Handbooks

Dear Parents,

Welcome to Lebanon R-3 Schools, where we have a passion for building successful futures for every student!

We are excited to partner with you throughout this school year as your student embarks on their individual learning journey. Our focus is to inspire learning by helping students find their individual passions and interests. We will work with you to engage your student in meaningful learning experiences that drive creativity and curiosity for learning.

You can count on a safe and caring school environment that is student focused, connected to the community at large, and driven toward continuous improvement for all.

I look forward to our partnership and welcome your feedback or input anytime.

Sincerely,

Dr. David Schmitz
Superintendent

Central Office 
224 West Commercial St. 
Lebanon, Mo 65536
417657-6001

Superintendent 
Dr. David Schmitz

Assistant Superintendents 
Dr. Jeremy Brownfield, Human Resources and Quality Improvement
Dr. Holly Schrage, Quality Learning and Experiences

Special Services Director
Dr. Nick Cotta

Chief Financial Officer
Adam Dameron

Building	Website	Phone	Administration
Early Childhood (PAT-Pre-k)	ecc.lebanonr3.org/	417.657.6025	Paige Thornhill, Director
Esther Elementary  (K-1)	esther.lebanonr3.org/	417.657.6002	Shalyn Howe, Principal Nancy Winfrey, Assistant Principal
Maplecrest Elementary (2-3)	maplecrest.lebanonr3.org/	417.657.6003	Bryan Campbell, Principal Cindy King, Assistant Principal
Boswell Elementary (4-5)	boswell.lebanonr3.org/	417.657.6004	Carla Mobley, Principal Tiffany Millsap, Assistant Principal
Lebanon Middle School (6-8)	lms.lebanonr3.org/	417.657.6005	Veronica Vergara, Principal Kyle Nelson, Assistant Principal Greg White, Assistant Principal
Lebanon High School (9-12)	lhs.lebanonr3.org/	417.657.6006	Dr. Kati O’Quinn, Principal Kim Hinkley, Assistant Principal Chris Britt, Assistant Principal Dustin Young, Assistant Principal
Lebanon Technology and Career Center  (9-12)	ltcc.lebanonr3.org/	417.657.6007	Nathan Wilkerson, Director
Hillcrest Education Center (9-12)	hec.lebanonr3.org/	417.657.6008	Jaymes Wapp, Director

 

Early Childhood Center

Pre-Kindergarten

Required Supplies

• Large backpack (no mini or toddler backpacks)
• Elmer's glue sticks (4 or more)
• Crayola crayons (2 boxes, 16- or 24-count)
• Crayola markers (1 box, 10-count)
• Clorox wipes
• Fiskars scissors (1 pair)
• School box
• Kleenex
• Play-Doh

Optional Supplies

• Gallon-size Ziploc bags
• Sandwich-size Ziploc bags
• Paper towels
• Baby wipes
• Expo dry erase markers (4-pack)
• Ticonderoga #2 pencils (1 pack)

---

Esther Elementary

KinderJacket

Required Supplies

• 1 backpack (no wheels)
• 1 set of headphones (no earbuds)
• 4 black Expo markers
• Two 10-pack Classic Crayola markers
• 12 glue sticks
• 1 pair of Fiskar child-size scissors with metal blades
• 4 cans of Play-Doh
• 2 disinfectant wipes
• 2 boxes of tissues
• 1 Germ-X
• 1 box of Ziploc bags (gallon and quart)
• 1 Crayola brand watercolor set
• 2 rolls of paper towels
• 1 school box

Optional Items

• Extra dry erase markers
• Extra Clorox wipes
• Extra Ziploc bags
• Paper plates
• Snacks to share with the whole class

---

Kindergarten

Required Supplies

• 1 box fat Crayola crayons (8 basic colors)
• 3 boxes Crayola crayons (24-count)
• 12-pack Ticonderoga #2 pencils
• Large backpack (no wheels)
• 2 boxes of fat Crayola markers (classic colors)
• 24 Elmer's glue sticks
• Crayola watercolor set
• 3 boxes Kleenex
• Fiskars scissors
• Small school box (6" x 9")
• Headphones (no earbuds)
• 8 black Expo dry erase markers
• 2 containers Clorox wipes
• Paper towels
• Package of large pink erasers
• Large bottle of Germ-X
• 1 container Play-Doh

Optional Supplies

• Extra black dry erase markers
• Extra Clorox wipes
• Quart-size and gallon-size Ziploc bags
• Snacks to share
• Additional glue sticks

---

First Grade

Required Supplies

• 24 glue sticks
• 1 pair of scissors (Fiskars recommended)
• 4 boxes crayons (24-count)
• Small school box
• 24 pre-sharpened #2 pencils (Ticonderoga or Paper-Mate recommended)
• Backpack or tote bag (no wheels)
• 12 black Expo dry erase markers
• 3 containers Clorox wipes
• Headphones (no earbuds)
• 3 boxes Kleenex
• Germ-X (pump style)
• Package of large pink erasers
• 1 box of fat Crayola markers (classic colors)

Optional Supplies

• Gallon-size Ziploc bags
• Pre-packaged snacks
• Crayola watercolor set
• Play-Doh

---

Maplecrest Elementary

Second Grade

Required Supplies

• 2 boxes crayons
• Small plastic school box
• 2 sturdy folders with 3-hole punch (no plastic folders)
• 6 glue sticks
• Pointed-tip scissors
• 1 box colored markers
• 2 large white pencil erasers
• Full-size wooden clipboard
• Standard-size backpack (no wheels)
• 12 Ticonderoga #2 pencils
• 1 wide-ruled spiral notebook
• 3–4 packs black fine-tip Expo dry erase markers
• 1-inch binder with clear plastic front sleeve
• Headphones (no earbuds)
• 3 large boxes facial tissues
• 2 containers Clorox wipes
• 8-ounce bottle of Germ-X

Optional Supplies

• Ziploc bags (any size)
• Dixie cups
• Paper towels
• Cardstock

---

Third Grade

Required Supplies

• Backpack (no wheels)
• 48 #2 pencils
• Package of erasers
• 8 black Expo dry erase markers
• 1-inch clear-view 3-ring binder
• Composition notebook
• 3-ring zippered pencil pouch
• 9x12 clipboard
• Headphones (no earbuds)
• 1 Box of crayons (24-count)
• 1 Package of glue sticks
• Scissors
• 3 boxes Kleenex
• Container of disinfectant wipes

Optional Supplies

• Germ-X
• Extra disinfectant wipes
• Extra Expo markers
• Ziploc bags (any size)
• Colored pencils

---

Boswell Elementary

Fourth Grade

Required Supplies

• 48 #2 pencils
• Two 1-inch 3-ring binders (black and white)
• 1 Pocket folder
• 1 Package of colored pencils and/or crayons
• 1 Package of wide-ruled loose-leaf notebook paper
• 8 black chisel-point dry erase markers
• Three-ring zipper pouch (instead of a school box)
• Scissors
• 3 boxes Kleenex
• Disinfectant wipes
• Earbuds or wired headphones (no Bluetooth)

---

Fifth Grade

Required Supplies

• 48 #2 pencils
• 3 one-subject notebooks
• 2 pocket folders
• Package of colored pencils (8-count)
• Package of wide-ruled loose-leaf paper
• 4 black fine-point dry erase markers
• 1 Highlighter
• 1 Package of Post-it Notes
• 1 Three-ring zipper pouch
• 1-inch 3-ring binder (black or white)
• 1 pair of scissors
• 3 boxes Kleenex
• Disinfectant wipes
• Earbuds or wired headphones (no Bluetooth)

ENROLLMENT AND AGE REQUIREMENTS

The Board of Education shall provide free public education to all students who are residents of the school district and who are between the ages of five (5) and twenty-one (21) years and who otherwise qualify for admission under Missouri law.

The admission of all students shall be under the direction of the superintendent, subject to the approval of the Board of Education. All persons seeking admission to the district and its instructional programs must satisfactorily meet all residency, academic, age, immunization, health, disciplinary, and other eligibility prerequisites as established by Board policies, rules and procedures, and by state law.

Students who apply for admission to the district schools on the basis of prior accredited schooling outside of the district shall be placed initially on the level they have reached. The principal shall determine subsequently whether the grade placement is appropriate for the individual. Students who apply for admission to the district school on the basis of prior non-accredited schooling shall be admitted in accordance with Board policy.

ENTRANCE FOR PreK (Prekindergarten)

To be admitted to the Lebanon R-3 School District Pre-kindergarten, a child must be four (4) years old for purposes of Pre-kindergarten on or before July 31st of the school year in which he or she plans to enroll.

Pre-kindergarten enrollment is determined by the district's screening process and qualification guidelines for ADA and Title eligibility requirements.

To be admitted to the Lebanon R-3 School District Early Childhood Special Education preschool program, a child must be (3-5) years old and qualify through the DESE Special Education eligibility guidelines.

The following are required for students enrolling in Pre-kindergarten:

• Birth certificate

• Immunization records (up-to-date)

• Proof of residence within the district boundaries

ENTRANCE FOR KINDERGARTEN & FIRST GRADE

To be admitted to the Lebanon R-3 School District, a child must be five (5) years old for purposes of kindergarten and summer school prior to kindergarten school term, and six (6) years old for the purposes of first grade, on or before July 31st of the school year in which he or she plans to enroll.

The following are required for students enrolling in kindergarten:

• Birth certificate

• Immunization records (up-to-date)

• Proof of residence within the district boundaries

HOMESCHOOLED STUDENTS

If student has been home-schooled or attending a non-accredited institution, enrollment will be based on:

• Appropriate documentation of assessment, enrollment, attendance, and progress to date

• Results from a placement test given by the district

• Age eligibility

WITHDRAW FROM SCHOOL PROCEDURES

1. Parents need to notify the building office as soon as possible and complete a transfer request.

2. Return all school books and supplies to the teacher.

3. Pay for damages, fines, fees, etc.

In order to provide students with appropriate instruction and educational services, it is necessary for the district to maintain extensive and sometimes personal information about students and families. These records must be kept confidential in accordance with law, but must also be readily available to district personnel who need the records to effectively serve district students.

The superintendent or designee will provide for the proper administration of student records in accordance with law, will develop appropriate procedures for maintaining student records, and will standardize procedures for the collection and transmittal of necessary information about individual students throughout the district.

The building principal shall assist the superintendent in developing the student records system, maintaining and protecting the records in his or her building and developing protocols for releasing student education records. The superintendent or designee will make arrangements so that all district employees are trained annually on the confidentiality of student records, as applicable for each employee classification.

CHILDREN'S DIVISION ACCESS

The district may disclose education records to representatives of the Children's Division (CD) of the Department of Social Services when reporting child abuse and neglect in accordance with law. Once the CD obtains custody of a student, CD representatives may also have access to education records in accordance with law. CD representatives may also have access to directory information and may obtain access to student education records in emergency situations, as allowed by law.

DIRECTORY INFORMATION

Directory information is information contained in an education record of a student that generally would not be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. The school district designates the following items as directory information:

• Student name

• Parent's name

• Date of birth

• Grade level

• Bus assignment

• Enrollment status (e.g. full time or part-time)

• Dates of attendance

• Honors and awards received

• Artwork or coursework displayed by the district

• Most recent previous school attended

• Photographs, videotapes, digital images, and recorded sound unless such photographs, videos, digital images, and recorded sound would be considered harmful or invasion of privacy

LAW ENFORCEMENT ACCESS

The district may report or disclose education records to law enforcement and juvenile justice authorities if the disclosure concerns law enforcement's or juvenile justice authorities' ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records are released. The officials and authorities to whom such information is disclosed must comply with applicable restrictions set forth in 20 U.S.C. §1232g (b)(1)(E).

If the district reports a crime committed by a student with a disability as defined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the district will transmit copies of the special education and disciplinary records to the authorities to whom the district reported the crime.

Law enforcement officials also have access to directory information and many obtain access to student education records in emergency situations as allowed by law. Otherwise, law enforcement officials must obtain a subpoena or consent from the parent or eligible student before a student's education records will be disclosed.

PARENT AND ELIGIBLE STUDENT ACCESS

All parents will have the right to inspect their child's education records as allowed by law. As used in this policy, a "parent" includes a biological or adoptive parent, a guardian, or an individual acting as a parent in the absence of a natural parent or guardian. The district will extend the same rights to either parent, regardless of divorce, custody or visitation rights, unless the district is provided with evidence that the parent's rights to inspect records have been legally revoked. The rights of the parent transfer to the student once the student turns 18, or attends an institution of postsecondary education, in accordance with law.

If a parent or eligible student believes the education records related to the student contain information that is inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the student's privacy, he or she may ask the district to amend the record by following the appeals procedures created by the superintendent or designee.

The district will annually notify parents and eligible students of their rights in accordance with law.

Student health information is a type of student record that is particularly sensitive and protected by numerous state and federal laws. Student health information shall be protected from unauthorized, illegal or inappropriate disclosure by adherence to the principles of confidentiality and privacy. The information shall be protected regardless of whether the information is received orally, in writing, or electronically and regardless of the type of record or method of storage.

FERPA

All administrators will ensure that student and employee health information is protected from intentional or unintentional use or disclosure in violation of law. Administrators and employees will limit incidental use or disclosures made while using the information for otherwise valid reasons.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

The following attendance guidelines must be followed closely concerning children with communicable diseases.

• Chickenpox: Exclusion for 6 days after the appearance of the rash.

• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Children should not attend during the acute stage (itching, burning, and matting of the eyes); or for 24 hours after medication has begun.

• Tinea Corpus (Ring Worm): Infected children under adequate and continuous medical supervision may attend school. If possible, clothing or bandages should cover lesions.

• Erythema Infectiosum (Fifth Disease): No exclusion necessary unless fever is present.

• Impetigo: Exclude until skin lesions are healed, or until 24 hours after medical treatment started.

• Influenza: Exclude for duration of fever and until child is able to resume routine daily activities.

• Head Lice: Exclusion until insecticiding of scalp, skin, and clothing. Children may return to school after being treated with a pediculicide and after all the nits have been removed from the hair. (See District No-Nit Policy)

• Scabies: Exclusion until the day after adequate treatment is completed.

• Streptococcal sore throat and Scarlet Fever: Exclusion until at least 24 hours after beginning antibiotic treatment and free of fever for 24 hours. Prescribed treatment should be completed.

• MRSA: Unless directed by a physician, students with MRSA infections will not be excluded from attending school. Exclusion from school will be reserved for those with wound drainage that can't be covered and contained with a clean dry bandage. Students with active infections will be excluded from activities where skin-to-skin contact is likely to occur (e.g., sports) until their infections are healed.

We ask that students and parents adhere to these guidelines. Students are not to attend school or any school sponsored activity (school musicals, presentations, field trips, etc.) until the above criteria has been met.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to call the school nurse for questions regarding communicable diseases or to receive instructions regarding school exclusion for other communicable diseases.

NOTE: Criteria for exclusion from school are based on the recommendations from the Department of Health and Senior Services.

CONDITIONS REQUIRING A NOTE FROM A DOCTOR

• A doctor's note is required for a student to stay in numerous recesses.

• All students, unless exempted by a doctor, nurse practitioner, physician assistant or athletic trainers note/order will be required to participate in physical education courses fully on a daily basis. (note: only high school students may be exempt by an athletic trainer who have a sports related injury)

HEAD LICE

The Lebanon R-III School District encourages regular attendance in school and it is our practice to avoid unnecessary exclusion of students from school. Students with active head lice infestation or nits (eggs) will be excluded from school only to the minimum extent necessary for treatments. The district will perform routine school-wide head lice screenings in all PreK-5 buildings. Students found to have live head lice or nits will be excluded until effective treatment and removal of all nits is completed.

The parent/guardian is encouraged to complete treatment and removal of all nits is completed.

The parent/guardian is encouraged to complete treatment and to return the student to school the same day when possible and no later than the next day. Students who have been sent home for head lice or nits may not ride the school bus until they have been reexamined and cleared by the school nurse and returned to class when it is determined that the treatment was effective and all nits have been removed.

For students with excessive absenteeism due to head lice, or in cases when treatment is not secured in a timely manner, the school principal will be notified, and the matter may be reported to the Children's Division of the Department of Social Services.

IMMUNIZATION LAW

Missouri State Law (Section 210.003 RSMo) required children to be adequately immunized before attending school. All student immunizations must be up-to-date or in progress by the first day of school in order to attend. New students enrolling in school must show proof of immunization status prior to starting classes.

SB 341: Preschool Enrollment and Immunizations

In accordance with state law, a parent or guardian may request notification from the district if there is a child currently enrolled in a building that houses a preschool program who has received an exemption from immunizations. This new law impacts only students located in buildings that house a preschool program.

Please keep in mind confidentiality laws prohibit us from revealing the name of the student, the classroom the child is enrolled in, and the type of exemption the child has on file. Parents/Guardians of students at Esther Elementary may request a form for notification from the school office.

INSURANCE

The school DOES NOT carry accident insurance on students.

Accident insurance is available for those parents who wish to have their children insured while traveling to and from school and during school hours. Insurance forms will be sent home the first week of school, explaining coverage, cost, etc. All claims will be handled by direct mail.

MEDICATION GUIDELINES

All medication must be delivered, by the parent/guardian, to the nurse's office. All medications must be picked up by the parent/guardian or by a responsible adult that the parent/guardian has designated.

Medication may not be delivered or taken home by students. All medications that have not been picked up by the end of the school year will be destroyed per school policy.

MEDICATION MAY NOT BE SENT WITH STUDENTS ON THE BUS FOR ANY REASON.

Medication should be given at home whenever possible. However, if the physician's orders indicate it must be given during school hours, the medication may be administered at school by complying with the following instructions:

PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION

1. When a student is to receive prescription medication during school hours, the parent or guardian must provide the medication in the original prescription bottle, plainly marked with the following:

   • Student name

   • Physician's name

   • Pharmacy

   • Prescription number

   • Date

   • Name of medication, dosage, and time medication is to be given

2. We must have a written request from the parent/guardian to give the medication. The request should include:

   • Student's name

   • Physician's name

   • Date, name of medication, dosage, time medication is to be given

   • Parent/guardian

3. If there is a change in the type of medication dosage, or time medication is to be given, a physician's order may be requested.

4. Please do not leave more than 5 tablets of prescription medication at the school unless it is an antibiotic or daily medication.

NON-PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS

1. Over-the-counter medications (for colds, coughs, headaches, etc.) will be given when a medication administration consent has been signed by the parent/guardian. All medication must be in the manufacturer's original bottle or packaging. The request should include:

   • Student's name, date

   • Dosage

   • Time the medication is to be given

   • Parent/guardian signature

2. If it is necessary for a child to take daily non-prescription medication, such as aspirin for rheumatoid arthritis, a medication administration consent signed by the parent/guardian and a physician order must be provided. The parent/guardian request and physician order should include the following:

   • Student's name

   • Physician's name

   • Date

   • Name of medication, dosage, and time medication is to be given

   • Parent/guardian signature and physician order

3. Do not leave more than 24 tablets with the school nurse.

4. If there is a change in the type of medication, dosage, or time medication is to be given, a physician order is required.

Homeopathic medications and essential oils will not be administered at school as they do not possess FDA approval.

NURSE

The school nurse shall promote improvement in the general health of school children and staff, and promote a safe and sanitary environment. Nursing activities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Assess, plan, and implement coordinated school health services;

• Establish and maintain comprehensive school health records;

• Assess the health and development status of students;

• Identify students with special health concerns and develop health care plans with students and families;

• Provide care for illness and injury;

• Provide for safe medication administration;

• Monitor communicable disease prevention and control programs, exclusion of students with communicable diseases, and reporting of designated diseases;

• Establish and maintain immunization records and comply with state laws, rules, and regulations regarding immunization requirements;

• Conduct health screenings including: vision, hearing, dental, scoliosis, and growth screenings, and make appropriate referrals when health concerns are identified and provide follow up if needed;

• Conduct education programs for school personnel on surveillance of health problems, communicable disease control, infection control, and treatment and care during a health crisis or emergency in the event that the school nurse is not present;

• Monitor school environment to identify hazards and work to correct any identified concerns or problems;

• Monitor emotional needs of students and staff;

• Assist and participate in the development and implementation of crisis intervention plan;

• Identify students at risk for potential emergencies and work with the students and families to create an emergency action plan;

• Collaborate and work with other school personnel and members of the community to promote a safe and sanitary environment, and promote improvement in the general health of school children and staff.

Attendance

The Lebanon R-III School District believes that regular classroom attendance is important to the instructional process, and that frequent absences disrupt the learning process. Once enrolled in the district, the district expects the student to attend regularly and for the student's parent or guardian or other adult having charge, control or custody of the student to communicate regularly and honestly with the district regarding the student's absences. Because the Lebanon R-III School District Board of Education and district staff strongly believe that regular attendance is important in gaining the most from the educational experience and because state law requires district staff to report all instances of abuse and neglect, including educational neglect, the district will make every effort to ensure students are attending school as required by law.

The district believes that:

• Continuity of learning leads to improved student achievement.

• Regular school attendance that include active and regular classroom participation leads to improved student achievement.

• Through regular attendance, a level of responsibility will develop and prepare students for adulthood and the workforce for the 21st century.

Attendance and punctuality are extremely important. Employers are interested in hiring persons with excellent work habits and attendance records; therefore, we make it our goal in the Lebanon R-III School District to emphasize the importance of these characteristics to our students.

Parents will, to the best of their ability:

• Encourage their student to arrive on time and attend school every day.

• Instill the importance of education.

• Inform the school as soon as possible of an address or phone number change.

• Make every effort to schedule appointments for students when school is not in session (it is understood that this is not always possible, but should be attempted).

• Notify school with every absence, tardy, or early withdrawal. Written notification should be turned in to the student's school office before the bell rings the next present day. (medical notes, etc.)

• Absences caused by personal illness or injury, illness within the family which necessitates that a student be absent, and other extenuating circumstances, need to be communicated to the student's school.

• All vacation time should be taken while school is not in session. The school district provides a calendar each spring prior to the next school year to help families plan vacations around the days when school will not be in session.

ATTENDANCE STEPS AND PROCEDURES

• 6 absences or below 90% – Notification letter with attendance record attached will be sent to the parents.

• 9 absences or below 86% – Same as above and the principal may request a meeting with the parents and students.

• 12 absences or 83% – Same as above, additional absences beyond this step will require a doctor's note or verification of illness by the school nurse. If absences are not verified, the principal may proceed to the steps listed under 15 absences.

• 15 absences or below 80% – Principal will request a meeting with parents and student to review the absence policy. The district will contact the Children's Division of the Department of Social Services or the local prosecutor in cases where the district has a reasonable suspicion that a student's lack of attendance constitutes educational neglect on the part of the parents/guardians or that the parents/guardians are in violation of the compulsory attendance law.

• As mandated reporters, school personnel are required by law to report suspected cases of educational neglect regardless of where the absences may fall in the steps above.

MAKE-UP WORK PROCEDURE

Procedure for receiving daily assignments for students who are ill at home and unable to attend school is as follows:

• Makeup work will be given only after two consecutive days of absences.

• Request, by telephone or note, should be made to the principal's office as quickly as possible on the 2nd day. Requesting work late in the day could delay the time in which homework is received in the office.

• The homework may be picked up in the office after 3:00 p.m. on the 2nd day of absence. If homework is requested late this time may vary.

• Homework should be turned in no later than the number of days equal to the number of days absent.

START AND DISMISSAL TIMES

School	Drop Off	Start	End	Fridays
Esther Elementary (K-1)	7:35	8:05	3:20	2:20
Early Childhood Center PreK - AM Session	7:20	7:35	11:00 (AM session)	---
Early Childhood Center PreK - PM Session	11:30	11:30	2:45 (PM session)	1:45 (Starnes only PM in session)
Early Childhood Center PreK - All Day	7:20	7:35	2:45	1:45
Maplecrest Elementary	7:10	7:48	3:01	2:01
Boswell Elementary	7:10	7:48	3:01	2:01

STUDENT ARRIVAL TIME AND TARDINESS

ANY STUDENT ARRIVING LATE MUST REPORT TO THE OFFICE. If arriving late, for your child's safety please have an adult escort them into the building and sign in.

TARDIES/LATE ARRIVALS

Arriving late to school results in loss of instructional time and has a negative impact on the student's day. Please do everything in your power to have your student at school on time. Tardies impact attendance percentages; please refer to the attendance steps and policy.

School	Drop Off	Start	End	Fridays
Early Childhood Center (AM Session)	7:20	7:35	11:00	--
Early Childhood Center (PM Session)	11:30	11:30	2:45	1:45
Early Childhood Center  (All Day)	7:20	7:35	2:45	1:45
Esther Elementary	7:35	8:05	3:20	2:20
Maplecrest Elementary	7:10	7:48	3:01	2:01
Boswell Elementary	7:10	7:48	3:01	2:01

 

Student Arrival Time and Tardiness

ANY STUDENT ARRIVING LATE MUST REPORT TO THE OFFICE. If arriving late, for your child’s safety please have an adult escort them into the building and sign in.

Tardies/Late Arrivals

*Arriving late to school results in loss of instructional time and has a negative impact on the student’s day. Please do everything in your power to have your student at school on time. Tardies impact attendance percentages; please refer to the attendance steps and policy.

One of the greatest responsibilities of the Lebanon R-III School District is to ensure the safety of our students. Therefore, in order to enhance security and maintain safety for all students who ride a school bus, parents or guardians will be allowed to identify TWO pick up and drop off locations for bus transportation.

One address will be identified as the student's primary stop and the other will be identified as the secondary stop. For example, a student may ride to their home address four days a week and to a daycare address one day a week.

Families that share separate custody of their children will both receive TWO options for transportation if needed.

Bus passes will only be issued for one of the two locations, so events like parties, camps, sleepovers, as well as any other changes will need to be arranged outside the school bus system. In case of emergency, families will need to make alternate arrangements that do not require a transportation change outside of these limits.

We appreciate your cooperation in allowing us to maintain greater security for all students.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

Safe bus transportation is of primary importance for patrons and personnel of the Lebanon R-III School District. In order to offer safe and effective transportation, it is necessary to establish behavioral expectations for students riding school buses. These expectations serve the best interest of all students. Failure to meet the expectations shall result in disciplinary action being taken.

1. Keep hands, feet, and objects to self.

2. Remain seated until completely stopped.

3. Use a quiet voice.

4. Use kind words.

5. Follow the bus driver's directions.

6. Know and follow the bus rules.

Bus drivers are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of buses, while maintaining order and discipline of students. Drivers may assign seating. Drivers will submit discipline reports to transportation for building principals to take appropriate disciplinary action.

CONSEQUENCES FOR NOT FOLLOWING EXPECTATIONS ARE LISTED IN THE DISCIPLINE SECTION OF THE HANDBOOK.

Students will not be permitted to have candy, gum, food, and/or drinks on the bus. Having such items creates a safety hazard, and creates possible situations in which a child could behave in a way that violates transportation guidelines. Students having these items will be asked to dispose of the item before boarding the bus.

CODE WORD

Lebanon R-III School District has enabled the use of code words within our district as a means of providing extra safety measures. A Code Word is a word you select that is used to make transportation changes or access information about your student over the phone.

Individuals who do not know the code word WILL NOT be allowed to make changes or access your child's information without physically being present and providing photo identification in the school office.

Code word forms must be filled out in the office and may not leave the building.

Parents should make every effort to share code words between parents, as only one code word will be allowed per family. Unless parents have a court order that states otherwise, both parents should have access to the code word selected. The school district cannot legally prevent a parent from access to their student or their child's records unless a court has mandated otherwise.

Situations in which the welfare of students is jeopardized will result in the administrators contacting the Lebanon Police Department.

Please make sure you have selected a code word that is easy to remember. DO NOT share your code word with anyone who is not able to pick your child up from school or make transportation changes. For safety purposes, DO NOT share your code word with your child.

EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER AND ESTHER ELEMENTARY TRANSPORTATION

All bus drivers are instructed to never leave a child alone at a bus stop where he/she is met daily by an adult. If the adult is not there to meet the child, the child will be kept on the bus and brought back to the Transportation Office.

RELEASE OF STUDENTS DURING SCHOOL DAY

1. Parents requesting release of a child must come in person to the school office and show a photo ID to sign the child out.

2. Students being released due to illness or injury will be released only to a parent or authorized adult with permission of a parent/guardian. Every effort will be made to contact the parent in all cases.

3. Students are not permitted to leave the school grounds by themselves at any time during the school day.

KID ACCOUNT END OF DAY RELEASE

1. Students picked up at the end of the day must be picked up by an approved pick up person as designated in advance in Infinite Campus.

2. The approved pick up person must have their photo ID and KIDaccount card to be scanned by pick-up duty personnel.

3. If the approved pick up person does not have their photo ID and KIDaccount card, then they may be sent to the school office for verification and pick up.

PARENTS PICKING UP STUDENTS AT THE END OF THE DAY SHOULD DO SO ONLY AT DESIGNATED PARENT PICK UP AREAS.

Early Childhood Center

• Preschool: Front of the building

Esther Elementary

• Kindergarten: Transportation side of building

• First Grade: Playground side of building

Maplecrest Elementary

• Second Grade: Parking lot behind the school

• Third Grade: Upper parking lot

Boswell Elementary

• Fourth and Fifth Grade: West end parking lot

SAFETY PROCEDURES

• Students walking to school must walk on the side of the street facing traffic.

• For the student's safety, skates, hoverboards, bicycles, and/or skateboards are not allowed at school.

COMPUTERIZED LUNCH PROGRAM

In an attempt to make our lunch program collection system more efficient and convenient, the PreK-5 buildings use a computerized system to keep track of meals eaten and money collected. Parents can deposit enough money into the account for a week, a month or even a semester of meals. At the end of the school year, any remaining money will be carried over to the next year or will be refunded upon request.

Each time your child eats lunch or breakfast, his/her account will be accessed by the computer. This will identify the student eating and charge the meal to his or her account. When the student has run out of money the computer will print a reminder and it will be sent home through the student's classroom procedure. The student will then take this reminder home in a lunch envelope and parents can then prepay for another week, month, etc.

An envelope has been designed to help parents in depositing money in their child's account. The envelope lists the price of meals and breakfast for children who pay the full amount and for children whose families qualify for reduced prices. Parents should locate the price their child pays for meals on the envelope, and then choose the amount they wish to deposit in their child's account. The child should then return the envelope to their teacher the following day.

Parents can pay online by using the parent portal on the Lebanon R-III District website. Payments are made using Paypal and there is a convenience fee. You must be enrolled in the parent portal. You can sign up by filling out the form in your school's office. Payments for lunches may be made by check or cash. 

Checks should be made payable to the Lebanon R-3 School District. Parents are still allowed to pay for daily lunches with cash if they wish to do so. Lunch balances remaining at the end of the school year will be transferred into the student’s next year’s account. Parents wishing to have this money returned to them should make this request prior to the last week of school.

We only prepare the amount of food for the count that has been taken early in the morning. Please inform the office early in the morning if you intend to eat lunch with your child.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS PROGRAM

The primary goals of the Lebanon R-III School district health and wellness program are to promote student health, reduce student overweight/obesity, facilitate student learning of lifelong healthy habits and to increase student achievement. Nutrition guidelines have been established for school-served meals, nutrition education, physical education and physical activities.

Occasional school wide parties and celebrations may contain traditional, less healthy treats; however these all school occasions are limited in frequency and will be scheduled after the lunch period.

LUNCH PROGRAM

LUNCH PROGRAM PRICES

• ELEMENTARY BREAKFAST: Free

• ELEMENTARY LUNCH: $2.95

• EXTRA MILK: $0.50

• A purchased school lunch is a balanced meal with milk included.

• If a student wishes to bring their lunch, he/she may purchase milk in the lunchroom for 30 cents.

• Students are asked not to bring carbonated drinks to school in their lunch.

• There will be free and reduced price lunches for those who qualify.

• Lunch prices will be reviewed by the Board of Education and determined before the onset of the new school year. The school lunch program is a non-profit program which reflects modest breakfast and lunch prices.

SPECIAL MEAL REQUIREMENTS

A legible, physician signed, Medical Statement for a special diet due to allergy or digestive problems must be received from the student's physician within two weeks time from the start of school or two weeks from when the problem is identified and the need for the special diet is required for the physical well-being of the students. The form that needs to be completed by the physician may be obtained from the school nurse.

Diets requesting special consideration for likes and dislikes will not be honored as these are personal preference and not a medical necessity.

These physician signature sheets will remain in effect and transfer with the student from building to building until the student graduates or until the physician notifies us in writing that the accommodation is no longer needed.

Meal Charge Procedures

The goal of the Lebanon R-III School Food Service Program is to provide nutritious meals to children each school day. Elementary buildings receive breakfast at no cost each day. Additionally, if families qualify for the Federal free or reduced meal benefit program based on Federal guidelines, students may receive free or reduced breakfast and lunch at all grade levels.

Sometimes, however, children who do not qualify based on these standards would like a meal, but do not have money in their account or in-hand to cover the cost of the meal at the time of the service. Lebanon R-III recognizes that unpaid meal charges represent a difficult and complex issue directly impacting families. Good nutrition is a critical investment in a child's health and their future success.

Per U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines, this notice is intended to notify all households of the district's meal charge procedures.

Charge Limits

1. An elementary student may not accumulate more than $20 of unpaid meal charges.

2. Students may not charge à la carte items.

3. A student with money in hand will not be denied a meal even if the student has past due charges.

4. Students will not be identified, singled out, shamed or punished by the district for the failure of their parents/guardians to pay for or provide meals, and the district will not withhold student records in violation of law.

Alternative Meals

A student who has accumulated the maximum unpaid meal charges and is still unable to pay for meals may be provided an alternative meal. Alternative meals will be on the regular serving line and will be available to all students as an alternative to the regular meal. If a student has been provided a regular meal, that meal will not be taken away from the student even if the student should have been provided an alternative meal due to unpaid meal charges.

Interventions

After a student accumulates the limit of unpaid meal charges, the district will encourage the parents/guardians to submit an application for free and reduced-price meals if an application has not been recently submitted, and the student will be referred to a counselor for intervention.

The counselor will:

1. Meet with the student to assess to the extent possible whether the student or the student's family is experiencing hardships, barriers or other circumstances with which the counselor could assist.

2. Make repeated attempts to contact the parents/guardians to notify them of the lunch charges, discuss the situation and any other concerns the counselor may have after meeting with the student, and resolve the situation.

3. Encourage the parents/guardians to submit the free and reduced-price meals application and inquire about any assistance that might be needed to complete the application.

4. Provide other resources as applicable.

Working with Parents/Guardians

To ensure that parents/guardians have ample opportunity to resolve situations involving unpaid meal charges, the district will:

1. Provide timely notification to parents/guardians and students when account balances run low.

2. Invoice parents/guardians for unpaid meal charges during the district's monthly billing cycle, in addition to providing notification of outstanding balances by other means.

3. Work with parents/guardians to create a payment plan that allows for the payment of accumulated balances over time.

The School Breakfast and Lunch Programs cannot succeed without your support; please encourage your children to participate in the school meal programs.

The School Food Service Program does not receive any local or state tax revenue.

To view the complete policy on meal charges, go to the district website at www.lebanon.k12.mo.us and click on School Board, Board Policies and then go to Policy EF-AP(1).

If you have questions about these procedures, please call the Lebanon R-III Food Service Department at 657-6010, or contact your child's school.

ASSESSMENT PROGRAM

The district will use assessments as one indication of the success and quality of the district's education program. Further, the Board recognizes its obligation to provide for and administer assessments as required by law. The Board directs the superintendent or designee to create procedures governing assessments consistent with law and Board policy.

In cooperation with the administrative and instructional staff, the Board will regularly review student performance data and use this information to evaluate the effectiveness of the district's instructional programs, making adjustments as necessary.

The district will comply with all assessment requirements for students with disabilities mandated by federal and state law, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

In order to achieve the purposes of the student assessment program, the district requires all enrolled students to participate in all applicable aspects of the assessment program.

District Assessment Plan

The superintendent or designee shall ensure that the district has a written assessment plan that will test competency in the subject areas of English, reading, language arts, science, mathematics, social studies and civics, as required by law.

The purposes of the district wide assessment plan are to facilitate and provide information for the following:

1. Student Achievement – To produce information about relative student achievement so that parents/guardians, students and teachers can monitor academic progress.

2. Student Guidance – To serve as a tool for implementing the district's student guidance program.

3. Instructional Change – To provide data that will assist in the preparation of recommendations for instructional program changes to:
   a. Help teachers with instructional decisions, plans and changes regarding classroom objectives and program implementation.

   b. Help the professional staff formulate and recommend instructional policy.

   c. Help the Board of Education adopt instructional policies.

4. School and District Evaluation – To provide indicators of the progress of the district and individual schools toward established goals.

5. Accreditation – To ensure the district maintains accreditation.

There shall be broad-based involvement of staff and others with appropriate expertise in the development of the assessment program and its implementation. Instructional staff will be given training and responsibilities in coordinating the program. Every effort will be made to ensure that testing contributes to the learning process rather than detracts from it and that cultural bias does not affect the accuracy of assessments.

English Proficiency Assessments

The district will annually assess the English reading, writing and oral language skills of district students with limited English proficiency.

National Assessment of Educational Progress

If chosen, the district will participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) as required by law.

Reading Assessment

The district will administer reading assessments to all students to determine whether additional reading instruction and retention are needed, as required by law. Results of assessments will be expressed as reading at a particular grade level. The superintendent or designee will determine which methods of reading assessment the district will utilize.

Statewide Assessments

The district will implement the components of the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) in order to monitor the progress of all students in meeting the standards adopted by the Missouri State Board of Education.

The district's policy on student participation in statewide assessments shall be provided at the beginning of the school year to each student and the parent/guardian or other person responsible for every student under 18 years of age. The policy will also be kept in the district office and be available for viewing by the public during business hours of the district office.

CLASSROOM PARTY PROCEDURE

• The potential loss of instructional time due to observing student birthdays is significant. Therefore, we will not have parties, treats, etc. for individual student birthdays. Please do not send treats for your child's birthday.

• No birthday or other invitations will be passed out in any classroom or on school grounds. Please do not send birthday invitations with your child.

• School Parties will be limited to three:

  • Fall Party

  • Christmas Party

  • Valentine's Day Party

    • We ask that ALL Valentine's deliveries be to the school office before noon.

    • Items with balloons or glass will not be delivered to any student riding a bus.

    • Parties will be scheduled for the last hour of the day.

    • Only commercially prepared food items may be provided by parents.

• Due to safety and security concerns visitors will not be permitted to attend school parties.

• We ask that students and parents refrain from giving surprise parties for teachers during the school day, i.e. soliciting money from classmates to buy a group gift. Giving a gift from an individual student to his/her teacher is a personal matter and should be handled individually.

CLASSROOM VISITATION & TELEPHONE PROCEDURES

In order to keep classroom interruptions at a minimum:

●parents wishing to visit with their child’s teacher will need to make an appointment with the teacher,

●students will not be called to the office for personal visits or telephone calls during class times.

CUSTODY

Custody disputes must be handled by the courts. By law, if parents are legally separated or divorced, each parent has equal rights to the custody of the children UNLESS one of them has a signed court order that indicates otherwise. The school has no legal right to refuse biological parents access to their children and/or school records.

If a parent has a signed, current court order limiting the other parent or any other person, the school MUST

HAVE A COPY of the court order on file. If a copy is not on file, the school is required by law to release children to their parents with proper identification. Situations that put the welfare of students in question will be handled at the discretion of the Principal/designee. In situations that become a disruption to the school, the Lebanon Police Department will be contacted and an officer will be requested to intervene.

Parents are asked to make every attempt not to involve schools in custody matters and to have current information on file for your children.

FIELD TRIPS

• Field trips may be taken throughout the year by your child’s class. Each child must have a signed permission slip on file before each field trip to participate.
• Parents or approved person planning to attend their child’s field trip MUST have a completed background check on file with the school office. Please see the Volunteers In Public Schools section to see complete details on how to become an approved school volunteer.
  • Anyone not having a completed background check on file, will not be allowed to join the class on field trips. Background checks must be renewed yearly.

PARENT PORTAL AGREEMENT

The Lebanon R-III School District encourages all families with access to the internet to request a user I.D. and password to access Parent Portal. This online information system enables our students’ families to regularly monitor student attendance, grade book summary, report card grades, discipline, and lunch account activity. Please return completed form into any office where one of your children attends school.

SCHOOL PICTURES

Pictures will be taken each fall. All children will have their picture taken for the yearbook, but there is no requirement to purchase pictures. At times, pictures will be taken in the spring. There is also no requirement to purchase spring pictures.

VIRTUAL INSTRUCTION

A student or the student's parent/guardian must request district approval before the student may enroll in a district-sponsored virtual course or a Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program (MOCAP) course through the district. The principal or designee, in consultation with the student's parents/guardians and other relevant staff (such as the school counselor), will determine whether a requested course is appropriate or there is good cause to refuse the student enrollment in the course. When applicable, a student's individualized education program (IEP) or Section 504 team will make the initial decision on whether a student with a disability is approved to enroll in a virtual course. Students taking courses virtually are subject to district policies, procedures and rules applicable to students enrolled in traditional courses including, but not limited to, the district's discipline code and prohibitions on academic dishonesty, discrimination, harassment, bullying and cyberbullying.

Enrollment in Virtual Courses - The superintendent or designee will establish open enrollment periods and registration deadlines for students to enroll in district-offered virtual courses and MOCAP courses. These enrollment periods and registration deadlines will be strictly enforced unless the superintendent or designee determines that an exception is warranted due to circumstances such as a change in a student's health or the long‑term suspension of a student. Enrollment periods and registration deadlines must align with the district's academic calendar and assessment schedule to the extent practicable.

If the request to take a virtual course is denied, students or their parents/guardians may appeal the decision to the superintendent or designee, and the superintendent's or designee's decision will be final. Requests to take MOCAP courses will be processed as required by law as outlined in policy IGCDA.

ALL VISITORS MUST CHECK IN WITH THE BUILDING OFFICE.

The building principals have the right to waive this policy for special events and circumstances.

The Lebanon R-III School District believes that district events are a vital part of the total educational program and should be used as a means for developing positive social interaction, good sportsmanship and appropriate behavior, in addition to knowledge and skills. Well-organized and well-conducted programs contribute to the morale of the student body and strengthen school-community relations.

To this end, the Board encourages district patrons to exhibit good sportsmanship, citizenship, ethics, and integrity at all district events and at all times while on district grounds. The Board will work with parents/guardians, alumni associations, and local service organizations to keep appropriate behavior a top priority. The superintendent will establish procedures for crowd control at district events consistent with this policy.

DISRUPTIVE CONDUCT

If a visitor’s conduct becomes disruptive, threatening or violent, the superintendent, principal or a designee of either may require the visitor to leave. The superintendent or designee may inform the visitor that he or she is not welcome back on district property or at district events indefinitely or for a specific period of time. During any period of prohibition, the visitor will not be allowed on district property. The superintendent may make exceptions for parents, guardians or custodians of students enrolled in the district if the person’s presence is necessary to transport the student or may benefit the student educationally, or in situations where the parent, guardian or custodian will be supervised at all times. The superintendent may make an exception for visitors to attend a meeting of the Board or its committees but is not obligated to do so. This paragraph does not apply if the person is otherwise prohibited or banned from district property by other sections of this policy. A letter of Unreasonable Conduct may be issued to patrons if their behavior is disruptive in nature to a student(s), staff, or school setting.

DISTRICT PROPERTY

Parents, Guardians and patrons of the district are welcome to visit district schools and attend district events; however, all visitors during business hours, including Board members, must sign or check in at the building office prior to proceeding elsewhere in the building. The district discourages parents, guardians or others from using district property or events as places for visiting students and may refuse the use of district property for that purpose.

The Board and administration will not tolerate any person whose presence disturbs classes or district activities or hinders the instructional process. Visitors to the district property may not possess weapons, including concealed weapons, on district property, on district transportation, or at any district function or activity sponsored or sanctioned by the district unless the visitor is authorized law enforcement official or is otherwise authorized by Boards policy.

ENFORCEMENT

If a visitor prohibited from district property or events under this policy is on district property, district staff will contact law enforcement and/or escort the person from district grounds and inform the person of the district policy prohibiting his or her presence. The superintendent, principal, or designee of either may file a report or sign a complaint with law enforcement on behalf of the district. The Board grants the superintendent or designee the authority to consult an attorney for guidance or to seek a court order banning the visitor from district property. A visitor denied access to district property may communicate with the Board in writing but will not be allowed back onto district property unless allowed by the Board.

REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS AND PERSONS PROHIBITED ON/NEAR DISTRICT PROPERTY

Sex offenders required to be listed on the Missouri Highway Patrol’s sex offender registry, or who have pled guilty, pled nolo contendere or been convicted of crimes for which the law currently requires offenders to be listed, regardless of when those crimes were committed, are not allowed on district property or transportation or at district activities, regardless of whether those activities are held on or off district property, unless access is required by law.

In accordance with law, the district also prohibits all persons who have pled guilty or nolo contendere to or have been convicted of or found guilty of violating the following provisions from being on or within 500 feet of any school building, district property, district activity, or any vehicle used to transport students:

• Any of the provisions in Chapter 566 of the Missouri Revised Statutes.
• Incest, § 568.020, RSMo.
• Endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree, § 568.045, RSMo.
• Use of a child in a sexual performance, § 568.080, RSMo.
• Promoting a sexual performance by a child, § 568.090, RSMo.
• Sexual exploitation of a minor, § 573.023, RSMo.
• Promoting child pornography in the first degree, § 573.025 RSMo.
• Furnishing pornographic material to minors, § 573.040, RSMo.
• Any offense committed in another state, a foreign country, or under tribal, federal or military jurisdiction that, if committed in this state, would be a violation listed above.

Despite the prohibitions in this section, the superintendent may grant permission for a parent, guardian, or custodian of a student to be on district property for the limited purpose of attending meetings with district staff or in other situations where the student may benefit. Permission will be granted sparingly, if ever, and only in situations where the parent, guardian, or custodian will be supervised at all times or will not be alone with a child. If the superintendent does not grant permission, the parent, guardian, or custodian may seek permission from the Board. The superintendent will inform the principal and other relevant district staff of the scope of the permission granted.

This section may not apply to a student entitled by law to be on district property for educational services if the student’s presence is necessary to obtain those services and the student is not otherwise prohibited by law from being on district property. The exceptions cited in this section do not apply if the person is otherwise prohibited or banned from district property by other sections of this policy.

VOLUNTEERS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

VIPS are welcome at each PreK-5 school and provide an important role in supporting the efforts of educating our students. To become a volunteer, please visit the school webpage to fill out the necessary forms, which include a background check as required by the state of Missouri. Once completed, return necessary forms to your child’s school office.

Child Abuse

The Lebanon R-III School District will allow Family Services access to any student when that organization is investigating a suspected child abuse case. The school district will NOT notify parents of such contact. Teachers, principals, and superintendents are under direct mandate by state law to report any suspected child abuse or neglect cases. There is no discretionary judgment provided.

Inclement Weather

If a stormy situation exists at dismissal time we will follow this procedure:

• If we are under a TORNADO WATCH we will release students at normal times
• If a TORNADO WARNING is in effect, students will be held until the ALL CLEAR is sounded.

In the event of inclement weather, parents/guardians will be notified as quickly as possible. Parents/guardians are encouraged to let their child’s teacher know of an inclement weather plan for transportation as early in the year as possible, however we understand that special circumstances arise and those plans may change. Parents/guardians needing to make changes for inclement weather early release days will need to contact the school office as quickly as possible. Please understand that phone traffic on these days is very high, and the office staff will do their best to answer calls in a timely manner.

Lebanon R-III School District includes but is not limited to the following methods to notify parents/guardians of early dismissal due to inclement weather, or other circumstances.

School Messenger Alerts by phone call, text and email

Radio

• KLWT-AM 1230 / KCLQ-FM 107.9
• KJEL-AM 750 / KIRK-FM 103.7
• KTTK-FM 89.9

Television 

• KOLR 10
• KY3
• KSPR

 

Playground Rules and Regulations

Students are expected to obey all playground rules and regulations.

1. Students should sit while on the swings or slides.
2. Students are to stay on the playground and away from parked cars.
3. Students should leave rocks, gravel, sticks, mulch, snow/ice, etc. on the ground.
4. All animals (pets of any kind, insects, etc.) should remain at home.
5. Any fighting or aggressive physical contact will be referred to the office.

 

Safety Procedures

Fire, storm, and safety drills are held regularly with appropriate instruction given in each class.

Drill procedures are practiced as follows, and should a situation arise, student will follow these guidelines:

• Fire: Students will evacuate the building to a safe location near, or off of, the school campus.
• Tornado: Students will evacuate classrooms to the nearest tornado shelter within the building. 
• Earthquake: Students will seek shelter in the closest safe place in the building, following regular earthquake drill procedures.
• Intruder: Students and teachers will take shelter and follow lockdown and evacuation procedures.

Care of School Property

Students are expected to take reasonable care of school property. Students shall pay for books, school supplies, school equipment or other school property lost or damaged beyond wear and tear. Payment shall be assessed by the principal, or a designated person.

Any student who carelessly or intentionally defaces or damages school property shall be required to pay for all damages, and may be subject to additional disciplinary action.

Dress Code 

The Board of Education recognizes the value of allowing individual student expression as well as the necessity of protecting student health and safety and maintaining an atmosphere conducive to education. Student dress code procedures must be designed with the goal of balancing these competing interests. All dress code procedures will adhere to health and safety codes and comply with applicable law. Dress that materially disrupts the educational environment will be prohibited. No procedure will impose dress and grooming rules based on gender in violation of Title IX. District procedures will specifically define ambiguous terms, and examples will be provided when practicable.

It is generally accepted that cleanliness, good grooming, and appropriate dress are necessary to reduce distraction, promote health, and provide a productive learning atmosphere. Extremes in dress, personal hygiene, and overall personal appearance will not be tolerated. Clothing and personal appearance shall not be disruptive to the overall educational climate of the school. Any article of clothing or personal belonging that presents a health or safety risk will not be allowed. Common sense, a reasonable attitude, and parent support should eliminate the need to correct students in the areas of dress and personal appearance.

Final decisions regarding the appropriateness of apparel and/or personal appearance will be at the sole discretion of the school’s administration.

These regulations concerning dress code are requested as it is believed that grooming and dress will contribute to good attitudes and conditions that will enable students to do their best work and avoid distractions to the educational process.

1. Tops with revealing necklines, tops that show bare midriff and visible showing of underwear should not be worn.
2. Shorts and/or cutoffs, skirts and dresses should be of moderate length. Clothing must completely cover undergarments and private areas.
3. Garments designed for undergarments should be worn as such.
4. Students go outside for recess so they should wear warm clothing during winter months.
5. All undergarments are to be covered at all times. If it is a problem, other clothing will be provided to be worn for the day and returned at the end of the day.
6. Apparel with alcohol, tobacco, illegal drug, obscene, suggestive names or slogans, and that is symbolic of gang association shall not be worn.
7. Footwear must be worn at all times.
8. No headgear (hats, caps, scarves, etc) shall be worn inside the building.
9. No sagging of pants or shorts.
10. Muscle shirts are not to be worn.
11. No jewelry that could be used as a weapon can be worn. (ex: heavy chains, studded bracelets, wallet chains etc…..)

Students are not to draw on themselves or each other at any time. Students will be asked to wash off any drawings that do occur.

Media Appearance 

Student’s names or pictures could appear in the newspaper, radio, TV, social media, or school videos. If you do not wish for your child to appear in any media, please contact the school office in writing.

Prohibited Items

Students are not to possess such items as radios, rubber bands, water guns, spent ammunition, firecrackers, toys, cigarettes, tobacco products (including vapor), cigarette lighters, matches, knives, skates, skateboards, hoverboards, or any other "gadgets" at school.

Mobile Device Handbook

As we embrace the advancements in technology, we recognize the need to ensure that our students have access to the best resources and tools to enhance their learning experience. In pursuit of this, we have provided every student with access to a device for academic use, which we believe will foster innovation, creativity, and collaboration among the student community. This handbook serves as a guide to help you understand the policies and procedures that govern the use of your student’s Chromebook while at school or engaged in school activities. It is essential to familiarize yourself with this handbook to ensure that your student’s use of the Chromebook is in a responsible, safe, and appropriate manner. The technology usage policy EHB and EHBA can be found on the district website under school board policies.

It is essential that the district maintain a classroom environment that allows teachers to communicate effectively with all students in the class and allows all students in the class to learn.  To assist district staff in maintaining the necessary classroom environment, the Board of Education has created a discipline code that addresses the consequences, including suspension or expulsion, for students.

The comprehensive written code of conduct of the district is composed of this policy and includes, but is not limited to, the following policies, procedures and regulations: JG-R, JGA, JGB, JGD, JGE and JGF. A copy of the district's comprehensive written code of conduct will be distributed to every student and the parents/guardians of every student at the beginning of each school year and will be available in the superintendent's office during normal business hours. (JG)

Application (JG)

These policies, regulations and procedures will apply to all students in attendance in district instructional and support programs as well as at school-sponsored activities. Off-campus misconduct that adversely affects the educational climate will also be subject to these policies, regulations and procedures.  Students who have been charged, convicted or plead guilty in a court of general jurisdiction for commission of a felony may be suspended in accordance with law.

The Board authorizes the immediate removal of a student upon a finding by a principal or superintendent that the student poses a threat of harm to self or others, as evidenced by the prior conduct of such student. Any such removal will be subject to the appropriate due process procedures and in accordance with law.

No student may be confined in an unattended locked space except in an emergency situation while awaiting the arrival of law enforcement personnel. For the purpose of this policy, a student is unattended if no person has visual contact with the student, and a locked space is a space that the student cannot reasonably exit without assistance.

Enforcement (JG)

Building principals are responsible for the development of additional regulations and procedures regarding student conduct needed to maintain proper behavior in schools under their supervision. All such regulations and procedures shall be consistent with Board-adopted discipline policies.

Teachers have the authority and responsibility to make and enforce necessary rules for internal governance in the classroom, subject to review by the building principal. The Board expects each teacher to maintain a satisfactory standard of conduct in the classroom. All district staff are required to enforce district policies, regulations and procedures in a manner that is fair and developmentally appropriate and that considers the student and the individual circumstances involved.

All employees of the district shall annually receive instruction related to the specific contents of the district’s discipline policy and any interpretations necessary to implement the provisions of the policy in the course of their duties including, but not limited to, approved methods of dealing with acts of school violence, disciplining students with disabilities and instruction in the necessity and requirements for confidentiality.

Detention and/or In-School Suspension of Students (JGB)

The provisions of detention or an in-school suspension program for student violations of policies, rules and procedures shall provide principals with an additional alternative for dealing with disciplinary problems that occur in the schools. When this alternative is appropriate, students will be assigned to serve a specified time period in the in-school suspension program. These assignments, and the determination of the time period for them, shall be determined by the principal, or his or her designee.

Corporal Punishment (JGA-2)

For the purposes of this policy, corporal punishment is the use of physical force as a method of correcting student behavior. No person employed by or volunteering on behalf of the Lebanon R-III School District shall administer corporal punishment or cause corporal punishment to be administered upon a student attending district schools.

A staff member may, however, use reasonable physical force against a student for the protection of the student or other persons or to protect property. Restraint of students in accordance with the district's policy on student seclusion, isolation and restraint is not a violation of this policy.

Student Suspensions and Expulsion (JGD)

The following procedures apply to all students. However, additional procedures for discipline for students with disabilities are sometimes required, as discussed in policy JGE, Discipline of Students with Disabilities.

The Board of Education believes that the right of a child to attend free public schools carries with it the responsibility of the child to attend school regularly and to comply with the lawful policies, rules and procedures of the school district. This observance of school policies, rules and procedures is essential for permitting others to learn at school.

Therefore, the administration may exclude a student from school because of violation of school rules and procedures, conduct which materially or substantially disrupts the rights of others to an education, or conduct which endangers the student, other students or the property of the school. Furthermore, if a student poses a threat to self or others, as evidenced by the prior conduct of such student, the administration may immediately remove the student from school. Such actions will be taken in accordance with due process and with due regard for the welfare of both the student and the school.

The terms "suspension" and "removal" refer to an exclusion from school that will not exceed a specific period of time and shall be subject to the due process procedures set forth for "suspensions" in this policy. The term "expulsion" refers to exclusion for an indefinite period.

The district may honor suspensions and expulsions from another in-state or out-of-state school district including a private, charter or parochial school or school district pursuant to law and policy JEC, Student Admissions. Before making any decision to honor such suspensions or expulsions, the superintendent or designee will consider whether the student has received the due process required by law.

Suspensions (JGD)

In Missouri, a principal may suspend a student for up to ten (10) school days. A superintendent may suspend a student for up to 180 school days. Procedures for suspending a student are outlined below.

1. Before suspending a student, a principal or superintendent must (a) tell the student, either orally or in writing, what misconduct he or she is accused of; (b) if the student denies the accusation, explain, either orally or in writing, the facts that form the basis of the proposed suspension; and (c) give the student an opportunity to present his or her version of the incident.
2. If the principal or superintendent concludes that the student has engaged in misconduct punishable by suspension, the procedures described below apply. If the student has a disability as defined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) as amended or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, additional procedural safeguards described in the policy dealing with the discipline of students with disabilities apply.
3. The principal or superintendent should determine whether the student should be suspended or whether less drastic alternative measures would be appropriate. In many cases, the principal or superintendent may decide not to suspend a student unless conferences (between the teacher, student and principal and/or between the parent, student and principal) have been held and have failed to change the student's behavior.
4. If suspension is imposed, the student's parents or guardians must be promptly notified of the suspension and the reasons for the action.
5. Any suspension by a principal must be reported, immediately and in writing, to the superintendent, who may revoke the suspension, either part or in full, at any time.
6. If a student is suspended for more than ten (10) school days, the following rules also apply:
   1. The student, his or her parents, guardians or others having custodial care have a right to appeal the superintendent's decision to the Board or a committee of the Board appointed by the Board president.
   2. If the student gives notice that he or she wishes to appeal the suspension to the Board, the suspension shall be stayed until the Board renders its decision, unless in the superintendent's judgment, the student's presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process.
   3. All notices of appeal shall be transmitted, either by the appealing party or by the superintendent, to the secretary of the Board. Oral notices, if made to the superintendent, shall be reduced to writing and communicated to the secretary of the Board.
   4. The superintendent, when notified of an appeal, shall promptly transmit to the Board a full written report of the facts relating to the suspension, the action taken by the superintendent, and the reasons for the action.
   5. Upon receipt of a notice of appeal, the Board will schedule a hearing and within a reasonable time in advance of the scheduled date, will notify, by certified mail, the appealing party of the date, time and place of the hearing and of the right to counsel, to call witnesses, and to present evidence at the hearing.
   6. Hearings of appealed suspensions will be conducted as described in the section of this policy dealing with student disciplinary hearings.

Suspensions For More Than 180 School Days and Expulsions (JGD)

Only the Board may expel a student or suspend a student for more than 180 school days. The applicable procedures are outlined below.

1. Before recommending to the Board that a student be expelled or suspended for more than 180 school days, the superintendent must:
   1. tell the student, either orally or in writing, what misconduct he or she is accused of; 
   2. if the student denies the accusation, explain, either orally or in writing, the facts that form the basis of the proposed suspension/expulsion; 
   3. give the student an opportunity to present his or her version of the incident.
2. If the superintendent concludes that the student has engaged in misconduct and should be expelled or suspended for more than 180 school days, the procedures described below apply unless the student has a disability. (In the case of a student with a disability, the procedures described in the policy dealing with the discipline of students with disabilities shall apply.)
   1. The superintendent will recommend to the Board that the student be expelled or suspended for more than 180 school days. The superintendent may also immediately suspend the student for up to 180 school days.
   2. Upon receipt of the superintendent's recommendation, the Board will follow the procedures described in the section of this policy dealing with student disciplinary hearings.
3. If the student is expelled, he or she may later apply to the Board for readmission. Only the Board can readmit an expelled student.

Student Discipline Hearings (JGD)

The Board of Education may originate student discipline hearings upon recommendation of the superintendent. In such cases, the Board of Education will review the superintendent's report and determine whether to conduct a discipline hearing. In addition, student discipline hearings also will be held upon written request of the student or the student's parents, to consider appeals from student suspensions in excess of ten (10) school days. A discipline hearing will always be held in cases of suspensions in excess of 180 school days or expulsions, unless after meeting with the superintendent or designee, the parent or guardian waives, in writing, the right to an expulsion hearing.

In all hearings, whether initiated by the Board of Education or by appeal, the following procedures will be adhered to:

1. The student and the parents/guardians will be advised of the charges against the student; their right to a Board hearing; the date, time and place of the hearing; their right to counsel; and their procedural rights to call witnesses, enter exhibits and cross-examine adverse witnesses. All such notifications will be made by certified mail, addressed to the student's parents or guardians. The Board shall make a good-faith effort to have the parents or guardians present at the hearing.
2. Prior to the Board hearing, the student and the student's parents/guardians will be advised of the identity of the witnesses to be called by the administration and advised of the nature of their testimony. In addition, the student and the student's parents/guardians will be provided with copies of the documents to be introduced at the hearing by the administration.
3. The hearing will be closed unless the Board decides otherwise. The hearing will only be open with parental consent. At the hearing, the administration or their counsel will present the charges and such testimony and evidence to support such charges. The student, his or her parents/guardians or their counsel shall have the right to present witnesses, introduce exhibits, and to cross-examine witnesses called in support of the charges.
4. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Board of Education shall deliberate in executive session and shall render a decision to dismiss the charges; to suspend the student for a specified period of time; or to expel the student from the schools of the district. The administration or its counsel, by direction of the Board of Education, shall promptly prepare and transmit to the parents/guardians written notice of the decision.

Remedial Conference (JGD)

Prior to the readmission or enrollment of any student who has been suspended out of school or expelled in accordance with this policy for any "act of school violence" as defined in § 160.261.2, RSMo., and Board policy JGF, a conference must be held to review the student’s conduct that resulted in the suspension or expulsion and any remedial actions needed to prevent future occurrences of such conduct or related conduct. The conference shall include the appropriate school officials including any teacher directly involved with the conduct that resulted in the suspension or expulsion, the student, and the parent or guardian of the student or any agency having legal jurisdiction, care, custody or control of the student. The Board of Education shall notify, in writing, the parents or guardians and all other parties of the time, place and agenda of any such conference. Failure of any party to attend this conference shall not preclude holding the conference. This requirement applies to enrolling students transferring from another school as well, regardless of whether the "act of school violence" was committed at a public school or at a private school in Missouri, provided that such act shall have resulted in the suspension or expulsion of such student in the case of a private school.

Discipline of Students with Disabilities (JGE)

It is the goal of the Lebanon R-III School District to provide a safe and productive learning environment for all students. The district does not believe in a double standard for misbehavior and holds the welfare and safety of all persons in the district in highest regard. Students with disabilities will be disciplined in accordance with the district's discipline code applicable to all students, subject to the modifications mandated by law. All students, including those with disabilities, will be referred for law enforcement action when required by law and when their conduct constitutes a crime.

The district will comply with all state and federal laws governing the discipline of students with disabilities, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, applicable regulations and state and local plans for compliance with the law. In addition to the process outlined in special education law, students with disabilities will receive the same due process afforded other students.

The Board delegates to the superintendent or designee the authority to seek the removal of a student with a disability as allowed by federal or state law to an alternative educational setting through the state hearing process or to seek a court injunction ordering removal or a different educational placement.

The superintendent or designee will provide all district employees training on violence prevention, the district's discipline code and the legal requirements for disciplining students with disabilities. The Board delegates to the superintendent or designee the authority to contact the district's legal counsel for legal advice or training on the district's responsibilities.

Discipline Reporting and Records (JGF)

In compliance with state law, the Board of Education establishes clear channels of communication between teachers, administrators, law enforcement officials and other schools concerning acts of school violence and other behaviors that endanger the welfare or safety of students, staff or patrons of the district. The purpose of this policy is to designate specific actions committed by students that must be reported to teachers, administrators and/or law enforcement officials as well as those actions that must be documented in a student’s discipline record.

Definitions (JGF)

The following definitions and terms apply to this policy:

• Act of School Violence/Violent Behavior – The exertion of physical force by a student with the intent to do serious physical injury to another person while on school property, including while on school transportation in service on behalf of the district or while involved in school activities.
• Serious Physical Injury – Physical injury that creates a substantial risk of death or that causes serious disfigurement or protracted loss or impairment of any part of the body.
• Serious Violation of District’s Discipline Policy – One or more of the following acts if committed by a student enrolled in the district.
  • Any act of school violence/violent behavior.
  • Any offense that occurs on district property, on district transportation or at any district activity and that is required by law to be reported to law enforcement officials.
  • Any offense that results in an out-of-school suspension for more than ten school days.
• Need to Know – Relates to school personnel who are directly responsible for the student’s education or who otherwise interact with the student on a professional basis while acting within the scope of their assigned duties.
• School or District Property – Property utilized, supervised, owned, rented, leased or controlled by the school district including, but not limited to, school playgrounds, parking lots, school transportation and any property on which any school activity takes place.

Reporting to School Staff (JGF)

School administrators shall report acts of school violence to all teachers at the attendance areas in which the involved students are educated and to other school district employees with a need to know the information to adequately supervise the students and to protect themselves or others. In addition, any portion of a student’s individualized education program (IEP) that is related to demonstrated or potentially violent behavior shall be provided to any teachers and other district employees with a need to know the information.

The superintendent or designee will inform district employees with a need to know of any act committed or allegedly committed by a student in the district that is reported to the district by a juvenile officer or an employee of the Children's Division (CD) of the Department of Social Services, sheriff, chief of police or other appropriate law enforcement authority in accordance with state law. Such reports shall not be used as the sole basis for denying educational services to a student.

Reporting to Law Enforcement Officials (JGF)

Any crime listed in this section, or any act that if committed by an adult would be a crime listed in this section, that is committed on school property, on any school transportation or at any school activity must be reported immediately by the appropriate school administrator to the appropriate law enforcement agency. The following acts are subject to this reporting requirement:

1. First- or second-degree murder under §§ 565.020, .021, RSMo.
2. Voluntary or involuntary manslaughter under § 565.023, .024, RSMo.
3. Kidnapping under § 565.110, RSMo.
4. First-, second- or third-degree assault under §§ 565.050, .060, .070, RSMo.*
   1. Immediate reporting of third-degree assault under § 565.070, RSMo., may not be required if an agreement with law enforcement exists.
5. Rape in the first or second degree under §§ 566.030, .031, RSMo.
6. Sodomy in the first or second degree under §§ 566.060, .061, RSMo.
7. Burglary in the first or second degree under §§ 569.160, .170, RSMo.
8. Robbery in the first degree under § 569.020, RSMo.
9. Possession of a weapon under chapter 571, RSMo.
10. Distribution of drugs and distribution of drugs to a minor under §§ 195.211, .212, RSMo.
11. Arson in the first degree under § 569.040, RSMo.
12. Felonious restraint under § 565.120, RSMo.
13. Property damage in the first degree under § 569.100, RSMo.
14. Child molestation in the first degree pursuant to § 566.067, RSMo.
15. Sexual misconduct involving a child pursuant to § 566.083, RSMo.
16. Sexual abuse in the first degree pursuant to § 566.100, RSMo.
17. Harassment under § 565.090, RSMo.
18. Stalking under § 565.225, RSMo.

* Immediate reporting of third-degree assault under § 565.070, RSMo., may not be required if an agreement with law enforcement exists.

If the district is aware that a student who is suspended for more than ten days or expelled is under court jurisdiction, the superintendent shall notify the appropriate division of the juvenile or family court of the suspension or expulsion.

All employees shall immediately report to the principal any incident that constitutes a crime, including any incident in which a person is believed to have committed an act that if committed by an adult would be first-, second- or third-degree assault, rape in the second degree or sodomy in the second degree against a student or school employee, while on school property, school transportation or at school activities. Employees shall also inform the principal if a student is discovered to possess a controlled substance or weapon in violation of the district’s policy. The principal shall immediately report these listed offenses to the appropriate law enforcement agency and the superintendent. However, if the district has entered into an agreement with law enforcement regarding the reporting of third-degree assaults, the district will report third-degree assaults to law enforcement in accordance with that agreement.

School districts may report or disclose education records to law enforcement and juvenile justice authorities if the disclosure concerns law enforcement's or juvenile justice authorities' ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records are released. The officials and authorities to whom such information is disclosed must comply with applicable restrictions set forth in state and federal law.

Reporting Third-Degree Assault (JGF)

The superintendent and the appropriate local law enforcement agency may develop a written agreement outlining the procedure for reporting any incident in which a student is believed to have committed an act that if committed by an adult would be third-degree assault. If such an agreement exists in the district, the principal shall report third-degree assaults to the appropriate local law enforcement agency in accordance with the agreement.

Student Discipline Records (JGF)

The Board of Education directs the superintendent or designee to compile and maintain records of any serious violation of the district’s discipline policy for each student enrolled in the district. Such records shall be made available to all district employees with a need to know and shall be provided to any school district in which the student subsequently attempts to enroll within five business days of receiving the request, in accordance with state law. If a student is placed in another school by the CD, the records will be transferred to the new school within two business days after notification by the CD. Personally identifiable student records will only be released or destroyed in accordance with state and federal law.

Pursuant to Department of Secondary and Elementary Education (DESE) data reporting requirements, the district shall report rates and durations of, and reasons for, student suspensions of ten days or longer and expulsions.

Confidentiality (JGF)

Any information received by a school district employee relating to the conduct of a student shall be received in confidence and used for the limited purpose of assuring that good order and discipline are maintained in the schools.

Liability (JGF)

Teachers and authorized district personnel, including volunteers selected with reasonable care by the district, shall not be civilly liable when acting in accordance with the Board's policies, including the Board's discipline policies, or when reporting to the appropriate supervisor or other person acts of school violence or threatened acts of school violence, pursuant to law and district policy.

Code of Conduct (JG-R1)

The Student Code of Conduct is designed to foster student responsibility, respect for others, and to provide for the orderly operation of district schools. No code can be expected to list each and every offense that may result in disciplinary action; however, it is the purpose of this code to list certain offenses which, if committed by a student, will result in the imposition of a certain disciplinary action. Any conduct not included herein, any aggravated circumstance of any offense, or any action involving a combination of offenses may result in disciplinary consequences that extend beyond this code of conduct as determined by the principal, superintendent and/or Board of Education. In extraordinary circumstances where the minimum consequence is judged by the superintendent or designee to be manifestly unfair or not in the interest of the district, the superintendent or designee may reduce the consequences listed in this regulation, as allowed by law. This code includes, but is not necessarily limited to, acts of students on district property, including playgrounds, parking lots and district transportation, or at a district activity, whether on or off district property. The district may also discipline students for off-campus conduct that negatively impacts the educational environment, to the extent allowed by law.

Nondiscrimination in Application of Policies (JG-R1)

The Lebanon R-III School District prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability or military status in its programs and activities as required by: Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1975, 42 U.S.C. Section 6101, the Americans with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act and Missouri Law.

Reporting to Law Enforcement (JG-R1)

It is the policy of the Lebanon R-III School District to report all crimes occurring on district property to law enforcement including, but not limited to, the crimes the district is required to report in accordance with law. A list of crimes the district is required to report is included in policy JGF.

The principal shall also notify the appropriate law enforcement agency and superintendent if a student is discovered to possess a controlled substance or weapon in violation of the district's policy.

In addition, the superintendent shall notify the appropriate division of the juvenile or family court upon suspension for more than ten days or expulsion of any student who the district is aware is under the jurisdiction of the court.

Documentation in Student's Discipline Record (JG-R1)

The principal, designee, or other administrators or district staff will maintain all discipline records as deemed necessary for the orderly operation of the schools and in accordance with law and policy JGF.

Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion and Other Disciplinary Consequences (JG-R1)

All students who are suspended or expelled, regardless of the reason, are prohibited from participating in or attending any district-sponsored activity, or being on or near district property or the location of any district activity for any reason, unless permission is granted by the superintendent or designee. When appropriate, the district may prohibit students from participating in activities or restrict a student's access to district property as a disciplinary consequence even if a student is not suspended or expelled from school. Likewise, a student may become ineligible for or be required to forfeit any honors and awards as a disciplinary consequence.

In accordance with law, any student who is suspended for any offenses listed in § 160.261, RSMo., or any act of violence or drug-related activity defined by policy JGF as a serious violation of school discipline, shall not be allowed to be within 1,000 feet of any district property or any activity of the district, regardless of whether the activity takes place on district property, unless one of the following conditions exist:

1. The student is under the direct supervision of the student's parent, legal guardian, custodian or another adult designated in advance, in writing, to the student's principal by the student's parent, legal guardian or custodian, and the superintendent or designee has authorized the student to be on district property.
2. The student is enrolled in and attending an alternative school that is located within 1,000 feet of a public school in the district.
3. The student resides within 1,000 feet of a public school in the district and is on the property of his or her residence.

If a student violates the prohibitions in this section, he or she may be suspended or expelled in accordance with the offense, "Failure to Meet Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion or Other Disciplinary Consequences," listed below.

Extended Summary Suspensions (JG-R1)

An asterisk * within the scope and sequence of a discipline consequence indicates that the potential exists for an extended summary suspension, or a suspension of greater than ten days. In accordance with state statutes § 160.261, § 167.161 and § 167.171 RSMo. and Board of Education policy JGD, Section VI, student suspensions of greater than ten days require a Review Meeting before the superintendent or designee. Extended summary suspensions can be up to 180 school days.

Impact on Grades (JG-R1)

As with any absence, absences due to an out-of-school suspension may result in the student earning a lower grade in accordance with the district’s policy on absences.

The following are descriptions of prohibited conduct and potential consequences for violations. Building-level administrators are authorized to more narrowly tailor potential consequences as appropriate for the age level of students in the building within the ranges established in this regulation. In addition to the consequences specified here, school officials will notify law enforcement and document violations in the student's discipline file pursuant to law and Board policy.

ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT (ACAD)

Cheating on tests, assignments, projects or similar activities; plagiarism; claiming credit for another person's work; fabrication of facts, sources or other supporting material; unauthorized collaboration; facilitating academic dishonesty; and other misconduct related to academics.

 

ALCOHOL/DRUGS

Alcohol/Drugs violations are divided into two offense categories. School Police Report required. See Board of Education policy JFCH and JHCD. Suspensions may be reduced with successful completion of a substance abuse assessment.

 

ARSON

The intentional and knowing use of fire on Lebanon R-III School District property that may or may not cause damage to district property or property of others; or, the attempt to commit arson.

Arson violations are divided into two offense categories. School Police Report required.

 

 

ASSAULTIVE BEHAVIOR

Intentionally or recklessly causing injury to another. Assaultive behavior is divided into seven categories. This may qualify as a Safe Schools Violation and require administration to notify staff members on a need-to-know basis.

 

Auto Violations

Uncourteous or unsafe driving on or around district property, unregistered parking, failure to move vehicle at the request of district officials, failure to follow directions given by district officials or failure to follow established rules for parking or driving on district property.

 

Bullying/Cyberbullying 

See Harassment Section

Bus Safety Violations (Buss)

Any offense committed by a student on transportation provided by or through the district shall be punished in the same manner as if the offense had been committed at the student’s assigned school.  In addition to school discipline, transportation privileges may be suspended or revoked.

Inappropriate Conduct 

Standing while the bus is moving, yelling, littering in the bus, use of food or drink, not sitting in assigned seat, not sitting properly, eating on the bus, shoving or pushing (horseplay), not following directions of drivers, etc.

 

Computer/Electronic Device Use:

 

 

 

 

Defiance of or Disrespect For Authority

 

Destruction of Property/Vandalism 

Conduct that destroys, mutilates, vandalizes or defaces objects, buildings, materials or property belonging to the Lebanon R-III School District or district personnel wherever the property is located; or toward property of others that is located on district property. Destruction of Property/Vandalism is divided into two offense categories.

 

Disorderly Conduct

 

Drugs

See Alcohol/Drugs Policy 

Explosive Devices

 

Extortion (EXTO)

Gaining or attempting to gain something of value from another by compulsion, by actual force, or by threats that place the person in fear.  School Police Report is required.

 

Failure to Care For or Return District Property (FAIP)

Loss of, failure to return, or damage to district property including, but not limited to, books, computers, calculators, uniforms, and sporting and instructional equipment.

 

Failure to Meet or Serve Conditions of Detention/Suspension (FAIS)

Violating the conditions of a suspension, expulsion or other disciplinary consequence including, but not limited to, participating in or attending any district-sponsored activity or being on or near district property or the location where a district activity is held.

As required by law, when the district considers suspending a student for an additional period of time or expelling a student for being on or within 1,000 feet of district property during a suspension, consideration shall be given to whether the student poses a threat to the safety of any student or district employee and whether the student's presence is disruptive to the educational process or undermines the effectiveness of the district's discipline policy. Report to law enforcement for trespassing if expelled.

 

Falsification of Information or Records

 

Filing a False Emergency Report

Knowingly giving false information to any law enforcement officer, security officer, fire department officer, school district employee or other person who deals with emergencies that an emergency is occurring or has occurred. Filing a False Emergency Report is divided into two offense categories.

 

Gambling (GAMB)

Conduct that stakes or risks something of value upon the outcome of a contest of chance or a future contingent event, such as sporting events, not under the student’s control or influence, upon an agreement or understanding that the student will receive something of value in the event of a certain outcome. School Police Report is required.

 

Gang/Secret Organizations Related Behavior/Attire (GANG)

 

Harassment 

Conduct that violates Board of Education policies ABC, Staff and Student Harassment; ACAB, Sexual Harassment-Students; JFCF, Hazing and Bullying; or GBH, Staff/Student Relations. Harassment is divided into four offense categories.

 

ID Badge Violations

 

Inappropriate Apparel (INAA)

All dress code procedures will adhere to health and safety codes and comply with applicable law. Dress that materially disrupts the educational environment will be prohibited. No procedure will impose dress and grooming rules based on gender in violation of Title IX.

 

Inappropriate Language (INAL)

Verbal or nonverbal obscenities and/or name calling do not show respect for the rights of others. Students showing this type of behavior will be subject to the following offenses.CV

 

Nuisance Items (NUIS)

Possession or use of items such as toys, games, portable media players that are not authorized for educational purposes.

 

Out of Assigned Area

See Truancy policy, Class I Out of Assigned Area

Public Display of Affection (PUBD)

Consensual physical contact that is inappropriate for the school setting including, but not limited to, kissing and groping. 

 

 

Sexual Misconduct

Sexual Misconduct is divided into three offense categories. School Police Report is required.

All Sexual Misconduct Offense categories below may qualify as a Safe Schools Violation and require administration to notify staff members on a need-to-know basis.

 

Tardies (TARD)

Students must be in their assigned class or lunch period prior to the tardy bell. Students not in class on time will participate in the Tardy Sweep Program.  In general, road construction, traffic congestion, normal weather conditions, flat tires, and other “personal” issues are not acceptable reasons for being tardy. Students who accumulate more than 5 tardy violations per semester will be assigned consequences as follows:

 

Theft

Taking property of the Lebanon R-III School District or others. All Theft Offense categories may qualify as a Safe Schools Violation and require administration to notify staff members on a need-to-know basis. Restitution and/or replacement of stolen items applies only to district-owned property.

 

Weapons - Policy JFCJ

All Weapons offense categories below may qualify as a Safe Schools Violation and require administration to notify staff members on a need-to-know basis. For the purposes of our policy, a knife does not include any ordinary “pocket knife” with no blade more than four inches in length (571.010.12).  Any knife with a blade less than four inches will be defined as a weapon IF it is used to injure or threaten or to damage property. School Police Report may be required.

Class I Weapon - Articles designed for other purposes but by inappropriate use could easily be used to inflict bodily harm and/or intimidate others, when such items are so used.  Examples of these items are belts, combs, pencils, files, compasses, scissors, chains, cafeteria trays, etc.

Class II Weapon - One or more of the following:

1. Any knife, butterfly knife, dagger, dirk, stiletto or bladed hand instrument that is readily capable of inflicting serious physical injury or death by cutting or stabbing a person.
2. Any knuckles, including any instrument that consists of finger rings or guards made of a hard substance that is designed or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious physical injury or death by striking a person with a fist enclosed in the knuckles.
3. Any blackjack, including any instrument that is designed or adapted for the purpose of stunning or inflicting physical injury by striking a person. 
4. Any switchblade knife, of whatever length, that opens automatically with a button or other device or opens by force of gravity or application of centrifugal force.
5. Any throwing stars or other similar instruments or devices.  

Class III Weapon - One or more of the following:

1. Any firearm or other weapon that is designed or adapted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, including but not limited to firearms, concealable firearms, machine guns, rifles, shotguns and spring guns.
2. Any explosive weapon such as an explosive, incendiary or poison gas bomb or similar device designed or adapted for the purpose of inflicting death, serious physical injury or substantial property damage or a device designed or adapted for delivering or shooting such a weapon.
3. Any gas gun, such as a gas ejection device, weapon, cartridge, container or contrivance other than a gas bomb, that is designed or adapted for the purpose of ejecting any poison gas that will cause death or serious physical injury, but not any device that ejects a repellant or temporary incapacitating substance.
4. Any projectile weapon, such as any bow, crossbow, pellet gun, paint gun, slingshot or other weapon that is not a firearm, but which is capable of expelling a projectile that could inflict serious physical injury or death by striking or piercing a person.
5. Any item or device purported to be any of the weapons defined in 1-4 above.

 

In-School Suspension (ISS)

ISS is an alternative to suspension which allows students to remain in a detention room at school rather than being sent home. In-School Suspension carries with it closure from activities/programs similar to out-of-school suspension. Suspension will end at the end of the school day of the last day of suspension, except that students participating in extracurricular activities, including all MSHSAA contests and events, will not be allowed to participate in any activity or contest on the last day of the ISS, regardless of the time spent in ISS. Students serving an in-school-suspension who are referred to the office for disciplinary reasons will be required to serve the remainder of their ISS as an out-of-school suspension and may face further disciplinary action per the Code of Conduct.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Out-of-School Suspension (OSS)

The school principal has the right to suspend for a period up to 10 school days. In these cases, an informal hearing between the school administrators, student, and other appropriate persons will be conducted. During this hearing, the student would be given notice of the charges against him/her and given an opportunity to present his/her version of the incident. If the student denies the charges, he/she will be given an explanation of the facts which form the basis of the proposed suspension. If, after the hearing is completed, the administrator decides that a suspension is necessary, it will become effective immediately. The parents or guardian will be notified in each case of a suspension. The Superintendent has the right to revoke a suspension. The school principal has the right to recommend to the Superintendent of Schools a suspension of up to 180 school days. Should this occur, both the student and the student’s parents will be notified of the recommendation. Part of this notification will include instructions regarding the due process and appeal procedures. If an appeal is requested, it is conducted by the Board of Education through the Superintendent of Schools. Students, while under suspension, are prohibited from participation in, or attendance at, any school-sponsored activities or programs. Suspension will end at the end of the school day of the last day of suspension, except that students participating in extracurricular activities, including all MSHSAA contests and events, will not be allowed to participate in any activity or contest on the last day of the OSS.

Expulsion

The principal and/or Superintendent have the right to recommend to the Board of Education that a student be expelled from school. Should this occur, the student and the student’s parents will be notified of the recommendation. Part of this notification will include instructions regarding the due process and appeal procedures. If an appeal is requested, it will be conducted by the Board of Education.

Dear Students,

Welcome to Lebanon Middle School! We are so excited to have you join our LMS family and hope you’re ready for an incredible year ahead. At LMS, we believe every student should feel welcomed and valued, and we’re committed to making sure you experience just that every day.

As part of the Lebanon R-III School District, we are proud to support our mission to “inspire a passion for learning through positive relationships, personalized experiences, and a focus on the future.” This year, you’ll have the opportunity to grow not only in your academic skills but also in the core dispositions that will prepare you for success in school and beyond:

• Integrity – Doing the right thing, even when no one is watching
   
• Grit – Persevering through challenges with a strong work ethic
   
• Responsibility – Owning your actions, choices, and learning
   
• Collaboration – Working with others respectfully to reach shared goals
   
• Critical Thinking – Solving problems thoughtfully and creatively
   
• Communication – Expressing yourself clearly and listening with purpose

These qualities will help guide your learning, relationships, and decisions throughout the year. We believe that when we all commit to these shared values, we create a school environment where everyone can thrive.

To support your journey, we’ve prepared this student handbook as a helpful guide to the expectations, procedures, and supports that will help you be successful. Please review it carefully with your parents or guardians—you are responsible for knowing its contents.

This school year is full of opportunities to challenge yourself, grow in new ways, and make lasting memories. We encourage you to get involved in school-sponsored activities, show school spirit, and make the most of every experience.

Again, welcome to Lebanon Middle School! We’re so glad you’re here, and we can’t wait to see how you will grow, lead, and shine.

Let’s make it a great year—together!

Sincerely,

  

  Kyle Nelson, Principal

  Joel Simmonds, Assistant Principal

  Brian Decker, Assistant Principal/Athletic Director

The mission of Lebanon R-III School District is to inspire a passion for learning through positive relationships, personalized experiences, and a focus on the future.

TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS

EVERY STUDENT SUCCEEDS ACT (2017)

Our district is required to inform you of information that you, according to the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (Public Law 114-95), have the right to know. 

Upon your request, our district is required to provide to you in a timely manner, the following information:  

• Whether your student’s teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction. 
•  Whether your student’s teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria have been waived.  
• Whether your student’s teacher is teaching in the field of discipline of the certification of the teacher.  
• Whether your child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications. 

In addition to the information that parents may request, a building receiving Title I.a funds must provide to each individual parent: 

•  Information on the level of achievement and academic growth of your student, if applicable and available, on each of the State academic assessments required under Title I.A.  
• Timely notice that your student has been assigned, or has been taught for 4 or more consecutive weeks by, a teacher who has not met applicable State certification or licensure requirements at the grade level and subject area in which the teacher has been assigned.

Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA) 
COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

This guide explains how to file a complaint about any of the programs that are administered by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (the Department) under the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA).

 

1. What is a complaint? 

For these purposes, a complaint is a written allegation that a local education agency (LEA) or the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (the Department) has violated a federal statute or regulation that applies to a program under ESSA. 

2. Who may file a complaint?

 Any individual or organization may file a complaint.

 3. How can a complaint be filed?

 Complaints can be filed with the LEA or with the Department. 

4. How will a complaint filed with the LEA be investigated?

 Complaints filed with the LEA are to be investigated and attempted to be resolved according to the locally developed and adopted procedures. 

5. What happens if a complaint is not resolved at the local level (LEA)?

 A complaint not resolved at the local level may be appealed to the Department.

 6. How can a complaint be filed with the Department?

 A complaint filed with the Department must be a written, signed statement that includes:

1. A statement that a requirement that applies to an ESSA program has been violated by the LEA or the Department, and 
2. The facts on which the statement is based and the specific requirement allegedly violated.

 7. How will a complaint filed with the Department be investigated? 

The investigation and complaint resolution proceedings will be completed within a time limit of forty-five calendar days. That time limit can be extended by the agreement of all parties. 

 

The following activities will occur in the investigation: 

1. Record. A written record of the investigation will be kept. 

2. Notification of LEA. The LEA will be notified of the complaint within five days of the complaint being filed. 

3. Resolution at LEA. The LEA will then initiate its local complaint procedures in an effort to first resolve the complaint at the local level. 

4. Report by LEA. Within thirty-five days of the complaint being filed, the LEA will submit a written summary of the LEA investigation and complaint resolution. This report is considered public record and may be made available to parents, teachers, and other members of the general public. 

5. Verification. Within five days of receiving the written summary of a complaint resolution, the Department will verify the resolution of the complaint through an on-site visit, letter, or telephone call(s).

 6. Appeal. The complainant or the LEA may appeal the decision of the Department to the U.S. Department of Education.

 8. How are complaints related to equitable services to nonpublic school children handled differently? 
In addition to the procedures listed in number 7 above, complaints related to equitable services will also be filed with the U.S. Department of Education, and they will receive all information related to the investigation and resolution of the complaint. Also, appeals to the United States Department of Education must be filed no longer than thirty days following the Department’s resolution of the complaint (or its failure to resolve the complaint). 

9. How will appeals to the Department be investigated? 
The Department will initiate an investigation within ten days, which will be concluded within thirty days from the day of the appeal. This investigation may be continued beyond the thirty day limit at the discretion of the Department. At the conclusion of the investigation, the Department will communicate the decision and reasons for the decision to the complainant and the LEA. Recommendations and details of the decision are to be implemented within fifteen days of the decision being delivered to the LEA. 

10. What happens if a complaint is not resolved at the state level (the Department)? 
The complainant or the LEA may appeal the decision of the Department to the United States Department of Education.  

Special Dates

August 2026

• August 11–13: New Teacher Institute
• August 14–24: Teacher Workdays
• August 25: First Day of School
• Student Days: 5

September 2026

• September 7: Labor Day (No School)
• September 18: Teacher Workday (No School for Students)
• Student Days: 20

October 2026

• October 9: End of First Quarter
• October 16: Teacher Workday (No School for Students)
• October 19–22: Parent-Teacher Conferences
• October 23: Fall Break (No School)
• Student Days: 20

November 2026

• November 23–27: Thanksgiving Break
• Student Days: 16

December 2026

• December 18: End of Second Quarter/First Semester (2-Hour Early Release)
• December 21–31: Christmas Break
• Student Days: 14

January 2027

• January 1: New Year's Day
• January 4: Teacher Workday
• January 5: Students Return
• January 18: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Student Days: 18

February 2027

• February 15: Presidents Day
• Student Days: 19

March 2027

• March 11: End of Third Quarter
• March 12: Teacher Workday
• March 22–26: Spring Break
• Student Days: 17

April 2027

• April 23: Teacher Workday
• Student Days: 21

May 2027

• May 21: Graduation
• May 27: Last Day of School (2-Hour Early Release)
• May 28: Teacher Workday
• May 31: Memorial Day
• Student Days: 19

Calendar Totals

• First Semester Student Days: 75
• Second Semester Student Days: 94
• Total Student Attendance Days: 169
• Teacher Contract Days: 183

Notes

• Schools release one hour early on Fridays for teacher collaboration.
• If school is canceled due to weather or an emergency, the first closure day will be completed as an AMI (virtual learning) day.

6th Grade Bell Schedule

Monday-Thursday

1st Period ___________________ 7:45-8:29

2nd Period ___________________8:32-9:16

 3rd Period __________________ 9:19- 10:03

 4th Period __________________10:06-10:50                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    1st Lunch 10:53 - 11:18 25

5th Jacket Time______________ 11:20-11:49

6th Period _________________ 11:52-12:36

7th Period _________________ 12:39- 1:23

8th Period _________________ 1:26- 2:10

9th Period _________________ 2:13-2:57

Friday 

1st Period _________________ 7:45- 8:21

 2nd Period_________________ 8:25- 9:01

3rd Period _________________9:05- 9:41

 4th Period _________________9:45- 10:21

1st Lunch  10:24-10:46

5th Jacket Time______________ 10:50- 11:16

6th Period_________________ 11:20- 11:56

7th Period _________________12:00- 12:36

8th Period _________________12:40- 1:16

9th Period _________________1:20 - 1:57

 

7th-8th Grade Bell Schedule 

Monday-Thursday 

1st Period ___________________ 7:45-8:29 

2nd Period ___________________8:32-9:16

3rd Period __________________ 9:19-10:03

4th Period __________________10:06-10:50

5th Period (Jacket Time)_______10:53-11:22

6th Period includes lunch____ 11:25-12:36

6th Period A goes to 3rd lunch

6th Period B goes to 2nd lunch

6th Period A_________________ 11:25-12:09

6th Period B_________________ 11:50-12:36

2nd Lunch    11:25-11:47 

3rd Lunch     12:12-12:36 

7th Period _________________ 12:39-1:23

8th Period _________________ 1:26-2:10

9th Period _________________ 2:13-2:57

Friday 

1st Period _________________ 7:45- 8:21

 2nd Period_________________ 8:25- 9:01

3rd Period _________________9:05- 9:41

4th Period __________________ 9:45- 10:21

5th period (Jacket Time)________10:24-10:47

6th Period includes lunch ______10:50-11:56

6th Period A goes to 3rd lunch

6th Period B goes to 2nd lunch

6th Period A _________________10:50-11:26

6th Period B _________________11:20-11:56

2nd Lunch 10:50-11:16

3rd Lunch 11:30-11:56 

7th Period _________________12:00- 12:36

8th Period _________________12:40- 1:16

9th Period _________________1:20- 1:57

Student health information is a type of student record that is particularly sensitive and protected by numerous state and federal laws. Student health information shall be protected from unauthorized, illegal or inappropriate disclosure by adherence to the principles of confidentiality and privacy. The information shall be protected regardless of whether the information is received orally, in writing, or electronically and regardless of the type of record or method of storage

School lockers, desks and other district property are provided for the convenience of students and, as such, are subject to periodic inspection without notice.  Student property may be searched based on reasonable suspicion of a violation of district rules, policy or law. Reasonable suspicion must be based on facts known to the administration, credible information or reasonable inference drawn from such facts or information. Searches of student property shall be limited in scope based on the original justification of the search. The privacy and dignity of students shall be respected. Searches shall be carried out in the presence of adult witnesses and not in front of other students, unless exigent circumstances exist.

The administration will contact law enforcement officials to perform a search if the administration reasonably suspects that a student is concealing controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, weapons, stolen goods or evidence of a crime beneath his or her clothing and the student refuses to surrender such items.  Law enforcement officials may be contacted for assistance in performing a search in any case in which a student refuses to allow a search or in which the search cannot safely be conducted.

School employees and volunteers, other than commissioned law enforcement officers, shall not strip search students, as defined in state law, except in situations where an employee reasonably believes that the student possesses a weapon, explosive or substance that poses an imminent threat of physical harm to the student or others and a commissioned law enforcement officer is not immediately available. If a student is strip searched, as defined in state law, by a school employee or a commissioned law enforcement officer, the district will attempt to notify the student's parents/guardians as soon as possible.  During an examination, and if reasonable under the circumstances, school employees may require students to empty pockets or remove jackets, coats, shoes and other articles of exterior clothing that when removed do not expose underwear. Employees may also remove student clothing to investigate the potential abuse or neglect of a student, give medical attention to a student, provide health services to a student or screen a student for medical conditions.

School Resource Officers

The school resource officer (SRO) may interview or question students regarding an alleged violation of law. A school resource officer may also accompany school officials executing a search or may perform searches under the direction of school officials.

Interview with Police or Juvenile Officers/Other Law Enforcement Officials

Law enforcement officials may wish to interview students regarding their knowledge of suspected criminal activity and may wish to interrogate students who are themselves suspected of engaging in criminal activity. Such interviews and interrogations are discouraged during class time, except when law enforcement officials have a warrant or other court order or when an emergency or other exigent circumstances exist. It is the responsibility of the principal or designee to take reasonable steps to prevent disruption of school operations while at the same time cooperating with law enforcement efforts.  When law enforcement officials find it necessary to question students during the school day or during periods of extracurricular activities, the school principal or designee will be present and the interview will be conducted in private. The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and request an explanation of the need to question or interview the student at school. The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to notify the student's parents/guardians unless the interviewer raises a valid objection to the notification.

Removal of Students from School by Law Enforcement Officials

Before a student at school is arrested or taken into custody by a law enforcement official or other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the official's identity. To the best of his or her ability, the principal will verify the official's authority to take custody of the student. The school principal will attempt to notify the student's parents/guardians that the student is being removed from school.
 

Interview with the Children's Division

Representatives of the Children's Division (CD) of the Department of Social Services may meet with students on campus. The district liaison will work with CD to arrange such meetings so they are minimally disruptive to the student's schedule. If the student is an alleged victim of abuse or neglect, CD may not meet with the student in any school building or child care facility where the abuse of the student allegedly occurred. The principal will verify and record the identity of any CD representatives who request to meet with or take custody of a student.

Contacts by Guardian Ad Litem and Court-Appointed Special Advocate

When a court-appointed guardian ad litem or special advocate finds it necessary to interview a student during the school day or during periods of extracurricular activities, the school principal or designee must be notified. The principal will verify and record the identity of the individual through the court order that appoints him or her. The interview must be conducted in a private setting and with the least disruption to the student's schedule.

In order to participate in any Missouri State High School Activities Association event or activity, students must have passed six of seven classes from the previous grading period. Lebanon Middle School will adhere to the non-traditional 1 and 2 MSHSAA standards per eligibility.  If a student misses any class without being excused by the administration, the student shall not be considered eligible on that date.  Further, the student cannot be certified eligible to participate on any subsequent date until the student attends a full day of classes (MSHSAA Bylaw 2.2.3e).  Other requirements for participation are outlined in the school’s Activity Handbook. 

 

Students may distribute, at reasonable times and places, unofficial material, including but not limited to petitions, buttons, badges, or other insignia. If the district allows students to use its technology resources for non-curricular purposes, any exchange of unofficial material which is delivered or accessed using district technology resources is also subject to this policy. However, students cannot distribute expressions which:

• Are obscene to minors.
• Are libelous.
• Are pervasively indecent or vulgar (secondary schools)/contain any indecent or vulgar language (elementary schools).
• Advertise any product or service not permitted to minors by law.
• Constitute insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses other people (e.g., threats of violence, defamation of character or of a person's race, religion or ethnic origin).
• Present a clear and present likelihood that, either because of their content or their manner of distribution, will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities, will cause the commission of unlawful acts or the violation of lawful school procedures.

Anyone wishing to distribute unofficial material must first submit for approval a copy of the material to the principal or designee 24 hours in advance of desired distribution time, together with the following information:

• Name, phone number of the person submitting the request, dates) and times) of day of intended distribution, and location where material will be distributed.
• The grade(s) of students to whom the distribution is intended. Within 24 hours of submission, the principal (or his or her designee) will render a decision whether the material violates the Guidelines in Section I or the time, place and manner restrictions in Section III of this policy. In the event that permission to distribute the material is denied, the person submitting the request should be informed in writing of the reasons for the denial.

Permission to distribute material does not imply approval of its contents by the school, the administration, the Board, or the individual reviewing the material submitted.  If the person submitting the request does not receive a response within 24 hours of submission, the person shall contact the office to verify that the lack of response was not due to an inability to locate the person. If the person has made this verification and there is no response to the request, the material may be distributed in accordance with the time, place and manner provisions in Section III.  If the person is dissatisfied with the decision of the principal (or designee), the person may submit a written request for appeal to the superintendent of schools or his or her secretary.  If the person does not receive a response within three days (not counting Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) of submitting the appeal, the person shall contact the office of the superintendent to verify that the lack of response is not due to an inability to locate the person.  If the person has made this verification and there is no response to the appeal, the material may be distributed in accordance with the time, place and manner provisions in Section III.  

At every level of the process, the person submitting the request shall have the right to appear and present the reasons supported by relevant witnesses and material, as to why distribution of the unofficial material is appropriate.

The distribution of unofficial material shall be limited to a reasonable time, place and manner as follows:

• No unofficial material may be distributed during and at the place of a normal school activity if it is reasonably likely to cause a material and substantial disruption of that activity.
• Distribution of unofficial material is prohibited when it blocks the safe flow of traffic within corridors and entrance ways of the school or when it disrupts the use of district technology resources.

Distribution by a student of unofficial material prohibited in Section I or in violation of Section III may be treated as a violation of the student discipline code.

Applicants for admission or employment, students, parents of elementary and secondary school students, employees, sources of referral and applicants for employment, and all professional organizations that have entered into agreements with the Lebanon R-III School District are hereby notified that our School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

Any person having inquiries concerning our School District’s compliance with the laws and regulations implementing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of the 1973 (Section 504), Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) or the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act is directed to the Compliance Coordinator below, who has been designated by our School District to coordinate our School District’s efforts to comply with the laws and regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, the ADEA, Section 504, and the ADA.

Our School District has established grievance procedures for persons unable to resolve problems arising under the statutes above. The Compliance Coordinator for the applicable law, whose name is listed below, will provide information regarding those procedures upon request.

Any person who is unable to resolve a problem or grievance arising under the laws and regulations cited above may contact the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, On Petticoat Lane, 1010 Walnut Street, Suite 320, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone (816)268-0550; facsimile: (816) 268-0599; TTY: (877) 521-2172; Email: OCR.KansasCity@ed.gov.
 

Questions, or to request for additional information regarding Title VI, IX, ADA, ADEA, Section 504 or the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act may be forwarded to the designated Title VI, IX, ADA, ADEA, Section 504 or the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act compliance coordinator: 

Director of Special Programs
Lebanon R-III School District
224 West Commercial
Lebanon, MO 65536
(417) 657-6001

This notice may also be requested from the Title VI, IX, ADA, ADEA, Section 504 or the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act compliance coordinator in large print, on audiotape or in Braille.  Compliance Coordinator for Laws Listed in this Notice.

As a convenience to parents and students, the Lebanon School District provides an option for making online payments through Infinite Campus  lunch accounts, fines and fees. Make payments for required and optional fees, athletic registrations and much more, online through PayPal or in-person by cash, check or money order.

The Parental Information and Resource Center (PIRC) is funded by the US Department of Education, Office of Innovation and Improvement, established to provide training, information, and support to parents and individuals who work with local districts and schools receiving Title 1.A funds.  PIRCs provide both regional and statewide services and disseminate information to parents on a statewide basis.  PIRCs help implement successful and effective parental involvement policies, programs, and activities that lead to improvements in student academic achievement, and strengthen partnerships among parents, teachers, principals, administrators, and other school personnel in meeting the education needs of children; and to assist parents to communicate effectively with teachers, principals, counselors, administrators, and other school personnel.  The recipients of PIRC grants are required to: serve both rural and urban areas, use at least half their funds to serve areas with high concentrations of low-income children, and use at least 30% of the funds they receive for early childhood parent programs.  Centers must include activities that establish, expand, or operate early childhood parent education programs and typically engage in a variety of technical assistance activities designed to improve student academic achievement, including understanding the accountability systems in the state and school districts being served by a project.  Specific activities often include helping parents to understand the data accountability systems available to parents and the significance of data for such things as supplemental services and public school choice afforded to their children attending buildings in school improvement.

PIRCs generally develop resource materials and provide information about high quality family involvement programs to families, schools, and others through conferences and dissemination of materials.  Projects generally include a focus on serving parents of low-income, minority, and limited English proficient children enrolled in schools.

Missouri has two PIRCs—one in St. Louis and one in Springfield.  For service and contact information, visit their websites at  http://www.nationalpirc.org/directory/MO-32/html  or http://www.commpartnership.org/mopirc/index.html

 

All students, unless exempted by a written doctor’s order, will be required to dress out and participate in physical education courses on a daily basis.  Students must wear appropriate shorts, t-shirts, socks, and shoes (street shoes are not allowed on gym floors). Students must use their assigned locker and lock.  Personal items and valuables must be locked in a gym locker at all times.  Students are not allowed to leave personal items unattended in the gym or in the locker room.  The school district will not be held responsible or liable for lost, stolen, or damaged personal belongings in the locker rooms. For the health and safety of all students, the use of aerosols, perfumes, or colognes is not permitted in the locker rooms.

 

Many members of the community expect schools to instill a sense of patriotism in their students.  Lebanon Middle School recites the Pledge every day immediately before the morning announcements.  Students are not required to stand for the Pledge or to recite the Pledge and in no way will students be punished for refusing to participate, as long as their refusal is not in any way disorderly or disruptive.

 

The Lebanon School District Board of Education is committed to maintaining a workplace and educational environment that is free from illegal discrimination or harassment in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs, activities and facilities. Discrimination or harassment against employees, students or others on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, age or any other characteristic protected by law is strictly prohibited in accordance with law. The Lebanon R-III School District is an equal opportunity employer. Students, employees and others will not be disciplined for speech in circumstances where it is protected by law. 

The Board also prohibits:

• Retaliatory actions based on making complaints of prohibited discrimination or harassment or based on participation in an investigation, formal proceeding or informal resolution concerning prohibited discrimination or harassment.
• Aiding, abetting, inciting, compelling or coercing discrimination or harassment.
• Discrimination or harassment against any person because of such person’s association with a person protected from discrimination or harassment due to one (1) or more of the above-stated characteristics.

All employees, students and visitors must immediately report to the district for investigation any incident or behavior that could constitute illegal discrimination or harassment.

Additional Prohibited Behavior

Behavior that is not unlawful or does not rise to the level of illegal discrimination or harassment might still be unacceptable for the workplace or the educational environment. Demeaning or otherwise harmful actions are prohibited, particularly if directed at personal characteristics including, but not limited to, socioeconomic level, sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation.

Definitions

Discrimination – Conferring, refusing or denying benefits or providing differential treatment to a person or class of persons in violation of law based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, age or any other characteristic protected by law, or based on a belief that such a characteristic exists.

Harassment – A form of discrimination, as defined above, that occurs when the school or work environment becomes permeated with intimidation, ridicule or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive enough that it unreasonably alters the employment or educational environment.

Behaviors that could constitute illegal harassment include, but are not limited to, the following acts if based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, age or any other characteristic protected by law or a belief that such a characteristic exists: graffiti; display of written material or pictures; name calling; slurs; jokes; gestures; threatening, intimidating or hostile acts; theft; or damage to property.

Sexual Harassment – A form of discrimination, as defined above, on the basis of sex. Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct that occurs when a) benefits or decisions are implicitly or explicitly conditioned upon submission to, or punishment is applied for refusing to comply with, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or conduct of a sexual nature; or b) the school or work environment becomes permeated with intimidation, ridicule or insult that is based on sex or is sexual in nature and that is sufficiently severe or pervasive enough to alter the conditions of participation in the district’s programs and activities or the conditions of employment. Sexual harassment may occur between members of the same or opposite sex. The district presumes a student cannot consent to behavior of a sexual nature with an adult regardless of the circumstance.

Behaviors that could constitute sexual harassment include, but are not limited to:

• Sexual advances and requests or pressure of any kind for sexual favors, activities or contact.
• Conditioning grades, promotions, rewards or privileges on submission to sexual favors, activities or contact.
• Punishing or reprimanding persons who refuse to comply with sexual requests, activities or contact.
• Graffiti, name calling, slurs, jokes, gestures or communications of a sexual nature or based on sex.
• Physical contact or touching of a sexual nature, including touching of intimate parts and sexually motivated or inappropriate patting, pinching or rubbing.

Grievance – A verbal or written report (also known as a complaint) of discrimination or harassment made to the compliance officer.

Compliance Officer

The Board designates the following individual to act as the district’s compliance officer:
Director of Special Programs 
224 W. Commercial St.
Lebanon, MO 65536
417-657-6001 

The compliance officer will:

• Coordinate district compliance with this policy and the law.
• Receive all grievances regarding discrimination and harassment in the Lebanon R-III School District.
• Serve as the district’s designated Title IX, Section 504 and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) coordinator, as well as the contact person for compliance with other discrimination laws.
• Investigate or assign persons to investigate grievances; monitor the status of grievances; and recommend consequences.
• Seek legal advice when necessary to enforce this policy.
• Report to the superintendent and the Board aggregate information regarding the number and frequency of grievances and compliance with this policy.
• Make recommendations regarding the implementation of this policy.
• Coordinate and institute training programs for district staff and supervisors as necessary to meet the goals of this policy, including instruction in recognizing behavior that constitutes discrimination and harassment.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the superintendent.

In the event the compliance officer is unavailable or is the subject of a report that would otherwise be made to the compliance officer, reports should instead be directed to Dr. Brad Armstrong, Assistant Superintendent.

Public Notice

The superintendent or designee will continuously publicize the district’s policy prohibiting illegal discrimination and harassment and disseminate information on how to report discrimination and harassment. Notification of the district's policy will be posted in a public area of each building used for instruction or employment or open to the public. Information will also be distributed annually to employees, parents/guardians and students as well as to newly enrolled students and newly hired employees. District bulletins, catalogs, application forms, recruitment material and the district’s website will include a statement that the Lebanon R-III School District does not discriminate in its programs, activities, facilities or with regard to employment. The district will provide information in alternative formats when necessary to accommodate persons with disabilities.

Reporting

All persons must report incidents that might constitute illegal discrimination or harassment directly to the compliance officer or acting compliance officer. All district employees will direct all persons seeking to make a grievance directly to the compliance officer. Even if the potential victim of discrimination or harassment does not file a grievance, district employees are required to report to the compliance officer any observations, rumors or other information regarding discrimination or harassment prohibited by this policy. If a verbal grievance is made, the person will be asked to submit a written complaint to the compliance officer or acting compliance officer. If a person refuses or is unable to submit a written complaint, the compliance officer will summarize the verbal complaint in writing. A grievance is not needed for the district to take action upon finding a violation of law, district policy or district expectations.  Students, employees and others may address concerns directly with the person alleged to have caused harassment or discrimination in an attempt to resolve the issue, but are not expected or required to do so.

Student-on-Student Harassment

Building-level administrators are in a unique position to identify and address discrimination and harassment between students, particularly when behaviors are reported through the normal disciplinary process and not through a grievance. The administrator has the ability to immediately discipline a student for any behavior that otherwise would lead to disciplinary action in accordance with the district’s discipline policy. The administrator will report all incidents of harassment and discrimination to the compliance officer and will direct the parent/guardian and student to the compliance officer for further assistance. The compliance officer may determine that the incident has been appropriately addressed or recommend additional action. When a grievance is filed, the investigation and complaint process detailed below will be used.

Investigation

The district will immediately investigate all grievances. All persons are required to cooperate fully in the investigation. The district compliance officer or other designated investigator may utilize an attorney or other professionals to conduct the investigation.  In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes discrimination or harassment, the district will consider the surrounding circumstances, the nature of the behavior, the relationships between the parties involved, past incidents, the context in which the alleged incidents occurred and all other relevant information. Whether a particular action or incident constitutes a violation of this policy requires a determination based on all of the facts and surrounding circumstances. If, after investigation, school officials determine that it is more likely than not that discrimination, harassment or other prohibited behavior has occurred, the district will take immediate corrective action.

Grievance Process Overview

• If a person designated to hear a grievance or appeal is the subject of the grievance, the next highest step in the grievance process will be used.
• Investigation and reporting deadlines are not mandatory upon the district when more time might be necessary to adequately conduct an investigation and to render a decision. When extended, the person filing the complaint will be notified. If more than twice the allotted time has expired without a response, the appeal may be taken to the next level.
• Failure of the person filing the grievance to appeal within the timelines given will be considered acceptance of the findings and remedial action taken.
• The district will investigate all grievances, even if an outside enforcing agency such as the Office for Civil Rights, law enforcement or the CD is also investigating a complaint arising from the same circumstances.
• The district will only share information regarding an individually identifiable student or employee with the person filing the grievance or other persons if allowed by law and in accordance with Board policy.
• Upon receiving a grievance, district administrators or supervisors, after consultation with the compliance officer, will take immediate action if necessary to prevent further potential discrimination or harassment during the pending investigation.

Grievance Process 

• Level I – A grievance is filed with the district's compliance officer. The compliance officer may, at his or her discretion, assign a school principal or other appropriate supervisor to conduct the investigation when appropriate.
• Regardless of who investigates the grievance, an investigation will commence immediately, but no later than ten (10) working days after the compliance officer receives the grievance. The compliance officer will complete a written report within 30 working days of receiving the grievance that 1) summarizes the facts; 2) makes conclusions on whether the facts constitute a violation of this policy; and 3) if a violation of this policy is found, recommends corrective action to the superintendent. If someone other than the compliance officer conducts the investigation, the compliance officer or acting compliance officer will review and sign the report. The person who filed the grievance will be notified in writing, in accordance with law and district policy, regarding whether the policy has been violated.
• Level II – Within five (5) working days after receiving the Level I decision, the person filing the grievance may appeal the compliance officer’s decision to the superintendent by notifying the superintendent in writing. The superintendent may, at his or her discretion, designate another person (other than the compliance officer) to review the matter when appropriate.
• Within ten (10) working days, the superintendent will complete a written decision on the appeal, stating whether a violation of this policy is found and, if so, stating what corrective actions will be implemented. If someone other than the superintendent conducts the appeal, the superintendent will review and sign the report before it is given to the person appealing. A copy of the appeal and decision will be given to the compliance officer or acting compliance officer. The person who filed the grievance will be notified in writing, in accordance with law and district policy, regarding whether the policy has been violated.
• Level III – Within five (5) working days after receiving the Level II decision, the person filing the grievance may appeal the superintendent’s decision to the Board by notifying the Board secretary in writing. The person filing the grievance will be allowed to address the Board, and the Board may call for the presence of such other persons deemed necessary. The Board will issue a decision within 30 working days for implementation by the administration. The Board’s decision and any actions taken are final. The Board secretary will give the compliance officer or acting compliance officer a copy of the appeal and decision. The person who filed the grievance will be notified in writing, in accordance with law and district policy, regarding whether the policy has been violated.

Confidentiality and Records

To the extent permitted by law and in accordance with Board policy, the district will keep confidential the identity of the person filing a grievance and any grievance or other document that is generated or received pertaining to grievances. Information may be disclosed if necessary to further the investigation, appeal or resolution of a grievance, or if necessary to carry out disciplinary measures. The district will disclose information to the district’s attorney, law enforcement, the CD and others when necessary to enforce this policy or when required by law. In implementing this policy, the district will comply with state and federal laws regarding the confidentiality of student and employee records. Information regarding any resulting employee or student disciplinary action will be maintained and released in the same manner as any other disciplinary record.

The Board recognizes creative student expression as an educational benefit of the school experience. One medium of expression is student journalism. Some student publications, such as annual yearbooks, magazines, school newspapers and student-created or student-edited web pages, may be educational devices developed as part of the curriculum to benefit primarily those who compile, edit and publish them. Faculty advisers will be assigned to guide students engaged in these activities. Any commercial advertisements in these publications will conform to administrative procedures.  School-sponsored publications and productions are part of the curriculum and are not a public forum for general student use. School authorities may edit or delete material which is inconsistent with the district's legitimate educational concerns. All student media shall comply with the ethics and rules of responsible journalism. Information obtained from a student's personally identifiable education records shall not be disclosed in student publications unless the information is Directory Information or the district has received written consent from the parent/guardian or eligible student to release the information.

 

All responsible public agencies are required to locate, evaluate, and identify children with disabilities who are under the jurisdiction of the agency, regardless of the severity of the disability, including children attending private schools, highly-mobile children, such as migrant and homeless children, and children who are suspected of having a disability and in need of special education even though they are advancing from grade to grade.  The Lebanon R-3 School District assures that it will provide a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) to all eligible children with disabilities between the ages of 3 and 21 under its jurisdiction.  Disabilities include autism, deaf/blindness, emotional disorders, hearing impairment and deafness, mental retardation, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairments, specific learning disabilities, speech or language impairment, traumatic brain injury, visual impairment/blindness, and young children with a developmental delay.

The Lebanon R-3 School District assures that it will provide information and referral services necessary to assist the State in the implementation of early intervention services for infants and toddlers eligible for the Missouri First Steps program.

The Lebanon R-3 School District assures that personally identifiable information collected, used, or maintained by the agency for the purposes of identification, evaluation, placement or provision of FAPE of children with disabilities may be inspected and/or reviewed by their parents/guardians.  Parents/guardians may request amendment to the education record if the parent/guardian believes the record is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the privacy or other rights of their child.  Parents have the right to file complaints with the U.S. Department of Education or the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education concerning alleged failures by the district to meet the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

The Lebanon R-3 School District has developed a Local Compliance Plan for the implementation of State Regulations for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).  This plan contains the agency’s policies and procedures regarding storage, disclosure to third parties, retention and destruction of personally identifiable information and the agency’s assurances that services are provided in compliance with the General Education Provision ACT (GEPA). This plan may be reviewed at the Central Office for the Lebanon R-3 School District at 321 S. Jefferson.  Office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday.

In order to provide students with appropriate instruction and educational services, it is necessary for the district to maintain extensive and sometimes personal information about students and families. These records must be kept confidential in accordance with law, but must also be readily available to district personnel who need the records to effectively serve district students.  The superintendent or designee will provide for the proper administration of student records in accordance with law, will develop appropriate procedures for maintaining student records and will standardize procedures for the collection and transmission of necessary information about individual students throughout the district. The building principal shall assist the superintendent in developing the student records system, maintaining and protecting the records in his or her building and developing protocols for releasing student education records. The superintendent or designee will make arrangements so that all district employees are trained annually on the confidentiality of student education records, as applicable for each employee classification.

Health Information

Student health information is a type of student record that is particularly sensitive and protected by numerous state and federal laws. Student health information shall be protected from unauthorized, illegal or inappropriate disclosure by adherence to the principles of confidentiality and privacy. The information shall be protected regardless of whether the information is received orally, in writing or electronically and regardless of the type of record or method of storage.

Directory Information

Directory information is information contained in an education record of a student that generally would not be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. The school district designates the following items as directory information:  student's name; parent's name; address; telephone number; date and place of birth; grade level; bus assignment; enrollment status (e.g., full-time or part-time); participation in school-based activities and sports; weight and height of members of athletic teams; dates of attendance; degrees, honors and awards received; artwork or coursework displayed by the district; most recent previous school attended; and photographs, videotapes, digital images and recorded sound unless such photographs, videotapes, digital images and recorded sound would be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy.

Parent and Eligible Student Access

All parents will have the right to inspect their child's education records as allowed by law. As used in this policy, a "parent" includes a biological or adoptive parent, a guardian or an individual acting as a parent in the absence of a natural parent or guardian. The district will extend the same rights to either parent, regardless of divorce, custody or visitation rights, unless the district is provided with evidence that the parent's rights to inspect records have been legally revoked. The rights of the parent transfer to the student once the student turns 18, or attends an institution of postsecondary education, in accordance with law.  If a parent or eligible student believes the education records related to the student contain information that is inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the student's privacy, he or she may ask the district to amend the record by following the appeals procedures created by the superintendent or designee.  The district will annually notify parents and eligible students of their rights in accordance with law.

Law Enforcement Access

The district may report or disclose education records to law enforcement and juvenile justice authorities if the disclosure concerns law enforcement's or juvenile justice authorities' ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records are released. The officials and authorities to whom such information is disclosed must comply with applicable restrictions set forth in 20 U.S.C. § 1232g (b) (1) (E).  If the district reports a crime committed by a student with a disability as defined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the district will transmit copies of the special education and disciplinary records to the authorities to whom the district reported the crime.  

Law enforcement officials also have access to directory information and may obtain access to student education records in emergency situations as allowed by law. Otherwise, law enforcement officials must obtain a subpoena or consent from the parent or eligible student before a student's education records will be disclosed.

Children's Division Access

The district may disclose education records to representatives of the Children's Division (CD) of the Department of Social Services when reporting child abuse and neglect in accordance with law. Once the CD obtains custody of a student, CD representatives may also have access to education records in accordance with law. CD representatives may also have access to directory information and may obtain access to student education records in emergency situations, as allowed by law.

After the first six weeks of each new semester, students will receive a progress report every  four weeks.   At the end of each semester, all students will receive a final semester grade report.

 

In order to register a student, the parent, legal guardian, military guardian, person acting as a parent or the student shall provide proof of residency or request a waiver of proof of residency as outlined below and shall complete all admission requirements as determined by Board policies, regulations and procedures. Students who do not meet the residency requirements and are not eligible for a waiver of proof of residency may only apply for admission in accordance with Board policy JECB.

A student is a "resident" student if he or she meets at least one (1) of the following criteria:

• The student physically resides and is domiciled in the district. The domicile of a minor child shall be the domicile of a parent, military guardian pursuant to a military-issued guardianship or court-appointed legal guardian. A "power of attorney" document alone, except a special power of attorney document relevant to the guardianship of a child in the household of an active duty member of the military, is insufficient to satisfy the "court-appointed legal guardian" requirement.
• The student physically resides in the district for reasons other than obtaining access to the district's schools, regardless of with whom the student is living, and has a waiver of proof of residency on file.
• The student is otherwise legally entitled to attend school in the district including, but not limited to: a student who is a homeless child; a student attending a school not in the student's district of residence as a participant in an interdistrict transfer program established under a court-ordered desegregation program; a student who is a ward of the state and has been placed in a residential care facility by state officials; a student who has been placed in a residential care facility due to a mental illness or developmental disability; a student attending a school pursuant to §§ 167.121 and 167.151, RSMo.; a student placed in a residential facility by a juvenile court; a student with a disability identified under state eligibility criteria if the student is in the district for reasons other than accessing the district's educational program; a student attending a regional or cooperative alternative education program; or a student attending an alternative education program on a contractual basis.
• The student is a transitioning military student who was enrolled in the Lebanon R-III School District, but is placed in the care of someone other than the student's parent or military or legal guardian who resides in another school district. Such students will be allowed to continue to attend school in the Lebanon R-III School District without payment of tuition. A transitioning military student is a student who is in the process of transferring from one (1) state or school district to another state or school district and was or is currently in the household of an active duty member of the military, including some veterans who are deceased or injured as defined by law.

Waiver of Proof of Residency

In cases where a student living in the district wishes to register but the student does not live with a parent, military guardian or court-appointed guardian in the district, the student, parent, military guardian, legal guardian or person acting as a parent must request a waiver of proof of residency. Waiver of proof of residency may only be granted on the basis of hardship or good cause. Good cause shall include situations where the student is living in the district for reasons other than attending school in the district. Under no circumstances shall athletic ability be a valid basis of hardship or good cause for the issuance of a waiver.  The Board delegates to the superintendent or designee the responsibility of bringing to the Board's attention any application for a waiver in which the student is not clearly entitled to attend school in the district. All other applications will be accepted and granted on behalf of the Board. Once an application for a waiver has been identified for Board review, the Board shall convene a hearing to consider the request as soon as possible, but no later than 45 days after the receipt of the waiver request, or else the waiver shall be granted. The Board president may appoint a committee of the Board to act in lieu of the Board to consider waiver requests.

Once a waiver of proof of residency has been requested, the student may be permitted to register and attend school until such time as the Board decides to grant or deny the waiver request. If the Board grants the waiver request, the student will be allowed to continue attending school in the district. If the Board denies the waiver request, the student shall not be allowed to continue attending school in the district.  In instances where there is reason to suspect that admission of the student will create an immediate danger to the safety of other students and employees of the district, the superintendent or designee may convene a hearing within five (5) working days of the registration request to determine whether the student may register.

A transitioning military student who is placed in the care of someone other than the student's parent or military or legal guardian who resides within the district will be granted a waiver without a hearing and allowed to attend school in the district without the payment of tuition.

Emergency preparedness drills will be developed by the superintendent or designee in cooperation with the building principals. A sufficient number of drills will be conducted in each building to give instruction and practice in proper actions by staff and students. Emergency  procedures will be posted near the door in each instructional area. Instruction in the safety drills (fire, tornado and intruder) will be an ongoing process throughout the school year.  Drills shall be held regularly throughout the year.  The decision to call for and execute drills will be the responsibility of the superintendent and/or the building principal. Students who do not follow the JacketCode during safety drills will be referred to the administration for immediate disciplinary action.  Any student acting upon or assisting others with a false alarm will be suspended up to 180 school days.

District Emergency Plans

It shall be the responsibility of the building principal, in cooperation with the appropriate emergency preparedness officials, to determine shelter areas in the school building or outside that are best suited for the protection of students from severe storms, tornadoes or other emergencies, as well as determine the safest routes to reach those areas. In addition, the district will work with emergency preparedness officials to address off-site emergencies that may occur, such as accidents involving school transportation or emergencies on field trips.  Students and staff members may be retained for safety reasons at the school buildings or another safe place during actual emergency conditions. The district plan will include information on communicating with parents and instructions on how parents will locate their students in an emergency.  During actual emergency conditions, emergency personnel and emergency vehicles will have priority near the schools.

 

Once a new semester begins, schedule changes will only be considered in specific circumstances, such as academic misplacement, a Code of Conduct violation, or a documented conflict involving students or staff. All schedule changes must be approved by the parent/guardian, the counselor, and the administration.

The school building will be open from 7:10 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. each day.  Students should not be in the building before 7:10 a.m. or after 3:00 p.m. unless under the direct supervision of a teacher/coach. Students should not be in the building on weekends, holidays or vacation unless at the invitation and under the supervision of a teacher. Violators are subject to disciplinary consequences.

 

As required by law, the district will provide equal access to district facilities and related benefits and services and will not discriminate against any group officially affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America, the Girl Scouts of the United States of America or any other youth group designated in applicable federal law.

 

No person shall, on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or otherwise be subject to discrimination under a school nutrition program for which the district receives federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service. School nutrition programs include the National School Lunch Program, the Special Milk Program, the School Breakfast Program and the Summer Food Service Program.

The Board will designate an individual to act as the district's compliance officer, and will ensure that the  officer's  name,  business  address  and  telephone  number,  as  well  as  the  statements  of nondiscrimination by the district, are published to patrons, employees and students on an annual basis.

All persons who believe they have a complaint of discrimination, harassment or retaliation may utilize Lebanon R-III Board of Education policy ACC, Grievance Procedure for Resolution of Discrimination Complaints.  The superintendent shall continue all necessary actions to ensure that discrimination, harassment or retaliation does not occur in the educational program, employment practices or activities of the Lebanon R-Ill School District.

The Board of Education prohibits the organization of school-sponsored fraternities, sororities or secret organizations wherein membership is determined by members themselves rather than on the basis of free choice. The Board considers those organizations or memberships in those organizations detrimental to the good conduct and discipline of the school. Interference with the instructional program of the Lebanon R-III School District by those groups will not be condoned, and no organizational activities are permitted under the sponsorship of the school district or its personnel.

 

Students are not permitted to sell items at school or conduct personal fundraising. All legitimate fundraising must be approved by the principal and superintendent. Reference the previous section on FUNDRAISING.  

 

The district is required to notify the parent/guardian of each student enrolled in the district of the basic content of the district's human sexuality instruction to be provided to the student and of the parent's/guardian's right to remove the student from any part of the district's human sexuality instruction. The district is required to make all curriculum materials used in the district's human sexuality instruction available for public inspection as a public record prior to the use of such materials in actual instruction.

 

Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct that occurs when a) benefits or decisions are implicitly or explicitly conditioned upon submission to, or punishment is applied for refusing to comply with, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or conduct of a sexual nature; or b) the school or work environment becomes permeated with intimidation, ridicule or insult that is based on sex or is sexual in nature and that is sufficiently severe or pervasive enough to alter the conditions of participation in the district’s programs and activities or the conditions of employment. Sexual harassment may occur between members of the same or opposite sex. The district presumes a student cannot consent to behavior of a sexual nature with an adult regardless of the circumstance.

Behaviors that could constitute sexual harassment include, but are not limited to:

• Sexual advances and requests or pressure of any kind for sexual favors, activities or contact.
• Conditioning grades, promotions, rewards or privileges on submission to sexual favors, activities or contact.
• Punishing or reprimanding persons who refuse to comply with sexual requests, activities or contact.
• Graffiti, name calling, slurs, jokes, gestures or communications of a sexual nature or based on sex.
• Physical contact or touching of a sexual nature, including touching of intimate parts and sexually motivated or inappropriate patting, pinching or rubbing.

Infinite Campus is now available to students and parents.  Using Infinite Campus , students and parents are able to access their school information via the Internet twenty-four hours a day.  Students now have access to online information pertaining to grades, attendance, disciplinary action, meal accounts, and other school related information such as announcements, calendars, unofficial transcripts, and fines/fees.  To access the Student Portal, students should go to the district webpage (www.lebanon.k12.mo.us), click on the LMS web page, and follow the directions.  Parents also have access to the same information using the Parent Portal.  Student grades are updated on a regular basis.

 

Lebanon Middle School uses a variety of closed-circuit video surveillance cameras in various locations throughout the campus and on school buses. Surveillance cameras are used 24 hours a day and are used for safety and security purposes.  However, information obtained from a surveillance camera may also be used to substantiate conduct violations and/or illegal behavior on school property. 

 

Textbooks will be provided to students at no charge. Students are responsible for all textbooks and teacher assigned materials until they are returned.  If textbooks, materials, or equipment are lost or damaged (i.e. torn pages, writing in book, broken spines, etc.), students will be assessed a fine or a replacement cost based upon the condition of the item.  At the time of issuance, please bring to your teacher’s attention any existing damage done to your textbooks or materials.

 

In accordance with law and to promote the health and safety of all students and staff, the district prohibits all employees, students and patrons from smoking or using tobacco or tobacco products in all school facilities, buildings and school transportation. This prohibition extends to all facilities the district owns, contracts for or leases to provide educational services, routine health care, daycare or early childhood development services to children, as well as facilities in which services are not provided to children.  This prohibition does not apply to any private residence or any portion of a facility that is used for inpatient hospital treatment of individuals dependent on, or addicted to, drugs or alcohol in which the district provides services. The superintendent or designee is authorized to make necessary rules or procedures to clarify and enact this policy.

 

As a service to the community and in accordance with state law, the Board of Education may allow the use of public school facilities by individuals, groups and associations for educational, recreational, social, civic, philanthropic and other similar purposes as the Board deems are for the best interests of the community.  Permission to use school facilities will be granted to community organizations and residents by the superintendent, or his or her designee, in keeping with the policies, rules and procedures adopted by the Board. However, such use will not interfere in any way with the regular programs and activities of the school district.  A nominal rental fee to cover operational costs (heat, lights, etc.) and custodial service will be charged in accordance with a schedule recommended by the superintendent and approved by the Board. The fee will not be charged to any school-related organization. The Board may consider waiving the fee for special public programs.  The use of playgrounds and buildings during the summer months for recreational purposes shall be governed by the superintendent according to the Board policies, rules and procedures.  Where possible, a certificate of insurance or hold-harmless agreement shall be provided by the persons or organizations using school facilities.  It is expected that proper and adequate supervision will be provided by the person/organization using school district facilities during all times in which the facility is utilized.

 

Eligible students may enroll in virtual courses offered through the Missouri Course Access Program (MOCAP). The district will accept all grades and credits earned through district-sponsored virtual instruction and MOCAP.  The district will pay the costs of a virtual course only if the district has first approved the student's enrollment in the course as described in this policy. Even if a student or his or her parents/guardians pay the costs for a virtual course, the student or parents/guardians should meet with the principal or designee prior to enrollment to ensure that the course is consistent with the student's academic and personal goals.  The district is not required to provide students access to or pay for courses beyond the equivalent of full-time enrollment. The district will provide supervision for students who take virtual courses in district facilities but will not provide supervision for students taking virtual courses offsite.  Students taking courses virtually are subject to district policies, procedures and rules applicable to students enrolled in traditional courses including, but not limited to, the district's discipline code and prohibitions on academic dishonesty, discrimination, harassment, bullying and cyberbullying.

Enrollment in Virtual Courses - The superintendent or designee will establish open enrollment periods and registration deadlines for students to enroll in virtual courses offered by the district or through MOCAP. These enrollment periods and registration deadlines will be strictly enforced unless the superintendent or designee determines that an exception is warranted due to circumstances such as a change in a student's health or the long-term suspension of a student. Enrollment periods and registration deadlines must align with the district's academic calendar and assessment schedule to the extent practicable.  A student or parent/guardian must notify the student's principal or designee before the student may enroll in a district-sponsored virtual course or a MOCAP virtual course through the district. The student will be enrolled unless the principal or designee, in consultation with the student's parents/guardians and relevant staff, such as the school counselor or district special education director, determines that there is good cause to refuse the student enrollment in the course. For enrollment in a MOCAP course, good cause is limited to situations where it is not in the best educational interest of the student to enroll in the course.  Students or parents/guardians who disagree with the principal's or designee's determination about a MOCAP course can appeal the decision to the Board of Education and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) as detailed later in this policy. For all other virtual courses, students or parents/guardians may appeal the decision to the superintendent or designee, and the superintendent or designee's decision will be final. The superintendent or designee is authorized to consult the district's attorney prior to making a decision.

 

Parents and patrons of the district are welcome to visit district schools and attend district events; however, all visitors during school hours, including School Board members, shall present a valid photo ID and check in at the main office prior to proceeding elsewhere in the building escorted by a staff member at all times. The principal may waive this procedure for special events.  The district discourages parents or others from using the school as a site for visiting students and may refuse the use of the school for that purpose.  The Board and administration will not tolerate any person whose presence disturbs classes or district activities or hinders the instructional process. Visitors to district property may not possess weapons, including concealed weapons, on district property, on district transportation or at any district function or activity sponsored or sanctioned by the district unless the visitor is an authorized law enforcement official or is otherwise authorized by Board policy.

Appropriate Behavior

The Lebanon R-III School District believes that district events are a vital part of the total educational program and should be used as a means for developing positive social interaction, good sportsmanship and appropriate behavior, in addition to knowledge and skills. Well-organized and well-conducted programs contribute to the morale of the student body and strengthen school-community relations.  To this end, the Board encourages district patrons to exhibit good sportsmanship, citizenship, ethics and integrity at all district events and at all times while on district grounds. The district will work with the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) and other organizations to promote good behavior by the patrons at athletic and other events. The Board will work with parents, alumni associations and local service organizations to keep appropriate behavior a top priority. The superintendent will establish procedures for crowd control at district events consistent with this policy.

Persons Prohibited on or Near District Property or Transportation

The district prohibits all persons who have pled guilty or nolo contendere to or have been convicted of or found guilty of violating the following provisions from being on or within 500 feet of any school building, district property, district activity or any vehicle used to transport students:

• Any of the provisions in Chapter 566 of the Missouri Revised Statutes.
• Incest, § 568.020, RSMo.
• Endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree, § 568.045, RSMo.
• Use of a child in a sexual performance, § 568.080, RSMo.
• Promoting a sexual performance by a child, § 568.090, RSMo.
• Sexual exploitation of a minor, § 573.023, RSMo.
• Promoting child pornography in the first degree, § 573.025, RSMo.
• Furnishing pornographic material to minors, § 573.040, RSMo.
• Any offense committed in another state, a foreign country, or under tribal, federal or military jurisdiction that, if committed in this state, would be a violation listed above.

Despite the prohibition in this section, the superintendent may grant permission for a parent, guardian or custodian of a student to be on district property for the limited purpose of attending meetings with district staff or other events. Permission will be granted sparingly, if ever, and only in situations where the parent, guardian or custodian will be supervised at all times. If the superintendent does not grant permission, the parent, guardian or custodian may seek permission from the Board. The superintendent will inform the principal and other relevant district staff of the scope of the permission granted.

Registered Sex Offenders

Sex offenders required to be listed on the Missouri Highway Patrol's sex offender registry, or who have pled guilty, pled nolo contendere or been convicted of crimes for which the law currently requires offenders to be listed, regardless of when those crimes were committed, are not allowed on district property or at district activities held on district property except to attend meetings of a public governmental body. The superintendent may also make exceptions for parents, guardians or custodians of students enrolled in the district if the person's presence is necessary to transport the student, may benefit the student educationally, or in situations where the parent, guardian, or custodian will be supervised at all times. This section may not apply to a student entitled by law to be on school grounds for educational services if the student's presence is necessary to obtain those services. The exceptions cited in this section do not apply if the person is otherwise prohibited or banned from district property by other sections of this policy.
 

Disruptive Conduct

If a visitor's conduct becomes disruptive, threatening or violent, the superintendent, principal or designee may require the visitor to leave. In extreme situations, the superintendent or designee may inform the visitor that he or she is not welcome back on district property or at district events indefinitely or for a specific period of time. During any period of prohibition, the visitor will not be allowed on district property except to attend a meeting of a public governmental body. The superintendent may make exceptions for parents, guardians or custodians of students enrolled in the district if the person's presence is necessary to transport the student, may benefit the student educationally, or in situations where the parent, guardian or custodian will be supervised at all times. This paragraph does not apply if the person is otherwise prohibited or banned from district property by other sections of this policy.

Enforcement

If a visitor prohibited from district property or events under this policy is on district property, district staff will contact law enforcement and/or escort the person from district grounds and inform the person of the district policy prohibiting his or her presence.  The superintendent, principal or designee may file a report or sign a complaint with law enforcement on behalf of the district. The Board grants the superintendent or designee the authority to consult an attorney for guidance or to seek a court order banning the visitor from district property. A visitor denied access to district property may request to address the Board on the matter in accordance with Board policy.

The Board of Education recognizes that community and parent volunteers make valuable contributions to the district’s schools and encourages volunteer participation in district programs. Further, parent and community involvement are essential components of high student achievement. The Board endorses a volunteer program and expects its professional staff to encourage and strengthen community and parent involvement in the schools.  The superintendent or designee will create appropriate procedures for attracting, screening and training community and parent volunteers. Volunteering in the district is a privilege, not a right. The district will conduct screening and criminal background checks before any volunteer is placed in a position where he or she will be left alone with a student. The district may decline the services of any volunteer for any legal reason. All information collected on volunteers will be considered confidential to the extent allowed by law and will only be used to protect the students or minimize disruption to the educational environment.  Although volunteers will provide support services, they are not substitutes for the professional building staff. Volunteers will work under the direction and supervision of district staff. 

The district will require a search of the Missouri Highway Patrol's criminal history database and the Family Care Safety Registry or the central registry of child abuse and neglect of the CD on all persons volunteering in positions where they will be left alone with a single child. The superintendent or designee must receive the results of the background check and officially approve the volunteer before he or she may begin service in the identified volunteer position and may exclude individuals whose criminal background checks reveals that they have exhibited behavior that is violent or harmful to children or adults or reveals behavior that would make him or her unsuitable to volunteer in the district.

Any student who moves or drops from school must arrange a departure conference with his or her parents, a counselor, and the building principal.  All textbooks, library books, school materials and equipment, and any other school property must be returned in satisfactory condition before the last day of attendance.  Additionally, all fines and fees must be paid before the last day of attendance.  The departing student must complete all check out procedures, including an exit survey, before leaving.  

It is essential that the district maintain a classroom environment that allows teachers to communicate effectively with all students in the class and allows all students in the class to learn.  To assist district staff in maintaining the necessary classroom environment, the Board of Education has created a discipline code that addresses the consequences, including suspension or expulsion, for students.

The comprehensive written code of conduct of the district is composed of this policy and includes, but is not limited to, the following policies, procedures and regulations: JG-R, JGA, JGB, JGD, JGE and JGF. A copy of the district's comprehensive written code of conduct will be distributed to every student and the parents/guardians of every student at the beginning of each school year and will be available in the superintendent's office during normal business hours. (JG)

Application (JG)

These policies, regulations and procedures will apply to all students in attendance in district instructional and support programs as well as at school-sponsored activities. Off-campus misconduct that adversely affects the educational climate will also be subject to these policies, regulations and procedures.  Students who have been charged, convicted or plead guilty in a court of general jurisdiction for commission of a felony may be suspended in accordance with law.

The Board authorizes the immediate removal of a student upon a finding by a principal or superintendent that the student poses a threat of harm to self or others, as evidenced by the prior conduct of such student. Any such removal will be subject to the appropriate due process procedures and in accordance with law.

No student may be confined in an unattended locked space except in an emergency situation while awaiting the arrival of law enforcement personnel. For the purpose of this policy, a student is unattended if no person has visual contact with the student, and a locked space is a space that the student cannot reasonably exit without assistance.

Enforcement (JG)

Building principals are responsible for the development of additional regulations and procedures regarding student conduct needed to maintain proper behavior in schools under their supervision. All such regulations and procedures shall be consistent with Board-adopted discipline policies.

Teachers have the authority and responsibility to make and enforce necessary rules for internal governance in the classroom, subject to review by the building principal. The Board expects each teacher to maintain a satisfactory standard of conduct in the classroom. All district staff are required to enforce district policies, regulations and procedures in a manner that is fair and developmentally appropriate and that considers the student and the individual circumstances involved.

All employees of the district shall annually receive instruction related to the specific contents of the district’s discipline policy and any interpretations necessary to implement the provisions of the policy in the course of their duties including, but not limited to, approved methods of dealing with acts of school violence, disciplining students with disabilities and instruction in the necessity and requirements for confidentiality.

Detention and/or In-School Suspension of Students (JGB)

The provisions of detention or an in-school suspension program for student violations of policies, rules and procedures shall provide principals with an additional alternative for dealing with disciplinary problems that occur in the schools. When this alternative is appropriate, students will be assigned to serve a specified time period in the in-school suspension program. These assignments, and the determination of the time period for them, shall be determined by the principal, or his or her designee.

Corporal Punishment (JGA-2)

For the purposes of this policy, corporal punishment is the use of physical force as a method of correcting student behavior. No person employed by or volunteering on behalf of the Lebanon R-III School District shall administer corporal punishment or cause corporal punishment to be administered upon a student attending district schools.

A staff member may, however, use reasonable physical force against a student for the protection of the student or other persons or to protect property. Restraint of students in accordance with the district's policy on student seclusion, isolation and restraint is not a violation of this policy.

Student Suspensions and Expulsion (JGD)

The following procedures apply to all students. However, additional procedures for discipline for students with disabilities are sometimes required, as discussed in policy JGE, Discipline of Students with Disabilities.

The Board of Education believes that the right of a child to attend free public schools carries with it the responsibility of the child to attend school regularly and to comply with the lawful policies, rules and procedures of the school district. This observance of school policies, rules and procedures is essential for permitting others to learn at school.

Therefore, the administration may exclude a student from school because of violation of school rules and procedures, conduct which materially or substantially disrupts the rights of others to an education, or conduct which endangers the student, other students or the property of the school. Furthermore, if a student poses a threat to self or others, as evidenced by the prior conduct of such student, the administration may immediately remove the student from school. Such actions will be taken in accordance with due process and with due regard for the welfare of both the student and the school.

The terms "suspension" and "removal" refer to an exclusion from school that will not exceed a specific period of time and shall be subject to the due process procedures set forth for "suspensions" in this policy. The term "expulsion" refers to exclusion for an indefinite period.

The district may honor suspensions and expulsions from another in-state or out-of-state school district including a private, charter or parochial school or school district pursuant to law and policy JEC, Student Admissions. Before making any decision to honor such suspensions or expulsions, the superintendent or designee will consider whether the student has received the due process required by law.

Suspensions (JGD)

In Missouri, a principal may suspend a student for up to ten (10) school days. A superintendent may suspend a student for up to 180 school days. Procedures for suspending a student are outlined below.

1. Before suspending a student, a principal or superintendent must (a) tell the student, either orally or in writing, what misconduct he or she is accused of; (b) if the student denies the accusation, explain, either orally or in writing, the facts that form the basis of the proposed suspension; and (c) give the student an opportunity to present his or her version of the incident.
2. If the principal or superintendent concludes that the student has engaged in misconduct punishable by suspension, the procedures described below apply. If the student has a disability as defined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) as amended or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, additional procedural safeguards described in the policy dealing with the discipline of students with disabilities apply.
3. The principal or superintendent should determine whether the student should be suspended or whether less drastic alternative measures would be appropriate. In many cases, the principal or superintendent may decide not to suspend a student unless conferences (between the teacher, student and principal and/or between the parent, student and principal) have been held and have failed to change the student's behavior.
4. If suspension is imposed, the student's parents or guardians must be promptly notified of the suspension and the reasons for the action.
5. Any suspension by a principal must be reported, immediately and in writing, to the superintendent, who may revoke the suspension, either part or in full, at any time.
6. If a student is suspended for more than ten (10) school days, the following rules also apply:
   1. The student, his or her parents, guardians or others having custodial care have a right to appeal the superintendent's decision to the Board or a committee of the Board appointed by the Board president.
   2. If the student gives notice that he or she wishes to appeal the suspension to the Board, the suspension shall be stayed until the Board renders its decision, unless in the superintendent's judgment, the student's presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process.
   3. All notices of appeal shall be transmitted, either by the appealing party or by the superintendent, to the secretary of the Board. Oral notices, if made to the superintendent, shall be reduced to writing and communicated to the secretary of the Board.
   4. The superintendent, when notified of an appeal, shall promptly transmit to the Board a full written report of the facts relating to the suspension, the action taken by the superintendent, and the reasons for the action.
   5. Upon receipt of a notice of appeal, the Board will schedule a hearing and within a reasonable time in advance of the scheduled date, will notify, by certified mail, the appealing party of the date, time and place of the hearing and of the right to counsel, to call witnesses, and to present evidence at the hearing.
   6. Hearings of appealed suspensions will be conducted as described in the section of this policy dealing with student disciplinary hearings.

Suspensions For More Than 180 School Days and Expulsions (JGD)

Only the Board may expel a student or suspend a student for more than 180 school days. The applicable procedures are outlined below.

1. Before recommending to the Board that a student be expelled or suspended for more than 180 school days, the superintendent must:
   1. tell the student, either orally or in writing, what misconduct he or she is accused of; 
   2. if the student denies the accusation, explain, either orally or in writing, the facts that form the basis of the proposed suspension/expulsion; 
   3. give the student an opportunity to present his or her version of the incident.
2. If the superintendent concludes that the student has engaged in misconduct and should be expelled or suspended for more than 180 school days, the procedures described below apply unless the student has a disability. (In the case of a student with a disability, the procedures described in the policy dealing with the discipline of students with disabilities shall apply.)
   1. The superintendent will recommend to the Board that the student be expelled or suspended for more than 180 school days. The superintendent may also immediately suspend the student for up to 180 school days.
   2. Upon receipt of the superintendent's recommendation, the Board will follow the procedures described in the section of this policy dealing with student disciplinary hearings.
3. If the student is expelled, he or she may later apply to the Board for readmission. Only the Board can readmit an expelled student.

Student Discipline Hearings (JGD)

The Board of Education may originate student discipline hearings upon recommendation of the superintendent. In such cases, the Board of Education will review the superintendent's report and determine whether to conduct a discipline hearing. In addition, student discipline hearings also will be held upon written request of the student or the student's parents, to consider appeals from student suspensions in excess of ten (10) school days. A discipline hearing will always be held in cases of suspensions in excess of 180 school days or expulsions, unless after meeting with the superintendent or designee, the parent or guardian waives, in writing, the right to an expulsion hearing.

In all hearings, whether initiated by the Board of Education or by appeal, the following procedures will be adhered to:

1. The student and the parents/guardians will be advised of the charges against the student; their right to a Board hearing; the date, time and place of the hearing; their right to counsel; and their procedural rights to call witnesses, enter exhibits and cross-examine adverse witnesses. All such notifications will be made by certified mail, addressed to the student's parents or guardians. The Board shall make a good-faith effort to have the parents or guardians present at the hearing.
2. Prior to the Board hearing, the student and the student's parents/guardians will be advised of the identity of the witnesses to be called by the administration and advised of the nature of their testimony. In addition, the student and the student's parents/guardians will be provided with copies of the documents to be introduced at the hearing by the administration.
3. The hearing will be closed unless the Board decides otherwise. The hearing will only be open with parental consent. At the hearing, the administration or their counsel will present the charges and such testimony and evidence to support such charges. The student, his or her parents/guardians or their counsel shall have the right to present witnesses, introduce exhibits, and to cross-examine witnesses called in support of the charges.
4. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Board of Education shall deliberate in executive session and shall render a decision to dismiss the charges; to suspend the student for a specified period of time; or to expel the student from the schools of the district. The administration or its counsel, by direction of the Board of Education, shall promptly prepare and transmit to the parents/guardians written notice of the decision.

Remedial Conference (JGD)

Prior to the readmission or enrollment of any student who has been suspended out of school or expelled in accordance with this policy for any "act of school violence" as defined in § 160.261.2, RSMo., and Board policy JGF, a conference must be held to review the student’s conduct that resulted in the suspension or expulsion and any remedial actions needed to prevent future occurrences of such conduct or related conduct. The conference shall include the appropriate school officials including any teacher directly involved with the conduct that resulted in the suspension or expulsion, the student, and the parent or guardian of the student or any agency having legal jurisdiction, care, custody or control of the student. The Board of Education shall notify, in writing, the parents or guardians and all other parties of the time, place and agenda of any such conference. Failure of any party to attend this conference shall not preclude holding the conference. This requirement applies to enrolling students transferring from another school as well, regardless of whether the "act of school violence" was committed at a public school or at a private school in Missouri, provided that such act shall have resulted in the suspension or expulsion of such student in the case of a private school.

Discipline of Students with Disabilities (JGE)

It is the goal of the Lebanon R-III School District to provide a safe and productive learning environment for all students. The district does not believe in a double standard for misbehavior and holds the welfare and safety of all persons in the district in highest regard. Students with disabilities will be disciplined in accordance with the district's discipline code applicable to all students, subject to the modifications mandated by law. All students, including those with disabilities, will be referred for law enforcement action when required by law and when their conduct constitutes a crime.

The district will comply with all state and federal laws governing the discipline of students with disabilities, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, applicable regulations and state and local plans for compliance with the law. In addition to the process outlined in special education law, students with disabilities will receive the same due process afforded other students.

The Board delegates to the superintendent or designee the authority to seek the removal of a student with a disability as allowed by federal or state law to an alternative educational setting through the state hearing process or to seek a court injunction ordering removal or a different educational placement.

The superintendent or designee will provide all district employees training on violence prevention, the district's discipline code and the legal requirements for disciplining students with disabilities. The Board delegates to the superintendent or designee the authority to contact the district's legal counsel for legal advice or training on the district's responsibilities.

Discipline Reporting and Records (JGF)

In compliance with state law, the Board of Education establishes clear channels of communication between teachers, administrators, law enforcement officials and other schools concerning acts of school violence and other behaviors that endanger the welfare or safety of students, staff or patrons of the district. The purpose of this policy is to designate specific actions committed by students that must be reported to teachers, administrators and/or law enforcement officials as well as those actions that must be documented in a student’s discipline record.

Definitions (JGF)

The following definitions and terms apply to this policy:

• Act of School Violence/Violent Behavior – The exertion of physical force by a student with the intent to do serious physical injury to another person while on school property, including while on school transportation in service on behalf of the district or while involved in school activities.
• Serious Physical Injury – Physical injury that creates a substantial risk of death or that causes serious disfigurement or protracted loss or impairment of any part of the body.
• Serious Violation of District’s Discipline Policy – One or more of the following acts if committed by a student enrolled in the district.
  • Any act of school violence/violent behavior.
  • Any offense that occurs on district property, on district transportation or at any district activity and that is required by law to be reported to law enforcement officials.
  • Any offense that results in an out-of-school suspension for more than ten school days.
• Need to Know – Relates to school personnel who are directly responsible for the student’s education or who otherwise interact with the student on a professional basis while acting within the scope of their assigned duties.
• School or District Property – Property utilized, supervised, owned, rented, leased or controlled by the school district including, but not limited to, school playgrounds, parking lots, school transportation and any property on which any school activity takes place.

Reporting to School Staff (JGF)

School administrators shall report acts of school violence to all teachers at the attendance areas in which the involved students are educated and to other school district employees with a need to know the information to adequately supervise the students and to protect themselves or others. In addition, any portion of a student’s individualized education program (IEP) that is related to demonstrated or potentially violent behavior shall be provided to any teachers and other district employees with a need to know the information.

The superintendent or designee will inform district employees with a need to know of any act committed or allegedly committed by a student in the district that is reported to the district by a juvenile officer or an employee of the Children's Division (CD) of the Department of Social Services, sheriff, chief of police or other appropriate law enforcement authority in accordance with state law. Such reports shall not be used as the sole basis for denying educational services to a student.

Reporting to Law Enforcement Officials (JGF)

Any crime listed in this section, or any act that if committed by an adult would be a crime listed in this section, that is committed on school property, on any school transportation or at any school activity must be reported immediately by the appropriate school administrator to the appropriate law enforcement agency. The following acts are subject to this reporting requirement:

1. First- or second-degree murder under §§ 565.020, .021, RSMo.
2. Voluntary or involuntary manslaughter under § 565.023, .024, RSMo.
3. Kidnapping under § 565.110, RSMo.
4. First-, second- or third-degree assault under §§ 565.050, .060, .070, RSMo.*
   1. Immediate reporting of third-degree assault under § 565.070, RSMo., may not be required if an agreement with law enforcement exists.
5. Rape in the first or second degree under §§ 566.030, .031, RSMo.
6. Sodomy in the first or second degree under §§ 566.060, .061, RSMo.
7. Burglary in the first or second degree under §§ 569.160, .170, RSMo.
8. Robbery in the first degree under § 569.020, RSMo.
9. Possession of a weapon under chapter 571, RSMo.
10. Distribution of drugs and distribution of drugs to a minor under §§ 195.211, .212, RSMo.
11. Arson in the first degree under § 569.040, RSMo.
12. Felonious restraint under § 565.120, RSMo.
13. Property damage in the first degree under § 569.100, RSMo.
14. Child molestation in the first degree pursuant to § 566.067, RSMo.
15. Sexual misconduct involving a child pursuant to § 566.083, RSMo.
16. Sexual abuse in the first degree pursuant to § 566.100, RSMo.
17. Harassment under § 565.090, RSMo.
18. Stalking under § 565.225, RSMo.

* Immediate reporting of third-degree assault under § 565.070, RSMo., may not be required if an agreement with law enforcement exists.

If the district is aware that a student who is suspended for more than ten days or expelled is under court jurisdiction, the superintendent shall notify the appropriate division of the juvenile or family court of the suspension or expulsion.

All employees shall immediately report to the principal any incident that constitutes a crime, including any incident in which a person is believed to have committed an act that if committed by an adult would be first-, second- or third-degree assault, rape in the second degree or sodomy in the second degree against a student or school employee, while on school property, school transportation or at school activities. Employees shall also inform the principal if a student is discovered to possess a controlled substance or weapon in violation of the district’s policy. The principal shall immediately report these listed offenses to the appropriate law enforcement agency and the superintendent. However, if the district has entered into an agreement with law enforcement regarding the reporting of third-degree assaults, the district will report third-degree assaults to law enforcement in accordance with that agreement.

School districts may report or disclose education records to law enforcement and juvenile justice authorities if the disclosure concerns law enforcement's or juvenile justice authorities' ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records are released. The officials and authorities to whom such information is disclosed must comply with applicable restrictions set forth in state and federal law.

Reporting Third-Degree Assault (JGF)

The superintendent and the appropriate local law enforcement agency may develop a written agreement outlining the procedure for reporting any incident in which a student is believed to have committed an act that if committed by an adult would be third-degree assault. If such an agreement exists in the district, the principal shall report third-degree assaults to the appropriate local law enforcement agency in accordance with the agreement.

Student Discipline Records (JGF)

The Board of Education directs the superintendent or designee to compile and maintain records of any serious violation of the district’s discipline policy for each student enrolled in the district. Such records shall be made available to all district employees with a need to know and shall be provided to any school district in which the student subsequently attempts to enroll within five business days of receiving the request, in accordance with state law. If a student is placed in another school by the CD, the records will be transferred to the new school within two business days after notification by the CD. Personally identifiable student records will only be released or destroyed in accordance with state and federal law.

Pursuant to Department of Secondary and Elementary Education (DESE) data reporting requirements, the district shall report rates and durations of, and reasons for, student suspensions of ten days or longer and expulsions.

Confidentiality (JGF)

Any information received by a school district employee relating to the conduct of a student shall be received in confidence and used for the limited purpose of assuring that good order and discipline are maintained in the schools.

Liability (JGF)

Teachers and authorized district personnel, including volunteers selected with reasonable care by the district, shall not be civilly liable when acting in accordance with the Board's policies, including the Board's discipline policies, or when reporting to the appropriate supervisor or other person acts of school violence or threatened acts of school violence, pursuant to law and district policy.

Code of Conduct (JG-R1)

The Student Code of Conduct is designed to foster student responsibility, respect for others, and to provide for the orderly operation of district schools. No code can be expected to list each and every offense that may result in disciplinary action; however, it is the purpose of this code to list certain offenses which, if committed by a student, will result in the imposition of a certain disciplinary action. Any conduct not included herein, any aggravated circumstance of any offense, or any action involving a combination of offenses may result in disciplinary consequences that extend beyond this code of conduct as determined by the principal, superintendent and/or Board of Education. In extraordinary circumstances where the minimum consequence is judged by the superintendent or designee to be manifestly unfair or not in the interest of the district, the superintendent or designee may reduce the consequences listed in this regulation, as allowed by law. This code includes, but is not necessarily limited to, acts of students on district property, including playgrounds, parking lots and district transportation, or at a district activity, whether on or off district property. The district may also discipline students for off-campus conduct that negatively impacts the educational environment, to the extent allowed by law.

Nondiscrimination in Application of Policies (JG-R1)

The Lebanon R-III School District prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability or military status in its programs and activities as required by: Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1975, 42 U.S.C. Section 6101, the Americans with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act and Missouri Law.

Reporting to Law Enforcement (JG-R1)

It is the policy of the Lebanon R-III School District to report all crimes occurring on district property to law enforcement including, but not limited to, the crimes the district is required to report in accordance with law. A list of crimes the district is required to report is included in policy JGF.

The principal shall also notify the appropriate law enforcement agency and superintendent if a student is discovered to possess a controlled substance or weapon in violation of the district's policy.

In addition, the superintendent shall notify the appropriate division of the juvenile or family court upon suspension for more than ten days or expulsion of any student who the district is aware is under the jurisdiction of the court.

Documentation in Student's Discipline Record (JG-R1)

The principal, designee, or other administrators or district staff will maintain all discipline records as deemed necessary for the orderly operation of the schools and in accordance with law and policy JGF.

Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion and Other Disciplinary Consequences (JG-R1)

All students who are suspended or expelled, regardless of the reason, are prohibited from participating in or attending any district-sponsored activity, or being on or near district property or the location of any district activity for any reason, unless permission is granted by the superintendent or designee. When appropriate, the district may prohibit students from participating in activities or restrict a student's access to district property as a disciplinary consequence even if a student is not suspended or expelled from school. Likewise, a student may become ineligible for or be required to forfeit any honors and awards as a disciplinary consequence.

In accordance with law, any student who is suspended for any offenses listed in § 160.261, RSMo., or any act of violence or drug-related activity defined by policy JGF as a serious violation of school discipline, shall not be allowed to be within 1,000 feet of any district property or any activity of the district, regardless of whether the activity takes place on district property, unless one of the following conditions exist:

1. The student is under the direct supervision of the student's parent, legal guardian, custodian or another adult designated in advance, in writing, to the student's principal by the student's parent, legal guardian or custodian, and the superintendent or designee has authorized the student to be on district property.
2. The student is enrolled in and attending an alternative school that is located within 1,000 feet of a public school in the district.
3. The student resides within 1,000 feet of a public school in the district and is on the property of his or her residence.

If a student violates the prohibitions in this section, he or she may be suspended or expelled in accordance with the offense, "Failure to Meet Conditions of Suspension, Expulsion or Other Disciplinary Consequences," listed below.

Extended Summary Suspensions (JG-R1)

An asterisk * within the scope and sequence of a discipline consequence indicates that the potential exists for an extended summary suspension, or a suspension of greater than ten days. In accordance with state statutes § 160.261, § 167.161 and § 167.171 RSMo. and Board of Education policy JGD, Section VI, student suspensions of greater than ten days require a Review Meeting before the superintendent or designee. Extended summary suspensions can be up to 180 school days.

Impact on Grades (JG-R1)

As with any absence, absences due to an out-of-school suspension may result in the student earning a lower grade in accordance with the district’s policy on absences.

 

The following are descriptions of prohibited conduct and potential consequences for violations. Building-level administrators are authorized to more narrowly tailor potential consequences as appropriate for the age level of students in the building within the ranges established in this regulation. In addition to the consequences specified here, school officials will notify law enforcement and document violations in the student's discipline file pursuant to law and Board policy.

Academic Misconduct (ACAD)

Cheating on tests, assignments, projects or similar activities; plagiarism; claiming credit for another person's work; fabrication of facts, sources or other supporting material; unauthorized collaboration; facilitating academic dishonesty; and other misconduct related to academics.

 

Alcohol/Drugs

Alcohol/Drugs violations are divided into two offense categories. School Police Report required. See Board of Education policy JFCH and JHCD. Suspensions may be reduced with successful completion of a substance abuse assessment.  

 

Arson

The intentional and knowing use of fire on Lebanon R-III School District property that may or may not cause damage to district property or property of others; or, the attempt to commit arson. Arson violations are divided into two offense categories. School Police Report required.

 

Assaultive Behavior

Intentionally or recklessly causing injury to another. Assaultive behavior is divided into seven categories. This may qualify as a Safe Schools Violation and require administration to notify staff members on a need-to-know basis.

 

Auto Violations

Uncourteous or unsafe driving on or around district property, unregistered parking, failure to move vehicle at the request of district officials, failure to follow directions given by district officials or failure to follow established rules for parking or driving on district property.

 

Bullying/Cyberbullying 

See Harassment Section. 

Bus Safety Violations (BUSS)

Any offense committed by a student on transportation provided by or through the district shall be punished in the same manner as if the offense had been committed at the student’s assigned school.  In addition to school discipline, transportation privileges may be suspended or revoked.

Inappropriate Conduct 

Standing while the bus is moving, yelling, littering in the bus, use of food or drink, not sitting in assigned seat, not sitting properly, eating on the bus, shoving or pushing (horseplay), not following directions of drivers, etc.

 

Computer/Electronic Device Use:

 

Defiance of or Disrespect for Authority 

 

Destruction of Property/Vandalism 

Conduct that destroys, mutilates, vandalizes or defaces objects, buildings, materials or property belonging to the Lebanon R-III School District or district personnel wherever the property is located; or toward property of others that is located on district property. Destruction of Property/Vandalism is divided into two offense categories.

 

Disorderly Conduct

 

Disorderly Conduct (DISR)	Conduct that is riotous, rowdy, disruptive, or unruly, including but not limited to, the use of non-directed profanity; or offensive/inappropriate language, or possession or use of inappropriate material.
	Elementary	Middle School	High School
First Offense	Conference - 1 day ISS	Conference - 1 day ISS	Conference - 2 days ISS
Second Offense	1 - 3 days ISS	1 - 3 days ISS	1 - 3 days ISS
Third Offense	2 - 3 days ISS	2 - 5 days ISS	2 days ISS - 1 day OSS
Subsequent Offenses	3 days ISS - 10 days OSS	5 days ISS - 10 days OSS	1 - 10 days OSS
Hazardous Conduct (DISP)	Conduct that creates or has the potential to create a dangerous, hazardous, or harmful situation. School Police Report may be required.
	Elementary	Middle School	High School
First Offense	1-10 days OSS	1 - 10 days OSS	1-10 days OSS
Second Offense	6-10 days OSS	6-10 days OSS	6-10 days OSS
Subsequent Offenses	10 days OSS*	10 days OSS*	10 days OSS*
Group Disorderly Conduct (DISG)	Riotous, rowdy, disruptive or unruly conduct that breaks up the order or progress of the educational process, or district-sponsored or district-directed activities, where two or more persons are involved and/or act in concert including gang related behavior or attire.  School Police Report may be required.
	Elementary	Middle School	High School
First Offense	1-5 days OSS	1-5 days OSS	1-5 days OSS
Second Offense	6-10 days OSS	6-10 days OSS	6-10 days OSS
Subsequent Offenses	10 days OSS*	10 days OSS*	10 days OSS*