Safety is always our number one priority. We encourage students, family members, staff, and community members to report all safety concerns to any of our staff members or to submit concerns through Guardian, our online tip reporting system. If it is an emergency, please call 911.

Using Guardian to report a concern is quick and easy! You may choose to identify yourself or remain anonymous. Keep in mind that we generally cannot take disciplinary action based on an anonymous report; however, we will monitor the environment to prevent further incidents.

Every concern that is reported in Guardian immediately notifies our school and designated school administrators so they can investigate and take appropriate action.

**When you file a concern, you will be assigned an access code - be sure to check-in on your ticket using this access code, as we may respond to you with information or questions.**

For information about what happens once you report a Harrassment, Intimidation, or Bullying concern, visit our Guide to Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying webpage.

The Student Leadership Team meets several times throughout the year under the direction of administration.

Green Team is open to intermediate students who are interested in helping clean the lunchroom, recycling, and so much more.

Assemblies are opportunities to enhance the educational programming, welcome guests to our school, and to demonstrate school pride. If you wish to attend an assembly, please sign in at the office and  join us in the back of the gym in the chairs provided. This allows our staff members to sit in the chairs on the sides of the gym so they may be available to our students. These events should be treated as public performances and all appropriate behavior applies: entering quietly, using conversation voices between activities, clapping only at appropriate times, and no derogatory noises or remarks.

In compliance with Washington State Law, all students are expected to be prompt and regular in school attendance.  Daily attendance is one of the keys to educational success.  Each subject taught in school requires a student’s active and continuous involvement in order to develop the skills and concepts. Most classroom experiences cannot be duplicated on an individual basis.  An absent student loses the experience of direct instruction, discussion, and participation. The following guidelines are to be followed by students and parents:

School starts at 8:55 AM and dismisses at 3:25 PM Monday-Thursday and 2:10 PM on Fridays.

Call the Attendance Line at 360-804-3601 each day that a student is absent. Parents may also report absences using Family Access.

Students should arrive at school on time and attend on a regular basis. Students are to go directly to their class or to the gym if buying breakfast beginning at 8:40 AM.

Students will be tardy after the 8:55 bell, and must be signed into school in the office by an adult.

Attendance is monitored and notification will be made if attendance/tardy issues arise.

If your child will be missing school for more than three days and the absence is not due to illness, we ask that you complete a Pre Arranged Absence form prior to your child’s absence. 

Tardiness

Tardiness interferes with individual progress and classroom procedures. Students who arrive at school after 8:55 a.m. are to report to the office to receive an admit slip. A parent or guardian MUST come into the office and sign the student in. If a student shows a pattern of poor attendance through excessive tardiness, our office will call to set up an appointment to offer any services that the school may be able to provide. 

Early Release of Students from class/school

When it is necessary to release a student early from class, we require that an authorized adult check into the office and sign the early release sheet. We will call for your child at that time. All late arrivals and early dismissal are noted on the student’s permanent attendance record. Children are to be released only to those adults who are either parents/guardians or have been identified by the parent/guardian as an approved alternative.

We believe that all students deserve a physically and emotionally safe environment where they can enhance their self-esteem, discover the joy of learning, and take important steps toward learning responsible decision-making.

At Salem Woods Elementary, we have common expectations that define how we live together in our school community in a positive and productive way. 

The Timberbeast Team is

• Trustworthy
• Empathetic
• Accepting
• Motivated

We believe that behavior is something to be taught, just like we teach reading, writing and math. Teachers and staff explicitly teach what each of these expectations look and sound like around the campus and in different situations such as assemblies, bus lines, etc. We believe this involves clear teaching and understanding of what is expected, consistent follow through with positive reinforcement and logical consequences when needed.

Actions Taken To Respond To And Teach Behavior 

Positive Reinforcement: We work to positively recognize behaviors that show the TEAM principles. This could look like verbal compliments or TEAM awards.

Minor Unexpected Behavior: Behaviors that are inappropriate but minor in nature are responded to and resolved by the staff in the setting in which the behavior occurs (teacher, recess supervisor, etc.) The staff member may use discretion in determining the response to minor behaviors, depending on the severity and/or frequency of the action(s). 

Actions may include, but are not limited to:

• Verbal Reminder of Expectations: A brief conference between a student and staff member.
• Reteaching of Expectations: The staff member reteaches the expectation to the student.
• Break/Reset: A student may be asked to go to a different spot in the classroom or on the playground to take a break, fill out a reflection sheet, cool down, etc.
• Problem Solving Conference: A meeting with the staff member and student(s).
• Logical Consequences: A consequence designed by a staff member that is related in some way to the misbehavior. (Example: Misuse of playground equipment results in loss of use of that equipment for a specific time.)
• Loss of Privileges: Loss of activity.
• Behavior Contracts: A written agreement among student(s), staff member, and parent designed to set clear expectations, improve behavior and communicate progress.
• Restorative Justice: Repairing a relationship or damage done with a verbal or written apology, compensation of time, work, effort, replacement of property, etc.

Major Unexpected Behavior: Behaviors that cause a significant disruption to teaching, learning, or physical/emotional student safety, or repeated minor behaviors are typically responded to and resolved by an administrator or designee. The principal/designee may use discretion in determining consequences for behaviors depending on the severity and/or frequency of the action(s). 

Actions may include but are not limited to:

• Break/Reset
• Problem Solving/Reteaching Conference
• Logical Consequences
• Loss of Privileges
• Behavior Contracts
• Restitution

Formal Discipline: Disciplinary actions based on district and state policies as outlined in the District Handbook.

Electronic devices such as smart watches, phones, and related items should be left at home or secured and turned off in students’ backpacks and they will not have access to them before, during, or after school. At no time will the school assume responsibility for the loss, damage, or theft of cell phones or electronic devices. Students who bring them to school will do so at their own risk.  Electronic devices include cell phones and smart watches that allow access to texting, phone calls, and/or the internet. Electronic devices are also not allowed to be used on District transportation. Board Policy #3245 addresses personal communication devices.

If you need to contact your child, please do so through the office, not on their personal devices. We are happy to pass messages onto children when it is needed.

Volunteers and visitors, please silence your own phones while in the school, so as to not disrupt classes. Please do not take pictures or videos of students or staff on your electronic devices. 

Assignment of students to classrooms is a key factor in maximizing student learning and a responsibility our staff takes very seriously. Every spring families and caregivers are given an opportunity to provide input about your child’s placement. In the spring, a notice will be placed in the newsletter letting you know when the input forms will be available for the following school year.

The information you share regarding the academic, social and emotional needs of your child is considered during the student placement process. Each class is created through a comprehensive process to ensure that every child is part of a well balanced classroom that reflects the diversity of our school community. Please remember that verbal or written requests for specific teachers will not be considered. Your input is one factor of many that come together to create a carefully thought out plan. Your input will be shared with the placement team and the classroom teacher.

Parent-Teacher conferences are scheduled twice each year, in the fall for all students and the spring as needed, see the district calendar for dates.

We value this important opportunity for families and teachers to partner in our work of supporting your student’s learning. During the conference, we will discuss your student’s strengths, areas for growth, and their progress. If at any time you have questions regarding your child’s education, please contact the teacher to set up a time to talk.  

Salem Woods Elementary
12802 Wagner Road
Monroe, WA 98272

Office Hours: M-F 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.
Phone: 360-804-3600
Fax: 360-804-3699

Principal: Melanie Gray, graym@monroe.wednet.edu
Assistant Principal: Deserae Cave, caved@monroe.wednet.edu
Office Manager: Karen Ligman, ligmank@monroe.wednet.edu 
Office Assistant: Tasha Christensen,  christensenn@monroe.wednet.edu 
Counselor: Shannon Morgan, morgans@monroe.wednet.edu

Attendance Hotline: 360-804-3601

Salem Woods Website 
Staff Directory

Monday-Thursday: 8:55 AM - 3:25 PM

Fridays: 8:55 AM - 2:10 PM

Early Dismissal Schedule (Holiday, Winter Break, Conferences): 8:55 AM -12:55 PM
Last Day of School Dismissal: 12:00 PM

THERE IS NO STUDENT SUPERVISION BEFORE 8:40 AM

STUDENTS NEED TO BE PICKED UP PROMPTLY AT 3:25 PM
(2:10 on Fridays)

The safety of staff and students in our school is paramount. Dangerous and illegal weapons are prohibited. Any student in possession of such a weapon is subject to immediate expulsion and possible criminal prosecution under RCW9.41.280. Threats to use dangerous weapons or to harm others will be taken seriously and dealt with through the discipline policy and counselor referral process.

This District Handbook (https://www.monroe.wednet.edu/about/district-handbook) is intended to provide all students, teachers, administrators, and families with access to and an understanding of Monroe School District’s expectations. The handbook provides a summary of some of the laws, regulations and district policies that govern attendance, student rights, responsibilities, student discipline, and due process. Specific policies are referenced by the policy number (i.e. 4302). The complete policies are available via the district website: www.monroe.wednet.edu>about>school board>boarddocs or https://go.boarddocs.com/wa/mpswa/Board.nsf/Public#. 

Preserving a beneficial learning environment and assuring the safety and well-being of all students are primary concerns of the Monroe School District Board of Directors.

Students’ choices in matters of dress should be made in consultation with their parents.

Student dress will only be regulated when, in the judgment of school administrators, there is a reasonable expectation that:

A.  A health or safety hazard will be presented by the student's dress or appearance including possible membership in a gang or hate groups;
 

B.  Damage to school property will result from the student's dress; or
 

C.  A material and substantial disruption of the educational process will result from the students' dress or appearance.

For the purpose of this policy, a material and substantial disruption of the educational process may be found to exist when a student's conduct is inconsistent with any part of the educational mission of the school district. Prohibited conduct includes the use of lewd, sexual, drug, tobacco or alcohol-related messages, or gang-related apparel.

The uniforms of nationally recognized youth organizations, and clothing worn in observance of a student’s religion, are not subject to this policy.

The superintendent will establish procedures providing guidance to students, parents, and staff regarding appropriate student dress in school or while engaging in extracurricular activities. Such procedures will ensure that any student wearing, carrying, or displaying gang-related apparel, or exhibiting behavior or gestures which symbolize gang membership, or causing and/or participating in activities which intimidate or affect the attendance of another student will be asked, with notice to his or her parents, to make appropriate corrections and be subject to discipline if the corrections are not undertaken.

Policy: 3224P

The student and parent may determine the student's personal dress and grooming standards, provided that the student's dress and grooming does not: 

A.  Lead school officials to reasonably believe that such dress or grooming will disrupt, interfere with, disturb, or detract from the school environment or activity and/or educational objectives;
 

B.  Create a health or other hazard to the student's safety or to the safety of others;
 

C.  Create an atmosphere in which a student, staff, or other person's well-being is hindered by undue pressure, behavior, intimidation, overt gesture or threat of violence; or
 

D.  Imply gang membership or affiliation by written communication, marks, drawing, painting, design or emblem upon any school or personal property or one’s person.

The principal, in connection with the sponsor, coach, or other person in charge of an extracurricular activity, may regulate the dress and grooming of students who participate in the activity if the principal reasonably believes that the student's dress or grooming: 

A.  Creates a hazard to the student's safety or to the safety of others; or
 

B.  Will prevent, interfere with or adversely affect the purpose, direction, or effort required for the activity to achieve its goals.

If the student's dress or grooming is objectionable under these provisions, the principal will request that the student make appropriate corrections. If the student refuses, the principal will notify the parent, if reasonably possible, and request that the parent make the necessary correction. If both the student and parent refuse, the principal will take appropriate disciplinary action. Students may be suspended, if circumstances so warrant. Students who violate provisions of the dress code relating to extracurricular activities may be removed or excluded from the extracurricular activity for such period as the principal may determine. All students will be accorded due process safeguards before any corrective action may be taken.

Students identified as being gang involved, influenced or affiliated will be provided assistance and/or programs which discourage gang involvement or affiliation, enhance self-esteem, encourage interest and participation in school or other positive activities and promote membership in authorized school organizations.

School bus transportation is provided by the school district for students attending Salem Woods. However, some families opt to drive their children to and from school. 

If you are providing your own transportation, essential procedures for all vehicles entering the school site drop-off and pick-up zone include:

• All cars need to be off Wagner Road while waiting in line for car drop-off/pick up. Thank you for NOT blocking the driveways of our neighbors.
• Families and caregivers need to remain in the car. 
• Students should exit and enter from the curb side.
• Pull as far forward as possible within the designated zone. This will allow for cars to get through the zone in a more timely manner.
• Only drop your student off in full sight of the supervisor. If school has started, please bring your child in and sign them in.
• Please do not use your cell phones or smoke/vape while in the school traffic zone.
• Yield to side traffic and slowly exit the parking lot. 
• For student safety, we ask that no students be walked up or dropped off in the parking lot between 8:35–8:55 a.m. Please use the car drop-off line during this time. This policy is in place because we do not have the staff available to safely manage pedestrians in the parking lot. Thank you for helping us keep arrival safe for all students.
• The Salem Woods parking lot will be closed to traffic from 3:15-3:45 p.m. except for school buses and for parents using the car drop/pick up lane. If you are a parent or guardian who has a scheduled meeting with school staff, you will be permitted to park in the parking lot.
• Students will not be dismissed from the office between 3:15-3:45pm. Dismissal is at 3:25 (2:10 on Fridays) and students will only be released to either a bus or the designated zone for car pick-up at that time. We will not release students to anyone walking up to pick up their child because we cannot safely manage pedestrians in the parking lot with the limited supervision staff we have available.

Early Dismissal

For child safety and to ensure that only an authorized person takes a child from school, please send a note from home to let us know of a planned early dismissal. A child dismissed prior to the regular dismissal time must be met in the office and signed out by a parent, guardian, or authorized adult. Please come to the office with a picture ID and we will call your child from the classroom.

After School Arrangements

If your child will be getting home any other way than their assigned bus route, send in a dated and detailed note in the morning with your child. If there’s a change in plans during the school day, contact the office no later than 2:00 (1:00 on Fridays). After this time, we will try our best to get the message to the teacher, but cannot guarantee it.

Parking 

Please park in the designated parking areas. Handicapped zones are only available to vehicles with that designation. Please follow the law and allow those spaces for people who really need them. Keep our bus and fire lanes clear of cars at all times. 

Parents and guardians have access to a variety of student information, such as attendance, discipline, grades, food service balance and history, vaccinations, and student and family demographics. With the Family Access web portal, you can review your child’s progress with just a “point and click” from your home or office. You may also submit your child’s absence notifications via the web and review your login history. To sign up for your Family Access password and username, visit the web site at www.monroe.wednet.edu.

Field trips are taken as a regular part of our educational program. A signed permission form is required for all field trips. The number of parent chaperones that can attend is determined by the organization classes are visiting. If you wish to be a chaperone, it is important that you get your volunteer application completed at least three days prior to the trip, or by the deadline given on the paperwork sent home. Finances should never be a reason for a child to not attend a field trip. Please let your child’s teacher or the front office staff know if your child needs a scholarship. Siblings are not permitted on field trips.

We encourage families to select healthy food and drink choices for students to eat or drink during the school day and, as such, students are not allowed to bring or consume energy drinks while at school. There will be no sharing of food, snacks, and candy while at school.

Monroe School District contracts with Chartwells Food Services to prepare and provide nutritious meals for students that promote learning readiness and healthy eating behaviors. All meals come with a visit to our fresh fruit and veggie bar, which features a variety of fresh produce, including locally grown when available. Lunches can be paid for in any monetary denomination. Payment can be made through Family Access at www.monroe.wednet.edu. All monies go directly into your child’s lunch account and when they go through the lunch line the cost of the lunch is deducted from their account. Checks may be made payable to Salem Woods Elementary School. Salem Woods Menus

Application forms for free or reduced lunch prices can be found below. If you find yourself in need of free or reduced lunch prices at any time during the school year, please drop by the office to pick up an application. These applications are kept strictly confidential.

If bringing food to school for a classroom event or birthday, food prepared by a commercial source (store-bought items) is preferred so that ingredients can be reviewed for students with food allergies. Non-edible treats (bookmarks, pencils, or stickers) are another option for celebrating a birthday rather than food. Please check with your child’s teacher for specific classroom procedures around food and drink.

Student Report Cards are sent via ParentSquare at the end of each semester.

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

What is HIB?
HIB is any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act of a student that:

• Physically harms another student or damages their property;
• Has the effect of greatly interfering with another student’s education; or,
• Is so severe, persistent, or significant that it creates an intimidating or threatening education environment for other students.

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

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

If a staff member is notified of, observes, overhears, or otherwise witnesses HIB, they must take prompt and appropriate action to stop the HIB behavior and to prevent it from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer Joe Neigel, neigelj@monroe.wednet.edu or (360) 804-2594 that supports prevention and response to HIB.

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

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

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

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

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

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?
For the student designated as the “targeted student” in a complaint:

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

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

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

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

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

To review the district’s Nondiscrimination Policy 3210 and Procedure 3210P.

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

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

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

To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy 3205 and Procedure 3205P, visit https://www.monroe.wednet.edu/departments/human-resources/title-ix.

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

What can I do if I’m concerned about discrimination or harassment?
Talk to a Coordinator or submit a written complaint. You may contact the following school district staff members to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns.

Concerns about discrimination: 
Civil Rights Coordinator: Dan Johnston
14692 - 179th Avenue SE, Monroe, WA 98272
(360) 804.2530
johnstond@monroe.wednet.edu

Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, and disability discrimination: 
Title IX & Section 504 Coordinator: Cassandra Bunney
14692 - 179th Avenue SE, Monroe, WA 98272
(360) 804-2532
bunneyc@monroe.wednet.edu

Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity: 
Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Dan Johnston
14692 - 179th Avenue SE, Monroe, WA 98272
(360) 804.2530
johnstond@monroe.wednet.edu

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who else can help with HIB or Discrimination Concerns?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our School is Gender-Inclusive

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

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

To review the district’s Gender-Inclusive Schools Policy 3211 and Procedure 3211P, visit https://go.boarddocs.com/wa/mpswa/Board.nsf/Public#. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Dan Johnston at (360) 804.2530 or johnstond@monroe.wednet.edu.

For concerns about discrimination or discriminatory harassment based on gender identity or gender expression, please see the information above.

If your child has a major health problem which may require emergency care or affect their learning opportunities or school participation, please consult with the school nurse. Generally, any child able to attend school should plan on participating in recess and other physical activities. Children unable to do so must provide a note from their physician excusing them from participation.

Medication

It is best for medication to be administered at home whenever possible. However, if medication is required at school, Salem Woods has an established procedure. MEDICATION SUCH AS ‑ ASPIRIN, COUGH MEDICATIONS, STOMACH MEDICATIONS ETC., should not be sent to school. Questions should be directed to our health room at (360) 804-3632

Illness at School 

Should your child become ill at school, they need to tell the teacher or supervising adult. If the situation warrants, parent or emergency contact will be contacted and arrangements made to send the child home. It is extremely important that the school always is provided an emergency contact who can be reached at any time. For general health questions, please contact our school nurse or your family physician. If a child records a temperature of more than 100 degrees or if the child is vomiting, we request that they go home or stay home from school. Students should remain at home for at least one full day following a fever’s return to normal or after the vomiting subsides.

Immunization

The State of Washington requires that students in school be fully immunized unless an exemption is granted due to medical, religious, or philosophical reasons. 

Students with Injuries

For those students suffering an injury (no matter how small) which requires them to come to school with crutches, splints, ace wraps etc…we must have a doctor’s order stating what activities may or may not be allowed. If the injury is severe enough to limit their mobility and normal activities, the school needs to be aware of the doctor’s recommendation. 

We suggest that all items from home remain at home. If a family chooses to send something to school, any items should be of minimal monetary and/or sentimental value and fit in your child’s backpack. There is no trading, lending, or selling of items. Toys must be kept in backpacks during class time and while riding on the school bus. If toys become a distraction to the school environment they may be kept in the office until the end of the day.

Our library has been designed to be a focal learning place in our school. Books are shelved together by genre (fantasy, mystery, animals, history, science, etc.), which aligns to the state standards. Classes will visit the library with their teacher. During their visit, the library specialist will read/introduce them to a rich piece of literature. 

During their scheduled library time, recess or before/after school, students are allowed to return books and check out other books as needed. Monthly overdue book notices will be sent home to families via kid mail and email. The school will partner with parents to address any lost or damaged books.

The library is also open during lunch recesses. Library specialists will provide options that may include reading, playing games, or creating/inventing in the Makerspace.

Articles of clothing or other items found on the school grounds are brought to the lost and found in the undercover area. Consider labeling your child’s items (especially jackets) as it is easier to return lost items to the owner when they are labeled. When the Lost and Found is overflowing, we donate the items to a local charity. We share the dates of these donations in advance through the school newsletter.

If your family is in a temporary living situation resulting in loss of housing due to eviction or economic hardship, your child might be eligible for certain educational rights and services under the McKinney Vento Act. We encourage you to fill out the Student Housing Questionnaire (English | Spanish).

If you have questions about or need to access McKinney-Vento services, please contact our school counselor at 360-804-3600. You can also contact Christina Pamanian at pamanianc@monroe.wednet.edu.

Students are advised to only bring money to school for a specific reason, such as lunch money or when there is a specific event happening at school. Money can be lost or stolen which causes upset feelings, creates mistrust, and disrupts the learning environment. Please do not send large sums of money to school with your child.

Our school newsletter, “Timberbeast Times,” is published every Friday and sent via ParentSquare. The newsletter includes important school information and upcoming events. Newsletters will automatically be sent to the email on record. 

Policy: 4218 and 4218P

The Board of Directors is committed to improving meaningful, two-way communication and promoting access to District programs, services and activities for students and parents with limited English proficiency (LEP) free of charge. Our District’s language access plan includes: 

Oral Interpretation

The District will take reasonable steps to provide LEP parents competent oral interpretation of materials or information about any program, service, and activity provided to non-LEP parents and to facilitate any interaction with district staff significant to the student’s education. The District will provide such services upon request of the LEP parent(s) and/or when it may be reasonably anticipated by District staff that such services will be necessary.  

Written Translation  

The District will provide a written translation of vital documents for each limited English proficient group that constitutes at least five (5) percent of the District’s total parent population or 1000 persons, whichever is less. For purposes of this policy, “vital documents” include, but are not limited to, those related to: 

• registration, application, and selection; 
• academic standards and student performance; 
• safety, discipline, and conduct expectations; 
• special education and related services, Section 504 information, and McKinney-Vento services; 
• policies and procedures related to school attendance; 
• requests for parent permission in activities or programs; 
• opportunities for students or families to access school activities, programs, and services; 
• student/parent handbook;
• the District’s Language Access Plan and the related services or resources available; 
• school closure information; and 
• any other documents notifying parents of their rights under applicable state laws and/or containing information or forms related to consent or filing complaints under federal law, state law, or District policy.  

If the District is unable to translate a vital document due to resource limitations or if a small number of families require the information in a language other than English such that document translation is unreasonable, the District will still provide the information to parents in a language they can understand through competent oral interpretation.

Birthday parties provide many pleasant memories for children. However, not being invited to a birthday party can be a negative experience for those not receiving an invitation. In consideration of the feelings of children not receiving invitations, no invitations should be handed out at school unless every child in the classroom receives one.

The purpose of recess is to allow students to socialize, exercise, play and take regular breaks from classroom learning. It is our goal to provide students with as many options and opportunities as possible during this time. Students are taught what our expectations look and sound like with appropriate use of school equipment and boundaries within the use of the playground. 

Salem Woods Elementary has an active and supportive Parent/Teacher Association (PTA). We hope you plan to become an active member. The annual membership drive is in the fall, and we welcome all memberships throughout the year. It is also not necessary to be a PTA member in order to support and enjoy the many fun family events that PTA sponsors. Look for contact information, meeting dates, and PTA information in the newsletter and on our website. PTA email: SalemWoodsPTA@gmail.com

All students who live within the Salem Woods boundaries and are eligible to ride a bus will be assigned a bus route and stop based on the student’s home address. Students who are enrolled at Salem Woods and eligible to ride the bus must submit the online request form to be assigned to a bus stop.

Students will not be allowed to ride a different bus or get off the bus at a different stop than the one assigned without parental permission and pre-approval through the school office. A school provided bus pass needs to be given to the driver in order to board or change stops. To request long-term or permanent changes, please complete the online Transportation Request Form. 

Remember to always be at your stop 5 minutes prior to your assigned bus stop time. Please remember that traffic, weather and other unforeseen circumstances may cause some routes to be delayed. 

We rely on our school bus drivers to deliver children safely to school and then home.  Drivers count on our cooperation, support, and understanding to help keep children safe while riding the school bus.  Safe riding rules will be shared with all students.  Students who choose to break those rules are issued a “Student Referral.”  Copies of referrals are given to parents and the principal.  A student who chooses not to change behaviors that interfere with the safety of other children on the bus may have riding privileges suspended.  Acts of violence against others, foul language, harassment, or failure to listen and respond to the driver’s directions may constitute reason for removal of bus riding privileges.  If you have questions, we encourage you to contact the bus driver.  We must work together if we want to keep our children safe.  

For more information, please visit the Transportation Department page on the Monroe School District website.

Many school facilities including school buses routinely video tape to maintain the safety of students, staff and visitors.

At Salem Woods Elementary, we value community participation. We welcome visitors and volunteers to our campus. That being said, the safety of our students is our first concern. All visitors and volunteers must complete the Volunteer Application three days prior to the event that you are attending, this includes having lunch with your child. If you wish to volunteer in your child’s classroom, you will need to make arrangements with the teacher prior to coming in to volunteer.

All volunteers, including one-time volunteers and visitors must:

• Have an approved MSD volunteer application on file
• Sign in and out of the office and always wear an ID badge while on school grounds
• Wear appropriate attire
• Show respect for all students and staff
• Maintain confidentiality by sharing concerns regarding students with school staff only 
• Call the school if you are unable to attend a scheduled volunteer shift
• Leave all personal items (including cell phones) in a locked car or at home
• Volunteers are expected to comply with our tobacco-free campus policy at all times.

If there is a change in the school schedule due to weather conditions, the district will make every effort to have weather-related announcements broadcast on local television, AM and FM radio stations between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM.

How to learn about School and bus schedule changes: 

• Emails, text messages, and robocalls (only if a text message is not delivered) will be sent to all staff and families (be sure your contact info is up-to-date in Family Access!) 
• Check the homepage of the district website
• Call the School Schedule hotline (360-804-2950)
• Listen to local radio and TV stations

Another option for notification is at www.Schoolreport.org. Just go to the website and sign up for email alerts. The district will also use its messenger service to send closure messages to your phone. Typical announcements during inclement weather may include:  School Closed – All schools in the Monroe School District are closed.  Limited Bus Transportation – Schools are open, with emergency or limited transportation service. Bus drivers will inform students regarding emergency routes to bypass more dangerous roads. Two Hours Late – All schools will start two hours late. Bus pickup will be two hours later than usual. Schools will close at the regular time.  If schools are closed, all school meetings and/or after-school activities are automatically canceled unless specific announcements are made to the contrary. 

Emergency closures

Listen closely to television and radio for school closure or late start information.  If it is necessary to close schools or run on limited school bus schedules for any reason, information will be broadcast on local radio and television stations.  Schools will always be open unless a Monroe School District #103 school closure announcement is made by TV, radio stations, or on our website. 

Families can check school schedules anytime by calling the 24-hour Hotline at 360-804-2950.  This information is also posted on the district’s website at www.monroe.wednet.edu by clicking on the link to Inclement Weather/Transportation changes.  Monroe School District is a member of an area-wide emergency network that also advises local TV and radio stations of school schedule changes or limited bus routes.

Types of weather/emergency related information broadcast by media in relationship to schools.  

CLOSED - All schools are closed.  All school activities, meetings, sports, etc. are canceled.      

Snow Makeup Days – If school is canceled due to snow, the Monroe School District will use the day(s) immediately following the regularly scheduled school days.