Oswego Community Unit School District 308

Per Board Policy 7:10, Equal Educational Opportunities, the Student Rights and Responsibilities Code is developed by
Oswego Community Unit School District 308 stakeholders and approved by the Oswego Community Unit School District
308 Board of Education annually. We ask parents / guardians to review this document and discuss it with their children.
Each child in grades 6-12 and a parent/guardian of each enrolled student must sign an electronic “signature of receipt” of the
Rights and Responsibilities Code at the start of each school year, or upon registration in the district.

 

For the purposes of this document, Policy is defined as a course or principle of action proposed and set by the Oswego
Community Unit School District 308 Board of Education; Procedure is defined as an established or official way of doing
things; and Practice is defined as the actual application of an expected procedure.

 

At all grade levels, Oswego Community Unit School District 308 seeks to create a learning climate that is responsive,
inclusive, and equitable for each and every student. Within the school setting, students are encouraged to be active
participants and decision makers in their own learning. We continually work to design meaningful learning experiences that
result in positive outcomes. The health, safety and rights of each student are protected along with the rights of all students
and staff. Per Board Policy 5:120 Employee Ethics; Code of Professional Conduct; and Conflict of Interest, all Oswego
Community Unit School District 308 employees are expected to maintain high standards in their job performance and school
relationships. This includes protecting the welfare, safety, and security of all students. Oswego Community Unit School
District 308 staff are mandated reporters and must participate in all Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) mandatory
training categories.

 

Diverse cultures, identities, and beliefs are represented in the student body and faculty/staff and are a valuable educational
resource. Respect for one’s own individuality, as well as respect for the uniqueness and worth of others, should be
emphasized in all aspects of the school community. Beliefs and practices are what keep our students, families, and Oswego
Community Unit School District 308 staff safe, and the belief that all students have the right to learn and thrive in a safe
environment is established through our district’s guiding principles. We must continue to refine our interpersonal skill sets,
reflect on our acceptance of all people within our classroom and school spaces, and create a rightful presence for all students
and staff.

 

“Rightful Presence" refers to the justified or legitimate existence or occupancy of someone or something in a particular
place, position, or situation. It implies that the presence is warranted, proper, and in accordance with established norms,
rules, or rights.

 

Barton and Tan* explain that “Rightful Presence” orients the field towards the importance of political struggles to make
present the lives of those made missing by schooling and discipline-specific norms. Rightful Presence is not just about being
physically present but also about the acknowledgment and recognition of individuals or groups who may have been
marginalized or excluded within educational systems due to societal norms, biases, or systemic injustices.

 

Through Rightful Presence we aim to make visible the lives and experiences of those who have been historically overlooked
or disregarded within educational settings. This may include efforts to address issues such as inequality, discrimination, or
cultural erasure within the curriculum, pedagogy, and institutional structures. Rightful Presence requires active engagement
and advocacy to challenge and transform existing norms and power dynamics. It involves recognizing and valuing diverse
perspectives, identities, and forms of knowledge that may have been marginalized or silenced within mainstream educational
discourses.

 

Some key considerations and steps for achieving this goal include the following: Defined Guiding Principles, Promote
Communication and Awareness, Safe Reporting Mechanisms, Anti-Discrimination Policies, Inclusive Curriculum,
Community Engagement, Support Systems, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement.

 

The climate for learning that we collaboratively work to create and maintain includes a/the:
● physically safe place to learn
● learning environment where all students are encouraged to take intellectual risks
● supportive culture where student and staff differences are respected, recognized, and utilized in classrooms
● technology that enhances student learning
● utilization of student voice as a valuable tool in creating an inclusive school community

 

These elements are vital in establishing a rich foundation for our students' educational experiences, and in our commitment
to nurturing well-rounded learners, we have crafted a "Portrait of a Learner" that encapsulates the skills and attributes we
aspire for our students to cultivate throughout their educational journey in Oswego Community School District 308. These
key attributes serve as a focal point for our educational mission, guiding each student's growth and development as they
navigate their educational experiences and prepare to thrive in an ever-changing world.

A. Student Rights – The Oswego Community Unit School District 308 educational system exists for the welfare of its
students and to provide each student opportunities per Board Policy 7:10, Equal Educational Opportunities. The
identification and preservation of the rights and responsibilities of district students must be a primary concern of all
stakeholders in the district. The quality and results of educational experiences are measured, in large part, by the
extent to which students fulfill their responsibilities and exercise their rights in a reasonable manner. School is a
unique public institution, existing in the context of larger entities whose tenets must also apply including: the
constitutions of the United States and the State of Illinois, federal laws, the School Code of Illinois and decisions of
state and federal courts. Each student has the RIGHT to:
1. Freedom of speech and press, freedom of assembly and freedom to petition in a manner that does not
threaten to injure others, invade the rights of others, materially or substantially disrupt or interfere with the
educational process and that is consistent with the law and district policy;
2. Participate in appropriate educational programs at all grade levels;
3. Be free from discrimination based upon race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, sex,
ancestry, age, religious beliefs, physical or mental disability, status as homeless, immigration status, order
of protection status, military status, unfavorable military discharge, reproductive health decisions, or actual
or potential marital or parental status, including pregnancy; and
4. Study in an educational environment free from bias, prejudice and interference.
B. Student Commitments – It is important to acknowledge and embrace the diversity present within the school
community, as it brings a wealth of perspectives and experiences to the educational environment. Encouraging
respect for individual differences and fostering a culture of inclusivity strengthens the overall school program and
promotes a supportive and enriching learning environment for all.

 

Students have the responsibility to conduct themselves on and off campus in ways that are conducive to the learning
process and to behave in a manner that does not disrupt or interfere with the learning environment or the daily
operations of the school. Furthermore, each student has the RESPONSIBILITY to:
1. Observe the rights of others
2. Communicate any threat or safety concern to school officials, staff, or a trusted adult
3. Know the rules of the district and abide by them
4. Make a sincere effort to utilize the learning resources provided
5. Respect personal property of others and property of the district
6. Demonstrate respect and acceptance for oneself and for others’ uniqueness and worth, regardless of
differences
7. Respect the reasonable exercise of authority by school administrators and teachers in maintaining safe
environments and discipline in the school and at school-sponsored activities
8. Refrain from libel, slanderous remarks, and obscenity in verbal and written expression, and any form of
electronic communication
9. Refrain from gross disobedience or misconduct, or behavior that materially and substantially interferes
with the educational process
C. Enforcement of Behavior Code – The policies in the Student Rights and Responsibilities Code apply whenever the
student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities, including, but not limited to:
1. Anytime when on or within sight of school grounds
2. Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable
relationship to school
3. Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function or event
4. Anywhere, on or off campus, if the conduct interferes with, or may foreseeably interfere with, disrupt, or
adversely affect, the school environment, school operations or an educational function, including, but not
limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: (a) be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a
staff member or (b) endanger the health or safety of students, staff or school property.

 

The discipline of special education students shall be in accordance with the requirements of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Improvement Act, 20 U.S.C.S. 1400 et. seq., Board Policy 7:230, Misconduct by Students
with Disabilities, and Guidelines for the use of: Behavioral Interventions for Students with Disabilities.
D. Safety and Security – It is essential to prioritize safety and security within the school community, as these elements
form the foundation for effective learning and personal development. Implementing comprehensive safety measures
and promoting awareness about safety protocols not only protects our students but also cultivates a sense of trust
and community, enabling everyone to focus on their educational journey in a positive and secure setting. All District
operations shall be conducted in a manner that will promote the safety and security of everyone on District property
or at a District event.
1. School Safety Drill Plan – During every academic year, each school building that houses school children
shall conduct, at a minimum, each of the following in accordance with the School Safety Drill Act, (105
ILCS 128/20):

a. Three school evacuation drills to address and prepare students and school personnel for fire
incidents. One of these three drills shall require the participation of the local fire department or
district.
b. One bus evacuation drill.
c. One severe weather and shelter-in-place drill to address and prepare students and school personnel
for possible tornado incidents.
d. One law enforcement lockdown drill to address a school shooting incident and to evaluate the
preparedness of school personnel and students. This drill shall occur no later than 90 days after
the first day of school each year, and shall require the participation of all school personnel and
students present at school at the time of the drill, except for those exempted by administrators,
school support personnel, or a parent/guardian. Parents/Guardians who wish to exempt their
student from an ALICE/Lockdown drill must complete and submit the ALICE/Lockdown
Opt-Out Form.
e. One cardiac emergency drill to address a sudden cardiac arrest incident. The drill should align
with the school's Cardiac Emergency Response Plan.
Staff and administration frequently teach and practice emergency responses with students. Parents are
informed each time a school practices, or uses, an emergency once during the school day
2. Annual Review – The Board or its designee will annually review each school building’s emergency
operations and crisis response plan(s), protocols, and procedures, as well as each building’s compliance
with the school safety drill plan. This annual review shall be in accordance with the School Safety Drill
Act (105 ILCS 128/20) and the Joint Rules of the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Illinois State
Board of Education (29 Ill.Admin.Code Part 1500).

3. School Safety & Security Procedures for Parents/Guardians and Visitors – Limiting and closely
monitoring building access to a single point of entry during school hours is the foundation of security and a
critical strategy for safety. As a result, visitors are screened via video outside the building’s main entrance,
and prior to building entry, visitors and parents/guardians must provide:
a. A valid reason for entry
b. Student verification information
c. A valid form of identification at the main office or security desk to allow for screening databases
including sex offenders or others prohibited from being on school or district property
Upon successful screening, visitors will be issued and must wear identification badges while on school
property.

E. School Resource Officers – In an effort to ensure a safe and orderly school environment, Oswego Community Unit
School District 308 and local law enforcement agencies maintain the position of School Resource Officer. Resource
officers may be present at Oswego Community Unit School District 308 schools to assist administration in school
safety training, maintain a safe and orderly environment, and/or to address criminal infractions. In addition to a
School Resource Officer, some schools may have employees assisting with campus security tasks to help keep
schools orderly, safe and secure.
F. Search and Seizure
1. Student’s Personal Property – Per Board Policy 7:140, Search and Seizure, when there are reasonable
grounds to suspect that the search will produce evidence a student has violated or is violating the law or
rules of the school, school administrators and school resource officers may search a student and/or the
student’s personal property including but not limited to: purse, wallet, backpack, book bag, drawstring
book bag, or lunch box. School officials may conduct a search of a student’s cell phone that is reasonable
in scope and justified by reasonable suspicion that a violation of law or school policy has occurred. The
search of students and/or the student’s personal effects must be conducted in a manner that is reasonably
related to the objectives of the search and not be excessively intrusive in light of the age and gender of the
student and the nature of the infraction. When feasible, the search should be conducted as follows:
a. Outside the view of others, including students
b. In the presence of a school administrator or adult witness
c. By an administrator or school resource officer of the same gender.

2. School Property – School property, including but not limited to desks, lockers and parking lots, is owned
and controlled by the district, and the district may make reasonable regulations regarding its use. School
authorities are authorized to conduct area-wide, general administrative inspections of school property
(searches of all student lockers, desks or parking lots) as a means of protecting the health, safety or welfare
of the district, its employees and students, without notice to, or consent of, the student and without a search
warrant. School authorities may search a student’s personal property left behind on school property when
there are reasonable grounds to suspect that the search will produce evidence that the student has violated
either the law or the district’s rules.
3. Student Vehicles – School administrators and / or school liaison police officers may search a student
vehicle while on school grounds or in an area reserved for school parking, when there are reasonable
grounds for suspecting that the search will produce evidence that the student has violated or is violating the
law or the District's student conduct rules. The scope of the search shall be reasonably related to its
objectives. Whenever possible, the student shall be notified of the search and shall be present during the
search of the student's vehicle. School personnel may seize any item that was the subject of the search as
well as any item in plain view, if the item violates either the law or student conduct rules or is evidence of
such. If a student refuses to cooperate and permit their vehicle to be searched, school officials may contact
law enforcement personnel to enter the vehicle. A failure by a student to cooperate may be grounds for
discipline.
4. Seizure of Property – If a search conducted in accordance with this policy produces evidence a student
has violated, or is violating, the law or the district’s rules, such evidence may be seized and impounded by
school authorities and disciplinary actions may be taken. When appropriate, such evidence will be
transferred to law enforcement authorities.

5. Social Media – School authorities may conduct an investigation or require a student to cooperate in an
investigation if there is specific information about activity on a student’s social networking account that
violates the District’s disciplinary rule or policy. School authorities may require a student to share the
reported content from the student’s account as part of the investigation in order to make a factual
determination, but may not request or require a student or their parent/guardian provide a student’s
password or other related account information to gain access to the student’s account or profile on a social
networking website or application.

A. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Illinois School Student Records Act – The Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Illinois School Student Records Act (ISSRA) afford students
certain rights with respect to their education records. Important student records information is also contained in
Board Policy 7:340, Student Records, and Board Policy 7:15, Student and Family Privacy Rights. The rights
afforded to students with respect to their educational records include:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 10 business days after the day the
district receives a request for access. A parent/guardian or eligible student should submit to the records
custodian, principal or other appropriate official, a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to
inspect. The district official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent/guardian or eligible
student of the time and place where record(s) may be inspected. If the record is not maintained by the
district official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the parent/guardian or eligible
student of the correct official to whom the request should be directed. The District charges 35 cents per
page for copies. This fee will be waived for those unable to afford such costs.
2. The right to challenge student education records, exclusive of grades and references to either expulsions or
out-of-school suspensions (if the challenge is made at the time the student’s school records are forwarded
to another school to which the student is transferring), and/or request an amendment of the student’s
education records, which the parent/guardian or eligible student believes are inaccurate not relevant, or
misleading. The individual should write to the district official responsible for the record, and clearly
identify the part of the record to which a change is being requested and specify why it is inaccurate, not
relevant or misleading. An informal conference will be held with the parent/guardian or eligible student
within 15 school days of receipt of the request. If the challenge is not resolved by the informal conference,
the district will advise the parent/guardian or eligible student of their right to a hearing regarding the
request for amendment, and initiate formal hearing procedures. Additional information regarding the
hearing procedures will be provided to the parent/guardian or eligible student when notified of the right to
a hearing.
3. The right to insert in the child’s school student record a statement of reasonable length setting forth the
parent/guardian’s position on any disputed information contained in that record. The District shall include
a copy of such statement in any subsequent dissemination of the information in dispute.

4. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the eligible student’s
education records, except to the extent that FERPA and ISSRA authorize disclosure without consent. One
exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials or consultants with
legitimate educational interests. A school official or consultant is a person employed by the district in an
administrative, supervisory, academic or support staff position (including law enforcement personnel and
health staff) or a person or company with whom the district has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor or
collection agent). A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an
education record in order to fulfill their professional responsibilities. Upon request, the district discloses
education records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to
enroll.
5. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the
district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers
FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
PLEASE NOTE: Directory information may be disclosed without prior notice or consent unless the
parent/guardian or eligible student notifies the Building Records Custodian in writing, before October 1st of the
current school year, that they do not want any or all of the directory information disclosed. This section constitutes
notice of the release of such information absent parent/guardian opt-out of such release. Directory information is
limited to:

1. Student’s name
2. Student’s address
3. Student’s grade level
4. Student’s date of birth
5. Parent(s)/guardian(s)’ names, addresses, electronic mail addresses, and telephone numbers
6. Photographs, videos, or digital images used for informational or news-related purposes (whether by a
media outlet or by the school) of a student participating in school or school-sponsored activities,
organizations, and athletics that have appeared in school publications, such as yearbooks, newspapers, or
sporting or fine arts programs
7. Academic awards, degrees, and honors
8. Information in relation to school-sponsored activities, organizations, and athletics
No photograph highlighting individual faces shall be used for commercial purposes, including solicitation,
advertising, promotion, or fundraising, without the prior, specific, dated, and written consent of the parent or
eligible student (see 765 ILCS 1075/30 and 23 Illinois Admin. Code Section 375.80). The following
non-exhausting list shall not be designated as directory information: (a) an image on a school security video, or (b)
student social security number or student identification or unique student identifier.

 

Video Surveillance/Notification: To assist in maintaining security and to deter inappropriate conduct, the Oswego
Community Unit School District 308 may position video cameras and/or monitors in public areas of school
property, such as in the hallways, stairwells, the gymnasium, cafeteria, school buses and exterior locations of school
buildings. Appropriate disciplinary action may be taken for misconduct which is recorded or observed from the
camera.

 

Additionally, video surveillance footage and/or other video recording footage maintained by the school district for
the purpose of school district safety and security is NOT considered part of a student’s educational record and as
such is not subject to compliance with FERPA and/or ISSRA regulations. Requests by parents/guardians to view
video surveillance footage will not be allowed unless the video is used to provide specific student disciplinary
action. Should video surveillance footage be used as evidence for the purposes of specific student disciplinary
action, such footage may be subject to compliance with FERPA and ISSRA and will be maintained as part of the
individual student record.
B. Student Record Exceptions – Pursuant to ISSRA, the District may only disclose student records without parental
consent in certain limited circumstances, including if the request is pursuant to a court order. A subpoena, however,
without an accompanying court order or written parental consent, is not sufficient. Below is a summary of all
limited circumstances under which ISSRA permits the release of student record information without written
parental consent:
1. To an employee or official of the school or school district or State Board with current demonstrable
educational or administrative interest in the student, in furtherance of such interest (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(2)).
2. To the official records custodian of another school within Illinois or an official with similar
responsibilities of a school outside Illinois, in which the student has enrolled, or intends to enroll, upon the
request of such official or student (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(3)).
3. To any person for the purpose of research, statistical reporting, or planning, provided that such
research, statistical reporting, or planning is permissible under and undertaken in accordance with the
federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g). (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(4)).
4. Pursuant to a court order, provided that the parent shall be given prompt written notice upon receipt of
such order of the terms of the order, the nature and substance of the information proposed to be released in
compliance with such order and an opportunity to inspect and copy the school student records and to
challenge their contents pursuant to Section 7 (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(5)). Note that notice is required for this
exception.

5. To any person as specifically required by State or federal law (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(6)).
6. To juvenile authorities when necessary for the discharge of their official duties who request information
prior to adjudication of the student and who certify in writing that the information will not be disclosed to
any other party except as provided under law or order of court (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(6.5)).
7. Subject to regulations of the State Board, in connection with an emergency, to appropriate persons if the
knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons
(105 ILCS 10/6(a)(7)).
8. To any person, with the prior specific dated written consent of the parent designating the person to
whom the records may be released, provided that at the time any such consent is requested or obtained,
the parent shall be advised in writing that he has the right to inspect and copy such records in accordance
with Section 5, to challenge their contents in accordance with Section 7 and to limit any such consent to
designated records or designated portions of the information contained therein (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(8)). Note
that notice is required for this exception.
9. To a governmental agency, or social service agency contracted by a governmental agency, in furtherance
of an investigation of a student's school attendance pursuant to the compulsory student attendance laws of
this State, provided that the records are released to the employee or agent designated by the agency (105
ILCS 10/6(a)(9)).

10. To those SHOCAP committee members who fall within the meaning of "state and local officials and
authorities", as those terms are used within the meaning of the federal Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act, for the purposes of identifying serious habitual juvenile offenders and matching those
offenders with community resources pursuant to Section 5-145 of the Juvenile Court Act of 1987, but only
to the extent that the release, transfer, disclosure, or dissemination is consistent with the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(10)).
11. To the Department of Healthcare and Family Services in furtherance of the requirements of Section
2-3.131, 3-14.29, 10-28, or 34-18.26 of the School Code or Section 10 of the School Breakfast and Lunch
Program Act (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(11)).
12. To the State Board or another State government agency or between or among State government
agencies in order to evaluate or audit federal and State programs or perform research and planning, but
only to the extent that the release, transfer, disclosure, or dissemination is consistent with the federal
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g) (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(12)).
13. If the student is in the legal custody of the Department of Children and Family Services, to the
Department's Office of Education and Transition Services (105 ILCS 10/6(a)(12.5)).
14. Under an intergovernmental agreement if an elementary school district and a high school district have
attendance boundaries that overlap and are parties to an intergovernmental agreement that allows the
sharing of student records and information between the districts. However, the sharing of student
information is allowed under an intergovernmental agreement only if the intergovernmental agreement
meets all of the following requirements:

a. The sharing of student information must be voluntary and at the discretion of each school district
that is a party to the agreement.
b. The sharing of student information applies only to students who have been enrolled in both
districts or would be enrolled in both districts based on district attendance boundaries, and the
student's parent or guardian has expressed in writing that the student intends to enroll or has
enrolled in the high school district.
c. The sharing of student information does not exceed the scope of information that is shared among
schools in a unit school district. However, the terms of an intergovernmental agreement may place
further limitations on the information that is allowed to be shared.

C. Military Recruiting - The Elementary and Secondary Education Act requires every district that serves high school
students to provide military recruiters upon their request: students’ names, addresses, e-mail addresses and
telephone numbers, unless a parent/guardian (or student age 18 or older) has declined to have this information
released without prior written consent. Parents/Guardians of high school students (and students age 18 or older)
who do not want the students’ name/address/telephone number disclosed to military recruiters without their prior
written consent shall make this request in writing to the Building Principal of their student’s high school of
attendance, or contact the Executive Director of Student Services for assistance.

A. Parents’/Guardians’ Responsibility - Parents/Guardians should review this content and the content of Board
Policy 6:235, Access to Electronic Networks, with their student. Parents/Guardians may request alternative activities
be provided that do not require Internet access if there is an objection to Internet use. Parents/Guardians are
responsible for monitoring their student’s use of the District’s educational technologies, the District’s Computer
Network System, and the Internet if the student is accessing the district’s electronic technologies from home or
through other remote locations. Parents/Guardians bear responsibility for their student’s use of their own or other
non-District equipment to access the District’s Computer Network System, and take full responsibility for any
damage to non-District property or equipment resulting from such use. Goods or services purchased over the
Internet, or any financial obligation incurred by a student through the Internet, is the sole responsibility of the
student and/or their parent/guardian.

 

Students are required to comply with all of the rules contained in the Authorization for Electronic Network Access.
Student activity is monitored and captured for review by building administrators during school hours. The District
will cooperate fully with local, state and federal authorities in any investigation related to any illegal activities, or
activities not in compliance with Oswego Community Unit School District 308 policies, conducted through the
District’s electronic technologies.
B. Acceptable Use - The use of on-line network computer services must at all times be in support of education and
research consistent with the educational objectives of Oswego Community Unit School District 308. All users of
computer network services and computers or devices at the District, at home, or at any other location, must comply
with all rules, regulations, guidelines, terms, and conditions adopted both by the Administration and by classroom
teachers and all school staff members.

 

The use of AI applications and technologies on school-issued electronic devices is permitted for educational
purposes only. Students should ensure that the AI usage aligns with the curriculum and educational goals
established by the school. Additionally, students are expected to follow ethical guidelines, respect privacy, and not
engage in any activities that may disrupt the learning environment or violate school policies.
C. CIPA Requirements - The Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) was enacted by Congress in 2000 to address
concerns about children's access to obscene or harmful content over the Internet. Oswego Community Unit School
District 308 complies with the CIPA law, including maintaining an Internet safety policy that includes technology
protection measures. The protection measures block or filter Internet access to pictures that are: (a) obscene; (b)
child pornography; or (c) harmful to minors (for computers that are accessed by minors). The District's Internet
safety policy addresses:

1. Monitoring the online activities of minors;
2. As required by the Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act, educating minors about appropriate online
behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and
cyber-bullying awareness and response.
3. Access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet;
4. Safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic
communications;
5. Unauthorized access, including “hacking,” and other unlawful activities by minors online;
6. Unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding minors; and
7. Measures restricting minors' access to materials harmful to them

D. Educational Purpose - Access to technology in Oswego Community Unit School District 308 and its Computer
Network System has been established for educational purposes. All electronic devices and technologies must be
used in support of the educational program. District computers, telecom, memory devices, networks, and related
hardware and software are the property of Oswego Community Unit School District 308. At no time does the
District relinquish exclusive control of its electronic technologies or Computer Network System.
E. Vandalism - Any/All vandalism or attempted vandalism (physical or electronic) to the District’s computers,
network files or to the Computer Network System is prohibited and will result in revocation of Computer Network
system privileges, disciplinary action, and potential legal action. Vandalism includes, but not limited to, the
downloading, uploading, or creation of computer viruses, worms or other malicious files, as well as physical
damage to equipment.
F. Security - Security in any Computer Network System is a high priority, and must be a priority for all users. If a
student is aware of any security risk or abuse of the Computer Network System, the student must notify a teacher
or other staff member immediately. Students should set up unique passwords for student accounts and are
prohibited from sharing their login ID or password with any other individual. Any attempt to log-in as another
individual onto the Computer Network System will result in revocation of privileges.
G. Prohibited Use - Unethical and unacceptable behavior as defined below is prohibited and shall result in disciplinary
action, which may include all discipline available under the Oswego Community Unit School District 308 Rights
and Responsibilities Code and suspension or revocation of Computer Network System privileges. Unethical and
unacceptable use of the Computer Network System shall include, but not be limited to use of the Computer
Network System to:

1. Access, retrieve, view, upload, download, store, print, post, or distribute obscene or indecent materials.
Indecent materials include but are not limited to any materials, sexual activities, or organs, which in
context, depict, or describe in terms patently offensive, as measured by contemporary community
standards. Obscene materials are those materials that, taken as a whole, appeal to the prurient interest in
sex, which portray sexual conduct in a patently offensive way in which, taken as a whole, do not have any
serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.
2. Access, retrieve, view or disseminate any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation or district
policy. This includes, but is not limited to, improper use of copyrighted material, improper use of
passwords or access codes (e.g. disclosing any user’s full name, home address, or phone number or that of
another student or teacher, or FERPA-related information).
3. Profit commercial activities, including advertising or sales.
4. Harass, threaten, intimidate, or demean an individual or group of individuals because of actual or perceived
gender, color, race, national origin, religion, sex, age, physical or mental disability, military status,
unfavorable discharge status from military service, order of protection status, homeless status, marital or
parental status including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender-related identity or expression, association
with a person or group with one or more of the aforementioned actual or perceived characteristics, or any
other distinguishing characteristic
5. Substantially threaten or actually disrupt the educational process or interfere with the rights of others at any
time, either during the school day or before/after school hours.
6. Gain unauthorized access to the files of others or vandalize the data or files of another user.
7. Gain unauthorized access to resources or entities.
8. Improperly forge or alter electronic email messages or to use an account owned by another user.
9. Invade the privacy of any individual.
10. Download, copy, print, or otherwise store or possess data which might be considered in violation of these
rules.
11. Engage in any illegal act or violate any local, state, or federal statute or law.
12. Install any non-approved personal equipment or transfer or installation of non-approved software on any
District-owned systems.
13. Email, text-message, instant message, or post on social media networks, websites or applications personal
topics not related to any educational purpose.

 

Disclaimer - Oswego Community Unit School District 308 makes no warranties of any kind whether expressed or
implied, for the Computer Network System which it provides to district students. The District will not be
responsible for any damages suffered including loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries, or
service interruption. The District will not be liable for damage to any property of a student or their family resulting
from access to and use of the Computer Network System. Use of any information obtained via the Computer
Network system is at the user’s own risk. The District denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of
information obtained through the Computer Network System.
H. Limited Expectation of Privacy - By authorizing use of the District electronic technologies, Oswego Community
Unit School District 308 does not relinquish control over content or data transmitted or stored on the network or
contained in files. Users should expect only limited privacy in the contents of personal files on the District’s
electronic technologies.

 

Routine maintenance and monitoring of the District’s electronic technologies may lead to a discovery that a user has
violated this policy, another School District policy, or the law. An individual investigation or search will be
conducted if school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover a violation of law or
School District policy.

 

Parents/Guardians have the right to investigate or review the contents of the electronic files and email files of their
child, under the age of 18, and request the termination of such a child's individual account at any time.
I. Online Learning Program - Parents bear responsibility for their student’s use of their own or other non-District
equipment to use or access the District’s Computer Network System, and take full responsibility for any damage to
non-District property or equipment resulting from such use. Parents/Guardians and student participants also bear the
responsibility to keep any online learning space that is not on District property safe, uncluttered, and free from
hazards and other dangers. Further, any injury resulting from the online learning program should be reported to the
District immediately, in the same manner as students report injuries that occur on District property.
J. Other District Policies - Use of the District’s electronic technologies must not violate other policies and
regulations of the District.
K. Educational Technologies - The District may contract with various educational technology vendors for beneficial
K-12 purposes, such as providing personalized learning and innovative educational technologies, and increasing
efficiency in school operations. Under Illinois’ Student Online Personal Protection Act, or SOPPA (105 ILCS 85/),
educational technology vendors and other entities that operate websites, online services, online applications, or
mobile applications that are designed, marketed, and primarily used for K-12 school purposes are referred to as
operators. Depending upon the particular educational technology being used, the District may need to collect
different types of student data, which is then shared securely with operators through their online sites, services,
and/or applications. Under SOPPA, these operators are prohibited from selling or renting a student’s information or
from engaging in targeted advertising using a student’s information. Such vendors may only disclose student data
for K-12 school purposes and other limited purposes permitted under the law and per Board Policy 7:345, Use of
Educational Technologies.

 

In general terms, the types of student data that may be collected and shared include personally identifiable
information (PII) about students or information that can be linked to PII about students, such as:
1. Basic identifying information, including student or parent/guardian name, student or parent/guardian
contact information, username/password, student ID number
2. Demographic information
3. Enrollment information
4. Assessment data, grades, and transcripts
5. Attendance and class schedule
6. Academic/Extracurricular activities
7. Special status indicators (e.g. disability information, English learner, free/reduced meals, homeless/foster
care)
8. Conduct/Behavioral data
9. Health information
10. Food purchases
11. Transportation information
12. In-application performance data
13. Student-generated work
14. Online communications
15. Application metadata and application use statistics
16. Permanent and temporary school student record information

 

Operators may collect and use student data only for K-12 purposes, which are purposes that aid in the
administration of school activities, such as:
1. Instruction in the classroom or at home (including eLearning)
2. Administrative activities
3. Collaboration between students, school personnel, and/or parents/guardians
4. Other activities that are for the use and benefit of the school district

 

Any agreements between the District and any operator that involves the sharing of covered information shall be
entered into in accordance with State law and District policy, with a copy of relevant contract provisions involving
student privacy posted on the District’s website. The website also contains an inventory of operators and their
services, as well as the types of covered information being shared, and the reason for that disclosure.

 

Similarly, Board Policy 5:125, Personal Technology and Social Media; Usage and Conduct, outlines acceptable
technology use practices for all general personnel as it relates to usage and conduct of social media, student contact,
and the internet access.

A. Health Office - A full-time nurse is assigned to each school for the health, safety, and well-being of students and
staff. The nurse will administer first aid to all students in need of treatment and will provide immediate care if they
become ill or injured at school. The nurse is not equipped to care for students beyond their immediate needs.
Parents/Guardians will be notified and asked to take their student home if a nurse is unable to meet their medical
needs at school. Parents/Guardians are asked to pick up ill students from school within one hour of being notified
that a student is too ill to remain at school. All families must provide a minimum of one emergency contact who is
local and available to pick up a student who is ill within one hour. Students who are ill should not remain at school
for their own health and safety, as well as to prevent the possible exposure of healthy students to contagious
illness(es).

 

The District nurse is not responsible for evaluating injuries and providing medical conclusions regarding injuries
that take place outside of school hours and off District property. The District nurse cannot diagnose conditions,
diagnose injuries, provide medical conclusions, or administer medications except in full compliance with the
medication policy of Oswego Community Unit School District 308 (see Section G below). In all cases, the school
retains the discretion to reject a request for administering medication, subject to the requirements of State and
federal law.

 

The following are Health Office guidelines which may be revised or pre-empted to address pandemic related issues:
● Physical examination and immunizations required by state law must be on file for registration to be
complete.
● Students transferring into Oswego Community Unit School District 308 from outside the state of
Illinois will have 30 calendar days from the entrance date to comply with the physical and
immunization requirements.
● All reasonable efforts will be made to keep students in class unless a health condition, emergency, or
sickness prevents participation in class or risks exposure to students or staff.
● If a student needs medical attention during a class period, they should obtain a pass from the teacher
for permission to report to the nurse’s office.
● Students who need to leave school for medical reasons during the school day MUST report to the
nurse’s office to report the need/reason to leave school. A student who leaves class without permission
may be considered truant from missed classes and could be subject to interventions and/or disciplinary
action for unexcused absences.
● Criteria for the nurse to send a student home includes, but is not limited to: vomiting, diarrhea, a
temperature of 100° F or greater, or nurse discretion. A nurse or building administrator must contact a
parent/guardian if a student will be released from school and report the reason(s).
● Students who hold a driver's license complaining of severe headache and/or dizziness, or deemed
otherwise impaired, will not be allowed to drive home, and a parent/guardian must arrange alternate
transportation.
● A student is too ill to go to school if they have/have had:
a. Vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours
b. 100°F temperature within past 24 hrs (must be fever-free without fever-reducing medication for
24 hrs to return to school)
c. Contagious illness treated with antibiotics (e.g. strep throat, pink eye) and have not taken
antibiotics for a full 24 hours before returning to school
d. Undiagnosed rash (unless cleared by a physician’s note)
● Students with a doctor’s excuse from physical education/recess or sports should give the request to the
nurse; the excuse should include begin/end dates, and specific activities in which a student may
participate (if any).
● Body piercing and tattoos (new or existing) including, but not limited to, ears and eyebrows are to be
tended to at home unless they are bleeding.
● If a student calls a parent/guardian to pick them up, and does not go through the nurse’s office, the
absence may be coded unexcused and as “sent home by parent request.”

1. Procedure for Injured Student - A student requiring stitches, a brace, cast, sling or crutches, must have a
doctor’s written excuse for physical education/recess/athletics including beginning/end dates, as well as
specific activities in which a student may participate (if any). All physical education/athletic notes must
indicate when the student may return to physical education/athletics without the use of a rigid splint/brace,
cast, sling, etc. If the note states “until further notice,” a follow-up doctor note must be received by the
nurse stating the progress of the student, or giving the re-evaluation date. Restrictions cannot continue for
extended periods of time without periodic physician’s notes.

 

A parent/guardian note will be accepted for three (3) consecutive days if a student needs to be excused
from physical education. Extensions on a parent/guardian note will not be accepted. If a student needs to
be excused from physical education for more than three days, a doctor’s note is required. If a pattern is
noted in receiving parent/guardian notes (certain days of the week or month) a doctor’s note may be
required to excuse the student. A doctor's note is not required for absences due to mental or behavioral
health issues not exceeding five excused absences for mental or behavioral health reasons.

 

When a student cannot participate in physical education, they cannot participate in indoor or outdoor
recess, or athletics (Spirit Squad, cheerleading, intramurals, after-school sports, etc.) for their own safety
and to protect them from accidental injury. The student may be assigned to an alternate location during
physical education/recess.

 

If a student has a current physical education/recess restriction and is planning to participate in a field trip
involving physical activity (i.e. extended periods of walking, hiking on uneven or rough terrain, etc.) or a
“Field Day” at school, an event-specific doctor’s release is required for the student to participate. It is the
parent’s/guardian’s responsibility to furnish any equipment that may be needed for the student to
participate (i.e. wheelchair or crutches).

2. Pregnancy or Other Physical Education Restrictions - If a student has a medical condition, including
pregnancy, that may require a physical education/athletics restriction or otherwise require additional
support from school staff, the student should provide the nurse a doctor’s note with information relating to
the condition and any necessary restrictions or recommended supports needed from the school staff.
Students who are pregnant are strongly encouraged to permit their doctor to share pregnancy-related
information with the nurse for their health, safety and well being. A pregnant student has the right to
continue in the student’s present classroom setting with the same academic schedule, provided there are no
physical restrictions identified by a physician. Schedule changes will be made as necessary to
accommodate those restrictions identified by a physician. No student shall be discriminated against
because of their actual or potential parental status. Participation in special programs provided for pregnant
students shall be at the student’s option.
3. Fasting - If a student is fasting, a parent/guardian must notify the nurse and athletic personnel in writing so
that arrangements can be made for alternate activities as appropriate. While a doctor’s note is not
necessary, upon written notice from a student’s parent/guardian, a student will be excused from engaging
in the physical activity components of physical education during a period of religious fasting.
4. Elevator Procedure - A physician’s note is needed for use of crutches, walkers, canes, and wheelchairs
while at school. Use of any of these devices, with a physician’s note, will allow a student access to a
school’s elevator. Students will need to observe the following procedures (failure to follow procedures may
result in a loss of privileges):
a. Students must obtain a pass or administrative permission for the elevator from the health office.
b. Students approved to use the elevator may have only one (1) approved helper ride with them if
needed/appropriate. Other students may not use the elevator.
c. Students are not allowed to use the elevator during a school safety response or drill involving
evacuation.
5. Screenings - The vision and hearing screening team or nurse will conduct various screening programs to
detect any major areas of difficulty that students may be experiencing. The school is not equipped to
assess beyond the initial screening process. The screening information will be provided to
parents/guardians for use in further evaluations, upon request. Screenings may be done at the request of
teachers and/or by public health requirements. Parents/Guardians will be notified only if their student fails
the screening.

 

Notice: Per the Illinois School Code, 410 ILCS 205, the Child Vision and Hearing Test Act requires
screening for all students in Kindergarten. Per the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), screenings
are also conducted for all students in Grades 2 and 8. Additionally, students entering school for the first
time and students in Special Education receive annual screening, as well as students entering PreK and any
students referred by their teacher in any grade level may be screened for vision and/or hearing.

 

Illinois School Code, 105 ILCS 5/27-8.1(2), requires individuals conducting vision screenings to give
written notice to parents/guardians of students receiving a vision screening that vision screenings done in
the school setting are not a substitute for a complete eye/vision evaluation by an eye doctor. School
screenings do not evaluate eye health, nor the necessary visual skills essential for successful academic
achievement. Students are not required to undergo this vision screening if an optometrist or
ophthalmologist has signed a report form indicating that an examination has been given within the
previous 12 months. Similarly, students are not required to undergo a hearing screening if an audiologist
has signed a report form indicating an examination has been given within the previous 12 months. Report
forms are available from the school nurse. Students wearing glasses or contact lenses are already under a
doctor’s care and are not screened.

6. Administration of Medications - Board Policy 7:270, Administering Medications to Students, outlines
important information for parents/guardians of students. All medication is to be transported to and from
school by a parent/guardian or other responsible adult. Students are not to transport or have medications in
their possession except for the self administration of medication as outlined in paragraphs e and f below.
The following rules apply to the administration of medication at school:
a. A parent/guardian has the primary responsibility for administering medication to their student.
Administering medication during school hours or during school-related activities is discouraged
unless it is necessary for the critical health and well-being of the student.
b. Nothing in the policy shall prohibit any school employee from providing emergency assistance to
students, including administering medication.
c. Before any medication can be given at school a medication authorization form must be completed
and signed by the prescribing physician and a parent/guardian; this includes prescription and
over-the-counter medications (such as, but not limited to, Tylenol, Advil, Tums, Midol, cough
drops, cold medications, etc.).
d. Prescription medications are to be in their original containers with the student’s name, medication
name, dosage, physician’s name and number, and pharmacy name and number listed. All
prescription drugs turned into the health office must be counted by the school nurse and either a
student’s parent/guardian or a school administrator or their designee. A total number of pills must
be recorded. All medications must be stored in an appropriate locked cabinet, and only accessible
by authorized personnel. Except for diabetes medication, epinephrine auto injectors, and asthma
inhalers for students permitted to self-administer such medication as outlined below, all student
prescription and over-the-counter medication must remain in the Health Office.
i. Short-term antibiotics are often prescribed by physicians to be administered multiple
times a day. The nurse will administer the proper dosage at the proper time pursuant to
prescription guidelines
e. Pursuant to the Illinois School Code, students are permitted to carry and self-administer
epinephrine auto injectors, asthma inhalers, and diabetes medication, provided the student’s
parent/guardian has completed and signed a School Medication Authorization Form (SMA Form).
The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that an Emergency Action Plan is developed for each
self-administering student. Parents/Guardians of the student must provide the school nurse with
the following:

i. Written parent/guardian authorization for the self-administration of medication; or
ii. For the use of an epinephrine auto-injector, written authorization from the student’s
physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse specifying the name
of the student, name and purpose of the epinephrine auto-injector, the prescribed dosage,
the time or circumstance under which the epinephrine auto-injector is to be administered,
necessity for the medication during the day, common or likely side effects, whether the
student may self-administer the medication, and an emergency number where the
physician can be reached; and
iii. The prescription label, which must include the name of the medication, prescribed dosage,
and the time or circumstances under which the medication is to be administered;
iv. Signed statement by the parent/guardian of the student acknowledging the district is to
incur no liability, except for willful and wanton conduct, as a result of any injury or claim
arising from the self-administration of the medication, or use of an epinephrine
auto-injector, regardless of whether authorization was given by a student's parent/guardian
or by a student’s physician, physician's assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse,
and that a parent/guardian must indemnify and hold harmless the school district and its
employees and agents against any such claims.
v. It is strongly encouraged that parents/guardians provide a back-up inhaler or epi-pen to be
kept in the health office. The information provided will be kept on file in the health office.
f. Pursuant to the Illinois School Code, students are permitted to carry and self-administer other
medications required under a qualifying plan, where appropriate. The Superintendent or designee
shall ensure that an Emergency Action Plan is developed for each self-administering student. A
parent/guardian of the student must provide the school nurse with the following:

i. One (1) of the following qualifying plans that allows for the self-administration of
medication:
1. an asthma action plan or
2. an Individual Health Care Action Plan or
3. an Illinois Food Allergy Emergency Action Plan and Treatment Authorization
Form or
4. a plan pursuant to Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or
5. a plan pursuant to the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act;
ii. Written parent/guardian authorization for the self-administration of the specific
medication referenced in one of the above qualifying plans;
iii. The prescription label, which must include the name of the medication, prescribed
dosage, and the time or circumstances under which the medication is to be administered;
iv. The parent/guardian of the student must sign a statement acknowledging the district is to
incur no liability as a result of any injury or claim arising from the self-administration of
the medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector regardless of whether authorization
was given by a student’s parent/guardian or by a student’s physician, physician’s
assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse, and that a parent/guardian must
indemnify and hold harmless the school district and its employees and agents against any
such claims. Parents/Guardians are strongly encouraged to provide a back-up inhaler or
epi-pen to be kept in the health office. All of the information provided will be kept on
file in the health office.

g. All medication forms (prescription, over-the-counter and self-administration) must be renewed at
the beginning of each school year with an updated doctor and parent/guardian signature.
h. Students will not be allowed to leave campus to obtain medication unless administrative approval
is given.
i. The parent/guardian is responsible for picking up extra medication at the end of a treatment
and/or at the end of the school year. Medications left at the end of the school year will be properly
discarded.
j. Medical cannabis may be administered to a student only pursuant to the Compassionate Use of
Medical Cannabis Program Act (Ashley’s Law).
7. Physical Examination and Immunization – Board Policy 7:100, Health, Eye, and Dental Examinations;
Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students, explains requirements for physical examinations and
immunizations as prescribed by the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois State Board of
Education that shall be required of all students in the public schools:
a. Within one year prior to entering pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and grades six (6th) and nine
(9th);
b. Irrespective of grade, immediately prior to or upon entrance into any public school if that student
has not previously been examined in accordance with Section 27-8.1 of the Illinois School Code;
c. When deemed necessary by school authorities.
d. Students not in compliance with these requirements as prescribed below may be excluded from
school.

 

Physical/Immunization/Vision/Hearing requirements by grade level and enrollment:
a. Returning students already enrolled in Oswego Community Unit School District 308 must submit
documentation of compliance with the physical examination and immunization requirements prior
to September 15 of the current school year when entering Pre-kindergarten, grade 6 and grade 9.
b. Kindergarten students new to the district must have the required physical examination and
immunization requirements submitted by September 15 of the current school year.
c. Students enrolling in Oswego Community Unit School District 308 from another state must have
a physician complete an Illinois physical form within 30 days of the first day of attendance.
Students not complying with immunization/physical requirements within the 30-day period may
be excluded from school.
d. Students entering Kindergarten, 2nd, 6th, and 9th grades must submit proof of a dental
examination, as prescribed by Illinois Department of Public Health, before May 15 of the current
school year for identified grade levels.
e. Kindergarten students, and all students entering an Illinois school for the first time, must submit a
vision examination, as required by Illinois Department of Public Health before October 15 of the
current school year.
f. In addition to physical examinations, students must be immunized, per the regulations of the
Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois State Board of Education. Students failing to
meet the required Illinois mandates shall be excluded from Oswego Community Unit School
District 308 schools. In accordance with rules adopted by the Illinois Department of Public Health
(IDPH), a student will be exempted from this policy’s requirements regarding immunization
for/when:

i. Religious grounds when a student’s parent/guardian presents the IDPH’s Certificate of
Religious Exemption form to the Superintendent or designee. When a Certificate of
Religious Exemption form is presented, the Superintendent or designee shall
immediately inform the parent/guardian of exclusion procedures pursuant to Board
Policy 7:280, Communicable and Chronic Infectious Disease, and the State requirements
if there is an outbreak of one or more diseases from which the student is not protected.
ii. Medical grounds, if a physician provides written verification in compliance with 77 Ill.
Admin. Code §665.52 which provides that medical exemptions from an immunization
must be made by the examining physician licensed to practice medicine in all its
branches, an advanced practice nurse or a physician assistant responsible for the
performance of the health examination indicating what the medical condition of the child
is that makes administration of one or more of the required immunizing agents medically
contraindicated; and endorsed and signed by the examining physician, advanced practice
nurse or physician assistant responsible for the performance of the health examination on
the health examination form.

 

A student may be exempt from the dental or vision examination requirements if the student’s
parents/guardians show an undue burden or lack of access to a dentist or qualified
physician/optometrist.

 

Parents/Guardians should contact their student’s Health Office if assistance is needed to fulfill the
Illinois health mandates. Note: Exempting a student from a physical examination requirement
does not exempt them from participating in the physical education program.

B. Hospitalized/Homebound - Section 14-13.01(a) of the School Code indicates that services are to be provided when
a homebound or hospitalized student is unable to attend school due to a condition certified by a medical statement
that indicates that the student will or is anticipated, due to the student’s medical condition, to be out of school for a
minimum of 10 days of school with at least two days at a time multiple times during the school year for two weeks
or more or on an “ongoing intermittent basis,” which are expected to total 10 days or more. An “ongoing
intermittent basis” means that the student’s medical condition is of such a nature or severity that it is anticipated that
the student will be absent from school due to the medical condition for periods of at least two days at a time
multiple times during the school year totaling at least 10 days or more of absences. There shall be no requirement
that a student be absent from school a minimum number of days before the child qualifies for home or hospital
instruction. In other words, two days of absence at a time may be “anticipated,” but those days do not need to occur
before services begin. Home or hospital instruction may commence upon receipt of a written physician's statement,
but instruction shall commence no later than five school days after the school district receives the medical
statement. The medical statement must be signed by a physician licensed to practice medicine in all of its branches
(as determined by the Medical Practice Act of 1987) or by a PA or by an APRN.
C. Suicide and Depression Awareness and Prevention – Suicide and depression awareness and prevention are
important goals of the district. The school district maintains student and parent resources on suicide and depression
awareness and prevention. Board Policy 7:290, Suicide and Depression Awareness and Prevention, is posted on the
school district website. Information can also be obtained from the school office.

 

The Oswego Community Unit School District 308 utilizes the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS)
as a structured framework for assessing the risk of student self-harm. In accordance with 405 ILCS 5/6-103.3, all
high screenings must be reported through a clear and present danger submission. Clear and Present Danger
reporting is required by law enforcement officials, school administrators, and medical professionals when they
determine a student or other person poses a Clear and Present Danger to themselves or others. Clear and Present Danger is defined by statute as a person who:

1. communicates a serious threat of physical violence against a reasonably identifiable victim or poses a clear
and imminent risk of serious physical injury to himself, herself, or another person as determined by a
physician, clinical psychologist, or qualified examiner; or
2. demonstrates threatening physical or verbal behavior, such as violent, suicidal, or assaultive threats,
actions, or other behavior, as determined by a physician, clinical psychologist, qualified examiner, school
administrator, or law enforcement official.

 

If you are in crisis, or know someone who is in crisis, please dial 9-8-8 or contact Safe2HELP Illinois at
844-4-SAFEIL (723345) or text SAFE2 (72332) or chat online at 988lifeline.org, or call the National Suicide
Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741).
C. Special Education - The District shall provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive
environment and any necessary related services to all eligible children with disabilities enrolled in Oswego
Community Unit School District 308, as required by the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA). Once a student
is determined to be eligible for special education under IDEA, an individualized education program (IEP) will be
developed by a team of educators along with parents. The District provides a continuum of services to students
with IEPs.

 

All students with IEPs are afforded the safeguards and rights described in the Educational Rights and
Responsibilities: Understanding Special Education in Illinois document.

 

If you have questions about your or your child’s rights under IDEA and the Illinois School Code, please contact the
District’s Assistant Superintendent of Diverse Learners.
1. Availability of Interpretation Services at IEP Meetings - Parents and guardians have the right to
understand and participate in the proceedings at their child's IEP meeting. The District will arrange for and
cover the expense of a qualified interpreter for parents/guardians whose native language is not English or
who require a sign language interpreter at the meeting. This service may be provided by a qualified district
employee, or an outside vendor including a telephonic interpreter. Parents/guardians have the right to
request that the interpreter provided by the school district serve no other role in the IEP meeting than as an
interpreter. The District will make reasonable efforts to fulfill such requests. Questions or complaints about
the district's interpretive services shall be directed to the Director of English Learners.
2. PUNS - PUNS is a database of Illinois children, adolescents, and adults with developmental disabilities
who want or need developmental disability services. The PUNS database helps the Division of
Developmental Disabilities identify and plan for services. Our district provides guidance to families on
PUNS and the registration process for PUNS. For support or questions please contact Amy Vandenberg at
PUNSquestions@sd308.org.
3. Medicaid Notice - If a student receives special education services and is also Medicaid eligible, Oswego
Community Unit School District 308 can seek partial reimbursement from Medicaid for health services
documented in the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). Medicaid reimbursement is a source
of federal funds approved by Congress to help school districts maintain and improve diagnostic and
therapeutic services for students.

 

The reimbursement process requires the school district to provide Medicaid with the eligible student’s
name, birth date and Medicaid number. Federal law requires annual notification to parents/guardians of
the district’s intent to pursue this reimbursement opportunity.

 

If a family has an objection to the release of information to Medicaid, now or at any time in the future, an
objection may be made in writing and forwarded to the District’s Director of Health Services.
The district must continue to provide, at no cost, services listed in a student’s IEP. The program has no
impact on a student’s/family’s current or future Medicaid benefits*. Under federal law, participation in this
program CANNOT:

a. decrease lifetime coverage or any other public insurance benefit,
b. result in the parent/guardian paying for services that would otherwise be covered by Medicaid,
c. increase premiums or lead to discontinuation of benefits or insurance, or
d. result in the loss of eligibility for home and community-based waivers.
*Continued consent allows the district to recover a portion of costs associated with providing health services to eligible students.

D. Section 504 - Students with disabilities who do not qualify for an individualized education program under the
federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Illinois School Code may qualify for services under
Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 if the child (i) has a physical or mental impairment that
substantially limits one or more major life activities, (ii) has a record of a physical or mental impairment, or (iii) is
regarded as having a physical or mental impairment. Parents/Guardians seeking information about Section 504
rights and services should contact the District’s Assistant Superintendent of Diverse Learners.
E. Multilingual Learners – The District offers opportunities for resident English Language Learners to develop high
levels of academic attainment in English and to meet the same academic content and student academic achievement
standards that all children are expected to attain. The Superintendent or designee shall develop and maintain a
program for English Language Learners that will:
1. Assist all English Learners to achieve English proficiency, facilitate effective communication in English,
and encourage their full participation in school activities and programs as well as promote participation by
the parents/guardians of English Language Learners.
2. Appropriately identify students with limited English-speaking ability.
3. Comply with State law regarding the Transitional Bilingual Educational Program (TBE) or Transitional
Program of Instruction (TPI), whichever is applicable.
4. Comply with any applicable State and federal requirements for the receipt of grant money for English
Language Learners and programs to serve them.
5. Determine the appropriate instructional program and environment for English Learners.
6. Annually assess the English proficiency of English Learners and monitor their progress in order to
determine their readiness for a mainstream classroom environment.
7. Include English Learners, to the extent required by State and federal law, in the District’s student
assessment program to measure their achievement in reading/language arts and mathematics.
8. Provide information to the parents/guardians of English Learners about:
a. the reasons for their child’s identification,
b. their child’s level of English proficiency,
c. the method of instruction to be used,
d. how the program will meet their child’s needs,
e. specific exit requirements of the program,
f. how the program will meet their child’s individualized education program, if applicable, and
g. information on parent/guardian rights. Parents/guardians will be regularly apprised of their child’s
progress and involvement will be encouraged.

F. Alternative Learning – The GOAL Program offers an alternative learning option within the District, designed for
secondary students who face challenges in traditional educational settings. This primarily online program allows
students to independently complete their coursework, supplemented with bookwork and direct instruction. Each
classroom is supervised by a teacher, with additional support from teacher's assistants to address academic needs.
Our student-centered, strengths-based philosophy focuses on identifying and meeting the educational and
behavioral needs of students, implementing targeted interventions to promote their success and engagement. To be
enrolled in The GOAL Program, a prospective student must currently be enrolled within the District, as well as
meet one or more of the following criteria:
1. The student demonstrated serious and repetitive behaviors that create safety concerns or disruption to the
learning environment
2. The student previously withdrew from school as a result of one of the above criteria and is now seeking
re-enrollment
3. The student participated in an alternative learning program in another school district and subsequently
relocated to the District
4. The student was referred in lieu of expulsion
5. The student was outplaced for an extended period
6. The student is chronically truant
7. The student is credit deficient, placing them at risk of not graduating on time
G. Homeless / McKinney-Vento Eligible Students – Each child of a homeless individual and each homeless youth
has equal access to the same free, appropriate public education, as provided to other children and youths, including
a public preschool education. The Superintendent or designee shall act as or appoint a Liaison for Homeless
Children to coordinate this policy’s implementation. A homeless child may attend the District school that the child
attended when permanently housed or in which the child was last enrolled. A homeless child living in any District
school’s attendance area may attend that school. The Superintendent or designee shall review and revise rules or
procedures that may act as barriers to the enrollment of homeless children and youths. In reviewing and revising
such procedures, consideration shall be given to issues concerning transportation, immunization, residency, birth
certificates, school records and other documentation, and guardianship. Whenever a child and his or her
parent/guardian who initially share the housing of another person due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a
similar hardship continue to share the housing, the Liaison for Homeless Children shall, after the passage of 18
months and annually thereafter, conduct a review as to whether such hardship continues to exist in accordance with
State law.

H. Foster Care Students – The Superintendent will appoint at least one employee to act as a liaison to facilitate the
enrollment and transfer of records of students in the legal custody of the Illinois Department of Children and
Family Services (DCFS) when enrolling in or changing schools. The District’s liaison ensures that DCFS’ Office
of Education and Transition Services receives all written notices and records pertaining to students in the legal
custody of DCFS as required by State law.

Per Board Policy 7:70, Attendance and Truancy, and Board Policy 7:90, Release During School Hours, punctual and
regular attendance at school is the joint responsibility of the student and their parent(s)/guardian(s) and is necessary if a
student is to obtain maximum benefit from their educational experience. Regular attendance is a State mandate as well as
a value and standard that prepares the student for the working world and post-secondary success. Compulsory School
Attendance applies to individuals who have custody or control of a child: (a) between the ages of six (on or before
September 1) and 17 years (unless the child has graduated from high school), or (b) who is enrolled in any of grades
kindergarten through 12 in the public school regardless of age (See 105 ILCS 5/26-1). The school district expects all
students to attend school, to be on time, and to bring appropriate school materials with them, whether attendance is
in-person or in a remote environment. Students must be in attendance for at least half of the day to participate in
extracurricular, sporting activities and/or after school events except with prior administrative approval.

 

Students absent for a valid reason must collaborate with their teacher and/or Building administration to make up missed
homework and classwork assignments within a reasonable timeframe.

 

A. Definitions of Terms
1. Chronic Truant - Defined as a student subject to compulsory school attendance and who is absent without
valid cause from such attendance for 5% or more of the previous 180 regular attendance days.
2. Chronic Absentee – Defined as a student subject to compulsory school attendance and who is absent with OR
without valid cause from such attendance for 10% or more of the previous 180 regular attendance days.
3. Tardy to Class - While students are expected to be in each class on time and ready to learn, a student not
present at the start of regularly scheduled class times will be considered tardy to class.
4. Excused Absence or Excused Tardy - Absence or tardy reported to the attendance office by a student’s
parent/guardian or an eligible student for a valid cause as defined in the Illinois School Code including: illness
(including mental or behavioral health of the student), death in the immediate family, family emergency,
college visit, religious holiday observance, voting pursuant to Illinois Election Code, such other situations
beyond the control of the student as determined by the Board of Education, or such other circumstances which
cause reasonable concern to the parent/guardian for the mental, emotional or physical health or safety of the
student. Administration may require doctor notes, and/or medical documentation may be required for each
health-related absence if a student is chronically absent and/or truant. Court appearances, exclusionary
discipline, and medical/dental appointments are excused.
5. Mental Health Excused Absence - Absence for cause by illness including the mental or behavioral health of
the student for up to 5 days for which the student need not provide a medical note. The student shall be given
the opportunity to make up any school work missed during the mental or behavioral health absence and, after
the second mental health day used, may be referred to the appropriate school support personnel.
6. Unexcused Absence or Unexcused Tardy - Being absent and/or tardy to school without valid cause includes,
but is not limited to: vacations, unnecessary parent/guardian sign outs, class cutting/skip days, outside
employment, missed bus, oversleeping, car trouble, personal appointments, needs at home (childcare
babysitting, waiting for repairs, service, etc.), and/or other unexcused absences.

7. Pre-Planned Absence - Pre-planned absence occurs when parent/guardian notification is given to the school
prior to a student absence. This type of absence is unexcused without a valid cause as defined in Illinois School
Code. Parents/Guardians are discouraged from taking students out of school for vacation or non-school events
as there is no real substitute for actual classroom participation and attendance. The State of Illinois requires
regular school attendance, and students are responsible for making up missed work, tests and assignments. The
following procedure must be followed in order for the absence to be acknowledged:
a. Parent/Guardian must call the attendance office to report the absence in advance (see “B” below)
b. A Special Absence Notification Form is completed and returned to the school as requested by
administration
i. If required, the form must be signed by the student’s teachers and a parent/guardian
ii. Form must be returned to the attendance office two (2) days prior to the absence
B. Calling in a School Absence -
1. Each day a student is absent, a parent/guardian must notify their student’s school attendance office before
10:00 a.m. If approved notification is not received by the school’s attendance of ice, the absence may be
unexcused. To contact your student’s school attendance office, please visit www.sd308.org
a. When reporting an absence, please provide the reason for the absence and symptoms if the student
is ill. Written notes are not accepted.
C. Attendance Violations -
1. Early Childhood Attendance Violations

a. Tardy to School – Unexcused late arrival to school. A parent/guardian is notified by the building
principal in writing when a student has been chronically tardy to discuss intervention, support,
and/or continued enrollment in the district’s early childhood program.
b. Unexcused Absence from School – Unexcused absences are absences without valid cause result
in parent/guardian notification by the building principal in writing to discuss interventions,
support, and/or continued enrollment in the early childhood program.

 

Note: Enrollment in a district early childhood program will be re-evaluated after 15 days of
unexcused or pre-planned absence. If re-enrollment is requested for a student who has been
dropped from the program for attendance reasons, the student will be placed at the bottom of the
waiting list.
2. Elementary School Attendance Violations
a. Tardy to School – Unexcused late arrival to school. Chronic cases of tardiness will result in
parent/guardian written notification by the building principal to discuss intervention and support.
b. Unexcused Absence from School – Unexcused absences are absences without valid cause and
result in written parent/guardian notification by the building principal. Chronic cases of
unexcused absences may result in a referral to a Kendall County Regional Office of Education
Truancy Caseworker.
3. Junior High and High School Attendance Violations
a. Tardy to Class – Students are tardy if they are not in their assigned classroom on time. Students
tardy to class will be addressed by the teacher and/or administration together with
parents/guardians, to review appropriate expectations, and discuss age-appropriate interventions
and supports. Consequences for tardiness may include but are not limited to: warning,
parent/guardian contact, detention, in-school intervention, or loss of privilege per administrative
discretion.
b. Tardy to School – Age-appropriate intervention and support, as well as age-appropriate
consequences based upon the lateness of arrival and number of occurrences, will be discussed
with students and their families. As determined by administration, consequences may include, but
are not limited to: warning, detention, in-school suspension, or loss of privilege. Chronic cases
may result in referral to a Kendall County Regional Office of Education Attendance Caseworker
after appropriate building intervention and support have been implemented with no resulting
improvement.
c. Unexcused Absence from Class – Unexcused arrival to class may result in an absence from
class. Consequences based upon the lateness to class and number of occurrences will be
determined by administration and may include, but are not limited to: detention or extended day
or in-school suspension. Chronic cases may result in a referral to a Kendall County Regional
Office of Education Attendance Caseworker, after appropriate building interventions and supports
have been implemented with no resulting improvement.

d. Unexcused Absence from School – Progressive parent/guardian notification(s) related to student
attendance concerns, as well as engagement in discussing appropriate interventions and supports,
occur. Consequences determined by administration may include, but are not limited to: in-school
intervention, loss of privilege, etc. Chronic absences and tardiness may be referred to a school
counselor and/or a Kendall County Attendance Caseworker (for a student under the age of 17).

 

District administration may deviate from disciplinary guidelines set forth above on a case-by-case
basis.

 

Students are expected to adhere to arrival and dismissal times. Students should promptly vacate
all Oswego Community Unit School District 308 property at the end of the school day unless
otherwise preapproved to remain on campus (ie: club / activity attendance, sports, tutoring, etc.) It
is the expectation of all parents / guardians to secure transportation or pick up their child within a
reasonable amount of time from dismissal if the student is not accessing Oswego Community Unit
School District 308 student transportation.

D. Attendance Interventions – Illinois School Code requires a school district to notify a parent/guardian of their
student’s attendance record. Attendance records are considered part of each student’s educational record, and
students and parents/guardians have the right to review and access it at any time. If absences exceed the Illinois
School Code's guidelines, student’s may be considered chronically absent or truant, which can impact academic
performance and overall educational experience. The district is responsible for providing additional interventions
such as school-based interventions, which may include individualized student support plans, attendance plans,
attendance contracts, and required medical documentation.

Oswego Community Unit School District 308 maintains a policy on bullying with respect to the prevention of bullying.
Oswego Community Unit School District 308 maintains Board Policy 7:180, Prevention of and Response to Bullying,
Intimidation, and Harassment, and Board Policy 7:20, Harassment of Students Prohibited as those governing policies.

 

The Student Rights and Responsibilities Code is communicated to, and acknowledged by, parents/guardians and students in
grades 6-12 electronically. This occurs through the Student Information System during annual enrollment for
parents/guardians and during the first two (2) weeks of student attendance each year. The Rights and Responsibilities Code is also accessible on the district website under “Student Rights and Responsibilities”. The purpose of such policies is to ensure, to the greatest extent possible, students are provided a safe, orderly, and respectful environment that promotes teaching and learning in which no student is subject to bullying, intimidation, harassment, or microaggressions.
A. The Illinois School Code - The Illinois General Assembly finds that “a safe and civil school environment is
necessary for students to learn and achieve and that bullying causes physical, psychological, and emotional harm to
students and interferes with students’ ability to learn and participate in school activities” (105 ILCS 5/27-23.7).
While bullying is contrary to Illinois state law and Oswego Community Unit School District 308 policy, nothing in
the District’s policy and bullying response plan is intended to infringe upon any right to exercise free expression or
the free exercise of religion or religiously-based views protected under the First Amendment to the United States
Constitution or under Section 3 or 4 of Article 1 of the Illinois Constitution.
B. Prevention of and Response to Bullying, Harassment, Racism, Discriminatory Language, and Hateful Acts –
Bullying, Harassment, Racism, Discriminatory Language, and Hateful Acts diminish a student’s ability to learn and
a school’s ability to educate. Preventing students from engaging in these disruptive behaviors and providing all
students equal access to a safe, non-hostile learning environment is an important District goal.

 

Bullying, Harassment, Racism, Discriminatory Language, and Hateful Acts on the basis of actual or perceived race,
color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, physical appearance, socioeconomic status, academic status,
pregnancy, parenting status, homelessness, age, marital or parental status, physical or mental disability, military
status, sexual orientation, gender-related identity or expression, unfavorable discharge from military service, order
of protection status, association with a person or group with one or more of the aforementioned actual or perceived
characteristics, or any other distinguishing characteristic is prohibited in each of the following situations:
1. During any school sponsored education program or activity.
2. While in school, on school property, on school buses or other school vehicles, at designated school bus
stops waiting for the school bus, or at school sponsored or school sanctioned events or activities.
3. Through the transmission of information from a school computer, a school computer network, or other
similar electronic school equipment.
4. Through the transmission of information from a computer that is accessed at a non-school-related location,
activity, function, or program or from the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned,
leased, or used by a school district or school if the bullying causes a substantial disruption to the
educational process or orderly operation of a school.

C. Bullying Defined - Bullying is severe or pervasive physical or verbal action or conduct, including any
communication made in writing or electronically directed toward a student that has or can be reasonably predicted
to have the effect of one of the following:
1. Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to student’s person or property;
2. Causes a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s physical or mental health;
3. Substantially interferes with the student’s academic performance; or
4. Substantially interferes with the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from services, activities
privileges provided by the school or interferes with another student’s attendance at school.
Cyberbullying Defined - The definition of bullying extends to “cyberbullying.” Cyberbullying means bullying
through the use of technology or any electronic communication, including without limitation any transfer of signs,
signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part, including
without limitation social media, electronic mail, Internet communications, text messages, instant messages, or
facsimile communications. Cyberbullying includes:
1. Creation of a webpage or weblog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person or the
knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages if the creation or
impersonation creates any of the effects enumerated in the definition of bullying in this section.
2. Distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on
any electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons if the distribution or posting creates
any of the effects enumerated in the definition of bullying in this Section.
D. Harassment Defined - Harassment is unwelcome, chronic, and/or repeated behavior that degrades, humiliates,
threatens or intimidates a person. Harassment includes acts of verbal, nonverbal, or physical aggression,
intimidation, or hostility that indirectly and/or directly offends someone. Per Board Policy 7:20, Harassment of
Students Prohibited, all types of harassment shall be prohibited.

E. Sexual Harassment Defined - Under the Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, “No
person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or
be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Per
Illinois School Code, 105 ILCS 5/10-20.69, Oswego Community Unit School District 308 stakeholders have further
defined sexual harassment to be: The unwelcome, repeated or chronic conduct of a sexual nature, whether implicit
and/or explicit, that interferes with an individual’s performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive
environment. The terms ‘intimidating’, ‘hostile’, or ‘offensive’ include, but are not limited to, conduct that has the
effect of humiliation, discomfort, or embarrassment.

 

Should the nature of the act create a hostile environment so severe, pervasive, or objectively offensive to deny or
limit an individual’s ability to participate in or receive the benefits, services, or opportunities of the District’s
educational programs, please refer to Section X: TITLE IX.
F. Racism Defined - Racism is the use of direct, indirect, subtle or overt words or actions that discriminate against
individuals or groups based on their actual or perceived race or ethnic group.
G. Discriminatory Language Defined - Discriminatory Language is words or phrases that stereotype individuals or
groups based on actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, physical appearance,
socioeconomic status, academic status, pregnancy, parenting status, homelessness, age, marital or parental status,
physical or mental disability, military status, sexual orientation, gender-related identity or expression, unfavorable
discharge from military service, order of protection status, association with a person or group with one or more of
the aforementioned actual or perceived characteristics, or any other distinguishing characteristic.
H. Hateful Acts Defined - Hateful Acts is defined as hateful conduct against people on the basis of race, ethnicity,
national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, religious affiliation, age, disability, or serious disease.
I. Intimidation Defined - Intimidation is unwelcome conduct causing fear of harm to his or her person or property.
J. Microaggressions Defined - Microaggressions are verbal, nonverbal, behavioral or environmental slights, insults,
putdowns, invalidations, and/or offensive interactions, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate
hostile, derogatory, or negative messages directed at another individual based on that person’s actual or perceived
race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, physical appearance, socioeconomic status, academic status,
pregnancy, parenting status, homelessness, age, marital or parental status, physical or mental disability, military
status, sexual orientation, gender-related identity or expression, unfavorable discharge from military service, order
of protection status, association with a person or group with one or more of the aforementioned actual or perceived
characteristics, or any other distinguishing characteristic.

K. For purposes of Oswego Community Unit School District 308 policy, “Bullying” (which includes
Cyberbullying), “Harassment”, “Racist Acts”, “Discriminatory Language”, “Hateful Acts”, “Intimidation”,
and “Microaggressions” may include:
1. Physical acts, such as inappropriate, unwanted, uninvited, or injurious physical contact with another;
harassment, threats, intimidation, theft, public humiliation, retaliation for asserting or alleging an act of
bullying, stalking, sexual assault, and destruction or damage to property of another;
2. Written and electronic communication of any type that incorporate language or depictions that would
constitute bullying using any medium (including, but not limited to, cell phones, computers, websites,
electronic networks, instant messages, text messages, and emails);
3. Verbal threats made to another, or blackmail, or demands for protection money;
4. Non-verbal threats or intimidation such as aggressive or menacing gestures;
5. Direct or indirect, relationally aggressive behavior such as social isolation, rumor spreading, or damaging
someone’s reputation;
6. Verbal, nonverbal, and environmental slights, snubs, or insults, whether intentional or unintentional, that
communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative messages.
7. Expression of ideas or beliefs in a way that is lewd, profane, or intended to intimidate or harass another;
8. Any of the above conduct which occurs off school grounds when such conduct creates, or can reasonably
be expected to create, a substantial disruption in a school setting and/or at school sponsored
activities/events.
9. Transmissions from a computer or device accessed at a non-school-related location, activity, function, or
program and/ or from use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased, or used by a
school district or school if the bullying causes a substantial disruption to the education process or orderly
operation of a school (105 ILCS 5/27-23.7(a)(4)).
The examples listed above are meant to be illustrative and are not exhaustive of conduct that may or may not be
considered “Bullying,” “Harassment,” “Racist Acts”, “Discriminatory Language”, “Hateful Acts” “Intimidation”, or
“Microaggressions.” Nor are they intended to limit the exercise of discretion granted to school administrators under
Sections 5/10-20.12(d) or 5/10-22.6 of the School Code for addressing instances of student misconduct.

L. Bullying, Harassment, Racist Acts, Discriminatory Language, Intimidation, and Microaggressions are
Prohibited - Conduct that is covered by this Policy is conduct that occurs on school property, at school-sponsored
activities or events, while in school, on school buses or other school vehicles, at designated school bus stops,
“cyber-bullying” conduct occurring inside or outside of school, or when the conduct otherwise would substantially
impede the educational environment, regardless of where the conduct occurs. Any student who engages in bullying,
harassment, intimidation, or microaggressions will be subject to appropriate discipline. A student’s conduct may be
addressed through behavioral interventions, including but not limited to restorative measures. Any student who is a
bystander to any bullying, harassment, or intimidation conduct and who fails to take any action to discourage the
conduct may be subject to appropriate discipline. At times a student exchange may not be an intentional
microaggression. When a student is corrected, if the student dismisses the experience of the other student, this
response is also considered a microaggression.

 

No student shall be retaliated against for reporting bullying, harassment, intimidation, or microaggressions. Any
student who is determined to have intentionally falsely accused another person shall be subject to appropriate
interventions and supports, restorative measures, and/or discipline.
M. Reporting and Investigation - Oswego Community Unit School District 308 has developed a reporting process that
includes an incident reporting form accessible from the website at Bullying, Harassment, and Incident Reporting.
Completed forms are forwarded to district administration, the building principal and / or their designee. Anyone who
witnesses any conduct that could constitute bullying, harassment, intimidation, or microaggressions shall report the
incident as soon as possible to any school staff member. This report shall be submitted to the principal or designee(s)
responsible for student discipline who shall conduct or cause to be conducted a thorough investigation of the alleged
incident in a timely manner, and make all reasonable efforts to complete the investigation within 10 school business
days after the date the report of the incident of bullying, harassment, intimidation, or microaggressions was received.
Discipline and/or other appropriate support and interventions related to an outcome of an investigation shall be
imposed consistent with the District’s adopted discipline code. For purposes of this policy, “restorative measures”
means a continuum of school-based alternatives to exclusionary discipline, such as suspensions and expulsions, that:
1. are adapted to the particular needs of the school and community,
2. contribute to maintaining school safety,
3. protect the integrity of a positive and productive learning climate,
4. teach students personal and interpersonal skills they need to be successful in school and society,
5. serve to build and restore relationships among students, families, schools, and communities, and reduce the
likelihood of future disruption by balancing accountability with an understanding of students’ behavioral
health needs in order to keep students in school.

Local law enforcement shall be notified immediately of all incidents involving bodily harm, property damage or any
conduct which reasonably is believed by the school administrator(s) to be a violation of the criminal laws. The
investigation of any such bullying conduct shall proceed in cooperation with the police and other applicable law
enforcement authorities. The School District always retains its right to investigate and impose any discipline for
violation of this Policy, whether or not criminal charges are pursued. The Superintendent or designee periodically
shall review disciplinary incidents involving bullying, harassment, racist acts, discriminatory language, intimidation,
or microaggressions or conduct placing students at risk for purposes of monitoring the: (1) effectiveness of the
District’s programs and interventions in creating a climate of mutual respect and civility in the school community,
and (2) application of this policy in a non-discriminatory manner.

 

Students who believe they are victims of or have witnessed bullying, harassment, racist acts, discriminatory
language, intimidation, microaggressions, hazing or retaliation should immediately report it orally or in writing to
one of the District Complaint Managers or any staff member with whom the student is comfortable speaking.
Anyone who has information about actual or threatened bullying, harassment, or intimidation, is encouraged to report
it to one of the District’s Complaint Managers or any staff member.

 

The District will not punish anyone because they made a complaint or report, supplied information, or otherwise
participated in an investigation or proceeding, provided the individual did not make a knowingly false accusation or
provide knowingly false information. Complaint Managers can be reached by contacting the District’s Executive
Director of Student Services.

Our goal in Oswego Community Unit School District 308 is to create an environment where students, staff, and the school
community can feel physically and psychologically safe.

 

Students have the responsibility to act on and off campus in ways that support the learning process, and in a manner that
does not disrupt or interfere with others’ learning or the daily operations of school. In the event a student violates
expectations of appropriate conduct at school or in any of the areas previously specified in Article II, Section C, including,
but not limited to a school’s campus, bus route, bus stop, extracurricular activities or at any activity reasonably related to
school, school personnel may exercise behavioral interventions, restorative practices, and / or disciplinary consequences to
help change behavior. Goals and objectives of Board Policy 7:190, Student Behavior and Guidelines for the use of:
Behavioral Interventions for Students with Disabilities are to provide effective discipline practices that:
1. Ensure the safety and dignity of students and staff
2. Maintain a positive, weapons-free, and drug-free learning environment
3. Keep school property and the property of others secure
4. Address the causes of a student’s misbehavior and provide opportunities for all individuals involved in an
incident to participate in its resolution as appropriate
5. Teach students positive behavioral skills to become independent, self-disciplined citizens in the
community and society.
A. Student Dress - Per Board Policy 7:160, Student Appearance, student dress is the collective responsibility of the
students, parents/guardians, and school district to ensure that student attire must not interfere with the health or
safety of any student, that student attire does not contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student,
and that dress code enforcement does not reinforce or increase marginalization or oppression of any group based on
race, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, cultural observance, household
income, or body type/size. At times, restrictions imposed on the way a student dresses may be necessary to support
the overall educational goals of the school.

 

In relation to student dress, and to align with the district’s equity statements:
● Students should be able to dress and style their hair for school in a manner that expresses individuality
without fear of discipline or body shaming. The District does not prohibit hairstyles historically associated
with race, ethnicity, or hair texture, including, but not limited to, protected hairstyles such as braids, locks,
and twists. The District also does not prohibit the right of a student to wear or accessorize the student’s
graduation attire with items associated with the student’s culture, ethnic, or religious identity or other
characteristic or category protected under the Illinois Human Rights Act.
● Students have the right to be treated equitably. Dress code enforcement shall not create disparities,
reinforce or increase marginalization of any group, nor be more strictly enforced because of racial identity,
ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, gender nonconformity, sexual orientation, cultural or
religious identity, household income, body size/type, or body maturity.

 

Clothing must include the following:
● Top
● Bottom
● Footwear

 

Students must wear adequate clothing covering private parts in opaque material (not able to be seen through).

 

Students may wear religious and cultural headwear.

 

Students’ dress must not disrupt the educational process, interfere with the maintenance of a positive
teaching/learning climate, or compromise reasonable standards of health, safety, and decency. Specifically, the
following is prohibited at school or at school-sponsored events:
● Clothing which depicts graphics, wording, comments, pictures, slogans, symbols or designs with sexual,
vulgar, lewd or indecent meanings or connotations, including hate speech, or clothing which by
community standards is indecent for purposes of educational or school activity.
● Clothing which depicts the use of weapons, drugs, tobacco, alcohol, or illegal substances.
● Clothing or accessories intended to identify with a gang or with a group whose purpose or effect is to
cause or forecast substantial or material interference with the operation of the school or school activities or
the safety and security of students or staff.

 

Clothing that significantly interferes with the learning environment, which may include hats or hoods that do not
fall into the above categories, or presents safety concerns for educational/extracurricular experiences (e.g. science,
kinetic wellness, etc.) with safety-based requirements, will be addressed/enforced equitably by administration.
B. Personal Belongings – To foster a safe and conducive learning environment, the following regarding personal
belongings emphasize the collective responsibility of students, parents/guardians, and the school district:

 

Elementary School (Grades Kindergarten - 5)
● Students are not permitted to carry backpacks of any kind throughout the school unless approved by the
office. Students may carry small, personal bags that are designed to hold personal essentials.
○ Students must store their backpacks in the designated areas either inside or outside the
classroom and will have designated access to their belongings before school, after school, and
with additional time available for individual needs as determined by staff.
Junior High School (Grades 6 - 8)
● Students are not permitted to carry backpacks of any kind throughout the school unless approved by the
office. Students may carry small, personal bags, including crossbody bags, wristlet bags, and fanny
packs, that are designed to hold personal essentials.
○ Designated access to lockers is permitted before school, after school, and during passing
periods, with additional time available for individual needs as determined by staff.
○ Exemptions can be requested through school administration for students with documented
medical or accessibility needs, who will be accommodated individually as necessary.
High School (Grades 9 - 12)
● Students are permitted to carry backpacks throughout the school. Students may also carry small,
personal bags, including crossbody bags, wristlet bags, and fanny packs, that are designed to hold
personal essentials.
○ Designated access to lockers is permitted before school, after school, and during passing
periods, with additional time available for individual needs as determined by staff.
C. Student Parking Privileges and Regulations – Parking on campus during school hours is a privilege granted to
eligible high school students who have obtained a parking permit.
1. Eligibility – To be eligible, students must:
a. Be a senior or junior in High School; juniors are eligible for parking privileges through the lottery
only
b. Have a valid driver's license
c. Have valid insurance
d. Be able to provide all necessary information for application consideration

2. Parking Permit Rules and Expectations – Students who are eligible, approved, and have purchased a
parking permit must follow the High School Parking Expectations to maintain their parking privileges, as
failure to comply may result in the revocation of the permit and forfeiture of the parking fee.
D. Gross Misconduct/Disobedience - Gross misconduct or disobedience includes, but is not limited to, the following
types of conduct and such other conduct as may be designated by policy of the Board of Education. All acts of
gross misconduct or disobedience that may be considered criminal behavior will be referred to the proper legal
authorities. Expectations of the district’s procedure for the interview of students where criminal behavior generates
a referral to legal authorities are contained in Board Policy 7:150, Agency and Police Interviews.
1. Prohibited Items - Items that may interfere with the educational process and/or the rights or safety of staff
and students are not allowed on school property or in the classroom. Examples include, but are not limited
to:
a. Personal items used for non-curricular activities (i.e. toys, electronic devices, laser pens, recess
equipment from home, and game/trading cards)
b. Unauthorized devices that could be used to violate the Rights and Responsibilities Code, conduct
criminal activity, cheat, take unauthorized photos or videos, access the Internet, or play or record
media that disrupts the educational environment and/or violates the rights of others. Such devices
must be powered off and kept out of sight during the regular school day except as approved by
building administration.
c. If administration has reasonable suspicion that a violation of law or school policy has occurred,
administration reserves the right to view content of cell phones or other electronic devices,
contact the parent/guardian and law enforcement (for criminal activity), and to enact discipline.
2. Prohibited Student Conduct - The school administration is authorized to discipline students for gross
disobedience or misconduct, including but not limited to:
a. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling vaping, tobacco or nicotine materials,
including without limitation electronic cigarettes and/or any type of vaping device or
paraphernalia.

b. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling alcoholic beverages. Students who are
under the influence of an alcoholic beverage are not permitted to attend school or school
functions and are treated as though they had alcohol in their possession.
c. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, selling, or offering for sale:
i. Any illegal drug, controlled substance, or cannabis (including marijuana and hashish or
any variation of THC), except a medical cannabis infused product authorized to be
administered under Ashley's Law.
ii. Any anabolic steroid unless it is being administered in accordance with a physician or
licensed practitioner’s prescription.
iii. Any performance-enhancing substance on Illinois High School Association’s most
current banned substance list unless administered in accordance with a physician or
licensed practitioner’s prescription.
iv. Any prescription drug when not prescribed for the student by a physician or licensed
practitioner, or when used in a manner inconsistent with the prescription or prescribing
physician or licensed practitioner’s instructions.
v. Any inhalant, regardless of whether it contains an illegal drug or controlled substance
that: (a) student believes is, or represents to be capable of, causing intoxication,
hallucination, excitement, or dulling of brain or nervous system; or (b) about which the
student engaged in behavior that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the
student intended the inhalant to cause intoxication, hallucination, excitement, or dulling
of brain or nervous system.
vi. Any substance inhaled, injected, smoked, consumed, or otherwise ingested or absorbed
with the intention of causing a physiological or psychological change in the body,
including without limitation, pure caffeine in tablet or powder form.
vii. “Look-alike” or counterfeit drugs, including a substance that is not prohibited by this
policy, but one: (a) that a student believes to be, or represents to be, an illegal drug,
controlled substance, or other substance that is prohibited by this policy; or (b) about
which a student engaged in behavior that would lead a reasonable person to believe that
the student expressly or impliedly represented to be an illegal drug, controlled substance,
or other substance that is prohibited by this policy.
viii. Drug or vape paraphernalia, including devices or objects that were/are, or can be used to:
(a) ingest, inhale, or inject cannabis or any variation of THC or controlled
substances into the body;
(b) grow, process, store, or conceal vaping substances, cannabis or any variation of
THC or other controlled substances.

Note: Prohibition in this section does not apply to student use of asthma or other legal/prescribed inhalant
medications. Students who are under the influence of any prohibited substance are not permitted to attend
school or school functions and are treated as though they had the prohibited substance, as applicable, in
their possession.
3. Weapons - Using, possessing, controlling, or transferring a “weapon” as that term is defined in the
Weapons section of this policy, or any component of a weapon, or look-alike weapon, or violating the
Weapons section of this policy. A student who is determined to have brought one of the following objects
to school, any school sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable
relationship to school may be expelled for a period of at least one calendar year but not more than two (2)
calendar years:
a. A firearm, meaning any gun, rifle, shotgun, or weapon as defined by Section 921 of Title 18 of
the United States Code (18 U.S.C. § 921), firearm as defined in Section 1.1 of the Firearm
Owners Identification Card Act (430 ILCS 65/), or firearm as defined in Section 24-1 of the
Criminal Code of 1961 (720 ILCS 5/24-1).
b. If used or attempted to be used to cause bodily harm, a knife, brass knuckles or knuckle weapon
regardless of its composition, a billy club, or any other object including “look-alikes” of any
firearm as defined above. The expulsion requirement under either paragraph 1 or 2 above may be
modified by the Superintendent and the Superintendent’s determination may be modified by the
Board on a case-by-case basis.

c. The Superintendent or designee may grant an exception to this policy, upon the prior request of an
adult supervisor for students in theater, cooking, ROTC, martial arts, and similar programs,
whether or not school-sponsored, provided the item is not equipped, nor intended, to do bodily
harm. This policy’s prohibitions concerning weapons apply even when:
i. a student is licensed to carry a concealed firearm, or
ii. the law permits individuals who are licensed to carry a concealed firearm to legally store
a firearm in a locked vehicle in a school parking lot.
4. Fighting/Bodily Harm - Fighting and/or the actual infliction of bodily harm or physical violation may
include but is not limited to endangering the well-being of others and/or dangerous actions on school
grounds, at school sponsored events, or at any event reasonably related to school. When such an event
occurs, a thorough investigation will be conducted by the administration. Discipline is considered, and
may be issued, for all participants. All students should conduct themselves in a positive and respectful
manner and report fighting, and/or threats of fighting to school personnel. Encouraging fighting, including
taking pictures and/or video recording fighting, or infringing upon a staff member’s ability to break up a
fight is also considered gross misconduct under this code. For required reporting, the following
distinctions shall be identified and coded as they relate to incidents of fighting:
a. Fighting without a weapon
b. Fighting with a weapon
c. Fighting with an explosive
d. Encouraging fighting/bodily harm

5. Using or Possessing an Electronic Device - The District recognizes the importance of communication
and collaboration, and provides District-issued electronic devices for students to be productive in the
classroom. To focus on academics and reduce unnecessary distractions, the following expectations will be
in place for all students:

For all grade levels, using a non-District-issued device such as a cell phone, video recording device, or
other mobile electronic device (e.g. “Smart” watches) in any manner that disrupts the educational
environment including student transportation, or harasses or violates the rights of others, including using
the device to take photographs in locker rooms, bathrooms, or on any form of student transportation,
taking photographs or recording a fight, cheating, or otherwise violating student conduct rules will not be
tolerated. All electronic devices must be powered-off/out-of-sight during regular school day unless in one
of the following circumstances:
a. With supervising teacher’s permission for educational purposes only
b. As provided in a student’s individualized education program (IEP) or Section 504 plan
c. In an emergency that threatens the safety of students, staff, or other individuals

 

Elementary School (Grades Kindergarten - 5) Cell Phone/Mobile Electronic Device procedures – All
district elementary schools have the following mobile electronic device expectations:
● Cell phones/mobile electronic devices may be used by students only before 9:00 a.m. and after
3:50 p.m. except as provided in the exceptions listed above.
● Cell phones/mobile electronic devices are not to be used by students during school hours (9:00
a.m.- 3:50 p.m.) unless authorized by a teacher or administrator. Prohibiting student use of cell
phones/mobile electronic devices during school hours includes: classrooms, library, common
areas, health office or restrooms rooms, outside areas, and during lunch or transition times
between classes.
● It is permissible to wear items like SMART watches as long as they are set to sleep mode or
silenced mode where distractions need to be minimized. This allows individuals to still have these
devices on their person for convenience or emergency purposes, while being considerate of the
surrounding environment by ensuring they do not cause disruptions.
● Students may seek staff permission or report to the office to use a cell phone/mobile electronic
device during school hours for an urgent/personal reason.

 

Failure to abide by the expectations of the elementary mobile electronic device procedures may include the
following consequences: verbal/written warning, parent guardian contact and/or meeting, securing a
student’s cell phone/device in the office until transferred to a parent/guardian, as well as additional
disciplinary consequences related to insubordination, disruption, or other conduct/gross misconduct per the
Rights and Responsibilities code.

 

Junior High School (Grades 6 - 8) Cell Phone/Mobile Electronic Device procedures – All district
junior high schools have the following cell phone expectations:
● Cell phones/mobile devices may be used by students only before 8:05 a.m. and after 3:05 p.m.
except as provided in the exceptions listed above.
● Cell phones/mobile devices are not to be used by students during school hours (8:05 a.m. - 3:05
p.m.) unless authorized by a teacher or administrator. Prohibiting student use of cell
phones/mobile devices during school hours includes: classrooms, library, common areas, health
office or restrooms/locker rooms, outside areas, and during lunch or transition times between
classes.
● It is permissible to wear items like Smart watches as long as they are set to sleep mode or silenced
mode where distractions need to be minimized. This allows individuals to still have these devices
on their person for convenience or emergency purposes, while being considerate of the
surrounding environment by ensuring they do not cause disruptions.
● Students may seek staff permission or report to the office to use a cell phone/mobile device
during school hours for an urgent/personal reason.

 

Failure to abide by the expectations of the junior high mobile electronic device procedures may include the
following consequences: verbal/written warning, parent guardian contact and/or meeting, securing a
student’s cell phone/mobile electronic device in the office until transferred to a parent/guardian, criminal
investigation by law enforcement, as well as additional disciplinary consequences related to
insubordination, disruption, or other conduct/gross misconduct per the Rights and Responsibilities code.

 

High School (Grades 9 - 12) Cell Phone/Mobile Electronic Device procedures – All District high
schools have the following cell phone expectations:
● Cell phones/mobile devices may be used by students only before 7:20 a.m. and after 2:26 p.m.
except as provided in the exceptions listed above.
● Cell phones/mobile devices are not to be used by students during school hours (7:20 a.m. - 2:26
p.m.) unless authorized by a teacher or administrator. Prohibiting student use of cell
phones/mobile devices during school hours includes any time students are in instructional /
academic contexts (i.e. - academic classrooms, library, tutoring, study hall where it may be a
distraction).
● It is permissible to wear items like Smart watches as long as they are set to sleep mode or silenced
mode where distractions need to be minimized. This allows individuals to still have these devices
on their person for convenience or emergency purposes, while being considerate of the
surrounding environment by ensuring they do not cause disruptions.
● Students may seek staff permission or report to the office to use a cell phone/mobile device
during school hours for an urgent/personal reason.
Failure to abide by the expectations of the high school mobile electronic device procedures may include
the following consequences: parent guardian contact and/or meeting, verbal/written warning, securing a
student’s cell phone/mobile electronic device in the office until transferred to a parent/guardian, criminal
investigation by law enforcement, as well as additional disciplinary consequences related to
insubordination, disruption, or other conduct/gross misconduct per the Rights and Responsibilities code.
6. Using/Possessing Laser Pointer – Use and possession of laser pointers is prohibited unless under direct
staff supervision and in the context of instruction.
7. Insubordination/Disobeying Rules of Student Conduct or Directives From Staff Members or School
Officials – Examples of disobeying staff directives include: refusing a District staff member’s request to
stop, wear or present school identification, or submit to a reasonable search.
8. Engaging in Academic Dishonesty including cheating, intentionally plagiarizing, wrongfully giving or
receiving help during an academic examination, altering report cards, and wrongfully obtaining test
information and/or copies or scores is prohibited. This includes but is not limited to:
a. Forging passes, misrepresenting the truth, falsifying school documents
b. Accessing restricted files/information, any abuse of the Oswego Community Unit School District
308 Computer Network (as referenced in section IV Authorization for Electronic Network
Access)
c. Academic dishonesty, cheating or plagiarism
d. Theft from students or staff, misappropriation of found items

9. Engaging in hazing or any kind of bullying or aggressive behavior that does physical or
psychological harm to another or any urging of other students to engage in such conduct – Prohibited
conduct includes, without limitation, any use of violence, force, noise, coercion, threats, intimidation,
stalking, fear, harassment, sexual harassment, public humiliation, destruction of property, retaliation,
hazing, bullying, with or without the use of a school computer, or other electronic device or comparable
conduct. For required reporting, the following distinctions shall be identified and coded as they relate to
incidents of harassment:
a. Harassment based on gender
b. Harassment based on sexual orientation
c. Harassment based on gender identity
d. Harassment that involves conversations, rumors or teasing that are sexual in nature
e. Harassment that involves inappropriate touching
f. Harassment that involves viewing or possession of pornographic material, intimidation, intent to
intimidate, and/or retaliation
g. Harassment based on race, color, ancestry, nationality, and/or ethnicity
h. Harassment based on an individual’s religion and/or creed
i. Harassment based on physical or mental disability.

 

IMPORTANT: The district does not tolerate any conduct that affects the tangible benefits of education,
and/or that unreasonably interferes with a student’s educational performance and/or creates an unsafe,
intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment. The terms “intimidating,” “hostile” and
“offensive” include conduct that has the effect of humiliation, embarrassment or discomfort. Students who
feel they are victims of or have witnessed harassment, intimidation or bullying, should notify a dean,
counselor, administrator, teacher or other school employee. All reports of harassment will be kept
confidential to the extent possible given the need to investigate. Violations may be reported to law
enforcement authorities and/or other law enforcement agencies as appropriate by the school
administration, and/or the parents/guardians and/or the student.

 

Sexual harassment, including but not limited to: (1) harassment based on gender, sexual orientation,
gender identity, (2) inappropriate touching, (3) crude jokes, comments, or pictures, (4) conversations,
spreading of rumors, and/or teasing that are sexual in nature, or (5) viewing or possession of pornographic
material is prohibited. Bullying/Hazing, as described in Section VII, are prohibited. Hazing is defined as
any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed to, or required of, a student for purposes of being
initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any group, organization,
club, or athletic team whose members include other students.
10. Engaging in any sexual activity including without limitation, offensive touching, sexual harassment,
indecent exposure (including mooning), and sexual assault is prohibited. This does not include the
non-disruptive expression of gender or sexual orientation or preference. In order to maintain a respectful
and appropriate learning environment, students are expected to refrain from engaging in excessive or
inappropriate public displays of affection while on school grounds and during school sponsored activities.
11. Teen dating violence as described in Board Policy 7:185, Teen Dating Violence is prohibited.
12. Causing or attempting to cause damage to, or stealing or attempting to steal, school property or
another person’s personal property.
13. Being absent without a recognized excuse - State law and School Board policy regarding truancy
provides guidance for the District’s response to chronic truants.
14. Entering school property or a school facility without proper authorization.
15. Calling 9-1-1 in the absence of a reasonable belief that an emergency exists – Calling first responders
(i.e., calling 911), signaling or setting off alarm or signal indicating presence of an emergency, or
indicating presence of a bomb or explosive device on school grounds, school bus, or at a school activity is
gross misconduct.
16. Being involved with any public school fraternity, sorority, or secret society by: (a) being a member; (b)
promising to join; (c) pledging to become a member; or (d) soliciting any other person to join, promise to
join, or be pledged to become a member.
17. Being involved in gangs or gang-related activities including displaying gang symbols, clothing or
paraphernalia.

18. Violating any criminal law including but not limited to: assault, battery, arson, theft, gambling, hazing,
eavesdropping, vandalism, sending/posting nude/semi-nude images by electronic device, application, or
social media (sexting).
19. Disruptive/Unsafe acts - Engaging in any activity, on or off campus, that interferes with, disrupts, or
adversely affects the school environment, school operations, or educational function, including, but not
limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: (a) be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a
staff member, student, or Board member; or (b) endanger the health, education or safety of students, staff,
or school property.
a. The District is dedicated to fostering and upholding safe and secure environments for all students
and staff members. To ensure a safe and conducive atmosphere for learning, teaching, and
working, it is essential to proactively address high-risk behaviors and potential threats among
students. The Oswego Community Unit School District 308 utilizes the Comprehensive School
Threat Assessment Guidelines as a problem-solving model for systematically evaluating and
managing threats, reinforcing our commitment to the well-being of our educational community.
20. Making an explicit threat on an Internet website against a school employee, student, or
school-related personnel if the Internet website through which the threat was made is a site that was
accessible within the school, or was available to third parties who worked or studied within the school
grounds, and the threat could be reasonably interpreted as threatening to the safety and security of the
threatened individual because of their duties or employment status or status as a student inside the school.
21. Operating an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) or drone for any purpose on school grounds or at any
school event unless granted permission by the Superintendent or designee.
22. Student Parking (HS only) - Failing to follow basic traffic rules within designated motor vehicle areas
including but is not limited to: obeying posted speed limits, parking in designated / or specific assigned
areas, and reporting vehicle accidents in accordance with the law.

 

For purposes of this policy, the term “possession” includes having control, custody, or care, currently or in the past,
of an object or substance, including situations in which the item is: (a) on the student’s person; (b) contained in
another item belonging to, or under the control of, the student, such as in the student’s clothing, backpack, or
automobile; (c) in a school’s student locker, desk, or other school property; or (d) at any location on school
property or at a school-sponsored event.

 

Efforts, including the use of positive expectations, intervention and support, shall be made to deter students, while
at school or a school-related event, from engaging in aggressive behavior that may reasonably produce physical or
physiological harm to another. The Superintendent or designee shall ensure the parent/guardian of a student who
engages in aggressive behavior is notified of the incident. Failure to provide such notification does not limit the
Board’s authority to impose discipline, including suspension or expulsion, for such behavior.

 

No disciplinary action shall be taken against any student that is based totally or in part on the refusal of the student’s
parent/guardian to administer or consent to the administration of psychotropic or psychostimulant medication to the
student as provided by 105 ILCS 5/10-20.36.

 

Not every situation involving misconduct is, or can be, covered in this document. District administration may alter,
revise, adjust or increase sanctions and discipline on a case-by-case basis, as the interests and safety of the district
and its students and staff require. Except in certain circumstances, the District will exhaust all other means of
intervention before expelling students or suspending them out of school. District administration is specifically
empowered, on a case-by-case basis, to deviate from the disciplinary guidelines set forth below when, in its
sole discretion, it is necessary for the safe, proper and efficient operation of the district.

 

C. Preventative Measures and Interventions
1. Preventative Measures - We strive to take every step possible to prevent students from escalating to the
point where interventions are necessary. In our buildings we have mental health and Special Education
staff who are trained in ways to observe, prevent, and respond to student behaviors. One way teams can
further support individual student needs is through the creation and implementation of a student safety
and/or support plan (see Table 1). Staff members should always report concerning trends, noticeable
changes, and unexpected behavior to building or department leaders so it can be addressed. Through
collaboration, teams are able to more adequately prepare for and prevent student behavior concerns.

2. Interventions - Interventions refer to an evidence-based approach used to modify or change an
individual's behavior, often to help them overcome challenging issues or achieve specific goals. These
interventions should involve targeting and addressing specific behaviors through a structured and
systematic process that incorporates principles of learning and conditioning. Strategies such as positive
reinforcement, shaping, and modeling are commonly used to encourage desired behaviors while
minimizing or extinguishing unwanted behaviors. Behavioral interventions are commonly utilized to
promote positive outcomes and enhance an individual's quality of learning.
3. Restorative Measures - Restorative measures means a continuum of school-based alternatives to
exclusionary disciplines such as suspensions and expulsions that (i) are adapted to the particular needs of
the school and community; (ii) contribute to maintaining school safety; (iii) protect the integrity of a
positive and productive learning climate; (iv) teach students the personal and interpersonal skills they will
need to be successful in school and society; (v) serve to build and restore relationships among students,
families, schools and communities; (vi) reduce the likelihood of future disruption by balancing
accountability with an understanding of students’ behavioral health needs in order to keep students in
school, and (vii) increase student accountability if the incident of bullying is based on religion, race,
ethnicity, or any other category that is identified in the Human Rights Act.
4. Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) - Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) is used to manage
situations when there is an imminent threat of harm to staff or student(s). Select Support Personnel and
Staff in SD 308 attend training in order to become qualified to use this intervention program response.
Through our district provided training, staff learn de-escalation strategies and the skills to recognize and
respond to crisis situations that may involve challenging behaviors. For more information about NVCI,
click here or please contact your building leadership or the Special Education Department.
5. Physical Management of Students - The safety of our students and staff has always been our district’s
top priority and will continue to be. To provide the best physically and psychologically safe educational
environment, SD 308 adheres to a number of practices that can be utilized when a student is in need of
physical management as outlined by Public Act 102-0039 adopting the rules governing time out and
physical restraint.
6. Limitations - There are certain parameters in place at the Board level through School Code that protect
students from physical consequences. Per Board Policy, 7:190, Student Behavior, use of corporal
punishment is prohibited, and is defined as slapping, paddling, or prolonged maintenance of students in
physically painful positions, or intentional infliction of bodily harm. Corporal punishment does not
include reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for students, staff, or other persons, or for the
purpose of self-defense or defense of property.

 

Illinois law governs the District’s use of timeout and physical restraint with students. Isolated time out,
time out and physical restraints may be used only as permitted in 105 ILCS 5/10-20.33. Isolated time out,
time out, and physical restraint may only be used when:
a. The student’s behavior presents an immediate danger of serious physical harm to the student or
others;
b. Other less restrictive and intrusive measures have been tried and proven ineffective in stopping
the imminent danger or serious physical harm;
c. There is no known medical contraindication to its use on the student;
d. The school staff member or members applying the intervention have been trained in its safe
application.

 

Under State rules, isolated time out, time out, or physical restraint may not be used as discipline or
punishment, convenience for staff, retaliation, a substitute for appropriate educational or behavioral
support, a routine safety matter, or to prevent property damage in the absence of imminent danger of
serious physical harm to the student or others.” See 23 Ill. Adm. Code 1.285. The law does allow for
momentary periods of physical restriction through person to person contact. This contact must use
reasonable force. The purpose of momentary physical restriction is to prevent a student from completing
an act that would result in potential harm to self or others. The State of Illinois is continually working to
reduce the use of physical restraint and time out and requires districts to annually submit plans to reduce
use of these techniques.

 

D. Disciplinary Measures - Per Board Policy 7:190, Student Behavior, School officials shall limit the number and
duration of expulsions and out-of-school suspensions to the greatest extent practicable, and where practicable and
reasonable, shall consider forms of non-exclusionary discipline before using out-of-school suspensions or
expulsions. School personnel shall not advise or encourage students to drop out of school voluntarily due to
behavioral or academic difficulties. Potential disciplinary measures include, without limitation, any of the
following:
1. Notifying parent(s)/guardian(s)
2. Disciplinary conference
3. Withholding of privileges
4. Temporary removal from the classroom
5. Return of property or restitution for lost, stolen or damaged property
6. Detention / Lunch Detention
7. In-school suspension in accordance with Board Policy 7:200, Suspension Procedures.
8. Seizure of contraband; confiscation and temporary retention of personal property that was used to violate
this policy or school disciplinary rules
9. Suspension of bus riding privileges in accordance with Board Policy 7:220, Bus Conduct.
10. Out-of-school suspension from school and all school activities in accordance with Board Policy 7:200,
Suspension Procedures. A student who has been suspended may also be restricted from being on school
grounds and at school activities.
11. Expulsion from school and all school activities for a definite time period not to exceed 2 calendar years in
accordance with Board Policy 7:210, Expulsion Procedures. A student who has been expelled may also be
restricted from being on school grounds and at school activities.
12. Transfer to an alternative program if the student is expelled or otherwise qualifies for the transfer under
State law. The transfer shall be in the manner provided in Article 13A or 13B of the School Code.
13. Notifying juvenile authorities or other law enforcement whenever the conduct involves criminal activity,
including but not limited to, illegal drugs (controlled substances), “lookalikes,” alcohol, or weapons or in
other circumstances as authorized by the reciprocal reporting agreement between the district and local law
enforcement agencies.

 

The above list of disciplinary measures is a range of options that will not always be applicable in every case. In
some circumstances, it may not be possible to avoid suspending or expelling a student because behavioral
interventions, other than a suspension and expulsion, will not be appropriate and available, and the only reasonable
and practical way to resolve the threat and/or address the disruption is a suspension or expulsion.

 

Corporal punishment shall not be used, and is defined as slapping, paddling, or prolonged maintenance of students
in physically painful positions, or intentional infliction of bodily harm. Corporal punishment does not include
reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for students, staff, or other persons, or for the purpose of self-defense
or defense of property.

 

Isolated time out, time out and physical restraints may be used only as permitted in 105 ILCS 5/10-20.33, ISBE
rules, and administrative procedures developed by the Superintendent or designee. Isolated time out, time out and
physical restraints shall not be used to discipline or punish a student.

 

In addition to any restorative measures, supports and interventions, and at the administrator’s discretion, students
could be subject to one or more of the following interventions and/or consequences: conference with administrator,
warning, counseling, peer mediation, removal of privileges (bus transportation, student parking, participation in
extracurricular activities), parent/guardian contact or conference, removal from class, payment for damages, police
involvement and/or arrest for criminal actions, or other interventions and/or consequences deemed appropriate by
school administration.

 

Delegation of Authority - Each teacher, and any other school personnel when students are under their charge, is
authorized to impose any disciplinary measure, other than suspension, expulsion, corporal punishment, or in school
suspension, that is appropriate and in accordance with the policies and rules on student discipline. Teachers, other
certificated/licensed educational employees, and other persons providing a related service for or with respect to a
student, may use reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for other students, school personnel, or other persons,
or for the purpose of self-defense or defense of property. Teachers may temporarily remove students from a
classroom for disruptive behavior.

The Superintendent, Building Principal, Assistant Building Principal, or Dean of Students is authorized to impose
the same disciplinary measures as teachers and may suspend students guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct
from school (including all school functions) and from riding the school bus for up to 10 consecutive school days,
provided the appropriate procedures are followed. The Board may suspend a student from riding the bus in excess
of 10 school days for safety reasons.
E. Off-Campus Conduct - All behavioral interventions/disciplinary actions considered and/or applied in response to
student behavior for a violation of school rules or other misconduct on campus, is applicable for any activity
off-campus if the conduct interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the school environment, school operations, or
an educational function including, but not limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: (a) be a threat or
an attempted intimidation of a staff member; or (b) endanger student/staff health/safety, or school property. See
Board Policy 7:190, Student Behavior. This policy is not limited to school-sponsored/school related events. The
district does not regularly seek out information, but takes action if/when such information is brought to the attention
of school officials and creates a nexus to the learning environment.

 

When it is brought to the attention of the district that a student has engaged in such conduct off-campus, the
administration of the school that the student attends may conduct an investigation and initiate behavioral
interventions and/or disciplinary consequences if such events create a nexus to the learning environment. In
conducting such an investigation, the principal or his/her representative(s) will cooperate with law enforcement
authorities as appropriate.

 

By way of illustration, but not by way of limitation, the following actions are examples of off-campus activity that
may be subject to behavioral interventions and disciplinary consequences under this section if such events create a
nexus to the learning environment:

1. Any use or threat of use of a firearm or other weapon against another person by a student.
2. Any off-campus event, such as fighting, that is an extension of an on-campus situation or relationship.
3. Any inappropriate, harassing, or intimidating electronic transmissions including, but not limited to, those
delivered by text/picture/video messaging, email, blogs, web pages, and other social networking
applications or sites (such as, but not limited to applications such as, but not limited to, SnapChat, TikTok,
Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc.); or threat of violence against any student, school employee or other
person by a student.
4. Any threat against any student or employee of the district purposely calculated to cause fear, or that would
result in fear by a reasonable person.
5. Illegal sale or distribution of controlled substances, paraphernalia, or vape devices off campus to any
person. The term “controlled substances” has the same meaning given to that term in the Illinois Criminal
Code.
6. Possession, use, transfer or control of any weapons such as firearms, ammunition, stun guns, tasers,
explosives or firecrackers, look-alike weapons or components of a weapon, or other dangerous instruments.

A. Per Board Policy 6:310, High School Credit for Non-District Experiences; Course Substitutions; Re-Entering
Students a student may receive credit in several ways:
1. Registered Apprenticeship Programs - The Superintendent or designee will ensure that the District
complies with State law requirements for registered apprenticeship programs. The opportunities and
requirements for registered apprenticeship programs contained in this policy will be posted on the District's
website, and parents/guardians and students will also be notified of such opportunities in the appropriate
school handbook(s).
A student in grades 9-12 who is 16 years or older may satisfy one or more high school courses (including
physical education) or graduation requirements by successfully completing a registered apprenticeship
program if:
a) The registered apprenticeship program meets all criteria contained in State law;
b) The registered apprenticeship program is listed by the District, or the student identifies a registered
(but not listed) apprenticeship program with a business or organization if one is not offered in the
District;
c) The student enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program has the opportunity to earn
postsecondary credit toward a certificate or degrees, as applicable;
d) The student's parent/guardian requests and approves the substitution(s) in writing on forms
provided by the District and on its website;
e) The Building Principal approves the substitution(s); and
f) All non-academic requirements mandated by the School Code for high school graduation that
would otherwise prohibit or prevent the student from participating in the registered apprenticeship
program are waived.
2. Accelerated Placement - Per Board Policy 6:135, Accelerated Placement Program, the District provides
an Accelerated Placement Program (APP). The APP advances the District's goal of providing educational
programs with opportunities for each student to develop to their maximum potential. The APP provides an
educational setting with curriculum options usually reserved for students who are older or in higher grades
than the student participating in the APP. APP options include, but may not be limited to: (a) accelerating a
student in a single subject; (b) other grade-level acceleration; and (c) early entrance to kindergarten or first
grade. Participation in the APP is open to all students who demonstrate high ability and who may benefit
from accelerated placement. It is not limited to students who have been identified as gifted and talented.
Eligibility to participate in the District's APP shall not be conditioned upon the protected classifications
identified in Board Policy 7:10, Equal Educational Opportunities, or any factor other than the student's
identification as an accelerated learner.

B. Restrictions on Publications
1. Elementary Schools - Per Board Policy 7:310, Restrictions on Publications; Elementary Schools,
school-sponsored publications, productions, and websites are considered part of the curriculum rather than
public forums for general student use, giving school authorities the right to edit or remove content that does
not align with the educational mission of the District. These communications must adhere to ethical and
responsible journalism standards, ensuring that material is not defamatory, explicit, intrusive on privacy,
conflicting with the school's mission, socially inappropriate, or disruptive to the educational process.
Personal opinions and editorial statements must be identified with the author's name, and opportunities for
the expression of diverse viewpoints are to be provided within the same media platform.
Students are not allowed to create, distribute, or access publications at school that will disrupt school
operations, violate the rights of others, contain inappropriate or mature content, promote illegal drug use, or
are primarily prepared by non-students for grades kindergarten through eighth. This also includes accessing
or distributing material on school property or at school-related activities. Students can face discipline for
accessing or distributing prohibited material or creating material intended for distribution at school.
2. Junior High and High Schools - Per Board Policy 7:315, Restrictions on Publications; High Schools,
student journalists who work on school-sponsored publications, productions, and websites must adhere to
the Illinois Speech Rights of Student Journalists Act and Board of Education policies. They are responsible
for deciding on the news, opinion, feature, and advertising content. Student Journalists must follow the
Code of Ethics provided by professional organizations, maintain accuracy and objectivity, review and
improve content, fact-check and verify all information, ensure space for diverse viewpoints within the same
media to align with the District's media literacy curriculum mandate in 105 ILCS 5/27-20.08, and
appropriately attribute personal opinions, in addition to the obligations outlined in Board Policy 7:315.

 

Student journalists are prohibited from creating, producing, or distributing school-sponsored media that:
a. is libelous, slanderous, or obscene;
b. constitutes an unwarranted invasion of privacy;
c. violates federal or State law, including the Constitutional rights of third parties; or
d. incites students to:
i. commit an unlawful act;
ii. violate any of the District's policies; or
iii. materially and substantially disrupt the orderly operation of the school.
The District will not censor material unless it falls into the above categories, allowing for freedom of
speech and press within the established guidelines. Student expressions are considered separate from
official District or Board policy.
C. Teaching about Controversial Issues – Per Board Policy 6:80, Teaching about Controversial Issues, all school
sponsored presentations and discussions that include controversial or sensitive topics within the instructional
program, including those made by guest speakers must:
● Be age appropriate, with proper decorum considering the students’ ages
● Be consistent with the curriculum and serve an educational purpose
● Be informative and present a balanced view
● Be respectful of the rights and opinions of everyone with emotional criticisms and hurtful sarcasm being
avoided
● Be Not tolerant of profanity or slander
NOTE: A parent may request for their child to opt out of an educational experience. For this request, please submit
the SD 308 Supplemental Material Citizen’s Request for Reconsideration of Work form to the building principal. In
the event a student does opt out, a supplemental or alternative assignment that meets the applicable learning
standards may be provided at the discretion of the instructional program.
D. Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Artificial Intelligence, including ChatGPT/OpenAI, is a powerful tool that provides
writing assistance, helps students conduct quality research, clarify concepts, serve as a study aid, foster curiosity,
and assist in the development of a wide variety of other future-employment and career-focused skills.

 

The use of AI applications and technologies on school-issued electronic devices is permitted for educational
purposes only. Students should ensure that the AI usage aligns with the curriculum and educational goals established
by the school. Additionally, students are expected to follow ethical guidelines, respect privacy, and not engage in
any activities that may disrupt the learning environment or violate school policies. Subject to teacher discretion,
students may use AI to gather information and conduct research for academic purposes. However, they should
cross-reference information obtained through AI with traditional research sources/academic authority.

A. TITLE IX – Sexual harassment affects a student’s ability to learn. Providing an educational environment free from
sexual harassment is an important district goal per Board Policy 2:265, Title IX Grievance Procedure. The District
does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any educational programs or activities, and complies with Title IX of the
Education Amendment of 1972 and its implementing regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 106) concerning everyone in the
District’s education programs and activities, including applicants for employment, students, parents/guardians,
employees and third parties.
1. Title IX Sexual Harassment Prohibited - Sexual harassment as defined in Title IX is prohibited. Any
person including a District employee / agent or student engages in Title IX Sexual Harassment whenever
that person engages in conduct on the basis of an individual’s sex that satisfies one or more of the
following:
a. A District employee, agent, or other person authorized by the District to provide an aid, benefit, or
service under the District’s education program or activity explicitly or impliedly conditions the
provision of an aid, benefit, or service on an individual's participation in unwelcome sexual
conduct; or
b. Unwelcome sex-based conduct that, based on the totality of the circumstances, is subjectively and
objectively offensive and is so severe, or pervasive that it limits or denies a person’s ability to
participate in or benefit from the district's educational program or activity; or
c. Sexual assault as defined in 20 U.S.C. §1092(f)(6)(A)(v), dating violence as defined in 34 U.S.C.
§12291(a)(8), domestic violence, or stalking as defined in 34 U.S.C. §12291(a)(30).
Examples of sexual harassment include, but are not limited to nonconsensual, sexting, touching, crude
jokes or pictures, discussions of sexual experiences, teasing related to sexual characteristics, spreading
rumors related to a person's alleged sexual activities, rape, sexual battery, sexual abuse, and sexual
coercion.

 

Consent may be breached in any instance involving sexual encounters or conduct of any kind; consent is
defined as knowing, voluntary and clear permission by words or actions, to engage in a particular sexual
activity.
a. Consent occurs when someone agrees, gives permission, or says ‘yes’ to sexual activity with
another person(s).
b. Consent is always freely given and may not be valid if a person is being subjected to actions or
behaviors that elicit emotional, psychological, physical or reputational pressure or threats.
c. Consent is also not valid if it is given under pressure, force, threat, coercion, or without the full
and informed consent of all persons involved.
d. Consent may not be given if the person is:

i. a minor under certain circumstances that may result in a violation of State or federal law,
ii. mentally disabled,
iii. mentally incapacitated,
iv. physically helpless,
v. under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the point of being unable to make rational
decisions, and/or
vi. unconscious or asleep.
e. Consent can be withdrawn at any time.
f. Consent of one sexual activity or past sexual activity does not imply consent to other sexual
activities.
g. Consent to engage in sexual activity with one person does not constitute consent to engage in
sexual activity with another person.
Sexual harassment does not include, under any circumstance, the: (a) expression of gender, sexual orientation, or
preference, or (b) consensual, non-disruptive display of affection during non-instructional time.
2. Making a Report – A person who wishes to make a report under this Title IX Sexual Harassment
grievance procedure may make a report to the Title IX Coordinator, Nondiscrimination Coordinator,
Building Principal, Assistant Building Principal, Dean of Students, a Complaint Manager, or any employee
with whom the person is comfortable speaking. A person who wishes to make a report may choose to
report to a person of the same gender. School employees shall respond to incidents of sexual harassment by
promptly making or forwarding the report to the Title IX Coordinator. An employee who fails to promptly
make or forward or report may be disciplined, up to and including discharge.

 

Oswego Community Unit School District 308 Title IX Coordinator: Assistant Superintendent of
Student Services
● Reports of sexual harassment may be sent to: titleixreporting@sd308.org

B. Awareness and Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Grooming Behaviors – Sexual abuse, grooming
behaviors, inappropriate employee-student relationships, and other boundary violations harm students, their
parents/guardians, the District’s environment, the school community and the community at large, while diminishing
a student’s ability to learn. Such conduct and other sexual misconduct are prohibited pursuant to Board Policy 5:120.
To increase awareness and understanding of these issues, the District encourages parents/guardians, students and all
members of the school community to closely review Board Policy 5:120, Employee Ethics; Code of Professional
Conduct; and Conflict of Interest, Board Policy 4:165, Awareness and Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and
Grooming Behaviors, and the information listed below:
1. Warning Signs of Child Sexual Abuse – Warning signs of child sexual abuse include, but are not limited
to, the following behaviors:
a. Physical Signs
i. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other genital infections
ii. Signs of trauma to the genital area, such as unexplained bleeding, bruising, or blood on
the sheets, underwear, or other clothing
iii. Unusual weight gain or loss
b. Behavioral Signs
i. Excessive talk about or knowledge of sexual topics
ii. Keeping secrets
iii. Not talking as much as usual
iv. Not wanting to be left alone with certain people or being afraid to be away from primary
caregivers
v. Regressive behaviors or resuming behaviors that the child had grown out of, such as
thumb sucking or bedwetting
vi. Overly compliant behavior
vii. Sexual behavior that is inappropriate for the child’s age
viii. Spending an unusual amount of time alone
ix. Trying to avoid removing clothing to change or bathe
c. Emotional Signs
i. Change in eating habits or unhealthy eating patterns, like loss of appetite or excessive
eating
ii. Signs of depression, such as persistent sadness, lack of energy, changes in sleep or
appetite, withdrawing from normal activities, or feeling “down”
iii. Change in mood or personality, such as increased aggression
iv. Decrease in confidence or self-image
v. Anxiety, excessive worry, or fearfulness
vi. Increase in unexplained health problems such as stomach aches and headaches
vii. Loss or decrease in interest in school, activities, and friends
viii. Nightmares or fear of being alone at night
ix. Self-harming behaviors or expressing thoughts of suicide or suicidal behavior
x. Failing grades
xi. Drug or alcohol use

C. Grooming Behavior – A person commits “grooming” when the person knowingly uses a computer on-line service,
Internet service, local bulletin board service, or any other device capable of electronic data storage or transmission,
performs an act in person or by conduct through a third party, or uses written communication to seduce, solicit, lure,
or entice, or attempt to seduce, solicit, lure, or entice, a child, a child's guardian, or another person believed by the
person to be a child or a child's guardian, to commit any sex offense as defined in Section 2 of the Sex Offender
Registration Act, to distribute photographs depicting the sex organs of the child, or to otherwise engage in any
unlawful sexual conduct with a child or with another person believed by the person to be a child. See 720 ILCS
5/11-25.
1. Warning Signs of Grooming – Warning signs of grooming include, but are not limited to, the following
behaviors:
a. Sexual or romantic invitations to a student via any form of communication
b. Dating or soliciting a date from a student
c. Engaging in sexualized or romantic dialog with a student through any form of communication
d. Making sexually suggestive comments that are directed toward or with a student
e. Self-disclosure or physical exposure of a sexual, romantic, or erotic nature through any form of
communication
f. Sexual, indecent, romantic, or erotic contact with a student
g. Failing to respect boundaries or listening when a student says “no”
h. Engaging in touching that a student or student’s parents/guardians have indicated is unwanted
i. Trying to be a student’s friend rather than filling an adult role in the student’s life
j. Talking with students about personal problems or relationships
k. Expressing unusual interest in a student’s sexual development, such as commenting on sexual
characteristics or sexualizing normal behaviors
l. Giving a student gifts without occasion or reason
m. Restricting a student’s access to other adults

2. Inappropriate Relationships and Other Boundary Violations by Adults - All District personnel,
employees, volunteers, and visitors are expected to maintain professional and appropriate relationships with
students based upon students’ ages, grade levels, and developmental levels. Adults in schools breach
adult-student boundaries when they misuse their position of power over a student in a way that
compromises the student’s health, safety, or general welfare.
a. Warning signs of inappropriate relationships and boundary violations include, but are not limited
to, the following behaviors:
i. Favoring a certain student by inviting the student to “hang out” or by granting special
privileges
ii. Engaging in peer-like behavior with a student
iii. Discussing personal issues with a student
iv. Spending time alone with a student outside of their role in the student’s life or making up
excuses to be alone with a student
v. Failing to maintain age-appropriate relationships with a student
vi. Meeting with a student off-campus without parent/guardian knowledge and/or permission
vii. Dating, requesting, or participating in a private meeting with a student (in person or
virtually) outside of a professional role
viii. Transporting a student in a school or private vehicle without administrative authorization
ix. Giving gifts, money, or treats to an individual student
x. Sending a student on personal errands
xi. Intervening in a serious student problem instead of referring the student to an
appropriately trained professional
xii. Taking and using photos/videos of students for non-educational purposes
xiii. Initiating or extending contact with a student beyond the school day in a one-on-one or
non-group setting
xiv. Inviting a student to an employee’s home
xv. Adding a student on personal social networking sites as contacts when unrelated to a
legitimate educational purpose
xvi. Privately messaging a student
xvii. Maintaining intense eye contact with a student
xviii. Making comments about a student’s physical attributes, including excessively flattering
comments
xix. Disclosing confidential information
xx. Invading personal space

 

D. Reporting & Referral Information for Sexual Abuse, Grooming and/or Boundary Violations – If you/your
student believe you/your student are a victim of child sexual abuse, grooming behaviors, or boundary violations,
immediately contact the Building Principal, a school counselor, or another trusted adult employee of the District.

 

To make a report of alleged child sexual abuse or grooming, parents/guardians may also contact: Local Police
Department or the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Hotline at 1-800-25-ABUSE
(1-800-252-2873).

 

Available Resources & Assistance Information
For parents/guardians and students seeking counseling services or other resources for children affected by sexual
abuse, the following resources are also available:
● National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673)
● National Sexual Abuse Chatline at online.rainn.org
● Safe2Help Illinois at 1-844-4-SAFEIL or Text - 72332
● Kane County Child Advocacy Center at (630) 208-5160
● Kendall County Child Advocacy Center at (630) 553-8660
● Will County Child Advocacy Center (815) 774-4565
Parents/guardians and students may also contact the school counselor or school social worker for more
information regarding available resources and support services for children affected by sexual abuse.

 

E. Erin’s Law – Erin's Law requires that pre-k through 12th grade health classes educate students on safe touches and
unsafe touches; safe secrets and unsafe secrets; and how to "get away and tell a trusted adult today" consistent with
105 ILCS 5/10-23.13. This program will teach children to recognize child sexual abuse and will equip them with
skills to reduce their vulnerability, as well as to encourage them to report abuse. The curriculum is developmentally
appropriate per grade level. The Oswego Community School District 308 curriculum includes the state-mandated
Erin's Law, which was adopted in January 2013.

A. Student Dance Regulations - Dances are provided as an extracurricular activity for students of the district.
Attendance is a privilege and the following rules are set forth for all Oswego Community Unit School District 308
dance events. Violation of the following rules could result in loss of dance attendance privileges:
1. All students must be actively enrolled within the particular school holding the dance and have their current
school I.D. cards in their possession to enter the dance.
2. Students may not leave the dance and subsequently return.
3. No loitering will be allowed on District property. Students and guests must leave District premises upon
exiting the dance.
4. Behaviors deemed inappropriate, or sexually explicit dancing, results in removal from dance without a
refund.
5. Attendees must be compliant with the student dress code.
6. Students must be in attendance for at least half of the school day (or day prior if dance falls on a weekend)
to attend the dance.
7. Students must be in good standing and not on “Loss of Privileges” for prior disciplinary action or have
failed to serve prior consequences.
8. For High School only: guests must submit a signed guest pass and be pre-approved prior to the event.
Guests must also be at least a 9
th grader, no more than 19 years old, and present a picture ID to enter the
dance.
B. Student Transportation Regulations - The passengers on the bus have a major role to play in ensuring a safe ride.
While concentrating on maneuvering the bus safely in traffic, the driver is also responsible for observing student
behavior and maintaining order on the bus. The driver’s ability to drive safely is impacted if they are distracted by
unsafe and/or inappropriate behavior. The following expectations are posted on every bus transporting SD 308
students to school or events to remind them what is expected of them:
1. Be respectful and follow the directions of the driver at all times.
2. Stay seated, facing the front with feet on the floor.
3. Keep hands, feet, head, and objects to oneself and inside the bus keeping the aisle clear at all times.
4. Use respect when speaking at all times. Yelling, profanity, and obscene language is not appropriate.
5. Leave gum, food and drinks at home, unless they remain unopened and in your lunch.
6. Behave in an orderly, proper manner at the bus stop.
7. Get off the bus only at your assigned stop.

 

Additionally, parents/guardians and their students need to understand the following;

1. The bus and each bus stop is an extension of school property and all school rules of conduct in the Rights
and Responsibilities code apply.
2. Bus drivers and monitors have the authority to verbally enforce student adherence to rules and to report
unsafe and/or inappropriate conduct to school authorities.
a. Students may be assigned seats at a driver’s or a school administrator's discretion.
b. Students who violate bus expectations or behave in a manner that disrupts the ride will be reported
to the school administration.
c. Consequences for inappropriate behavior may be issued to a student on a case-by-case basis, up to
and including suspension from the bus.
d. Students suspended from the bus without alternate transportation, shall have the opportunity to
make up work for equivalent academic credit.
e. It is the responsibility of the student’s parent or guardian to notify school officials if the student
lacks alternate transportation.
3. Each student must ride their assigned bus. Students requesting to ride another student’s bus must submit
signed notes from each of the student’s parents/guardians to the school office. If approved by the school's
office staff, the notes must be provided to the driver of the bus.
4. Students must be on time for the bus and should wait for the bus at a safe distance from the curb.
5. Parents/Guardians should ensure students know and understand the expectations of safe conduct on the bus.
6. Students may be subject to video and audio recordings while on the bus.
7. Factors such as traffic incidents, weather or staffing shortages that can impact bus route schedules. If a bus
is going to be more than 10 minutes late, SD 308 Transportation will alert parents and students of the
approximate delay via the district’s mass messaging system.

 

Oswego Community Unit School District 308 reserves the right to ask for mobile devices to be stored out of sight
on any form of student transportation if possessing or using the device threatens or impacts the safety and / or
security of operation; furthermore, if students chose to listen to music or other audio on their mobile devices, they
must use headphones on the bus to maintain a quiet and distraction-free environment, and ensure that all students
can travel safely and comfortably while allowing the driver to focus on safely operating the vehicle.

A. Student Suspension Guidelines – Per Board Policy 7:200, Suspension Procedures, the Board of Education has, by
regulation, authorized the superintendent, assistant superintendents, district administrators, principals, assistant
principals or deans to suspend students guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct on all district grounds, the school
bus, and school-sponsored activities or at any activity reasonably related to school. The student and/or
parent/guardian shall be due the following procedural protections:
1. Notice of Suspension/Pre-Suspension Conference - Before suspension the student shall be provided oral
or written notice of the charges. If the student denies the charges, the student shall be given an explanation
of the evidence and an opportunity to present their version of the incident. Notice of the charges and
pre-suspension conference is not required when the student’s presence poses a continuing danger to persons
or property or an ongoing threat of disruption to the educational process. In such cases, the necessary notice
and hearing shall follow as soon as practicable.
2. Oral Notice to Parent - An attempted phone call to the student’s parent/guardian shall be made as soon as
practicable. Oral notification shall be confirmed in writing to the parents.
3. Written Notice to Parent and Student - Written notice to the parent/guardian should include:
a. Right to review the suspension;
b. Information about the opportunity to make up work missed during the suspension for equivalent
academic credit;
c. Specific act of gross disobedience or misconduct that is the reason for the suspension;
d. Rationale or an explanation of how the chosen number of suspension days will address the threat
or disruption posed by the student, or his or her act of gross disobedience or misconduct; and
e. Depending on the length of the out-of-school suspension, the following information:
(1) Suspensions of three (3) school days or less must include an explanation that the student’s
continuing presence in school would either pose:
(a) A threat to school safety; or
(b) A disruption to the learning environment.
(2) Suspensions of four (4) or more school days must include an explanation:
(a) that other appropriate and available behavioral and disciplinary interventions
have been exhausted;
(b) as to whether school officials attempted other interventions or determined that
no other interventions or supports were either appropriate or available for the
student; and
(c) that the student’s continuing presence in school would either: pose a threat to the
safety of other students, staff or members of the school community; or
substantially disrupt, impede, or interfere with the operation of the school.
(3) Suspensions of five (5) or more school days would include all of the information listed in
5(b) above, as well as documentation determining what, if any, appropriate and available
support services will be provided to the student.
A summary of the notice, including the reason for suspension and the length of the suspension, must be
given to the Board by the Superintendent or designee.

4. Time of Suspension - The personnel authorized by the Board may suspend students for a period not to
exceed ten (10) school days. A parent/guardian may request a review by the hearing officer. If a student is
suspended due to gross disobedience or misconduct on a school bus, the Board may suspend the student in
excess of ten (10) school days for safety reasons. While suspended from school, students are not allowed to
be on school property or at school functions.
5. Hearings - Hearings for review of suspension cases will be handled by a Board of Education appointed
hearing officer. The hearing officer will be impartial and will have no interest or pre-existing knowledge of
the facts leading up to the suspension. The rules of evidence shall not apply to review proceedings.
a) Review of Hearing Regulations - Upon request of the parents/guardians, the hearing officer shall
review such action of the principal, assistant principal or dean. A request for review must be made
within five (5) school days after the date of the notice of out of school suspension. A hearing shall
be convened promptly, at which time the parents/guardians of the student may appear and discuss
the out of school suspension with the hearing officer and may be represented by counsel. The
student shall have the right to question district witnesses and present evidence on his or her own
behalf. Whenever there is evidence that mental illness may be the cause of the out of school
suspension, the Superintendent or designee shall invite a representative from the Department of
Human Services to consult with the Board. The hearing officer shall report to the Board and
provide a written summary of the evidence heard at the meeting. After its hearing or upon receipt
of the written report of its hearing officer, the Board may take such action as it finds appropriate. If
the suspension is upheld, the Board’s written suspension decision shall detail the specific act of
gross disobedience or misconduct resulting in the decision to suspend as well as a rationale as to
the specific duration of the suspension.
b) Review of Hearing Procedure

(1) The review hearing shall be held at a time convenient to the parents/guardians and to
school administration.
(2) The hearing officer shall act as the presiding officer.
(3) The school administration shall proceed first and the student may then proceed. All
participants shall be subject to inquiry by both parties.
(4) The review proceedings will always be held in private.
(5) The hearing officer may record the proceedings.
(6) The hearing officer will conduct the review. The hearing officer must issue a written
report of their findings, including a summary of the evidence and testimony provided by
each party, to the Board of Education.
(7) At the meeting the Board shall review the written report and take such action as it deems
appropriate.
(8) If there is a pending request for a suspension review hearing when an expulsion is
recommended, the review hearing and the expulsion hearing will be consolidated into
one hearing.
(9) Board action will establish:
(a) The validity of the charges of gross misconduct or disobedience; and
(b) the appropriate disciplinary measures, if the charges are upheld.
If the out of school suspension is reversed by the Board of Education, the student’s record shall be
expunged of all notations or remarks regarding the suspension. Students who are suspended can, and are
expected to, make up all missed school work assigned during the suspension.
B. Student Expulsion Guidelines – Per Board Policy 7:210, Expulsion Procedures, the Board of Education is
authorized to expel students with or without services who are guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct for a
period not to exceed two (2) full calendar years. The student and/or parent/guardian shall be provided the following
procedural protections:
1. Written Notice - Prior to expulsion, a student shall be provided written notice to appear at a hearing to
determine whether the student should be expelled. The Board shall provide written notice to the
parent/guardian by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested. The notice shall include:
a. The time, date and place of the hearing.
b. A brief description of what will happen during the hearing.
c. Detail of the specific act of gross disobedience or misconduct resulting in a decision to
recommend expulsion.
d. A statement that the School Code allows the School Board to expel a student for a definite period
of time not to exceed two (2) calendar years, and determined on a case-by-case basis.
e. Ask that the student or parent/guardian or attorney inform the Superintendent or designee or Board
Attorney if the student will be represented by an attorney and, if so, the attorney’s name and
contact information.

2. Hearing - The hearing shall be conducted by the School Board or a Board-appointed hearing officer. At the
hearing, the board or hearing officer shall state the reasons for dismissal and the date on which the
proposed expulsion is to become effective. If a hearing officer is appointed, he or she shall report to the
Board the evidence presented at the hearing and the Board shall take such final action as it finds
appropriate. Whenever there is evidence that mental illness may be the cause for the recommended
expulsion, the Superintendent or designee shall invite a representative from the Department of Human
Services to consult with the Board.
3. Evidence - During the expulsion hearing, the Board or hearing officer shall hear evidence concerning
whether the student is guilty of the gross disobedience or misconduct as charged. School officials must
provide:
a. testimony of any other interventions attempted and exhausted or of their determination that no
other appropriate and available interventions were available for the student, and
b. evidence of the threat or disruption posed by the student.
The student and their parent(s)/guardian(s) may be represented by counsel, offer evidence, present
witnesses, cross-examine witnesses who testified, and otherwise present reasons why the student should not
be expelled. After presentation of the evidence or receipt of the hearing officer’s report, the Board shall
decide the issue of guilt and take such action as it finds appropriate.
4. Board Action - If the Board acts to expel the student, its written expulsion decision shall:
a. Detail the specific reason why removing the student from his or her learning environment is in the
best interest of the school.
b. Provide a rationale for the specific duration of the recommended expulsion.
c. Document how school officials determined that all behavioral and disciplinary interventions were
attempted or whether school officials determined that no other appropriate and available
interventions existed for the student.
d. Document how the student’s continuing presence in school would: (1) pose a threat to the safety of
other students, staff, or members of the school community, or (2) substantially disrupt, impede, or
interfere with the operation of the school.
5. Upon expulsion - the District may refer the student to appropriate and available support services.

 

In addition to the procedures set forth above, the expulsion of special education students shall comply with
requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act and Board Policy 7:230, Misconduct
by Students with Disabilities.

 

Students who are not enrolled in the district may not be allowed to receive credit from Oswego Community Unit
School District 308 during a period of expulsion. Students are not allowed on school property or to attend
school-sponsored activities during the expulsion period.
C. Re-Engagement of Returning Students – Re-engaging students returning from out-of-school suspensions,
expulsions, or alternative school placements is essential to fostering a supportive and restorative school community.
The goal of reentry and re-engagement is to support and empower students to thrive academically, socially, and
emotionally, particularly after a suspension. This process may include opportunities for students to complete or
make up assignments and offer a range of supportive measures, including school-based interventions such as
restorative practices, inclusionary discipline strategies, or individualized safety and/or support plans ensuring each
student receives the guidance and resources needed to succeed upon their return.

Per Board Policy 6:190, Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities, Board Policy 7:300, Extracurricular Athletics, and Board Policy 7:240, Conduct Code for Participants in Extracurricular Activities, extra-curricular and interscholastic activities are strictly voluntary. Those who participate must give extra time and effort. The student has the privilege of participating in a well-organized program for which the school provides coaches, sponsors, equipment, and facilities. Oswego Community Unit School District 308 expects exceptional conduct from those who try out and participate in these athletic/activity programs. Student participants must conduct themselves as good citizens and exemplars of their schools at all times, twelve months of the year while in and out of season. It applies at all times including both school related and unrelated activities and events.
The district particularly expects student participants to meet high standards with regard to academic requirements,
honesty, school citizenship, and sportsmanship. Students whose behavior or conduct does not meet this standard will lose
the privilege of participating in district-sponsored or organized athletic/activity programs. School-sponsored or supported
athletic and extra-curricular activities include, but are not limited to: all activities sanctioned by the IHSA. Co-curricular
activities that are linked to a student’s grade will not be considered a school-sponsored or supported athletic or
extracurricular activity.

 

A. Requirements for Participation
1. Written or Electronic consent of a parent, guardian and/or student who is 18 years of age.
2. A current physical (for athletics, band, step, sideline cheer, sideline dance, bass fishing). According to
Illinois High School Association (IHSA) rules, a current physical is valid for 395 days. Therefore, typically
a physical administered in summer will cover all sports.
3. Compliance with all rules and regulations of the IHSA and Oswego Community Unit School District
308 Rights and Responsibilities, including complying with random drug testing policy/procedures and
Board Policy 7:305, Student Athlete Concussion and Head Injuries, preventative procedures and protocols.
4. Purchase of student school insurance (for athletics only) unless waived by a parent/guardian.
5. Good academic standing - A student shall be doing passing work in at least twenty-five (25) credit hours
of high school work per week and must be taking a minimum of five classes. Students shall, unless they are
entering high school for the first time, have credit in school records for twenty-five (25) credit hours of
high school work for the previous semester. This means that as a minimum, students will need to pass five
(5) classes per day, five (5) days per week which is equivalent to 25 credit hours per week, to be eligible to
participate. A student must be passing 25 credit hours (25 credits) per semester to be eligible for the
following semester. If a student is ineligible for six weeks during the season, the school reserves the right
to remove them from the team.
6. Payment of fees - User Fees (for athletics only) or an activity fee must be paid via Push Coin to the
District prior to the first scheduled contest of each sport.

B. Rules for Participants – The Oswego Community Unit School District 308 community is proud of individuals who
represent them in interscholastic and extracurricular activities, and their reflection on the district and community at
large. For this reason, a participant must agree to uphold the highest standards of behavior and decorum while
agreeing to abide by the following rules during the school day and after school hours for twenty-four (24) hours a
day, seven (7) days a week, twelve (12) months a year.
1. Participants will not possess or use tobacco (including chewing tobacco, any e-cigarette or vaping device).
2. Participants will not possess or use alcoholic beverages.
3. Participants will not possess THC, except as provided by Ashley’s Law, or use any illegal drug or
controlled substance.
4. Participants will not be involved in theft and/or the willful damage of equipment or property.
5. Participants will not host a party or have the participant’s parent/guardian or family member host a party at
which the following are permitted for minors: illegal consumption of alcohol, THC, except as provided by
Ashley’s Law, use of controlled substances, steroids, or look-alike drugs.
6. Students will not be involved in gross misconduct or disobedience as defined in district’s Student Rights
and Responsibilities Code, which could result in an in-school or out-of-school suspension.
7. Any elected or chosen captain of his or her sport/activity will lose this title for the entire season for any
violation of this Code of Conduct.
C. Explanation and Understanding of Consequences – Violations of the code of conduct will be reviewed on a
case-by-case basis. Students who commit an offense that allows for the option of community service or a
counseling program must have their service project or counseling center approved in advance by the school
administration. Upon completion, they must submit a letter of completed hours or counseling from the director of
the approved program. Service hours or counseling must be completed as directed in the specific category of
consequence listed in this code of conduct. Offenses are counted in a step-up process from Category 1 to 3 with
additional considerations for Social Media and/or Hazing Violations and are not category specific in the
accumulation per student, with the exception of Category 1 violations. Students who receive a third Category 1
violation, and who have had no other code violations in their career, are elevated to the second offense level in
Category 3. Any student that reaches a fourth offense overall is subject to removal from all athletics and activities
for the duration of their high school career.

1. Category 1 Violation: TOBACCO ABUSE – The consequences for violating this Code of Conduct shall
be based on a student’s participation in sanctioned athletics/activities during all four years of high school.
Offenses and consequences are carried over from one sport/activity to the next and from one school year to
the next until the entire penalty is served. Furthermore, the student must finish the season in good standing.
The school administration may, in its sole discretion, reduce the consequences on a case-by-case basis, as
the interests and safety of the school require.
a. First Offense: The student shall be suspended for 10 percent of the athletic/activity full seasons
scheduled contests/events for the current sport/activities including state series or playoffs as
appropriate. (i.e. if the violation is 10 % and there are 20 games in the season then the student is
suspended for two (2) games)
b. Second Offense: The student shall be suspended for 20 percent of the athletic/activity full seasons
scheduled contests/events for the current sport/activities including state series and playoffs as
appropriate. (i.e. if the violation is 20 % and there are 20 games in the season then the student is
suspended for four (4) games)
c. Third Offense: Elevated to a second offense in Category 3 (see “CONSEQUENCES FOR ALL
OTHER GENERAL VIOLATIONS”)
2. Category 2 Violation: OTHER GENERAL VIOLATIONS – The consequences for violating this Code
of Conduct shall be based on a student’s participation in sanctioned athletics/activities during all four years
of high school. Offenses and consequences are carried over from one sport/activity to the next and from
one school year to the next until the entire penalty is served. Furthermore, the student must finish the
season in good standing. The school administration may, in its sole discretion, reduce the consequences on
a case-by-case basis, as the interests and safety of the school require.
a. First Offense: The student shall be suspended for 25% of the athletic/activity full seasons
scheduled contests/events for the current sport/activities including state series or playoffs as
appropriate (i.e. if the violation is 25% and there are 20 games in the season then the student is
suspended for five (5) games). Students who commit violations of the Code of Conduct may seek
a reduction in their penalty for the first such offense during his or her career as follows:
i. If the student voluntarily admits to a coach/sponsor or athletic director/administrator, a
violation of the Rules for Participants in the Code of Conduct either in person, via phone
call or e-mail by 4 p.m. of the next official school day, the suspension may be reduced to
10% of the contests/activities.
ii. If the student who does not voluntarily admit to the offense participates in and
successfully completes a district-approved decision-making counseling program at his or
her own expense, or provides proof of 10 hours of approved community service, the
suspension may be reduced to 10% of the contests/activities.

b. Second Offense: The student shall be suspended from all Oswego Community Unit School
District 308 athletic/activity programs for 50% of the athletic/activity full seasons scheduled
contest/events for the current sport/activities including state series or playoffs as appropriate (i.e.
if violation is 50% with 20 games in the season, then the student is suspended for ten (10) games).
c. Third Offense: Students shall be suspended from all Oswego Community Unit School District
308 athletic/activity programs for one (1) calendar year (12 calendar months).
d. Fourth Offense: A student who is found to have committed a fourth violation of the Code of
Conduct shall be suspended from all Oswego Community Unit School District 308
athletic/activity programs for the remainder of the student’s high school career.
3. Category 3 Violation: ALCOHOL, DRUGS, AND/OR OTHER CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES –
Possession or use of alcoholic beverages, any illegal drug, or controlled substance by a participant.
a. First Offense: The student shall be suspended for 50% of the athletic/activity full season’s
scheduled contests/events for the current sport/activities including state series or playoffs as
appropriate (i.e. if the violation is 50% and there are 20 games in the season then the student is
suspended for ten (10) games). Students who commit violations of the Code of Conduct may seek
a reduction in their penalty for the first such offense during their career as follows:
i. If the student voluntarily admits to a coach/sponsor or athletic director/administrator, a
violation of the Rules for Participants in the Code of Conduct either in person, via phone
call or e-mail by 4 p.m. of the next official school day, the suspension may be reduced to
25% of the contests/activities.
ii. If the student who does not voluntarily admit to the offense participates in and
successfully completes a district-approved decision making counseling program at his or
her own expense, or provides proof of 20 hours of approved community service, the
suspension may be reduced to 25% of the contests/activities.

b. Second Offense: The student shall be suspended from all Oswego Community Unit School
District 308 athletic/activity programs for 50% of the athletic/activity full seasons scheduled
contest/events for the current sport/activities including state series or playoffs as appropriate. (i.e.
if violation is 50% with 20 games in the season, then the student is suspended for ten (10) games).
c. Third Offense: Students shall be suspended from all Oswego Community Unit School District
308 athletic/activity programs for one (1) calendar year (12 calendar months).
d. Fourth Offense: A student who is found to have committed a fourth violation of the Code of
Conduct shall be suspended from all Oswego Community Unit School District 308
athletic/activity programs for the remainder of the student’s high school career.
i. Participants arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substance
will receive a one-year (12 calendar months) suspension from the district’s
athletic/activity programs. This consequence may not be reduced through voluntary
notification to the district or participation in a counseling program or community service
as described above.
ii. Participants who host a party where alcohol, controlled substances, steroids, or look-alike
drugs are served to minors will receive a one-year (12 calendar month) suspension from
the district’s athletic/activity programs. This consequence may not be reduced through
voluntary notification to the district or participation in a counseling program as
described above.
4. SOCIAL MEDIA VIOLATIONS – A student who is involved in extracurricular activities has social
media activity that is found to be inappropriate in accordance with this policy may be subject to the
following consequences:
a. A written warning;
b. A meeting with the Director of Athletics and Head Coach; and
c. Penalties as determined by the athletic department, including but not limited to, possible
suspension from his/her team, expulsion from their team and/or loss of some or all of his/her
playing time.
5. HAZING VIOLATIONS – The District shall annually inform students, parents, coaches, sponsors,
volunteers and district staff that hazing of district students is prohibited by means of distribution of written
policy through inclusion in the student handbook, verbal instructions by the coach or sponsor at the start of
the season or program, and posting of notice/signs. A student who is involved in extracurricular activities
alleged to have engaged in hazing activity in accordance with this policy may be subject but not limited to
the following consequences:

a. A meeting with the Director of Athletics and Head Coach; and
b. Penalties as determined by the athletic department, including but not limited to, suspension from
his/her team, expulsion from their team and/or loss of his/her playing time.

 

Guidelines for Reporting a Complaint:
1. When a student believes that he/she has been subjected to hazing, the student shall promptly
report the incident, orally or in writing, to the Building Principal.
2. Principal shall conduct a timely, impartial, thorough and comprehensive investigation of the
alleged hazing.
3. Principal shall prepare a written report summarizing the investigation and recommending
disposition of the complaint. Copies of the report shall be provided to the complainant, the
accused and others directly involved, as appropriate. If the investigation results in a substantiated
finding of hazing, the Principal shall recommend appropriate disciplinary action, as circumstances
warrant, in accordance with the appropriate student discipline handbook. Additionally, the student,
in accordance with the appropriate academic/extracurricular code, shall be subject to disciplinary
action by the coach or sponsor, up to and including removal from the activity.

 

Process for Issuing Penalties and Consequences - Students who are alleged to have violated this Code of
Conduct shall meet with the school’s athletic/activity director to explain the incident prior to any
consequence being applied. Students and parents/guardians who wish to appeal a consequence
administered under this Code may seek a review of the athletic/activity director’s determination and
consequence by filing a written request for review with the principal within five (5) calendar days of the
determination of the consequence. The principal or designee shall convene a meeting with the student and
his or her parent/guardian to allow the student and parent/guardian to offer an explanation, and/or
demonstrate that the Code was not violated. The decision of the building principal shall be final for first
through third offenses. Upon violation of a fourth offense, students and parents/guardians may choose to
appeal the decision of the building principal to the Superintendent or designee.
D. SD 308 Random Drug Testing Policy - The District maintains an extracurricular drug and alcohol testing program
in order to foster the health, safety, and welfare of its students. Participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege
and participants need to be exemplars. The program promotes healthy and drug-free participation. Each student and
his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) must consent to random drug and alcohol testing in order to participate in any
extracurricular activity. Failure to sign the District’s “Random Drug and Alcohol Testing Consent” form will result
in non-participation. If a test is “positive,” the student will not participate in extracurricular activities until after a
“follow-up” test is requested by the Principal or designee and the results are reported. The Principal or designee will
request a “follow-up” test after such an interval of time that the substance previously found would normally be
eliminated from the body. If this “follow up” test is negative, the student will be allowed to resume extracurricular
activities. If a “positive” result is obtained from the “follow-up” test, or any later test, the same previous procedure
shall be followed. No student shall be expelled or suspended from school, nor reported to law enforcement, as a
result of any verified positive test conducted under this program other than when independent reasonable suspicion
of drug and/or alcohol usage exists. This program does not affect the District policies, practices, or rights to search
or test any student who at the time exhibits cause for reasonable suspicion of drug and/or alcohol use.