Newcastle Elementary Charter School

NEWCASTLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNUAL PARENT NOTICE 2025-2026

Dear Parent/Guardian:
State law requires school districts and the county office of education (“county office”) to provide annual notice to parents/guardians of certain rights and responsibilities. Parents/guardians are required to acknowledge receipt of this notice by signing and returning the receipt and acknowledgment (Part I of Form A) to your school district or county office program.

CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION

Instructional Materials:

All primary and supplemental instructional materials and assessments, including textbooks, teacher manuals, films, audio and video recordings, and software, will be compiled and stored by the classroom instructor and made available promptly for inspection by a parent/guardian in a reasonable time frame or in accordance with school district or county office policies or procedures.

Education Code §§ 49091.10(a); 51101(a)(8).

 

Observation:

Upon written request, a parent/guardian has the right to observe instruction and other school activities that involve their child or for the purpose of selecting a school in accordance with board policies on interdistrict and intradistrict transfers. Any observation will be done in accordance with policies established to ensure the safety of pupils and school personnel and to prevent undue interference with instruction or harassment of school personnel. Education Code §§ 49091.10(b); 51101(a)(1).

Beliefs:

A pupil may not be compelled to affirm or disavow any particular personally or privately held worldview, religious doctrine, or political opinion. This does not relieve pupils of any obligation to complete regular classroom assignments. Education Code § 49091.12(a).

Curriculum:

The curriculum, including titles, descriptions, and instructional aims of every course offered by a public school, shall be compiled at least once annually in a prospectus. The prospectus is available for review upon request and for copying at a reasonable charge. Education Code §§ 49091.14; 49063(k).

Animal Dissection:

A pupil, who has a moral objection to dissecting or otherwise harming or destroying animals as part of an instructional program, has a right to request an alternative educational project. Education Code §§ 32255-32255.6, 48980(a).

Sexual Health and HIV Prevention Education:

The Healthy Youth Act (“Act”) authorizes a school district or county office to provide comprehensive sexual health education and HIV prevention education to all pupils in grades 7 to 12. Education Code §§ 51933 et seq., 48980(a).

• Written and audio-visual educational materials used in comprehensive sexual health education and HIV prevention education will be made available for your inspection. Education Code § 51938.
• You will be notified whether the comprehensive sexual health education or HIV prevention education will be taught by school district/county office personnel or by outside consultants. Education Code § 51938.
• You may request a copy of the Act from the school district or county office. Education Code § 51938.
• You may request in writing that your child be excused from comprehensive sexual health education and HIV prevention education. (Fill out Part II of Form A to make a request.) Education Code § 51938.

Tests, Questionnaires, Surveys, Examinations on Personal Beliefs or Practices:

No pupil will be given any test, questionnaire, survey, or examination containing questions about a pupil’s, or their parents’/guardians' beliefs or practices relating to sex, family life, morality, or religion, unless their parent/guardian provides prior written permission. Parents/guardians of all pupils in grades 7 to 12, will be given the opportunity to review any test, questionnaire, or survey about a pupil’s attitude concerning or practices relating to sex before it is administered and will be given the opportunity to request in writing that their pupil not participate. Education Code §§ 51513, 51938, 51939.

Minimum Days and Staff Development:

Attached to this notice is the calendar for the school year which includes the current schedule of any minimum days or pupil-free staff development days. Parents/guardians will be notified during the school year of any additional minimum days and pupil-free staff development days not later than one month before the scheduled minimum or pupil-free day. Education Code § 48980(c).

PUPIL BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE

Sexual Harassment:

The school district and county office prohibit sexual harassment of or by any pupil or by anyone employed by or otherwise working or volunteering for the school district or county office. Prohibited sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Any person who feels that they are being discriminated against or harassed should immediately contact their principal or designee so that they can address the situation. A written complaint may be filed in accordance with the district or county office’s Uniform Complaint Procedures. Written complaint procedures are available at all school sites. A copy of the school district or county office’s written policy on sexual harassment, as it pertains to pupils, is attached to this notice. Education Code §§ 48980(f), 212.5, 231.5; 5 C.C.R. § 4917.

Evaluations:

A pupil may not be tested for behavioral, mental, or emotional evaluation without the informed written consent of their parent/guardian. Education Code § 49091.12(c).

Unexcused Absence:

Parents/guardians will be notified in a timely manner if their child is absent from school without permission. Education Code § 51101(a)(4).

Truancy:

Upon your child’s initial classification as a truant, you will be notified of the following:

1. That your child is truant.
2. That you are obligated to compel the attendance of your child at school.
3. That you may be guilty of a criminal infraction and subject to prosecution if you fail to meet this obligation.
4. That alternative educational programs are available in the district.
5. That you have the right to meet with appropriate school personnel to discuss solutions to your child’s truancy.
6. That your child may be subject to arrest or temporary custody under Education Code section 48264.
7. That it is recommended that you accompany your child to school and attend classes with them for one day.

Education Code § 48260.5.

Chronic Truancy:

The parent/guardian of any pupil in grades 1 through 8 who is found to be a “chronic truant” may be found guilty of a misdemeanor. Education Code § 48263.6; Penal Code § 270.1.

Pupil Discipline Rules:

A copy of the school’s pupil discipline rules may be obtained by contacting the principal or designee. The parent/guardian of a pupil who has been suspended by a teacher may be required to attend a portion of a school day in the class of their child or ward. Education Code §§ 35291, 48980(a), 48900.1.

PUPIL HEALTH, SAFETY AND MEDICAL TREATMENT

Fingerprint Policy:

Information concerning the school district or the county office’s pupil fingerprint policy, if any, is provided at the time of enrollment. Education Code §§ 32390, 48980(e).

Confidential Medical Services:

School authorities may excuse any pupil enrolled in grades 7 through 12, inclusive, from school for the purpose of obtaining confidential medical services without the consent of the pupil’s parent or guardian. Education Code § 46010.1.

Pupil Immunization:

No student shall be admitted to school until the student is immunized as required by law. The district may permit a licensed physician and surgeon, or other health care practitioner who is acting under the direction of a supervision physician or surgeon, to administer an immunizing agent to a student whose parent or guardian has consented in writing to the administration of such immunization agent. When there is good cause to believe that a student has been exposed to a communicable disease and their documentary proof of immunization status does not show proof of immunization against that disease, the student may be temporally excluded from school until the local health officer is satisfied the student is no longer at risk of developing or transmitting the disease.

If a parent or guardian files with the governing authority a written statement by a licensed physician to the effect that the physical condition of the child is such, or medical circumstances relating to the child are such, that immunization is not considered safe, indicating the specific nature and probable duration of the medical condition or circumstances, including, but not limited to , family medical history, for which the physician does not recommend immunization, that child shall be exempt from the immunization requirements. Any child with a medical exemption authorized prior to January 1, 2020, shall be allowed continued enrollment until they enroll in the next grade span. “Grade span” means (1) from birth through preschool; (2) transitional kindergarten through 6th grade; and (3) grades 7 through 12. After July 1, 2021, a student may not be unconditionally admitted or readmitted, or admitted/advance to the seventh grade, unless they have been immunized or files a medical exemption that is compliant with a required statewide form.

Effective January 1, 2016, the California Legislature eliminated the exemption from specified immunization requirements based upon personal beliefs. A student who, prior to January 1, 2016, submitted a letter or affidavit on file with their school stating beliefs opposed to immunization shall be allowed enrollment until the student enrolls in the next grade span. “Grade span” means (1) from birth through preschool; (2) transitional kindergarten through 6th grade; and (3) grades 7 through 12.

Health and Safety Code §§ 120335, 120370; Education Code §§ 48216, 48980(a), 49403.

Physical Examinations:

A child may be excluded from physical examination whenever a parent/guardian files a written statement with the school that they will not consent to a physical examination of their child. Whenever there is good reason to believe the child is suffering from a recognized contagious or infectious disease, the child will be excluded from school attendance. (School children are examined for vision, hearing, and curvature of the spine at selected grade levels.) Education Code §§ 48980(a), 49450 – 49455.

Psychological Testing:

A parent/guardian has the right to receive information about psychological testing the school does involving their child and to deny permission to give the test. Education Code § 51101(a)(13).

Pupil Medication:

Any pupil who must take prescribed medication at school and who desires assistance of school personnel must submit a written statement of instruction from the physician or surgeon or physician assistant, as specified by law, detailing the name of the medication, method, amount, and time schedules by which the mediation is to be taken, and a written statement from the pupil’s parent, foster parent, or guardian indicating their desire to have the school assist in administering the physician and surgeon, or physician assistant’s instructions. Any student who wishes to carry and self-administer prescription auto-injectable epinephrine and/or self-administered inhaled asthma medication must submit both a written statement of instruction from their physician or surgeon or physician assistant, as specified by law, that includes a confirmation that the student is able to self-administer such medication, and a written statement from the pupil’s parent, foster parent, or guardian consenting to the self-administration, as well as applicable releases. Any pupil who uses auto-injectable epinephrine or inhaled asthma medication in a manner other than as prescribed is subject to discipline. Education Code §§ 48980(a), 49423, 49423.1.

Continuing Medication:

A parent/guardian of a pupil on a continuing medication regimen for a non-episodic condition shall inform the school of the medication being taken, the current dosage, and the name of the supervising physician. With a parent/guardian consent, the school nurse or other designated employee may communicate with the physician with regard to the possible effects of the drug on the child’s physical, intellectual and social behavior, as well as possible behavioral signs and symptoms of adverse side effects, omission, or over dosage. Education Code § 49480.

Pupil Insurance:

The school district or county office may provide or make available medical or hospital services, or both, for injuries to pupils arising from school programs or activities. No pupil will be compelled to accept such services. You may obtain further information regarding availability of pupil accident insurance by contacting your school’s principal. Education Code §§ 48980(a), 49472.

Emergency Medical Care:

Parents/guardians must provide current updated emergency contact information to your child’s school of attendance, including your home address and telephone number, business address and telephone, and the name, address and telephone number of a relative or friend who is authorized to care for your child in any emergency situation if you cannot be reached,. If your child is ill or injured during regular school hours and requires reasonable medical treatment, and if you cannot be reached, the school district, county office, or principal cannot be held liable for reasonable treatment of your ill or injured child without your prior consent, unless you have previously filed a written objection to any medical treatment other than first aid.

Education Code §§ 49407; 49408.

Pupil Safety:

A parent/guardian has the right to have a safe and supportive learning environment for their child. Education Code § 51101(a)(7).

Unsafe School Choice Option:

Students who attend a persistently dangerous school and students who are victims of a violent criminal offense while in or on the grounds of a public school must be allowed to attend a safe public school. 5 C.C.R. §§ 11992, 11993; 20 U.S.C. § 7912.

Tobacco-Free Campus:

Use of tobacco products at any time by students, staff, parents, or visitors, is strictly prohibited in county office or district-owned or leased buildings, on county office, school, or district property, and in the county office, school, or district vehicles. This prohibition applies to all employees, students, and visitors at any school-sponsored instructional program, activity, or athletic event held on or off county office or district property. Prohibited products include any product containing tobacco or nicotine, including, but not limited to, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew, clove cigarettes, and electronic cigarettes that can deliver nicotine and non-nicotine vaporized solutions. Health and Safety Code § 104420.

Sun Protective Clothing/Sunscreen:

Any pupil may use articles of sun protective clothing, including hats, for outdoor use during the school day, subject to school district or county office dress code policies. Any pupil may use sunscreen during the school day without a physician’s note or prescription but school personnel are not required to assist pupils in applying sunscreen. Education Code § 35183.5.

Oral Health Assessment:

Any pupil, while enrolled in kindergarten in a public school or while enrolled in first grade if the pupil was not previously enrolled in kindergarten, unless excused, must present proof no later than May 31 of the school year of having received an oral assessment by a licensed dentist or other licensed or registered dental health professional. While “kindergarten” includes both transitional kindergarten and kindergarten, the required proof of a pupil’s oral health assessment upon first enrollment, must only be presented once during the two-year kindergarten program. The assessment must be performed no earlier than 12 months prior to initial enrollment of the pupil. Education Code § 49452.8.

Type 1 Diabetes Information:

Information regarding Type  1  Diabetes  is  available  on  the  California  Department  of  Education’s  website  at:

https:/CDE Type 1 Diabetes Website Education Code § 49452.6.

Synthetic Drug Use Dangers:

Parents/guardians should be aware of the possibility that dangerous synthetic drugs can be found in counterfeit pills and that there is a risk of social media platforms being used to market and sell synthetic drugs, such as fentanyl. Information about the dangers associated with using synthetic drugs that are not prescribed by a physician, such as fentanyl, is available on the District’s website. Education Code § 48985.5

PUPIL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION

School Accountability Report Card:

A copy of the school district and county office’s accountability report card may be obtained from your child’s school upon request. Education Code § 35256.

Parent Meeting with Teacher and Principal:

Upon reasonable notice, a parent/guardian has the right to meet with their child’s teacher(s) and principal. Education Code §

51101(a)(2).

Parent Notification:

A parent/guardian has the right to be notified concerning their child’s classroom and standardized test performances, when their child has been identified as at risk of retention, and to be informed about school rules, including disciplinary rules and procedures, attendance policies, retention and promotion policies, dress codes, school visiting procedures and the person to contact shou ld problems arise with their child. Education Code §§ 48070.5, 51101(a)(5), (9), (12), (16).

Academic Expectations:

A parent/guardian has the right to be informed of the academic expectations of their child. Education Code § 51101(a)(11).

Participation in State Assessments and Option to Request Exemption:

Pupils in applicable grade levels will participate in the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) except as exempted by law. Each year, a parent may submit a written request to excuse their child from any or all parts of the CAASPP assessments for that school year. Education Code §§ 60640, 60615, 5 C.C.R. § 852.

PUPIL RECORDS

Pupil Records Access:

Parents/guardians have the right to access school records of their child, and to question, and receive a response from the school

regarding items on their child’s record that a parent/guardian feels is inaccurate, misleading, or is an invasion of their child’s privacy.Education Code §§ 51101(a)(10), (15), 49063(f); 49069.7.

Notification of Privacy Rights of Pupils:

Federal and state laws grant certain privacy rights and pupil records access rights to students and to their parents/guardians. Full access to all personally identifiable written records, maintained by the school district or county office must be granted to: (1) Parents/guardians of a student age 17 or younger; and (2) Students age 18 or older, or students who are attending an institution of postsecondary instruction (“adult student”). In addition, parents/guardians of a student age 18 or older who is dependent for tax purposes, students age 16 or older or who have completed the 10^th grade, and students age 14 or older who are both a "homeless child or youth" and an "unaccompanied youth" as defined in the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (“eligible student”), must be permitted access to those particular pupil records relevant to the legitimate educational interest of the requester.

Parents/guardians, or an adult or eligible student, may review individual records by making a request to the principal. The principal will provide explanations and interpretations if requested.

In addition, a parent/guardian, adult or eligible student may receive a copy of any information in the pupil’s records at a reasonable cost per page. School district and county office policies and procedures relating to types of records, kinds of information retained, persons responsible for maintaining pupil records, directory information, access by other persons, review, and to the challenge to content of records are available through the principal of their child’s school or their designee. Parents/guardians may contact their child’s school to review the log listing those who have requested or received information from their child’s pupil records. Access to a pupil’s records will only be granted to those with a legitimate educational interest.

When a student moves to a new school district, records will be forwarded upon request of the new district. At the time of transfer, the parent/guardian or an eligible student may challenge, review or receive a copy at reasonable fee of the requested records. Parents/guardians may contact the school district or county office for any policy regarding the review and expungement of pup il records.

If you believe the school district or county office is not in compliance with federal regulations regarding privacy, you may file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office of the U.S. Department of Education at 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-5920.

The school district also makes certain student directory information available in accordance with state and federal laws. This means that each student’s name, birth date, address, telephone number, email address, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards achieved, and the most recent previous public or private school attended by the student, may be released to certain specified agencies. Appropriate directory information may not be provided to any private, profit-making entity other than employers, prospective employers, or representatives of the news media. Names and addresses of seniors or terminating students may be given to public or private schools and colleges. Directory information does not include citizenship status, immigration status, place of birth, or any other information indicating national origin, and the district will not release such information without parental consent or a court order

Upon written request from the parent/guardian of a student age 17 or younger, the school district will withhold directory information about the student. (Fill out Part III of Form A to make a request.) If the student is 18 or older or enrolled in an institution of post-secondary instruction and makes a written request, the student’s request to deny access to directory information will be honored. Requests should be submitted within 30 calendar days of receipt of this notification.

Directory information will not be released regarding a student identified as a "homeless child or youth" as defined in the McKinney- Vento Homeless Assistance Act, unless a parent or student accorded parental rights has provided prior written consent that th e directory information may be released.

Education Code §§ 49060-49078, 51101; FERPA 20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 C.F.R. § 99.37.

Disclosure of Student Information Pursuant to Court Order or Subpoena:

Information concerning a student must be furnished in compliance with a court order or lawfully issued subpoena. Reasonable effort shall be made to notify the parent/guardian in advance of disclosing student information pursuant to a lawfully issued subpoena, and in the case of compliance with a court order, if lawfully possible within the requirements of the order.

Education Code § 49077.

California College Guidance Initiative Data Sharing:

The California College Guidance Initiative (CCGI) works with California school districts to make applying for college and student financial aid a more streamlined experience for students. The CCGI currently receives enrollment data for all public school students in grades 6-12 from the California Department of Education. Grades 9-12 pupil transcript information may be shared with the CCGI in order to: (i) Provide pupils and their families with direct access to online tools and resources for college and career planning; and

(ii) Enable pupils to transmit information shared with the CCGI to postsecondary educational institutions for purposes of admissions and academic placement, and the Student Aid Commission for purposes of determining eligibility for, and increasing uptake of, student financial aid. For more information about the CCGI, visit their website at: https://CA Colleges Website

Education Code §§ 60900, 60900.5.

ATTENDANCE, TEMPORARY INSTRUCTION AND ENROLLMENT

Excused Absences:

No pupil will have their grade reduced or suffer a loss of academic credit on account of an excused absence when missed assignments and tests that can reasonably be provided are satisfactorily completed within a reasonable period of time. An excused absence is defined in Education Code section 48205 as an absence:

1. Due to the pupil’s illness, including an absence for the benefit of the pupil’s mental or behavioral health.
2. Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer.
3. For purposes of having medical, dental, optometrical, or chiropractic service rendered.
4. For purposes of attending the funeral services or grieving the death of either a of a member of the pupil’s immediate family as defined in the Education Code, or of a person that is determined by the pupil’s parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupil’s immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than five (5) days per incident.
5. For purposes of jury duty in the manner provided for by law.
6. Due to the illness or medical appointment during school hours of a child of whom the pupil is the custodial parent, including absences to care for a sick child for which the school shall not require a note from a doctor.
7. For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an attendance or appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of the pupil’s religion, attendance at a religious retreat which shall not exceed one (1) school day per semester, attendance at an employment conference, or attendance at an educational conference on the legislative or judicial process offered by a nonprofit organization, when the pupil’s absence has been requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board of the school district.
8. For purposes of serving as a member of a precinct board for an election pursuant to § 12302 of the Elections Code.
9. For purposes of spending time with a member of the pupil’s immediate family who is an active-duty member of the uniformed services, as defined in Education Code 49701, and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from, deployment to a combat zone or combat support position. Absences granted pursuant to this paragraph shall be granted for a period of time to be determined at the discretion of the superintendent of the school district.
10. For purposes of attending the pupil’s naturalization ceremony to become a United States citizen.
11. For purposes of participating in a cultural ceremony or event. “Cultural” means relating to the practices, habits, beliefs, and traditions of a certain group of people.
12. For purposes of a middle school or high school pupil engaging in a civic or political event, including but not limited to, voting, poll working, strikes, public commenting, candidate speeches, political or civic forums, and town halls, provided that the pupil notifies the school ahead of the absence.
    1. A pupil who is absent for this reason is required to be excused for only one school day-long absence per school year.
    2. A pupil who is absent for this reason may be permitted additional excused absences at the discretion of a school administrator.
13. For any of the purposes described in clauses (i) to (iii) below, if an immediate family member of the pupil, or a person that is determined by the pupil’s parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupil’s immediate family, has died, so long as the absence is not more than three (3) days per incident.
    1. To access services from a victim services organization or agency as defined in Government Code section 12945.8(i).
    2. To access grief support services.
    3. To participate in safety planning or to take other actions to increase the safety of the pupil or an immediate family

member of the pupil, or a person that is determined by the pupil’s parent or guardian to be in such close association with the pupil as to be considered the pupil’s immediate family, including, but not limited to, temporary or permanent relocation.

Any absences beyond three (3) days for the reasons described above shall be subject to the discretion of the school administrator, or their designee, pursuant to Education Code section 48260.

14. Due to the pupil’s participation in military entrance processing.
15. Authorized at the discretion of a school administrator, as described in subdivision (c) of Education Code section 48260.

A pupil with an excused absence shall be allowed to complete all assignments and tests missed during the absence that can be reasonably provided and, upon satisfactory completion within a reasonable period of time, shall be given full credit for those assignments and tests. The teacher of any class from which a pupil is absent shall determine the tests and assignments shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the tests and assignments that the pupil missed during the absence.

Education Code §§ 48980(a), (i), 48205; Elections Code § 12302.

Absence for Religious Exercises/Instruction:

With parent/guardian written consent, a student may be excused from school in order to participate in religious exercises or instruction consistent with the limitations specified in Education Code section 46014 provided the district’s Board has adopted a resolution permitting such absence and has adopted regulations governing such absences and the reporting thereof. Education Code §§ 46014, 48980(a).

Attendance Options:

California law gives parents/guardians the right to receive notification of all existing statutory attendance options and local attendance options available in the school district, including options for meeting residency requirements for school attendance, programmatic options offered within local attendance areas, and any special programmatic options available on both an interdistrict and intradistrict basis.

Parents/guardians may contact their student's school or district of residence for more information about the available statutory and local attendance options, including information regarding application procedures for alternative attendance areas or programs and district application form(s) for requesting a change of attendance, and for information regarding the appeals process, if any, when a change of attendance is denied.

Education Code § 48980(g).

Individual Instruction:

Except for pupils receiving individual instruction provided pursuant to a school district or county office-sponsored program, a pupil with a temporary disability which makes attendance in the regular day classes or alternative education program in which the pupil is enrolled impossible or inadvisable shall receive either individual instruction at home provided by the school district in which the pupil is deemed to reside, or individual instruction in a hospital or other residential health facility, excluding state hospitals, provided by the school district in which the hospital or other residential health facility is located. Education Code §§ 48206.3; 48980(b).

Residence When Hospitalized:

Notwithstanding compulsory education requirements, a pupil with a temporary disability who is in a hospital or other residential health facility, excluding a state hospital, which is located outside of the school district in which the pupil’s parent/guardian resides shall be deemed to have complied with the residency requirements for school attendance in the school district in which the hospital is located. It shall be the primary responsibility of the parent/guardian of a pupil with temporary disability to notify the school district in which the pupil is deemed to reside of the pupil’s presence in a qualifying hospital. Education Code §§ 48207, 48208, 48980(a).

Residence Based on Parent/Guardian Employment:

A pupil complies with the residency requirements for school attendance in a school district, if the pupil’s parent or guardian resides outside the boundaries of that school district but is employed and lives with the pupil at the place of their employment within the boundaries of the school district for a minimum of 3 days during the school week. Education Code § 48204(a)(7).

A pupil may also be deemed a pupil having complied with the residency requirements for school attendance in a school district if at least one parent/guardian is physically employed within the boundaries of that district for a minimum of 10 hours during the school week. Education Code § 48204(b).

Students of Active Military Parent/Guardian:

A child shall be deemed to meet residency requirements for school attendance in a school district, if the child is a student whose parent/guardian is transferred, or is pending transfer to a military installation within the state while on active military duty pursuant to an official military order, and the student’s parent/guardian has provided proof of residence in the school district within 10 days after the published arrival date provided on official documentation. Education Code § 48204.3

Pupil of California Resident Parents Departed State Against their Will:

A pupil complies with the residency requirements for school attendance in a school district if their parent(s)/guardian(s) were residents of the state but departed against their will, and the pupil seeks admission to a school of a school district, if certain requirements are met. Education Code § 48204.4.

Attendance Where Caregiver Resides:

If your child lives in the home of a caregiving adult, as defined by law, your child may attend the school district in which that residence is located. Execution of an affidavit, under penalty of perjury, by the caregiving adult is required to determine that your child lives in the caregiver’s home. Education Code § 48204(a); Family Code §§ 6550, 6552.

Intradistrict Enrollment:

Residents of a school district may apply to enroll their child in other schools within the district to attend on a space available basis. Intradistrict enrollment is not applicable to districts with only one school or with schools that do not serve any of the same grade levels. Education Code § 35160.5(b).

Interdistrict Attendance:

A pupil may attend a school in a district other than the pupil’s district of residence pursuant to an interdistrict agreement. Each school district has adopted policies regarding interdistrict attendance. You may contact your student's school for an application and further information. Education Code §§ 46600 et seq.

Specific School Request:

Parents/guardians have the right to request a specific school and to receive a response. Such a request does not obligate the school to grant the request. Education Code § 51101(a)(6).

Notice of Alternative Schools:

California state law authorizes all school districts to provide for alternative schools. Section 58500 of the Education Code defines an alternative school as a school or separate class group within a school which is operated in a manner designed to:

1. Maximize the opportunity for students to develop the positive values of self-reliance, initiative, kindness, spontaneity, resourcefulness, courage, creativity, responsibility and joy.
2. Recognize that the best learning takes place when the student learns because of their desire to learn.
3. Maintain a learning situation maximizing student self-motivation and encouraging the student in their own time to follow their own interests. These interests may result wholly or in part from a presentation by their teachers of choices of learning projects.
4. Maximize the opportunity for teachers, parents, and students to cooperatively develop the learning process and its subject matter. This opportunity shall be a continuous, permanent process.
5. Maximize the opportunity for the students, teachers, and parents to continuously react to the changing world, including but not limited to the community in which the school is located.

In the event any parent/guardian, pupil, or teacher is interested in further information concerning alternative schools, the county superintendent of schools, the administrative office of this district, and the principal’s office in each attendance unit have copies of the law available for your information. This law particularly authorizes interested persons to request the governing board of the district to establish alternative school programs in each district. Contact the school for more information. Education Code §§ 58500; 58501.

MISCELLANEOUS

Parent Involvement:

A parent/guardian has the right to participate as a member of a school site council, a parental advisory committee, or a site-based management leadership team in accordance with the rules governing parent membership of those organizations. A copy of the school district’s policy regarding Parent Involvement is attached to this notice. Education Code § 51101(a)(14).

Volunteering Time and Resources:

Parents/guardians may volunteer their time and resources for the improvement of school facilities and programs under the supervision of district employees, including, but not limited to, providing assistance in the classroom with the approval, and under the direct supervision, of the teacher. Although volunteer parents may assist with instruction, primary instructional responsibility shall remain with the teacher. Education Code § 51101(a)(3).

Open Campus:

A school district that has decided to permit pupils enrolled in a high school to leave the school grounds during the lunch period is not liable for the conduct or safety of any pupil during such times as the pupil has left the school grounds during the lunch period. Education Code § 44808.5.

Nondiscrimination:

The school district and county office have a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of a person’s race, color, ancestry, nationality, national origin, immigration status, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital, pregnancy, or parental status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, or genetic information; a perception of one or more of such characteristics; or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics, in any of its policies, practices or procedures programs or activities. The policy applies to all acts related to school activity or school attendance occurring within a school under the jurisdiction of the school district and county office, and all acts of the governing board or body of the local educational agency, the superintendent of the school district, and the county superintendent of schools in enacting policies and procedures that govern the local educational agency. The school district’s and county office’s nondiscrimination policy comply with the requirements of Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“Section 504”), the Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 and other related state and federal laws. Pupils or parents or any other individual having questions or concerns regarding these nondiscrimination and harassment policies or who may wish to file a complaint, should contact the school district or the county office. Education Code §§ 220, 234.1; 5 C.C.R. §§ 4900 et seq.

Pupils with Exceptional Needs/Section 504:

Placer County school districts are included in the Placer County Special Education Local Plan Area (“SELPA”). Pupils with exceptional needs, as defined by Education Code § 56026, have a right to a free and appropriate public education. If you

suspect that your child has exceptional needs due to a disability, you may request an assessment for eligibility for special education services by contacting your school principal or the Placer County Office of Education at (530) 889-8020. Education Code § 56300 et seq.

Some pupils with special needs who do not qualify for special education may qualify for assistance under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act if they have a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a record of such impairment, or is regarded as having such impairment. The school district and county office have policies and procedures to identify and evaluate any student who may need assistance in their educational program or to provide access into district programs. Pupils or parents or others who have questions or concerns regarding the Section 504 policy may contact their school, school district, or the county office.

Minimum Age for Admission to Kindergarten:

Districts shall admit a pupil into kindergarten at the beginning of the school year, or at a later time in the same school year, if the pupil will be 5 years of age on or before September 1 of the school year. Education Code § 48000(a).

Nutrition Program, Free or Reduced-Price Meals:

Free or reduced price meals are available for needy pupils. Contact your student’s school for eligibility information. Education Code §§ 48980(b); 49510 et seq.

Pregnant and Parenting Pupils:

Pregnant and parenting pupils as defined in Education Code section 46015, have rights and options available to them, including, but not limited to, the provision of parental leave and reasonable lactation accommodations on campus. Education Code §§ 222, 222.5, 46015, 48980(a).

Educational Rights of High Mobility Students:

Foster youth, students experiencing homelessness, former juvenile court school students, children of a military family, migratory students, or newcomer students, shall be afforded rights including those specified in Education Code sections 49069.5, 48853, 51225.1, and 51225.2. A complaint of noncompliance with the requirements of these sections, may be filed under the district or county office’s Uniform Complaint Procedures.

Personal Property:

School districts and the county office are not responsible for personal property. Pupils are discouraged from bringing non- instructional items to school. Education Code § 35213.

Parent Responsibility:

Parents/guardians are liable for all damages caused by the willful misconduct of their minor children which results in the death or injury to other students, school personnel, school volunteer or school property. Education Code § 48904; Civil Code § 1714.1.

Asbestos Management Plan:

The school district has a current asbestos management plan for each school site available for inspection at the district offices during normal business hours. 40 C.F.R. § 763.93; Education Code § 49410 et seq.

Use of Pesticide Products:

Please find attached to this notice a list of pesticide products expected to be applied at school sites this year. Recipients of th is notice may register with their school site if they wish to receive notification of individual pesticide applications at the school site. Education Code §§ 17612, 48980.3.

Uniform Complaint Procedures:

The school district and county office have adopted Uniform Complaint Procedures (UCP) for the filing, investigation and resolution of complaints subject to the UCP process, including those alleging unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying, based on a person’s actual or perceived characteristics of race or ethnicity, color, ancestry, nationality, national origin, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital, pregnancy, or parental status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or genetic information, or any other characteristic identified in Education Code 200 or 220, Government Code 11135, or Penal Code 422.55, or based on their association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics; failure to comply with specified state and/or federal laws governing educational programs, including, adult education programs, consolidated categorical aide programs, migrant education, vocational education, physical education instructional minutes (grades 1-6), child care and development programs, child nutrition programs, special education programs, course periods without educational content (grades 9-12); and matters pertaining to the rights of foster youth, homeless youth, former juvenile court school pupils, children of military families, migratory children, and newcomer pupils; compensatory education; and accommodations for lactating students, and pregnant and parenting students; school safety plans; failure to comply with Local Control and Accountability Plan requirements; and for unlawfully charging pupil fees. A copy of the district or county office’s Uniform Complaint Procedures is enclosed with this Notice. 5 C.C.R. § 4600 et seq.; Education Code § 49013, 48853.5

Williams Uniform Complaint Procedure:

The school district and county office have adopted policies and procedures regarding complaints for deficiencies related to textbooks and instructional materials, emergency or urgent facilities conditions that pose a threat to the health and safety of students or staff, and teacher vacancy and misassignment. For more information regarding Williams Uniform Complaint Procedures and/or to obtain a complaint form or assistance with the process, please contact the school district or the county office. 5 C.C.R. § 4680 et seq.; Education Code § 35186.

Local Control Accountability Plan Compliance:

School districts and county offices of education are required to adopt and annually update their Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP). The public has the opportunity to submit written comments regarding specific actions and expenditures in the proposed LCAP or annual update. Education Code § 52062.

Pupil Protections Relating to Immigration and Citizenship Status:

All students have a right to a free public education, regardless of immigration status or religious beliefs. The California Attorney General's website provides resources for immigrant students and family members online at: State of CA Immigration Website Education Code § 234.7.

Professional Qualifications of Teachers:

At the beginning of each school year, parents/guardians may request information regarding the professional qualifications of their

child’s classroom teachers including, at a minimum:

• Whether the teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade level(s) and subject area(s) in which the teacher provides instruction.
• Whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency or other provisional status through which state qualification or licensing criteria have been waived.
• Whether the teacher is teaching in the field of discipline of the certification of the teacher.
• Whether their child is provided services by paraprofessionals, and if so, their qualifications. 20 U.S.C. § 6312; 34 C.F.R. § 200.61.

Model Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA):

PPRA affords parents/guardians of elementary and secondary students certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include, but are not limited to, the right to:

• Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED):

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student's parent;
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student's family;
3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student's parent; or
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

• Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of:

1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and
3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others. (This does not apply to the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing educational products or services for, or to, students or educational institutions.)

• Inspect, upon request and before administration or use:

1. Protected information surveys of students and surveys created by a third party;
2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and
3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law. Board policies regarding these rights may be obtained from the school district or county office.

Parents/guardians who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with: Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

20 U.S.C. § 1232h.