EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY

We believe that democracy is the form of government best suited to serve humanity. In order for it to function and to guarantee its preservation, there must be an educated citizenry. We recognize the basic concept that each child is a unique individual within this citizenry, possessing capabilities, qualities, and aspirations that are their own and should be developed to their greatest potential. Providing an educational environment where there is truly an equality of opportunity for all will foster and nurture this development.

We believe that youth has an inalienable right to enthusiasm and idealism; that this right should not be abrogated or stifled by adult cynicism, sarcasm, or ridicule.

We believe that our schools must provide a quality and diversity of educational opportunity for every student which will allow the students with a fund of necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes which will enable them to function successfully while at the same time, respecting and preserving their own individual uniqueness, personal integrity, and self respect.

We expect the end product of our educational system to be an autonomous individual who can function successfully in our social and economic system; who respect themselves and others; who will be creative, adaptive, and cooperative; and who will be more humane than otherwise would have been.

Board of Education

Dunlap Community Unit School District #323

HISTORY OF THE ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS  

WILDER-WAITE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In 1947, seven small individual school districts, or parts thereof, reorganized to form the Wilder-Waite School District . The fourteen acres for the present site were donated by the Wilder and Waite families. The original section of the present Wilder-Waite building was constructed in 1947, with four additions to that original building.

DUNLAP GRADE SCHOOL

In 1949, four small school districts reorganized to form the Dunlap Consolidated Grade School District . The original section of Dunlap Grade School was built in 1949, with four additions to that building.

In 1969, the Wilder-Waite District, Dunlap Grade District, and Dunlap High School District reorganized to form the present Dunlap Unit School District 323.

BANNER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Banner Elementary School was built in 1980 to accommodate a rapidly increasing student enrollment at both Wilder-Waite School and Dunlap Grade School . The building was constructed on the former site of a one-room school built in 1872. The name of that school was Banner, hence the name of the present building. Several bricks and the corner stone from that original building, as well as the original pump from the well, have become part of the new building. At the beginning of the 2006-2007 school year, Banner added six new classrooms to accommodate growth in the district. Banner is now able to house up to approximately 450 students.

RIDGEVIEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Ridgeview Elementary School , the newest building in the Dunlap School District , opened on August 20, 2001 . Ridgeview was built to accommodate the rapidly increasing elementary enrollments across the district. Ridgeview is the first Dunlap school to be constructed within the boundaries of the City of Peoria . Situated on a thirteen-acre site, Ridgeview will be able to accommodate 450 students.

The history of our district has been couched in growth and expansion to accommodate students. That trend has been evident today with a district that has remained committed to meeting the needs of students.

INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS  

According to the Illinois General Assembly, the primary purpose of schooling is the transmission of knowledge and culture through which students learn in areas necessary to their continuing development and entry into the world of work. To fulfill that purpose, the State Board of Education prepared State Goals for Learning with accompanying Illinois Learning Standards.

The Board of Education gives priority in the allocation of resources, including funds, time, personnel, and facilities, to fulfilling this purpose.

Kindergarten

A half-day kindergarten shall be established and maintained with an instructional program which fulfills the District's curricular goals and objectives and the requirements of the State Board of Education.

A full day kindergarten, the Extended Day Kindergarten program, has been established for selected students. Information regarding this program will be provided by the building principal.

Special Programs

Each elementary building has certified teachers to provide instruction to all students in art, general music, and physical education . The comprehensive programs in art, music, and physical education have provided specialized instruction, in accordance to district curricular objectives. In addition, students in grades 1 – 5 receive computer instruction. Children in grades 4 and 5 have the option of expanding their musical talents by joining chorus as well.

Instrumental music instruction has been offered as an optional activity to fourth and fifth grade students. Fourth graders may participate in a strings program; fifth graders may become a member of the band or strings program. Students may not be a member of both strings and band simultaneously. Lessons and rehearsals have been scheduled during the school day, with occasional practice sessions after school. Combined concerts have been planned during the school year. Participation in band or orchestra will remain an option at Dunlap Middle School , as well as Dunlap High School .

Gifted Education To the extent possible within the resources available, all gifted and talented students shall have an opportunity to participate in appropriate educational programs.

The term "gifted and talented students" means students whose mental development is accelerated beyond the average or who have demonstrated a specific aptitude or talent to the extent they need and can benefit from specially planned educational services. "Gifted and talented students" include students with exceptional ability in academic subjects, high-level thought processes, divergent thinking, creativity, and the arts.

The District gifted education has provided the following:

• Students are identified based upon their performance on the STS test administered in the fall of each school year. It is based on abilities noted in math, reading and IQ.

• Students are identified beginning at 2 nd grade.

• Educational programs have included access at all grade levels and have encompassed all of the fundamental areas of learning.

• Continuity among grade levels and the objectives of the program have been in keeping with the long-range goals of the District.

Programs for Remedial Reading Instruction

Each elementary building has provided additional reading assistance for students based upon teacher referral. Specialized instruction planned by certified staff has provided for the individual needs of each student.

Education of Children with Disabilities

The District shall provide a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment and necessary related services to all children with disabilities enrolled in the District, as required by the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act ("IDEA") and implementing provisions of The School Code, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The term "children with disabilities", as used in the policy, means children between ages 3 and 21 for whom it is determined, through definitions and procedures described in the Illinois Rules and Regulations of Special Education , that special education services are needed.

The District has maintained membership in a cooperative association of school districts, Special Education Association of Peoria County (SEAPCO), which has offered special class placement and other services for various types of special needs. Services have been available in the areas of speech/language development, learning disabilities, mental impairment, hearing or visual impairment, physical handicaps, or social/emotional adjustment. Most special education services have been provided in the local elementary building. On occasion, a student has required the services offered only in nearby district or private day or residential program. All costs, including transportation, are the responsibility of Dunlap District #323. Eligibility for programming is determined through a referral process, with parental consent. Parents of exceptional children have rights, safeguarded by state and federal statute that have included such topics as evaluation procedures, consent, legal costs, confidentiality, and records. Specific questions regarding special education should be directed to the building principal or the SEAPCO director (697-0880).

Elementary Retention Policy

In accordance with School Code 105 5/10-90.9a, school districts shall not promote students to the next higher grade level based upon age or any other social reason not related to the performance of the student. Dunlap District #323 administers the following policy regarding grade promotion K-5.

Retention of a student will be considered when a significant number of the following factors are present:

•  The student, not due to cognitive ability, is reading one (1) or more grade levels below current grade placement.

•  The student, not due to cognitive ability, is performing one (1) or more grade levels below in mathematics.

•  The student's classroom assessments/grades indicate poor classroom achievement.

•  A high number of absences (10%) have occurred.

•  Developmental skills are significantly below current grade level placement.

•  The student's scores are in the lower range on the STS and/or ISAT tests.

Before the end of the second quarter (or earlier if possible), each teacher must notify parents of students who may be considered for retention. A conference should be held at that time in which interventions can be examined. All options for remediation that are appropriate and offered in the school will be made available to the student. It is recognized by this policy that retention is an option of last resort and all available options should be attempted at this point.

During the fourth quarter a conference shall be convened with the parents, classroom teacher, one other teacher who has knowledge of the student, and the building principal. Participants shall use data from the six factors above in determining the correct placement for the student. It is the intent of this policy that if a significant number of the above factors are met, the students would be retained. The final decision for grade placement shall be made by the building principal. A formal letter from the principal stating the decision and reasons for the decision shall be sent to the parents and placed in the student's file.

In the event of retention, a specific remediation plan shall be developed for the student before the next school year commences. Such a plan will be designed to enhance the academic growth of the student during the time he/she is retained. Summer remediation may be one of the options, but cannot be used in lieu of retention.

COMMUNICATION

Parents/guardians will be informed at regular intervals regarding the progress of their children in school. The School Board has endorsed the use of various avenues of communication with parents, including the following:

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Parent/teacher conferences will be held for all students at the conclusion of the first grading period as an effective means of reporting student progress. For students in kindergarten through second grade, an additional conference will be scheduled in the spring semester.

Written Student Progress Reports and Report Cards

Progress reports will be sent during the first grading period for all students to indicate academic progress and social adjustment to the new school year. Subsequent reports will be sent at the discretion of the teacher to communicate specific concerns.

Report cards will be issued four times during the school year. The following grading scale will be used in grades 3-5.

Teachers in grades 3-5 will give pluses and checks on the nine week report card to better indicate student performance and progress.

Students in grades K-2 will not be given letter grades. Progress in consistently meeting district curricular objectives will be reported. Specific information will be presented at the teacher/parent meeting regarding this evaluation. 

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

All students are entitled to enjoy the rights protected by the Federal and State Constitutions and laws for persons of their age and maturity in a school setting. Students should exercise these rights reasonably and avoid violating the rights of others. Students who violate the rights of others or violate District policies or rules will be subject to disciplinary measures.

The following principles of student conduct will be expected:

• Respect for law and those given the authority to administer it will be required of all students. This will include conformity to school rules, as well as general provisions of the law regarding minors.
• Respect for the rights of others and cooperative citizenship will be expected of all members of the school community.
• Respect for real and personal property, pride in one's work, achievement within the range of one's ability, and exemplary personal standards of courtesy, decency, honesty, and wholesome attitudes will be maintained.
• Respect for individual worth with appropriate student expectations has been the obligation of the school as well as the student.

Student Discipline  

Teachers and other certified educational employees shall maintain discipline in the schools. In all matters relating to the discipline in and the conduct of the schools and the school children, they stand in the relation of parents and guardians to the pupils. This relationship shall extend to all activities connected with the school program and may be exercised at any time for safety and supervision of the pupils in the absence of their parents and guardians. (School Code of Illinois )

To comply with the requirements of this provision, a detailed set of rules and consequences has been established in each of the elementary buildings. Specific guidelines have been provided for the playground, gym, bus, hallway, and classroom behavior. Students will be informed at the beginning of each school year of the rules and consequences by teachers and the principals. A copy of the school rules will be provided for each family.

The superintendent or building principal has been authorized to suspend or expel students guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct from school, school activities, and/or school bus. Although such drastic measures have not been routinely utilized at the elementary level, Illinois School Code has required that parents and students be advised of Dunlap District Policy regarding these measures.

Prohibited Student Conduct

Disciplinary action may be taken against any student guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct, including, but not limited to, the following:

1. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling tobacco materials.
2. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling alcoholic beverages. Students who are under the influence are not permitted to attend school functions and are treated as though they had alcohol in their possession.
3. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling illegal drugs, controlled substances, "look-alike" drugs, or drug paraphernalia. A "look-alike" drug is defined as a substance not containing an illegal drug or controlled substance, but (a) that a student believes to be, or represents to be, an illegal drug or controlled substance, or (b) about which a student engaged in behavior that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student expressly or implied represented to be an illegal drug or controlled substance. Students who are under the influence of any prohibited substance or drug or in possession of any drug paraphernalia are not permitted to attend school or school functions are treated as though they had drugs or paraphernalia, as applicable, in their possession.
4. Using, possessing, controlling, or transferring a weapon in violation of the "weapons" section of Board policy.
5. Disobeying directives from staff members or school officials and/or rules and regulations governing student conduct.
6. Using any form or type of aggressive behavior that does physical or psychological harm to someone else and/or urging other students to engage in such conduct. Prohibited aggressive behavior includes, without limitation, the use of violence, force, noise, coercion, threats, intimidation, fear, bullying, or other comparable conduct.
7. Causing or attempting to cause damage to, or stealing or attempting to steal, school property or another person's personal property.
8. Unexcused absenteeism; State law and Board policy on truancy control will be used with chronic and habitual truants.
9. Involvement in gangs or gang-related activities, including the display of gang symbols or paraphernalia.
10. Engaging in any activity that constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function or any disruptive activity.

The complete Board policy is available upon request.

Student Bullying

No student should be subject to bullying, aggression, and violence. Accordingly, aggressive student behavior, including student bullying in all forms, is prohibited.

Aggressive behavior is defined as assertive words and/or actions intended to threaten, injure, harass, provoke or incite another person or as hostile words and/or actions towards the property of another. Bullying is defined as student behavior that hurts, frightens, threatens, or tyrannizes students who are either physically or psychologically smaller or weaker than the person engaging in the bullying is. In most cases, bullying is characterized by repeated harmful actions on the part of the bully. Examples of bullying may include, but are not limited to:

• Physical Bullying: may include punching, shoving, poking, hair-pulling, or other similar behaviors
• Verbal Bullying: may include name calling, teasing, gossip, humiliation, intimidation, or other similar behaviors

The administration is directed to provide to District schools and parents educational materials designed to assist in preventing bullying and to minimize the risk of being bullied. Students who engage in acts of bullying may be subject to discipline in accordance with the student discipline policy of the Board of Education. Such discipline may include verbal or written reprimand, in-school suspension, change of placement, and/or out of school suspension or expulsion. Parental notification will be made in accordance with student discipline by Board policy.

Students who are victims of bullying may also be referred to the building level student support team for assistance, including counseling or other supportive services from school or community agencies. In addition, school personnel shall monitor and identify students who exhibit behaviors that indicate a tendency toward aggressive behavior, including bullying.

School personnel who identify such students should refer the student to the student support team. The parent/guardians of students shall be advised in writing of the referral to the student support team and any action taken by the team concerning the student.

Upon receipt of the referral, the student support team shall monitor the student, review any non-school community-based interventions for the student, and consider necessary school-based interventions including, but not limited to, referral for an evaluation to determine special education eligibility. If the student is currently a student with a disability, the IEP team or Section 504 team may assume the functions of the student support team of the building.

HEALTH EXAMINATIONS, IMMUNIZATIONS, AND EXCLUSION OF STUDENTS

A student's parent(s)/guardian(s) shall present proof that the student was examined by a licensed physician and received the immunizations against, and screenings for, preventable communicable diseases, as required by the Department of Public Health rules:

•  New Students to the District:

•  Must have current health and dental records as prescribed by Illinois Law. **All physical records must be on an Illinois form.

•  Kindergarten

•  Current Dental exam is required by the State of Illinois

•  Current Physical (required by the State of Illinois ) with the following:

•  DPT vaccine (4 or more doses required – the last booster on or after the 4 th birthday)

•  Polio vaccine (3 or more doses with the last one on or after the 4 th birthday)

•  MMR vaccine (2 required – the 1 st shot MUST be on or after the 1 st birthday)

•  Chicken Pox vaccine or note from Physician, Health Department, or clinic indicating the student has already had chicken pox.

•  It is recommended that a statement from physician that child has been screened for lead poisoning.

•  2 nd Grade

•  Current Dental exam is required by the State of Illinois

•  5 th Grade

•  Current Physical with Hepatitis B vaccine (3 required)

•  6 th Grade

•  Current dental exam is required by the State of Illinois

Parent(s)/guardian(s) are encouraged to have their child undergo a dental examination whenever health examinations are required.

Failure to comply with the above requirements by the first day of school of the current school year will result in the student's exclusion from school until the required health forms are presented to the District . If a medical reason prevents a student from receiving a required immunization by the first day of school, the student must present, by the first day of school, an immunization schedule and a statement of the medical reasons causing the delay. The schedule and statement of medical reasons must be signed by the physician, registered nurse, or local health department responsible for administering the immunizations. All new students who are first-time registrants shall have 30 days following registration to comply with the health examination and immunization regulations.

Parent(s)/guardian(s) of children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years must provide a statement from a physician that their child was "risk-assessed" or screened for lead poisoning in accordance with State law.

A student may be exempted from this policy's requirements on religious or medical grounds if the student's parent(s)/guardian(s) present to the Superintendent a signed statement explaining the objection. A student may be exempted from health examination or immunizations of medical grounds if a physician provides written verification.

Accidents and Injuries

The safety of every student has always been a prime concern. When an accident has occurred, staff has responded with limited emergency care.

Responsibility of the School –

Basically, the responsibility of the school has been to identify the problem and make the child as comfortable as possible, using basic first aid measures. Parents will be notified, except for very minor scrapes and bruises.

To aid in parent notification, the school has expected parents to have:

• A completed "Emergency Information Form" on file in the office.
• Arrangements made for an adult to assume responsibility in case parents are not available.

Responsibility of the Parent/Guardian –

Once parents have been notified, it has become their responsibility to decide what should be done and to inform the school of how the situation should be handled. Parents/guardians should not expect school personnel to diagnose or prescribe corrective measures.

Illness

The administration has felt that attendance has been the key factor in student achievement and success in education. The responsibility for regular student attendance has been the responsibility of the parent/guardian and the student. Since school personnel realize some absences are unavoidable, provisions for the completion of missed assignments will be made. However, make-up work has never been able to substitute for actual lessons, since classroom discussions, presentations, and explanations can not be repeated.

Whenever a student has not been in attendance, schools have been held responsible to verify the absence. To facilitate the process, parents have been asked to telephone the school NO LATER THAN 9:30 A.M. to provide an explanation for the absence. When a parent/guardian has neglected to make this notification, school personnel must make the contact by either telephoning the home or work numbers provided on the emergency cards.

Whenever a student is absent from school, a written note of explanation is expected from the parent/guardian. If a child has been absent for an extended period of time due to a serious illness, a note from the attending physician should be provided. Upon return to school, students will be required to participate in all activities, including physical education classes and outdoor recess periods. A note from a parent/guardian will excuse a student from certain school activities for two days. Any restrictions in excess of two days will require a statement from the family physician.

Whenever a child must be excused during the school day, a note should be sent providing an explanation. The child will be issued a pass from the office, and will be excused by the classroom teacher at the appropriate time. Students should wait in the office for the parent/guardian.

Punctuality has always been an important trait to develop. All tardies are considered UNEXCUSED unless a student is returning from a medical and/or dental appointment, or the child was ill. A parent/guardian will need to provide a note of explanation for all tardiness.

ADMINISTERING MEDICINES TO STUDENTS

Students should not take medication during school hours or during school-related activities unless it is necessary for a student's health and well-being. When a student's licensed health care provider and parent(s)/guardian(s) believe that it is necessary for the student to take a medication during school hours or school-related activities, the parent/guardian must request that the school dispense the medication to the child and otherwise follow the District's procedures on dispensing medication.

No School District employee shall administer to any student, or supervise a student's self-administration of, any prescription or non-prescription medication until a completed and signed “School Medication Authorization Form” is submitted by the student's parent/guardian. No student shall possess or consume any prescription or non-prescription medication on school grounds or at a school-related function other than as provided for in this policy and its implementing procedures.

A student may possess an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®) and/or medication prescribed for asthma for immediate use at the student's discretion, provided the student's parent/guardian has completed and signed a “School Medication Authorization Form.” The School District shall incur no liability, except for willful and wanton conduct, as a result of any injury arising from a student's self-administration of medication or epinephrine auto-injector or the storage of any medication by school personnel. A student's parent/guardian must indemnify and hold harmless the School District and its employees and agents, against any claims, except a claim based on willful and wanton conduct, arising out of a student's self-administration of an epinephrine auto-injector and/or medication, or the storage of any medication by school personnel.

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

Sex Offender Law

Upon request, parents may have available to them information about sex offenders as per the Sex Offender Community Notification Law. This information is available at each school building.

GENERAL SCHOOL PROCEDURES

Cancellation of School/Early Dismissal

The Superintendent will cancel or terminate the school session on any day when hazardous weather or other emergencies present threats to the health and safety of students and staff members. Whenever possible local radio stations will be notified of such school closures. The parent/guardian has had the responsibility to listen for information regarding the closing of school when inclement weather threatens the area. Furthermore, the parent/guardian should provide their children with specific instructions regarding the possibility of an emergency early dismissal of school. Children must know what to do upon arrival at an earlier than usual time.

Field Trips

Field trips will be scheduled and planned to provide pupils with educational experiences, which are extensions of the classroom and integral parts of the education program.

Elementary (K-5) school field trips will be completed and classes returned to their respective attendance centers by the regular afternoon dismissal time unless prior notification is given from the teacher.

Whenever entrance fees, refreshments or other costs are involved, these costs will be assumed by the student unless otherwise stipulated. No student will be excluded from any field trip due to lack of funds.

Parental permission slips must be on file. However, teachers will provide parents specific information prior to the field trip.

Money and Personal Possessions

Elementary age students have few occasions when money will be required at school. Except for the money that is required for lunch, students should not bring money to school without teacher directions. Personal possessions, such as video and music devices, and electronic games should not be brought to school without teacher permission. The school will assume no responsibility for either personal property or money.

Recess

Students have planned recess periods throughout the day to provide a break from the structured academic program. Since recess usually will be held outdoors, students must dress appropriately for these play periods.

School Day

The school hours for the elementary buildings will be:

School Begins

7:45 a.m.

School Dismissal

2:45 p.m.

Student Appearance

The dress and grooming of students must not disrupt the educational process; interfere with the maintenance of a positive teaching/learning climate, or compromise reasonable standards of health, safety, and decency. The District has felt that dress and personal appearance have been the responsibility of each student, with direct correlation to the individual student behavior and the total behavior of the student body. Students must be properly and appropriately attired in keeping with an educational atmosphere.

The following list has been considered to represent minimum requirements for appropriate student dress:

• Dress and appearance must not be disruptive to the educational process.
• Dress and appearance must not constitute a threat to the safety or health of self or others.
• Clothing displaying offensive or suggestive words or symbols will not be worn, including those with sexual connotations.
• No articles of clothing, which promote, endorse, or in any way advertise alcohol, drugs, tobacco products or any illegal substance will be worn.
• Dress and appearance must be such that all students are covered from the shoulders to mid-thigh.
• All students must wear shoes.
• No hats or caps may be worn inside the buildings.

Inappropriate dress will be determined by the building principal. Students in violation of the dress code will be excused from class until appropriately attired.

Visitors To The School

Visitors are welcome to any School District building, provided their presence will not be disruptive. All visitors must sign in at the school office and wear a Visitor's Badge. Any person wishing to confer with a staff member shall contact that staff member by telephone to make an appointment. Conferences with teachers are held outside school hours or during the teacher's conference/preparation period.

Any staff member may request identification from any person on school grounds or in any school building; refusal to provide such information is a criminal act. The building principal or designee shall seek the immediate removal of any person who: (1) refuses to provide requested identification, (2) interferes with, disrupts, or threatens to disrupt any school activity or the learning environment, (3) or engages in an activity in violation of Board of Education policy 8:30, Conduct of School Property .

STUDENT RECORDS

School student records are confidential and information from them shall not be released other than as provided by law. Any record that contains personally identifiable information that would link the document to an individual student is a school student record if maintained by the District, except (1) records that are kept in the sole possession of a school staff member, are destroyed not later than the student's graduation or permanent withdrawal, and are not accessible or revealed to any other person except a temporary substitute teacher, and (2) records kept by law enforcement officials working in the school.

State and federal laws grant students and parent(s)/guardian(s) certain rights, including the right to inspect, copy, and challenge school records. The information contained in school student records shall be kept current, accurate, clear and relevant. All information maintained concerning a student receiving special education services shall be directly related to the provision of services to that child. The District may release directory information as permitted by law, but parent(s)/guardian(s) shall have the right to object to the release of information regarding their child.

The Superintendent shall implement this policy with administrative procedures. The Superintendent shall also designate a records custodian who shall maintain student records. The Superintendent or designee shall inform staff members of this policy, and shall inform students and their parent(s)/guardian(s) of it, as well as their rights regarding student's school records.

SCHOOL COMMUNITY RELATIONS

Parent Organizations

The Board of Education recognizes that parent organizations are an invaluable resource to the District schools and so supports their formation and vitality. While parent organizations shall have no administrative authority and cannot determine District policy, their suggestions and assistance are always welcome. Membership will be open and unrestricted.

The building principal or designee will serve as the advisor to parent organizations in his or her school and will serve as a resource person and provide information about school programs, resources, policies, problems, concerns, and emerging issues. Building staff will be encouraged to participate in the organizations.

School Volunteers

The administration has encouraged participation of individuals and groups in local schools to perform appropriate tasks during and after school hours under the supervision of professional personnel. Volunteers have not taught, but have reinforced and aided education skills taught by the professional staff. Volunteers have worked with groups of students, assisted on a one-to-one basis, or performed services not involving children. Volunteer services have helped to promote and ensure maximum educational benefits to the students.

STUDENT SERVICES

Student Insurance

As a convenience to parents, an optional plan of student insurance has been made available. The Board of Education has annually designated the company by which the coverage will be offered and has permitted the distribution of information about the plan in the schools.

Although the Board will exercise care in the selection of a reliable company, a parent/guardian must understand that the Board has not in anyway endorsed the plan or recommended that parents secure the coverage. Specifically stated, the contract will be between the parent and the company, and with the Board assuming no financial involvement in the operation.

The school staff will be involved only in the distribution of informational materials and in completion of accident reports when appropriate. Brochures will be available in the school office.

Food Service

The district has maintained personnel in the elementary buildings to prepare daily student lunches. For the convenience of school personnel, students have been encouraged to deposit enough money into their accounts to purchase lunches for at least a week.

Free and Reduced Price Food Services

Parents may request a free and reduced lunch form from the building secretaries.

School Directory

In September each school will compile and distribute a student directory to every family. The names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all students will be included in the directory. Any parent/guardian who does not wish inclusion in this listing should notify the school secretary within the first two weeks of school.

Transportation

As required by The School Code of Illinois, the district has provided a safe and efficient system of transportation for all students in the District residing at a distance of one and one-half miles or more from the school.

Bus schedules and routes have been determined and will be altered only with approval of the Assistant Superintendent of Operations. In fixing the routes, every effort has been made to have the pickup and discharge points as safe and as convenient for students as possible. The following guidelines have been established:

• Students must ride the assigned bus, getting on and off the bus only at the designated stop.
• Students should arrive at the bus stop approximately five minutes prior to the designated time.
• Requests for a student to ride a different bus should be made only for emergencies. A parent/guardian must provide a note with an explanation for the change.  

Internet

Internet access is available to students and teachers in Dunlap Community Unit District 323. The Internet offers vast, diverse and unique resources. The District's goal in providing this resource is to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. District 323 firmly believes that the valuable information and interaction available via the Internet will enhance the educational program offered by the Dunlap schools.

1. Risk

With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of material that may not be considered appropriate for student use. Sites accessible via the Internet may contain material that is illegal, defamatory, obscene, inaccurate, or controversial. District 323 has taken precautions to restrict access to controversial materials. Each computer in District 323 capable of accessing the Internet has installed on it a software package designed to block out objectionable web sites. An additional software package that blocks objectionable sites is also installed on District servers that connect to the Internet. However, no manufacturer of such software will offer a 100% guarantee that their product will eliminate all objectionable sites. The technology available today is not capable of achieving this goal.

Technology can still be supplemented by human resources, however, District 323 believes that supervision is still the most effective way to discourage students from accessing inappropriate information on the Internet. Every effort will be made to insure that adult supervision is present while students are accessing the Internet. While the District is making every effort to prevent students from directly or indirectly accessing objectionable web sites, it must be understood that at this time no system will insure complete security.

1. Terms and Conditions

Privileges – The use of the District's Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. The system administrator will make all decision regarding whether or not a user has violated this Authorization and may deny, revoke, or suspend access at any time.

Acceptable Use – Students who use the Internet are responsible for their own actions. Those who access the Internet must do so in conjunction with an authorized school assignment and with the permission of their instructor. Users are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Be polite. Do not become abusive in your messages to others.
2. Use appropriate language. Do not swear, or use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language.
3. Do not reveal the personal addresses or telephone numbers of students or colleagues.
4. Recognize that electronic mail (E-mail) is not private. People who operate the system have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.
5. Do not use the network in anyway that would disrupt its use by other users.
6. Consider all communications and information accessible via the network to be private property

Unacceptable Use –

1. Using the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other contracts, or transmitting any material in violation of any U.S. or State regulations;
2. Unauthorized downloading of software, regardless of whether it is copyrighted or de-use;
3. Downloading copyrighted material for other than personal use;
4. Using the network for private financial or commercial gain;
5. Wastefully using resources, such as file space;
6. Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities;
7. Invading the privacy of individuals;
8. Using another user's account or password;
9. Posting material authored or created by another without his/her consent;
10. Posting anonymous messages;
11. Using the network for commercial or private advertising;
12. Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, or displaying any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, harassing, or illegal material; (unintentionally accessing such shall be immediately made known to the System Administrator and Superintendent.)
13. Using the network while access privileges are suspended or revoked.

No Warranties – The District makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The District will not be responsible for any damages you suffer or cause. This includes the loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, missed-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its negligence or your errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at your own risk. The District specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.

Indemnification – The user agrees to indemnify the School District for any losses, costs, or damages, including reasonable attorney fees, incurred by the District relating to, or arising out of, any breach of this Authorization.

Security – Network security is a high priority. If you can identify a security problem on the Internet, you must notify your teacher or the librarian. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Attempts to log-on to the Internet as a system administrator will result in cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk may be denied access to the network.

Vandalism – Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges and other disciplinary action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, the Internet, or any other network. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.

Consequences of Policy Violation - An attempt to violate the provisions of this policy may result in revocation of the users Internet access privileges, regardless of the success or failure of the attempt. Further disciplinary action, as outlined in the District 323 policy, including notification to state and federal authorities, may also be taken.

Non-Discrimination Policy

It is the policy of the Dunlap School District to provide and maintain an atmosphere in which all persons can develop attitudes and skills for effective, cooperative living, including:

• Respect for the individual regardless of economic status, intellectual ability, race, creed, color, religion, sex, or age;
• Respect for the special needs of persons with physical, sensory, cognitive, or mental disability;
• Respect for cultural differences;
• Respect for economic, political, and social rights of others;
• Respect for the right of others to seek and maintain their own identities.

Complete copies of the policies and grievance procedures regarding any of these areas are available in the building offices as well as the District Administrative Office. Inquires regarding compliance should be made to the Title IX/ADA coordinator in the District Administrative Office (309-243-7716).

Title IX Policy

It is the policy of Dunlap School District not to discriminate on the basis of sex in educational programs and employment practices as required by Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments. Inquires regarding compliance should be made to Mr. John Mangers, Dunlap Schools, or Civil Rights Office, U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.

Evolution Disclaimer

Evolution is a scientific theory that seeks to explain the origins of life as well as other related issues. The Dunlap District #323 Board of Education expects that teachers teach the theory of evolution as they would teach any other well-recognized scientific theory. This means providing evidence in support of the theory, as well as recognizing reasonable arguments and support against such theory.

Pest Control

As of August 1, 2000 , all public bodies in the State of Illinois are required to have an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Policy. Dunlap CUSD #323 has developed procedures which incorporate building maintenance, sanitation, physical barriers, and pesticides. The District has no intention of spraying or fogging with pesticides in any school building. However, to be in compliance, the District must provide a procedure for parents to express their concerns. Therefore, the District has created a voluntary registration for parents who wish to be notified two days in advance should any airborne pesticides be applied. Parents should contact the Central Administrative Office (243-7716) to be included in the registry.

Asbestos Statement

Dunlap School District #323 has submitted the Management Plan prepared pursuant to the requirements of the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA, 40 CFR 763) for Dunlap High School, Dunlap Middle School, Dunlap Grade School, Ridgeview Elementary School, Wilder-Waite Elementary School, and Banner
Elementary School. Copies of the Management Plan are available in the Administrative Office of the school district and in the office of each school building. These plans are available for your inspection during normal business hours of the office ( 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ) and during other times by special arrangement. We request that appointments be made with us to review such plans. To make arrangements, please contact the District Designated Person, Mr. John Mangers at 243-7716.