First Lunch

Students will report to 4th period and drop off belongings.
Students will eat lunch and go outside, if they want.
Students will then go to 4th period.

Second Lunch

Students will attend 4th period.
Students will leave their things in 4th period, eat lunch and go outside, if they want.
Students will return to 4th period, grab their belongings and go to 5th period.

ACADEMIC SUCCESS

Academic Accountability

All students are capable of learning. It is the responsibility of the student to apply consistent and sustained effort toward learning experiences that are available. Grading will be based on the attainment of clear academic standards.

It is the responsibility of the staff to employ a variety of instructional and assignment strategies and modifications designed to meet the individual student’s needs while maintaining ongoing communication with parents and guardians, teachers and administrators.

Parents and guardians are vital partners in the educational process along with staff. Maintaining an open and collaborative spirit between home and school is essential to the student’s success. It is the responsibility of parents and guardians to provide support at home by reinforcing the established academic expectations.

Students are issued six-week and twelve-week Progress Reports. Grading information for each class will be provided by the teacher. Semester grades will be mailed home to the parents/guardians. Parents and guardians may view their student’s grade information via Skyward Family Access as well.

AVID

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is part of the culture in our building - we are AVID School-Wide. We offer the AVID Elective to both 7th and 8th grade students one period per day to receive additional academic, social and emotional support that will help them succeed in rigorous courses. We also provide classroom activities through Advisory and incorporate AVID teaching practices and strategies school-wide to improve engagement and success for all students.

WIN Time/Intervention Time: Supporting Every Learner

We are committed to meeting the unique needs of every student. That’s why we include dedicated time during the school day for WIN Time - which stands for What I Need - to be used as intervention time for students. This will occur during Advisory on selected days each week and are designed to provide personalized academic support and enrichment. During WIN Time, students receive targeted instruction based on their individual learning needs, whether that means reteaching, extra practice, or advanced enrichment activities. Flexible grouping and ongoing assessment data help ensure students are always getting the right support at the right time. This intervention time is part of our Response to Intervention (RTI) framework and focuses on helping students strengthen specific skills in areas like reading or math. We will all work together to monitor progress and adjust instruction as needed. This program reflects our belief that every student can grow and succeed with the right support.

Honor Roll

Students achieving a 3.40 GPA or above at the end of each semester will be recognized on the EVMS Honor Roll. This achievement reflects consistent academic effort, responsibility, and a commitment to learning. Honor Roll students will be acknowledged and recognized at an assembly and will receive a Certificate of Achievement. Maintaining Honor Roll status is a great way to set goals, build confidence, and prepare for future academic success at EVHS!

STUDENT LIFE & ACTIVITIES

ASB/Student Council

The Associated Student Body (ASB) is governed by the Student Council, a group of elected students who address questions or problems that arise from either the students, staff or administration.

The role of the Student Council is to represent the student body, organize school activities, provide student input to administration and teach students the values of working in a democracy. Officers of the Student Council are elected in the spring. Each Advisory class elects one representative to the Student Council which meets monthly.

Athletics

Our athletic program includes the following sports for all students: Fall 1: Football, Cross-Country, & Softball; Fall 2: Volleyball & Wrestling; Winter 1: Boys Basketball; Winter 2: Girls Basketball; Spring: Baseball, Track, & Tennis. Rules, regulations and eligibility are covered in the Activities Handbook.

Dances/Activities

Dances and other activities are offered throughout the school-year. High school students or guests are not allowed at the dances.

Cafeteria Expectations

Students are expected to exhibit acceptable behavior at all times; running in the cafeteria, taking food from others, throwing food, etc. are examples of unacceptable behaviors. Students are expected to clean up after eating. All food must be consumed/discarded before leaving the cafeteria during breakfast and lunch.

Meal Charges/Negative Balance Procedure

Students are provided breakfast and lunch daily and the monthly menu is available on our school website. Please submit a free and reduced application at any time during the school year and consent to share this information in order to provide your student access to a variety of items in the district (activities, athletics, etc.) Applications are available in the school office or online at www.evsd.org. Food service payments can be made online by choosing the “Online Payments” option on the district website.

Lockers (General or PE)

Each student is assigned a locker. Students are expected to use only the assigned locker and keep it closed and locked at all times to secure personal property. All personal items and books are to be kept in lockers. Lockers are the property of EVSD and may be opened by school authorities. Slamming lockers damages lockers and fines for damage may result at any time for misuse/abuse of lockers.

For safety reasons, backpacks are not allowed in halls and/or classrooms during the school day and should be kept in lockers. To ensure safekeeping of possessions, students should not give their combination to other students.

Student’s Belongings/Lost & Found

Students are expected to leave cell phones, large amounts of money, video games, iPods or other electronic devices, skateboards, cameras or other valuable items at home. The school will not be responsible for these items if they are lost or stolen.

The lost and found is in the cafeteria. Any unclaimed items are donated to a local charity. Please make sure to check the lost and found regularly if you have lost any items.

Trading or Selling

Trading and selling of personal items is strictly forbidden. This applies to all school-sponsored activities as well as the school day.

Fees

Students participating in sports must purchase an ASB card within the first two weeks of the athletic season. The ASB card supports all athletics and activities. Pictures for the ASB cards are taken in September.

Instruments can be rented through the school for a yearly fee. Please see the music teacher(s) for more information.

Yearbooks can be purchased in the public office and personalized engraving is available.

School Closures

In the event of severely inclement weather or mechanical breakdown(s), school may be closed or the start time delayed. The same conditions may require early dismissal. These will be announced using the instant alert communication system. It also is available on radio and television. If no report is heard, school is in session; please do not call the school. Telephone lines must be kept open for emergencies.

Students After School

Students remaining after school for activities or athletics must remain in a supervised location. Students are expected to leave the building immediately following all after-school activities or athletics.

Telephone Use

The office telephone may be used by students, with permission. Please coordinate pick-up times for after-school events with your student as the office is closed at the conclusion of the activity or athletic event.

Office Hours

The office is open from 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The office number is 509.241.5300 and the attendance number is 509. 241.5363. Messages to students from parents or guardians need to be done before 2:00 p.m. for notification to students before the end of the school day.

Closed Campus/Visitors

Students are not to leave the school after arrival unless they have properly checked out from the office. All visitors must sign in at the office and be issued a visitor’s pass before proceeding on campus.

Volunteers

We encourage parents/guardians/community members to volunteer. State laws governing new employees and volunteers working in schools are in effect. Volunteer opportunities are many and are greatly utilized by staff members. Applications are available on the EVSD website. Current state identification is required, as are background checks, as applicable.

Family Access

Information regarding student lunch account balances, attendance, grades, missing assignments and more can be accessed via Skyward Family Access on the EVSD website (www.evsd.org). You can request login information on the site.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Health Services

School personnel are available to assist parents in maintaining, improving and promoting the health of their students. The Nurse’s Station is used as an emergency center to give proper care to students who have suffered an accident or become ill at school. This room is not a treatment center. When a student is unable to remain in the classroom due to illness, or a serious accident has occurred, the parent is notified. Transportation home and all medical care is the responsibility of the parent. When a parent cannot be contacted, a person listed as an emergency contact is called. Please ensure the school has current information.

If your student needs medication while at school, a completed medication permission form must be on file with signatures before any medications can be dispensed. Nurses can provide this form. Medications must remain in their original containers as dispensed by the pharmacist. If your student has allergies, asthma or severe allergic reactions, please notify the school nurse for safety planning. This information should be included on the Health Inventory Form completed annually or as changes occur.

Washington immunization laws require that all immunizations are current. Without proof of immunization, or an exemption, your student will not be allowed to attend school (RCW

28A.210.060 through 28A.210.170).

HIV/AIDS/Human Growth and Development

In 1988, the Legislature passed the Washington State AIDS Omnibus Bill mandating that all school districts in the state teach a state-approved curriculum regarding AIDS to students in Grades 5-8. A committee of parents, community members, staff members and administrators prepared a state-approved AIDS curriculum for EVSD that is presently taught by the district nurse and school staff every spring. Parents are notified before the AIDS curriculum is taught so they may preview the material covered. By law, parents cannot opt their student out of the class unless you have previewed the materials.

Emergency Procedures

Emergency plans have been developed to ensure the maximum efficiency and safety for evacuating buildings during drills or emergencies. Instructions are posted in each classroom. Drills must be taken seriously. Students are expected to maintain classroom conduct throughout the entire drill and to know the exit routes of the classrooms.

Students should be at least 50 feet from the building during drills and emergencies. Parents are contacted via the instant alert system for any emergency updates such as school closures or delays.

ATTENDANCE & DAILY ROUTINES

Arrival at School

On late-start Mondays, school starts at 9:10 a.m. Tuesday through Friday, school starts at 7:40 a.m. Students will not be allowed in the building prior to 7:10 a.m. due to unavailable supervision. Students are expected to enter through the south side of the building doors. Students have the option of going directly to the cafeteria to eat breakfast (recommended) and if not eating or done with breakfast, can stay in the cafeteria or stay in the gym area until 7:30 a.m.

Attendance/Tardiness

Regular attendance is important to success. Research indicates excessive tardiness/absences negatively affect a student’s progress and grades. Students are expected to be present and punctual for all classes throughout the year. All public schools in Washington must comply with Washington Administrative code rules and state laws. See WAC 392- 400-325 and East Valley School District Policy No. 3122.

Regular school attendance is necessary for mastery of the educational program provided to students of the district. Students may be absent from class for valid reasons. The following principles shall govern the administration of attendance procedures:

Excused Absences: Absences due to illness or a health condition; a religious observance when requested by a student’s parent(s); school-approved activities; family emergencies; and disciplinary actions or short-term suspensions. The school principal (or designee) has the authority to determine if an absence meets the above criteria for an excused absence. The student shall be permitted to make up all missed assignments outside of class under reasonable conditions and time limits established by the appropriate teacher except that in participation-type classes an alternative assignment may be deemed necessary by the teacher.

Unexcused Absences: Any absence from school is unexcused unless it meets one of the above criteria for an excused absence. [Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.300.046. WSR 12-17-051, § 392-400-325, filed 8/9/12, effective 9/9/12.] As a means of instilling values of responsibility and personal accountability, makeup work for unexcused absences will not be provided; this provides students the experience and consequences associated with the unexcused absence.

Late Arrival: Students arriving late to school will be marked absent immediately and must report to the office upon arrival. The parent/guardian must provide a note for their student. Students will check-in using SmartPass and their attendance will be updated by office staff. Frequent tardiness may result in disciplinary action.

Attendance Hotline: Please call and leave a message for all absences or late arrivals at 509.241.5363 by 9:00 a.m. Failure to notify the school of an absence will result in the absence remaining unexcused.

Tardies: Students are given four (4) minutes to pass between classes and are expected to be in class with required materials when the bell rings. Extensive tardies may result in discipline.

Prearranged Absences: If a family has a planned absence of three (3+) days or more, advance notification of the absence should be given to the school and teachers.

Hall Passes (SmartPass)

Students learn best when they are in class. SmartPass provides a quick way for students to create a hall pass and receive teacher approval to use the bathroom or drinking fountain during class. The system tracks student’s loss of instructional time associated with passes, their real-time location in the building, and creates a safe whole-school environment. Students will access SmartPass using only their Macbook, no cell phone applications.

Students are expected to use time before school, during passing periods and lunch to access bathrooms and drinking fountains. Students will be provided 2 SmartPasses per day for access to either bathroom or drinking fountains. Teachers have the ability to create an additional pass for students based on need and/or situation.

Dismissal of Students

To ensure safety, students are to be dismissed to parents or guardians only through the office. A student is never to leave school unless arranged through the school office. Parents or guardians must come to the office and sign their student out. Students cannot be released from the classroom until a parent or guardian arrives at the office to sign him/her out. If returning back to school the same day, students must check in at the office and complete a SmartPass before returning to class.

Drop-off/Pick-up of Students

Drivers are expected to follow the established traffic flow when dropping-off/picking-up students. The loading zone is from 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and car speed should not exceed 5 mph in the parking lots. There is no parking along the drop-off/pick-up lane. Do not park in the fire lane and/or leave vehicles running/unattended. The parking lot is also a no idle zone.

Bus Information

Students are expected to be at their assigned bus stop five (5) minutes prior to the assigned stop time. Due to limited space, any items that are too large to be held in the student’s lap must be transported by the parent or guardian (large school projects, oversize athletic bags, instruments, etc). Glass containers are prohibited on the bus (pop bottles, jars with bugs, etc.).

During winter months, school closures or late-start information is shared using the school messenger system, and is available on radio and television. Please keep all contact information current with the office.

Activity Buses: The activity bus does not take all riders to their homes. Activity routes have a limited area for stops. Please contact the Transportation Office at 509.291.5901 to determine the drop-off location for your student.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS & BEHAVIOR

Alcohol/Drugs/Tobacco/Vaping

Our campus is an alcohol-free, drug-free, and smoke-free environment therefore, the use of any of these products at any time in the school building or on school grounds is prohibited.

Cell Phone Use

At East Valley Middle School, we are committed to creating a focused, respectful learning environment where all students can thrive. Personal electronic devices—including cell phones, earbuds, smartwatches, and similar items—can disrupt learning and reduce social connection when used during the school day. The following policy outlines expectations for student use of these devices:

Student Use of Cell Phones, Earbuds, and Other Devices

Off and Away From Entry to Dismissal
From the time students enter the building until the end of the school day, all personal devices—including cell phones, earbuds, and smartwatches—must be off and put away unless directed by an administrator.
- Devices should be turned off or placed in silent mode and stored out of sight—preferably in the student’s locker.
- Earbuds should not be worn or visible during instructional time, transitions, or passing periods.
- Exception: Devices may be used if an emergency situation exists involving imminent physical danger, or if directed by a school administrator.
Consequences for Misuse
- First Offense: Device/earbuds held and returned at the end of the day.
- Repeated Offenses: Parents/guardians will be notified. A parent meeting may be required to develop a plan for appropriate use and/or parent will be required to pick up the phone from the school.
- Continued Misuse: May result in disciplinary action and loss of device privilege.

Communication between students and home should occur via traditional methods and we support these methods of communication. If needed, teachers may provide the opportunity for a student to communicate with family when appropriate.

Public Displays of Affection

This includes holding hands, hugging, kissing, and inappropriate touching are not allowed and may result in school discipline.

Dress Code

It is the responsibility of students, parents and guardians to ensure student dress supports our educational program. Administration may ask students to change clothes if their dress continues to disrupt the educational environment and will provide an alternative if needed. Staff may also assist and provide students access to the Clothing Closet at appropriate times throughout the school day. Continued violations of the dress code may result in disciplinary actions. The uniforms of nationally recognized youth organizations and clothing worn in observance of a student’s religion are not subject to this policy.

Hats/Hoods/Bandanas: Hats are allowed however hoods and bandanas are not.

Apparel/Accessories: Must be appropriate and may not be used as a potential weapon.

Inappropriate Material: The promotion of tobacco, alcohol, drugs, violence, vulgarity, weapons, profanity or that is disparaging to gender, ethnicity, religion or that has a sexual connotation is not allowed.

Gang-Related Items: Clothing or symbols which are gang-related or representative of hate groups, advocating noncompliance with the law, vulgarity, lewdness, or immoral conduct are not allowed.

Flags: Flags of any kind will not be worn as part of a student’s dress.

Appropriate Coverage: Revealing clothing including halter tops, tube tops, etc. and all undergarments must be covered.

PBIS

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports is an organized, data-driven system of interventions, strategies and supports that positively impact school-wide and individualized behavior planning.

HERO: The HERO program drives the culture of our school by providing students expectations for positive behavior in our classrooms, halls, cafeteria, restrooms, outside and with technology. Students can be awarded a HERO ticket for demonstrating Heart, Effort, Respect or Ownership (HERO) throughout each school day. Students may then use collected tickets for school-wide incentives, drawings for prizes, etc.

PACE Character Traits

Partners advancing character education celebrates and encourages good character in schools and the community. Each month features a character “trait of the month” which is the focus of our building and bringing the good to light. PACE is integrated into our Advisory classrooms and students are nominated for PACE awards for demonstrating the importance of good character. Those students receiving the awards are recognized monthly at the PACE Breakfast held in the EVMS library. At the end of the school year, one student is selected to represent our school at the annual PACE Awards event.

August: Gratitude

September: Respect

October: Responsibility

November: Citizenship

December: Caring

January: Fairness

February: Honesty

March: Diligence

April: Trustworthiness

May: Courage

June: Integrity

July: Generosity

Responsibilities & Rights

Students responsibilities and rights information is available online at www.evsd.org on the East Valley Middle School page.

Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying & Sexual Harassment

EVSD is committed to a positive and productive education and working environment free from discrimination, intimidation, bullying, harassment and sexual harassment and prohibits harassment of students, employees and others involved in school district activities. Harassment should be reported to the office immediately. For more information, please see EVSD Policy and Procedures (#3205 & 3207) on the website www.evsd.org.

Care for Buildings and Campus

The cafeteria, halls and lockers are our home. We must care for them. Staff and students are responsible for the care of our building. If students are found to have caused damage to the building or participated in defacing the building, school discipline may result.

Guest (Substitute) Teachers

Our school is fortunate to have highly capable professionals to fill in whenever teachers or support staff are not in school. Guest teachers/staff are important visitors whose impressions of our school are carried into the community. Students are expected to be polite, helpful and considerate as they would be with their classroom teacher. Students not following classroom expectations when a substitute or other staff member is supporting academic learning, school discipline may be the result.

COUNSELING & SUPPORT SERVICES

Communication: Home & School

Students are more successful in school when the important adults in their lives work together to support their efforts. Our staff enjoy exceptional relationships with parents and the community. Parents are encouraged to keep in touch with teachers via email. Our monthly newsletter contains a calendar of upcoming events and schedule changes and are distributed to parents/guardians via email. Our website also contains information about activities and events (www.evsd.org).

Counseling Services

We are here to help students! Students can make an appointment to see a counselor using the QR code provided at the start of each school year. Parents can make an appointment by calling the student office. When a student needs immediate attention, teachers can be asked for assistance in determining support.

Homeless Information

Under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act, pre-school and school-aged students have certain rights or protections when their family lives in any of the following situations: in a shelter, motel, vehicle, campground, on the street, in an abandoned building, trailer, or other inadequate accommodations, or doubled-up with friends or relatives because the family cannot find or afford housing. For more information, contact EVSD’s Liaison for Homeless Education at the district office or the school counselor.

Our School Protects Students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)

We strive to make our school a safe and inclusive environment 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 explains what HIB is, what to do when you see or experience it, and how our school responds to it.

What is HIB?

State law (RCW 28A.600.477(5)(b)(i)) defines HIB as “any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act including, but not limited to, one shown to be motivated by any characteristic in RCW 28A.640.010 and 28A.642.010 (discrimination based on a protected status) or other distinguishing characteristics, when the intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act:

(A) Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property;

(B) Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education;

(C) Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or

(D) Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.”

HIB often involves one student having, or appearing to have, more power than another student. While HIB often appears as repeated behaviors, it is important to take single serious incidents seriously. It usually happens more than once or is very likely to happen again. HIB is against the law in our schools.

HIB policy only applies to actions between students. It does not cover harassment, intimidation, or bullying of an employee, volunteer, parent/legal guardian, or community member.

How can I make a report about HIB?

Talk to any school staff member, start with whoever you feel most comfortable with, such as a teacher, counselor, coach, or other school staff. You can report HIB by telling school staff in person or in writing (written reports can be made in your home language; please ask your school or district for support with translation). You can make your report anonymously/without giving your name or confidentially (asking that your name not be shared with other students or parents/caregivers involved). No student will be disciplined based only on an anonymous or confidential report.

If a staff member learns about, sees, or hears HIB happening, they must act quickly to stop the behavior(s) and keep it or them from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer (Jane Stencel, 3830 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley, (509) 924-1830, stencelj@evsd.org) who helps prevent and respond to HIB.

What happens after I make a report about HIB?

When you report HIB, school staff must act quickly to stop the behavior and prevent it from happening again. If you and the school agree the problem is resolved, then no further action may be needed. But, if you feel that you or someone you know is facing HIB that is unresolved, severe, or keeps happening, you should ask for an official HIB investigation by completing an Incident Reporting Form HERE.

The school must also make sure that students who report HIB are not treated badly for speaking up. This is called retaliation, and it is not allowed.

What is the investigation process?

The HIB investigation begins if you submit the HIB Incident Report Form link, and the incident meets the definition of HIB toward a student. When you submit the Incident Reporting Form, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved that a complaint was received. They must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation is usually finished within five school days. If it takes longer, the school will keep you updated, generally once a week, until it is done.

When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must share the results with you within two school days.

This response should include:

A summary of what the investigation found
A decision about whether the HIB was substantiated (found to have happened)
Any steps the school will take to address the problem
Clear information about how you can appeal the decision

If HIB is confirmed, the school will address it.

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

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

If you disagree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal. To appeal, send a written request asking the superintendent (or the person they've assigned) to review the investigation. They will send you a written decision.

For the student named as the “aggressor” in a complaint:

A student found to be an “aggressor” in a HIB complaint may not appeal the decision of the investigation itself. They can, however, appeal any corrective actions (consequences) that come from the HIB investigation findings.

What information may I have about other students?

Student privacy laws limit what the school can tell you about any intervention or discipline given to another student. You will be told whether HIB was found to have happened and that steps were taken, even if the details of those steps impacting all students involved cannot be shared.

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

How do I make a HIB complaint about a staff member?

This process is for concerns about one student harassing, intimidating, or bullying another student. If your concern is about a staff member's behavior, ask your school for information on how to report it.

Our School Stands Against Discrimination

Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because of a protected status, including their race, ethnicity, color, national origin, immigration or citizenship status, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, homelessness, religion, creed, disability, neurodivergence, 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 behavior that is threatening, harmful, or humiliating. It happens when the behavior is based on a student’s protected status and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when behavior 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, visit evsd.org.

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is unwelcome behavior or communication that is sexual in nature and seriously 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 accept unwelcome sexual behavior or communication to receive something in return, such as a better grade or a place on a sports team.

Examples of sexual harassment include:

· Pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors.

· Unwelcome sexual touching.

· Written, graphic, or electronic messages that are sexual in nature.

· Sharing sexually explicit texts, emails, or pictures.

· Making sexual jokes, spreading sexual rumors, or making suggestive comments.

· Physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.

Our school does not discriminate based on sex. We prohibit sex discrimination in all education programs, activities, and employment, as required by Title IX and state law.

To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy [#3207] and Procedure [#3207P], visit evsd.org.

What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?

When a school learns about possible discriminatory harassment or sexual harassment, it must investigate and take steps to stop the unwanted behavior. The school must address any effects of the harassment on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and prevent the harassment from happening 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 to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns. If English isn’t your first language, you can request an interpreter or prepare the complaint in your language. If you have a disability and need accommodations to make a complaint, let the school know your disability needs.

Concerns about discrimination:

Civil Rights Coordinator: Jane Stencel, Executive Director of Human Resources, 3830 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley, WA 99216; stencelj@evsd.org, (509) 924-1830.

Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment:

Title IX Coordinator: Jane Stencel, Executive Director of Human Resources, 3830 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley, WA 99216; stencelj@evsd.org, (509) 924-1830.

Concerns about disability discrimination:

Section 504 Coordinator: Heather Prosser, Director of Special Programs, 3830 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley, WA 99216; prosserh@evsd.org, (509) 924-1830.

Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity:

Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Dr. Mandi Rehn, Superintendent, 3830 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley, WA 99216; rehnm@evsd.org, (509) 924-1380.

To submit a written complaint, describe the behavior or incident that you believe may be discriminatory. 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 so the school district can investigate it promptly. You must submit your complaint within one year of the behavior 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 will make sure your complaint is investigated promptly and thoroughly. The investigation will be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If exceptional circumstances require more time, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing and tell you the expected date for the response.

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

A summary of the investigation results.
A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws.
Any corrective actions or remedies that are needed.
Information about how to appeal the decision.

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

If you disagree with the decision about your complaint, you may appeal the decision to the School Board. You may then file a complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). For more information about this process, including important deadlines, see the school district’s Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and Sexual Harassment Procedure (3205P).

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

Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) can be discrimination if it is based on a protected status. 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 address your concerns.

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, whether or not they have legally changed their name.
Update students’ gender designation so they accurately reflected in school records.
Provide students with access to restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity.

· Ensure students can participate in sports, physical education classes, field trips, and overnight trips consistent with their gender identity.

Keep students’ health and education information private and confidential.
Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and enforce dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender.
Create an inclusive, respectful environment and 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 evsd.org. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator:

Dr. Mandi Rehn, Superintendent, 3830 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley, (509) 924-1830, rehnm@evsd.org.

For concerns about discrimination or discriminatory harassment based on gender identity or gender expression, please see the information above on page 5.

Our School is Committed to Students and State Law

Students have the right to learn in schools that follow state law and protect their rights. Willful noncompliance happens when a school district leader or school board member does something—or fails to do something—that they knew, or reasonably should have known, would violate state law. Under ESHB 1296, OSPI is responsible for investigating complaints about willful noncompliance and working to find fair solutions.

These laws include requirements related to:

· Civil rights and nondiscrimination (RCWs 28A.640 and 28A.642)

· Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (RCW 28A.600.477)

· Curriculum requirements and instructional materials policies (RCWs 28A.150.230, 28A.300.475, 28A.320.170, 28A.320.230, and 28A.320.235)

· Use of restraint or isolation (RCW 28A.600.485)

· Student discipline (chapter 28A.600 RCW)

How do I make a complaint about willful noncompliance with state law?

You must first use available complaint processes to try to resolve your concern. This means the available complaint processes start with your school district, even if the school district superintendent or a school board member is the subject of your complaints. School personnel are not allowed to retaliate for making a formal complaint.

If no available complaint processes are available, you must check OSPI's website for other OSPI complaint procedures at How to File a Complaint, and follow any applicable processes. If none exist, or you have completed all other processes, you must send written notice to the district superintendent at least 30 calendar days before filing a complaint with OSPI.

Complaints to OSPI must be submitted within 30 calendar days after a final decision in the local complaint process, when one applies. The complaint must be in writing and include enough information to describe the concern and the actions or failures to act that may be willful noncompliance. You may send the complaint by mail, email, or hand delivery to OSPI.

When OSPI receives a complaint that meets the requirements for investigation, it will open an investigation. OSPI will send you written notice of the allegations under investigation. After the investigation is complete, OSPI will issue written findings to you and your school. These findings will state whether noncompliance occurred and may require the school to take actions to fix the issue.

Who else can help with HIB, Discrimination, or Willful Noncompliance Concerns?

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)

All reports must start locally at the school or district level, even if the complaint involves the school or school district. School personnel should not retaliate against students or families for making a formal complaint.

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, as well as complaints alleging willful noncompliance with state law under ESHB 1296.

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

OSPI Office of Legal Affairs (For more details on the willful noncompliance complaint process)

Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/educator-support/educator-conduct/state-law-noncompliance-complaints
Email: OLA@k12.wa.us

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

The Washington State Office of the Education Ombuds works with families, communities, and schools to help solve problems so every student can fully participate and thrive in Washington’s K-12 public schools. OEO provides informal conflict resolution, coaching, facilitation, and training on family and 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: www.ed.gov/
Email: ocr@ed.gov
Phone: 800-421-3481

Our School is Committed to Safety at School Activities and Events

Washington State wants school activities and events, like athletic competitions, performances, and other extracurricular activities, to be safe for everyone who takes part in them or watches them.

What does state law say?

Washington State law has long banned intimidation, force, and threats of violence at school events. ESB 5272 (which takes effect in 2026) made those protections stronger. It now also covers officials and volunteers at extracurricular athletic activities, and it has created new consequences for breaking the law. For non-students, if they are convicted of a crime, they may be banned from school activities for up to 18 months, receive a fine, or go to jail for no more than 6 months. For students, other school consequences, including removal from school, may also apply under RCW 28A.600.015.

How is this different from HIB?

This is different from our school's HIB policy, which deals with conduct between students through a school process. ESB 5272 covers more people and more situations and is enforced through criminal law and school discipline procedures instead of the school's HIB process.

The expectations in this section are broader. They apply to everyone at school activities — students, parents, and community members alike — and they cover behavior toward everyone involved, not just students. This section and the HIB section work together but cover different situations.

What should I do if I experience or witness this conduct?

Call 911 if there is an immediate safety concern
Report to a coach, event supervisor, school administrator, or other trusted adult as soon as possible. They can connect you with the right support and make sure the right steps are taken
If a student was the target of the conduct, you may also be able to file a report under our school’s HIB policy — see the HIB section of this handbook for more information

Who can I contact with questions?

For questions about safety at school events, contact your school principal.

For questions about whether conduct student-to-student may also be HIB, contact the HIB Compliance Officer: Jane Stencel, 3830 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley, (509) 924-1830, stencelj@evsd.org.