident, explain why you believe discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or sexual harassment has taken place, and describe what actions you believe the district should take to resolve the problem. Send your written complaint—by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery—to the district superintendent or civil rights compliance coordinator.

Step 2: School District Investigates Your Complaint

Once the district receives your written complaint, the coordinator will give you a copy of the complaint procedure and make sure a

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Discrimination Complaint options: Con’t

prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The superintendent or designee will respond to you in writing within 30 calendar days—unless you agree on a different time period. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that demand a lengthier investigation, the district will notify you in writing to explain why staff need a time extension and the new date for their written response.

Step 3: School District Responds to Your Complaint

In its written response, the district will include a summary of the results of the investigation, a determination of whether or not the district failed to comply with civil rights laws, notification that you can appeal this determination, and any measures necessary to bring the district into compliance with civil rights laws. Corrective measures will be put into effect within 30 calendar days after this written response—unless you agree to a different time period.

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Discrimination Complaint options: Con’t

Appeal to the School District

If you disagree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal to the school district’s board of directors. You must file a notice of appeal in writing to the secretary of the school board within 10 calendar days after you received the school district’s response to your complaint. The school board will schedule a hearing within 20 calendar days after they received your appeal, unless you agree on a different timeline. The school board will send you a written decision within 30 calendar days after the district received your notice of appeal. The school board’s decision will include information about how to file a complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

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Discrimination Complaint options: Con’t

Complaint to OSPI

If you do not agree with the school district’s appeal decision, state law provides the option to file a formal complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). This is a separate complaint process that can take place if one of these two conditions has occurred: (1) you have completed the district’s complaint and appeal process, or (2) the district has not followed the complaint and appeal process correctly.

You have 20 calendar days to file a complaint to OSPI from the day you received the decision on your appeal. You can send your written complaint to the Equity and Civil Rights Office at OSPI:

Email: Equity@k12.wa.us ǀ Fax: 360-664-2967

Mail or hand deliver: PO Box 47200, 600 Washington St. S.E., Olympia, WA 98504-7200

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Compliance Coordinators

Questions regarding specific programs should be directed to:

  • ADA/Section 504 -- Cate Winters x6711
  • Title IX Coordinator -- Cale Piland x4430
  • Civil Rights Coordinator -- Tracy Thompson x4435
  • Harassment Complaints by Staff -- Jenae Gomes x4453
  • Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying and Gender-Inclusive Schools

Coordinator (Students) -- Shane Gardner x4066

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Boundary Invasion

Section Includes:

  • Description
  • Policy 5253 and 5253P

Strategic Plan Pillar

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Boundary Invasion

Employees are prohibited from engaging in sexual, intimate or romantic conduct or contact with a student, regardless of age, who is currently enrolled in the District. Staff members are expected to maintain professional and ethical relationships with students even when interacting with students outside the school day. Policy 5253. Staff members are required to immediately report any suspicious employee behavior, no matter how small. Boundary invasions with students may lead to discipline, including and up to termination of employment with the school district, an investigation by the Office of Professional Practices (OPP), CPS, and/or law enforcement and criminal consequences.

Taking an Undue Interest in a Particular Student: Having a special relationship with a particular student; favoring certain students with special privileges or inviting them to come to the classroom at non-class times or during prep period; engaging in peer-like behavior with students.

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Boundary Invasion: Tell someone if you see...

An Adult Using Poor Judgment in Relation to a Particular Student: allowing a student to get away with inappropriate behavior; being alone with a student behind closed doors; giving gifts or money to a student; being overly friendly with certain students or touching students for no educational or safety reason; giving students a ride in the educator’s personnel vehicle, especially alone; electronic or phone communication with a particular student without an educational reason.

An Adult Becoming Involved in the Student’s Private Life: talking about the adult’s personal problems with student; becoming confidant for the student’s personal problems when that is outside their job responsibilities; extending contact outside of the school day; inviting student to adult’s home or visiting their home; asking them to keep things from others, such as parents; friending/following on social media.

An Adult Engaging in Sexually Related Conduct: engaging in sex talk with students (including innuendos, banter, jokes); talking with students about sexual topics not related to curriculum; showing students pornography; hugging, kissing or any affectionate physical contact with student.

REPORT Boundary Invasions immediately to building principal or Jenae Gomes at jenae.gomes@evergreenps.org

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Policy 5253 General Staff Conduct

and Student Boundaries

In addition to not engaging in student boundary invasion, Policy 5253 describes conduct expected by all staff. Included in the policy, staff are expected to:

  • Show students, parents, patrons, colleagues courteous/respectful treatment.
  • Be present at assignment at scheduled times unless excused by supervisor.
  • Follow district policy, rules and regulations.
  • Policy violation may occur by ignoring these boundaries as well as by failing to report another staff/volunteer who is ignoring these boundaries.

For more information, see Policy 5253 and Procedure 5253P.

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Can I transport a student in my own car?

Typically, you should not; however, if a situation arises, consider and do the following:

  • Insurance follows the vehicle. Your own personal car insurance will provide coverage if there is a car accident or injury.
  • You must have parent and administrator permission to transport the student.
  • You will need appropriate child seats when required by law.
  • Caution: because a student could allege a boundary invasion, in order to have a witnesses to speak on your behalf, another adult should ride along with you and the student.

Policy 6625

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