Student Handbook

8:25 a.m.

Students may arrive on the play field
Students eating breakfast may enter the cafeteria

8:40 a.m.

All students should be on school grounds
Bell rings; students may enter classrooms

8:45 a.m.

School begins
Students should be seated in class and ready to learn
Students arriving after 8:45 are marked tardy

3:15 p.m.

Dismissal (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday)
Please note: Students are dismissed early at 1:45 p.m. on Friday to allow Professional Collaboration Time for all teachers throughout the district

A year-long calendar is posted on our district website.

September 2022

• September 1 - First Day of school for 1st - 5th grade
• Sept. 1,2,6 - Kindergarten Family Conferences
• September 5 - Labor Day (No School)
• September 7 - First Day of school for Kindergarten
• September 12 - First Day of school for Preschool

October 2022

• October 14 - Teacher Workshop Day (No School)

November 2022

• November 11 - Veterans Day (No School)
• November 21, 22, and 23 - Student-Led Conferences (No School)
  • Only come these days during your scheduled conference time
• November 24 and 25 - Thanksgiving Break (No School)

December 2022

• December 19 - January 2 - Winter Break (No School)

January 2023

• January 3 - Return from Winter Break
• January 16 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day (No School)

February 2023

• February 17 - Mid Winter Break (No School)
• February 20 - Presidents Day (No School)

March 2023

• March 10 - Teacher Workshop Day (No School)

April 2023

• April 3 - 7 - Spring Break (No School)

May 2023

• May 29 - Memorial Day (No School)
• May 30 - No School (Emergency Makeup Day if Needed

June 2023

• June 16 - Last Day of School

Communication between our families and the school is very important. We have a variety of means of communication to provide families with important information about student progress, classroom activities, and school events. We welcome communication from families as well!

• The district’s website (www.highlineschools.org) and mobile app (Highline Public Schools) offer information about Highline Public Schools. In addition, families can access the school website through the district webpage.
• Information is sent home weekly on Tuesdays in your student’s Blue “Paw Pride” folder. Please look over this informati on and return the folder the following day.
• In addition to information sent home, texts and emails will be sent to families as well. Please check our website for additional information.
• The Gregory Heights newsletter is generally sent home monthly to the email you listed when you enrolled your child. This will also be posted on the school website.
• Parents and guardians will also be able to access their students’ enrollment profiles, grades, and test results in ParentVue, and the ParentVue app. You can receive your activation code from the school office.
• Classroom teachers will communicate student progress with families in November through report cards; additional report cards will be sent home in late March and at the end of the school year. Parents and guardians may contact teachers by email or phone; please allow at least 24 hours for a response. In case of an urgent or emergent situation, please call the school office.

Students may begin arriving on campus after 8:25 a.m. We do not have supervision available before this time. Time before school is not a designated recess time.

Students are not allowed on the lower playground area before school. Students are not allowed in any of the areas of the building other than the cafeteria, office, or restrooms near the lunchroom before 8:25 a.m.

Teachers will escort their class line into the building when the 8:40 a.m. bell rings.

Students who eat breakfast at school:

• Proceed directly to the cafeteria upon arrival on campus. Students going to breakfast enter the building through a door near the cafeteria.
• Breakfast service ends at 8:45 a.m.
• When finished eating breakfast, students should proceed to their classroom “line-up” space.

Student who do not eat breakfast at school:

• Proceed directly to their classroom’s designated “line-up” space on the playground.

Dismissal:

• Students should travel directly to their dismissal route. 
• Students who meet siblings or walking partners should do so in a designated space in the front by the flagpole or in the back of the building at the basketball court.

Use of the playground after school:

• Students are not allowed to play on the playground immediately after school unless accompanied by a parent/guardian.
• After school, all students must go home and check in with their family before returning to the playground after 4:30.
• No students may stay after school to use play equipment unless their own parent or guardian is with the student.
• The school does not provide supervision for students after 3:25 PM.

The safety of our students is very important to all of us at
Gregory Heights Elementary. For the safety of our children,
please observe our traffic procedures and patterns. Please be
patient and cautious.

Please establish a regular routine for your child’s transportation to and from school. If there are changes in a
student’s regular routine to or from school, please send a note
to school with your child or call the school no later than 3:00
PM.

Walking:

• Students who walk to or from school should use designated crosswalks and be safe and cautious. Walkers must go home immediately.
• If they wish to go to a friend’s house, students must make arrangements before coming to school or after they arrive home.
• Students must follow the safe walking routes to and from home; they may not enter school grounds through the bus lanes in the back of the school.

Bus Riders:

• Students are expected to be at their assigned bus stop on time.
• If you have any questions about school bus service, please call the Transportation Office at (206) 631-7502.

Family provided Transportation (Car):

• Drop off and pick up students in the designated loading areas only. Please drop off kindergarteners and preschoolers only in the front (16th Ave.)
• If families wish to accompany their child on campus during arrival and dismissal at school, please park in a designated parking space or on the street.
• Parking is not permitted in designated loading areas AT ANY TIME during the school hours. These are fire lanes. Please do not leave cars unattended!

Front of School Drop-off and Pick-Up:

• Entry to the loading area is only permitted from southbound travel on 16 th Ave SW.
• Students should load and unload from the curbside lane only.
• Cars may travel through the left lane to exit the loading area.
• Move as far forward as possible in the loading lane before stopping to allow for as many vehicles to enter the loading area as possible.
• Be cautious of children when proceeding through the crosswalk area in the middle of the loading zone. Please monitor your speed in the loading area and follow the guidance of directing staff.
• All adults and students crossing the parking lot should do so only at the crosswalk
• Do not leave your vehicle unattended in the loading area for any reason. The loading lanes are designated fire lanes and need to be cleared quickly in case of emergencies.
• Students are not permitted to load to and from vehicles parked in the parking lot unless accompanied by an adult. It is unsafe for students to walk through the parking area, between cars, or cross the loading lane area without supervision.
• Please watch out for children in or near the crosswalk on 16 th Avenue SW. Do not park in the crosswalk. Please monitor your speed, proceed with caution in this area, and follow guidance of directing staff.

Back of School Drop-off and Pick-up:

• Entry to the loading zone is permitted through the south entrance on 19 th Ave SW for first through fifth grade only.
• Students may load from the curbside lane next to the playground.
• Move as far forward as possible in the loading lane before stopping to allow for as many vehicles to enter the loading area as possible.
• Do not wait in the small area between the back parking lot and the entry gate as it prevents buses from being able to enter the parking lot.
• Private vehicles are not permitted into the bus lane area adjacent to the back of the school during arrival and dismissal.
• To exit the loading area, travel through the parking area and proceed through the north gate onto 19 th AVE SW.
• Do not leave your vehicle unattended in the loading area for any reason. The loading lanes are designated fire lanes and need to be cleared quickly in case of emergencies.
• Students are not permitted to load to and from vehicles parked in the parking lot unless accompanied by an adult. It is unsafe for students to walk through the parking area, between cars, or cross the loading lane area without supervision.

Attending school and being on time on a regular basis helps a student receive the maximum benefit of daily, sequential learning. Most classroom experiences cannot be duplicated on an individual basis, so being in the classroom is vital to student academic growth. Absences and tardies result in a loss of learning from direct instruction, discussion, and participation.

Research shows that students with poor attendance do not perform as well in school as their peers with good attendance. Your support of your student’s attendance is essential to their academic and social success!

If your student is absent from school, parents and guardians a re required to call the school office at 206-631-3800 or send a note stating the reason for the absence with their student when they return.

Repeated absences (as outlined in Highline Public Schools Board Policy 3122) will result in implementing the Washington State Becca Bill process. Students are responsible for making up missed work. Families may request homework directly from the teacher; please allow 24 hours to prepare assignments.

Our school attendance policy is based on state law and Highline Public Schools Board Policy 3122. Becca Bill- Washington State RCW 28A.225 requires:

Excused Absences:

• If a student has five (5) or more excused absences, the school will contact the child’s parent/guardian for the purpose of identifying barriers to the student’s regular attendance.
• If the student has three (3) or more excused absences due to illness in one month, a medical note may be requested for future absences.
• If a student has ten (10) or more excused absences, a parent conference will be requested. If the student had ten (10) or more excused absences in the prior school year, a doctor’s note will be requested for future absences.
• If a student has 15 or more excused absences OR a multi-year pattern of 10 or more absences, the nurse will request doctors’ notes for future absences, depending on circumstances.

Unexcused Absences:

• After one (1) unexcused absence, the parent or guardian will be notified; an unexcused absence is an absence that does not meet the criteria for excused absences OR an absence which has not been excused by providing a note or informing the school within 48 hours. 
• After two unexcused absences, the school will request a parent conference to plan for improving the student’s attendance.
• After five unexcused absences, the district is required to enter into an agreement with the students and parents that establishes attendance requirements, or refer the student to a community truancy board, or file a petition with juvenile court alleging the violation.

The Highline Public Schools Truancy Officer can be reached at (206) 433-0111.

Excused Absence Definitions:

The Principal or designee has the authority to determine if an absence meets the criteria to be deemed an excused absence. An absence may not be considered excused if it causes an adverse effect on the student's educational progress.

School attendance is important to student success. Excessive excused absences may result in a parent conference with the student and an administrator, implementation of an attendance contract, and/or requirement of doctor’s notes to excuse absences due to illness.

Based upon the Regional Code of Washington (RCW), the following are valid excuses for absences:

• Participation in a district or school approved activity or instructional program;
• Illness, health condition or medical appointment for the student or a person for whom the student is legally responsible.
• Family emergency including, but not limited to, a death or illness in the family;
• Religious or cultural purpose including observance of religious or cultural holiday or participation in religious or cultural instruction;
• Court or judicial proceeding.
• State-recognized search and rescue activities consistent with RCW 28A.225.055;
• Absence directly related to the student’s homeless status;
• Absence due to a student’s exercise of their First Amendment rights with prior notification to principal.
• Absences related to deployment activities of a parent/guardian who is an active duty member consistent with RCW 28A.705.010;
• Absence resulting from a disciplinary/corrective action (e.g. suspension or expulsion);
• Absence due to student safety concerns, including absences related to threats, assaults, or bullying, only after required meeting with school staff to develop a plan for the student’s continued education.
• Principal and parent/guardian/emancipated youth mutually agreed upon activity.
• If you are requesting a principal excuse for an event or circumstance not listed above, please complete the pre-approved absence form at the back of this handbook and turn it into the school office in advance of the absence. You will be notified if the absence is not excused.

When to Stay Home:

To ensure the health and safety of the school population, a student who has any of the following conditions should stay home from school:

• Fever over 100 degrees (and be fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medication)
• Vomiting within the last 24 hours
• Diarrhea within the last 24 hours
• Contagious conditions such as ringworm, impetigo, scabies, etc.
• Undiagnosed rash
• With a positive Covid Test, students are required to stay home five days from the positive test results.
  • Covid symptoms can range from: Fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue/feeling extremely tired, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

Students returning to school following the treatments of contagious conditions must check in with the office or school nurse before returning to class.

Tardies/Early Dismissals:

Late arrival to and early dismissal from school is detrimental to student learning and results in loss of instruction. To limit interruptions to your student’s learning and that of the students in his or her classroom, please ensure your child arrives promptly at school each day and make appointments outside of the school day whenever possible.

Students should arrive on campus by 8:40 each day, as any student not in his or her classroom by 8:45 will be considered tardy. Students must report to the office before entering the classroom.

Families of students with five (5) or more tardies will be contacted by phone, email, or letter.

Families of children with ten (10) or more tardies will be contacted to confer with school staff to create a plan to improve on-time arrival at school. Ten (10) tardies will count as 1 unexcused absence.

If your child must miss part of the school day or leave early for a special appointment (e.g., with the doctor or dentist), they should attend school for as much of the school day as possible to reduce loss of instruction time. Students are only dismissed early from school via the office. If you need to pick up your child during the school day, please come to the office – not to the student’s classroom. You will be required to fill out a student dismissal form and show photo ID to ensure student safety. Please make sure you plan sufficient time for your student to transition from the classroom to the office. We will not call the student to the office until you have checked in with office staff. The names of adults you designate to pick up your child must be on file in the office. If you are bringing your student to school after an appointment, please walk him or her into the office to ensure safe arrival into the building. Providing a doctor’s or dentist’s note for appointments is helpful.

Safety of students and staff is our highest priority. At this time, volunteers in classrooms and for field trips are only allowed with proof of vaccination. There is a specific two-step volunteer clearance process in our district. First, complete the volunteer clearance form. Once this is approved then you will be asked to upload proof of vaccination. Then your clearance must be approved by the district office before coming into school. If you are able to help teachers with projects or work from home please let your teacher know.

We welcome visitors and volunteers and ask that all of our visitors and volunteers enter by the front office and sign in when they enter the building. Visitors will be asked to show identification so that we know you are a child’s legal guardian or are a person listed by the family as a safe visitor or emergency contact for the child.

By Washington State law, all volunteers must complete the Volunteer Application Form bi-annually. In addition, all visitors and volunteers must wear a badge while working in the building. Anyone who wishes to volunteer for school activities, to work in the classroom, or to chaperone field trips must submit the application. 

There are several visitor spaces in the front lot off 16th Avenue SW; please use these for short-term visits to the school (15 minutes or less). We ask that all other volunteers and visitors use the parking lot in the back of the building off 19th Avenue SW. Please be aware of school buses and only enter through the entrance and leave through the exit (north of the lot), avoiding the bus lane. No one should drive through the north service lane at any time.

For the 2022-23 school year breakfast and lunch will be provided at no cost for all children.

Please notify your child’s teacher AND our health room attendants if your child has food allergies. In addition, any classroom that has a student with a nut allergy will have a posted sign alerting others of the nut allergy.

The breakfast program begins at 8:25 a.m. in the school cafeteria. Lunch is served from 10:55-1:05 by grade level. If a child would like milk with their lunch from home they will be asked to pick two additional items. They can enjoy them or place the items in the lunchroom “share box”.

We would like families who qualify to please fill out the online application for free and reduced price meals. A great deal of our school funding is dependent on the percentage of our students who qualify.

Note: Free and reduced price meal applications must be completed each year. You may apply online at https://apply4meals.hsd401.org; there are also forms in the office.

Students should dress appropriately for the weather and activities of the day. On days your child’s classroom goes to PE or on field trips, tennis shoes are recommended. A jacket or raincoat is necessary when children will be outside for recess on rainy or cold days. Students need to come to school dressed and groomed in a way that promotes a positive learning environment. Please review the following with your child:

• Make an attempt to wear clean clothes to school.
• All logos on clothing should be appropriate for the classroom and free of gang logos and profanity.
• Shirts or tops should be long enough so that the midriff does not show when arms are raised over the head.
• NO under clothes should be showing out from under clothing.
• Shorts or skirts should reach the bottom of your finger tips when your arms are at your sides. If shorts or skirts are shorter than this, a student must be wearing leggings underneath to meet the “tip of fingers” guideline.
• Tank tops may be worn but must come out to the end of the shoulder. No spaghetti straps are allowed at school without a shirt or jacket over it.
• Hats may be worn at school. However, hats that distract from learning must be removed when requested by an adult.
• Students may be asked to put on a shirt or change of clothes or parents may be asked to bring a change of clothing if their child is wearing something that distracts from a positive learning environment.

Children in 4th through 5th grades may ride bicycles to school. No bicycles, scooter, skates, or skateboards may be ridden on school grounds from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students will have to walk their bikes during these times. For safety reasons, students must walk bikes and all “wheels” across intersections and patrolled crossings. The school will not be responsible for lost or stolen bicycles. Students not wearing a helmet will not be allowed to ride their bicycle home.

Pets are not allowed at school unless authorized in advance by the teacher. If the teacher authorizes the pet to be on campus, they must be properly caged or leashed and accompanied by the student’s parent. Please be sure that the family dog or cat does not follow the children to school. Animals are prohibited on school grounds and must be reported to the animal shelter or police department. Pets are not allowed to be transported on school buses.

Please label your child’s coats, backpacks, etc., with his or her first and last name and room number. All valuable articles found at school are taken to the school office. Other personal articles are placed in our lost and found area located Next to the main staircase. Unclaimed clothing will be donated to a local charitable organization at the end of each trimester. Parents and students may check the lost and found area for lost items.

Electronic media, cell phones, and other playthings/toys can be disturbing to the student and the class. We ask parents to see that toys and other electronic devices do not accompany children to school. Please do not send valuables to school with your child. The school will not be responsible for lost, stolen, or broken items, including electronic media, cell phones, and other playthings/toys. These items are disruptive to the student and the class. If students bring these items to school and they become disruptive to learning, parents may be called to pick them up, or the item may be confiscated until the parent can be notified.

We do have water fountains and two water bottle filling stations at school. We encourage our students to bring a refillable water bottle from home, labeled with their name that can be left at school.

Gregory Heights Elementary recognizes that personal electronic devices and cell phones are a part of our way of life. We also recognize that the use of these devices is becoming increasingly interwoven into educational activities. As such, students may use personal electronic devices, including cell phones, on the way to school and after school but not during school hours except at the discretion of the teacher or principal. School administration will retain the final authority in deciding when and how students may use personal electronic devices and cell phones on school grounds and during the school day.

Visitors and students shall not take, possess, distribute or publish pictures, audio or video of staff or students without their permission. Distribution includes emailing, texting, or showing to anyone. Publishing includes posting images, videos or audio, online or in print. To protect student privacy, cell phones or other mobile devices may not be used or seen at any time in restrooms, or any other location where there is an expectation of privacy.

Any use of an electronic device while on school property or via district networks requires compliance with all expectations and policies indicated in this handbook.

Unauthorized use of cell phones or other electronic devices during school hours may result in the device being confiscated, depending on the circumstances. Appropriate disciplinary action will follow. Students are responsible for protecting their own user IDs and passwords. The school will not assume responsibility if electronic devices are damaged, lost, or stolen.

Students engaging in harassment in any electronic form (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, texting, “sexting,” the transmission of photos, etc.) that disrupts the educational process will be subject to discipline according to Highline Public Schools policies and discipline procedures.

Electronic harassment that invades the privacy or endangers the safety of another student will be subject to discipline in accordance with the Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying (HIB) guidelines.

Use of the electronic resources provided by the Highline School District is an expectation and a privilege. Where they are available, these resources are offered to staff, students, and other patrons. In order to maintain this privilege, end users agree to learn and comply with all of the provisions of these procedures.

All use of the electronic resources must be in support of educational and research objectives consistent with the mission and objectives of the Highline School District. All use of the electronic resources must be in compliance with district policies, local, state and federal laws; thus allowing the school district to meet requirements (i.e., FCC CIPA compliance). District Policy No. 2022P outlines specific suitable and unacceptable uses for district technology.

All district owned devices are monitored by Highline Public Schools. Please note, connection of a personal electronic device to the school network requires compliance with all expectations and policies indicated in this handbook.

Gregory Heights Technology Usage Expectations:

• Treat devices with care and respect.
  • Use two hands when transporting devices.
  • Use keyboards properly – do not pull on or remove keys.
  • Use devices on a desk or table.
  • Do not eat or drink anything while using school devices.
  • Only use your own login
• Report malfunctioning technology to a teacher immediately.
• Report a missing device to the school office or teacher immediately.
• When plugging in chargers, use caution to do so correctly to avoid wear and tear on charging cables.
• When not in use, devices should be stored in locked technology carts.

The school nurse at Gregory Heights is h ere one day each w eek, or when called for emergencies. Please notify the school of any health concerns that could affect your child’s education. Please update your child’s information by sharing information on the student system and/or the emergency card/medical information should any changes occur. It is important that emergency contact information is kept current.

Please notify the school nurse or office immediately if your child has any kind of medical condition. State law requires that students with health concerns have a health plan in place. Please notify the school immediately if your child has been diagnosed by a physician with a communicable disease, such as COVID-19, chicken pox, head lice, mumps, flu, scabies, scarlet fever, measles, hepatitis, fifth disease, whooping cough, etc.

Illness/Injury:

It is important that parents provide and keep current telephone numbers and other information for your child at all times, particularly in case of illness or injury. If you move or change any contact information, please notify us or make the changes using the parent portal (ParentVUE). The school staff is trained to administer first aid for minor injuries. If a student becomes ill, emergency contacts will be notified immediately to take the child home. In case of an emergency or accident, involving serious injury, 911 will be called; parents/guardians will be notified as soon as possible.

Medications:

By state law, no medication may be taken at school without a signed authorization form from the doctor. This includes aspirin, cough syrup or drops, eye drops, antibiotics, inhalers, or any over-the-counter medications.

Requirements are:

• Washington State Medication Authorization Form must be completed and signed by the physician and parent or guardian.
• Medication needs to have a current prescription label that matches the authorization form; over-the-counter medications must be in the original container.
• Parents or guardians must bring in the medication to the office with the appropriate form which includes the name of the medication, and the time and amount to be dispensed.
• All medications will be kept in the health room and must be administered in the office by an employee with medication training or a nurse. No medications may be in a student’s possession while at school, unless approved by the school nurse.

Immunizations:

For the protection of your child, Washington State Law requires that we have a Certificate of Immunizations Status (CIS) on filed for each student. This certificate must be presented at the time the student is registered for school. These forms and current immunization guidelines are available in the school office. If your child’s records show that immunizations are needed, the school nurse will contact you. All immunizations are the parent’s or guardian’s responsibility.

The Gregory Heights staff believes teaching self-management will lead to our students being successful at school as well as setting them up for success in the future. Our discipline rules and strategies give every student the opportunity to manage his or her own behavior. We actively teach children how to manage themselves and solve problems without fighting. Your child deserves a positive school climate for academic growth.

At Gregory Heights Elementary, we have implemented Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), a system of school-wide discipline which focuses on proactive strategies for defining, teaching, and supporting appropriate student behaviors to create a positive school and classroom environment. Our school rules all align to four major focus areas with the acronym PAWS: Problem-solve; Act responsibly and safely; Work together; and Show respect.

Inside the Building:

Students are taught expected behaviors during the first days of school, with refresher lessons throughout the year as needed, including after longer school breaks. Each teacher will also develop rules, routines, and procedures for the classroom or learning space.

School rules include:

• Use a level 0-2 voice in the hallway, bathroom, and when entering and exiting an assembly.
• Respect other people and property.
• Use hall passes to travel to the bathroom, office, library, etc. Students are not allowed to travel through hallways without teacher permission. 
• No toys from home are allowed. This includes electronic devices, iPods, trading cards, playground equipment (including balls), etc. The school is not responsible for valuables or toys that students bring to school.

General Rules

• Stay inside the fenced areas and on the playground side of the track line.
• Students must have a pass to come inside the building/go past the yellow line; no more than two people with each pass. Primary students should always take a buddy. Only enter the building by cafeteria during recess.
• During recess, use the bathrooms and drinking fountain by the cafeteria.
• Keep out of the bushes and planted areas on the upper playground.
• NO tag games are allowed.
• When the bell rings, stop playing, drop balls, and move quickly to your class. When in line, all games stop and balls are held.
• Everyone should be included in ALL games if they would like to play.
• Be a good sport. Play fairly and kindly.
• We are a hands-off school (This means no hugging others without their permission. No hitting, slapping, grabbing arms etc.)
• Solve conflicts with words or rock-paper-scissors or go to another activity. If you can’t work it out, ask a playground teacher for help.
• Report fights and injuries to a playground teacher immediately.
• Toys from home and phones or personal electronic devices are not allowed on the playground.
• Dress appropriately for the weather. If you take off your jacket, be sure to pick it up when you head back to class.
• Food, gum, and beverages (including water) are not allowed on the playground.
• At the last recess of the day, return balls to the equipment cart when recess ends. 
• Use appropriate language for school.

Recess Dismissal/Return Rules

• When dismissing, teachers must supervise students until they have exited the pod and the door is closed.
• Teachers pick up their students from their class lines and escort them back into the building.
• Minimal voices when moving through pods to recess – save the chatting for outside! Be aware of other classes that are still learning.
• Walk through pods and on stairways.
• When coming up and down stairs, stay to the right.

Big Toy

• One student at a time on the monkey bars.
• One student at a time on the slide.
• Use the stairs or ladder to get on and off the Big Toy. Do not jump off.
• Slide down on your bottom, feet first. Get off right away at the bottom so you don’t get run into by the next person.
• No climbing, or crawling up the slide or on the outside of the big toy.
• Walking only on the big toy.
• Soccer, Football, Tag and other running games may be played only on the lower field. Do not run or play tag on or around the big toy or on the upper playground.
• Keep your hands to yourself. Do not push or pull students from the big toy.

Tetherball

• No sitting on the tetherballs.
• No kicking the tetherballs.
• Be cautious when you pass a tetherball court and stay out of the circle if you’re not playing.

Basketball Court

• Basketball is the priority in this area before other games, including wall ball.
• Dribble the ball; do not run with it in your hands.
• Basketballs are for BOUNCING and PASSING, not kicking.
• Pass the ball to other players – no hogging the ball.
• No full body contact (body slamming)
• Ask a playground monitor to get balls that go outside the fence.

Wall Ball Court

• No roofies, ball hogging, or tag.
• Players agree to rules before play.

Lower Field

• Tag games are not allowed.
• Only enter the lower field if a recess teacher is present.
• BE A GOOD SPORT. Play fairly and kindly and leave the game if you don’t like how someone is playing.

Soccer

• When the soccer ball goes out of the play area, the ball will go to the other team. A team member will throw or kick the ball from the sideline back into play.
• No slide tackles or heading
• Cleats are not allowed at school
• Teams should be even.

Football

• One hand touch only. Rough play is not allowed – including pushing, shoving, and grabbing.
• No rushing or blitzing.
• Teams should be even.
• Remember, the goal is to have fun when you play.

Baseball Field

• Dirt, sticks, and rocks stay on the ground. They are not for throwing. No digging in dirt.
• Stay out of big puddles. If you get wet, you cannot change your clothes. No splashing others.
• No fence climbing.
• Kickball is allowed.

Aero-Glider

• Only three students may stand on the back on each end standing up
• Only four students may sit on each seat. Do not lay down on the seats.
• Only two students may stand in the middle, or one wheelchair. Wheelchairs have priority for the middle.
• Up to 16 students total may be on the toy at any one time: 10 in 6 out
• If on inside seats, stay seated while it is moving, no standing up from the seats.
• On the back, hold on with two hands only facing the middle of the glider.
• Do not put your hands through the holes and do not stand backward.
• Stay out of glider zone around the toy
• Do not go under the glider
• No holding onto the outside unless it's your turn and you are holding handles at the back.
• When waiting in the line, do not cross the painted line on the ramp when the glider is moving
• Students may get on only by going through the line at the ramp
• Do not jump off while in motion
• When everyone is on, signal “3-2-1 go”
• To begin, the back, front, and middle must work together to push and pull in unison to make it move. Using the words “forward” (toward basketball court) and “back” is useful with the k and 1st graders.)

PAWS Regulation Stations (Break Spaces): 

At Gregory Heights, we use calm down spaces in class and on the playground. The teacher will identify rules for classroom break spaces. On the playground, break spaces are called PAWS stations or Regulation Stations. Students may self-select a regulation station as needed. Only one student may be on a PAWS regulation station at a time. If a recess teacher assigns a student to a regulation station, the student must remain there until excused by the recess monitor or until the bell rings. The recess monitor will release the student once he or she is calm and has talked through the problem with the recess monitor.

In Highline Schools, we believe that social-emotional learning is important and supports academic growth, as well as helping students to become better citizens. As part of this effort, we utilize evidence-based tools from the RULER curriculum schoolwide.

RULER involves four main tools, including the Mood Meter, Class Charter, Meta-Moment, and Blueprint. Below are listed brief descriptions of each tool. More information can be found online through the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence at ei.yale.edu/ruler.

Class Charter

The charter is a document created by students in collaboration with the teacher, that helps create a productive and supporting learning environment. For the charter, the teacher and students identify how they want to feel at school, which behaviors will help maintain those feelings, and guidelines for preventing or addressing unwanted conflict and negative feelings. Using a class charter, students can hold themselves and one another accountable for creating a positive classroom environment. At Gregory Heights, you will see different class charters hanging up inside each classroom, often designed by the students!

Mood Meter

Students use the mood meter to label their emotions, which is important to gaining emotional intelligence. Emotions change many times throughout the day, and emotions affect actions. Students will become more mindful of this as they utilize the mood meter as a tool. Additionally, students gain emotional vocabulary, as basic feelings such as “happy” or “sad” can be recognized more specifically on the mood meter with such words as “grateful” or “exhausted,” depending on the emotion. Once an emotion is identified, students are taught to determine if they want to continue or “keep” this emotion or choose a strategy to change it. In the middle of the green zone is the best emotional zone for learning. You will see these colorful Mood Meter posters throughout the school, in classrooms, and even on the playground. On the poster, the emotions run left to right for the amount of pleasantness, and top-down for the amount of energy. A Mood Meter app is also available for purchase on most app stores for your phone or tablet. 

Meta-Moment 

The Meta-Moment provides a way for students to pause during a challenging situation and think before acting, asking how their “best self” would handle a difficult moment. Through practice, utilizing the Meta-Moment helps students manage strong emotions, and to make better decisions. You may also see posters of the Meta-Moment in schools and classrooms. 

The steps in a Meta-Moment are as follows:

1. Something happens
2. You SENSE a strong emotion in your body
3. Stop
4. See your “Best self”
5. Choose a strategy to apply
6. Succeed!

Blueprint

With the blueprint, students manage conflict by considering a disagreement not only from their own point of view, but from the perspective of the other person as well. This helps the students develop empathy. The students work together to identify positive solutions to conflicts. The blueprint aids in repairing relationships, leading to a better school climate .

School bus drivers have the authority to discipline students for misconduct related to school district rules. Each student is expected to follow the rules and regulations of the Highline School District for Bus Riders. Misbehavior on the bus may result in short-term suspension from the bus. Ongoing misbehavior may result in suspension for the remainder of the school year. Parents/guardians will be notified of misconduct slips written for their child.

Our Schools Protect Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)

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

What is HIB?

HIB is any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act of a student that:
·         Physically harms another student or damages their property;
·         Has the effect of greatly interfering with another student’s education; or,
·         Is so severe, persistent, or significant that it creates an intimidating or threatening education environment for other students.

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

How can I make a report or complaint about HIB?

Talk to any school staff member (consider starting with whoever you are most comfortable with!). You may use our district’s reporting Form 3207 to share concerns about HIB, but reports about HIB can be made in writing or verbally. Your report can be made anonymously, if you are uncomfortable revealing your identity, or confidentially if you prefer it not to be shared with other students involved with the report. No disciplinary action will be taken against another student based solely on an anonymous or confidential report.

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

Your School HIB Compliance Official: 
Name: Robin Totten
Phone: 206.631.3800

Highline Public Schools HIB Coordinator: 
Name: Isuzu Niizuma Arambula
Phone: 206-631-3104
Email: isuzu.niizumaarambula@highlineschools.org

What happens after I make a report about HIB?

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

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

What is the investigation process?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our School Stands Against Discrimination

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

What is discriminatory harassment?

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

To review the district’s Nondiscrimination Policy 3210 and Procedure 3210, please see the district’s Nondiscrimination webpage.

What is sexual harassment?

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

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

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

To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy 3205 and Procedure 3205, please see the district’s Sexual Harassment Prohibited webpage

What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?

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

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

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

Concerns about discrimination:

Your School Coordinator:
Name: Robin Totten
Phone: 206.631.3800

Highline Public Schools Civil Rights Coordinator: 
Name: Isuzu Niizuma Arambula
Phone: 206-631-3104
Email: civilrightscoordinator@highlineschools.org

Mail: Highline Public Schools
Attention: Civil Rights Coordinator
15675 Ambaum Boulevard SW
Burien, WA 98166​

Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment:

Your School Coordinator:
Name: Robin Totten
Phone: 206.631.3800  

Highline Public Schools Title IX Coordinator: 
Name: Isuzu Niizuma Arambula

Phone: 206-631-3104
Email: title.ix@highlineschools.org

Mail: Highline Public Schools
Attention: Title XI Coordinator
15675 Ambaum Boulevard SW

Concerns about disability discrimination:

Your School Coordinator:
Name: Robin Totten
Phone: 206.631.3800  

Highline Public Schools Section 504 Coordinator:

Name: Rovenna Johnson
rovenna.johnson@highlineschools.org
206.631.3250

Mail: Highline Public Schools
Attention: Section 504 Coordinator
15675 Ambaum Boulevard SW

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

What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who else can help with HIB or Discrimination Concerns?

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)

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

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

·         Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/health-safety/school-safety-center
·         Email: schoolsafety@k12.wa.us
·         Phone: 360-725-6068

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

·         Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/policy-funding/equity-and-civil-rights
·         Email: equity@k12.wa.us
·         Phone: 360-725-6162

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

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

·         Website: www.oeo.wa.gov
·         Email: oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov
·         Phone: 1-866-297-2597

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

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

·         Website: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html
·         Email: orc@ed.gov
·         Phone: 800-421-3481

Our School is Gender-Inclusive

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

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

To review the district’s Gender-Inclusive Schools Policy 3211 and Procedure 3211 please see the district’s Gender Inclusive Schools webpage.

Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity:

Your School Coordinator: 
Name: Robin Totten
Phone: 206.631.3800  

Highline Public Schools Gender Inclusive Schools Coordinator: 
Name: Isuzu Niizuma Arambula

Phone: 206-631-3104
Email: isuzu.niizumaarambula@highlineschools.org

Mail: Highline Public Schools
Attention: Gender Inclusive Schools Coordinator
15675 Ambaum Boulevard SW
Burien, WA 98166​

In case of emergencies during school hours, like earthquakes, fire, or lockdowns, please do not call the school. We need the phone lines open during emergencies for use by first responders and staff. You will be notified if your child is hurt. We have staff trained in first aid to help in case of an emergency.

Emergency Information:

Emergency information is kept in our online district records management system. This information should be changed through ParentVue each time your address, phone or contact info changes. In the event of an emergency, it is important that we know where the children are to go, who can pick them up, current phone numbers, and how to reach parents and family contacts.

Please notify the office of any changes that take place during the school year.

Emergency Changes to the School Schedule:

In the event of an emergency such as a threat to campus, snow, windstorms, earthquake, or similar events, Highline Public Schools may change school start or dismissal times for student safety.

We will communicate with parents through:

• Automated phone calls. (Please ensure your school has a working phone number where you can be reached.)
• Announcements on district and school websites.
• Announcements on email and mobile app alerts.
• Announcements on phone text.
• Announcements on social media (Twitter and Facebook).
• Announcements on TV and radio.

Emergency Drills:

We conduct fire, earthquake, and lockdown drills so that our students will be prepared in case of an emergency. If you are visiting the school during a safety drill, please follow the drill procedures along with our staff and students.

The PTSA supports Gregory Heights Elementary by:

• Providing enrichment opportunities for students and staff
• Coordinating volunteer support for school activities
• Encouraging culturally responsive community involvement
• Increasing communication between parents, staff and community

ALL are welcome!