The district ensures that each program, service or activity when reviewed in its entirety, is readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Some of our schools or programs may not be accessible. If you require special accommodations, please contact the school principal or call 360-398-7111 for assistance.
State assessments occur in the spring for students in grades 3–8 and 10. English language arts (ELA) and math are measured with Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBA). Science is measured with the Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science (WCAS) in grades 5, 8 and 11. The results from the state assessments help us improve instructional practices and give families information about how their student is doing and where additional help might be needed. For students in grade 10, the Smarter Balanced tests can also be used as a graduation pathway. For information on Washington State Assessments, visit the OSPI website at www.k12.wa.us/student-success/testing.
It is important for students to attend school daily and on-time. Under state law (RCW 28A.225), students are required to attend school full-time, without unexcused absences, skips or tardiness. Students should attend all scheduled classes unless officially excused. Absences, unless waived by the principal, require either a written/signed excuse, a phone call or an email from a parent/guardian. Parents/guardians are notified by the school of any unexcused absences, typically by phone. Make sure your contact information is correct and updated in Skyward Family Access to receive these important notifications. State law requires the district to file a petition with the juvenile court for students if they accumulate seven days of unexcused absences in any month or 15 days of unexcused absences in a school year. They may be referred to a Community Engagement Board. The family will make a plan with the board to improve attendance. If attendance does not improve, the court will order the student to attend school. A student who does not comply with a court order to attend school may be found in contempt of court.
Bus Rider Expectations
Our transportation team is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming and respectful environment on all of our buses and at the bus stops. Our drivers will teach and model for students how to be respectful, responsible, safe and kind while on the bus. The following are rider expectations:
• Listen to and follow the bus drivers instructions.
• Stay seated at all times and use an indoor voice.
• Keep items inside the bus and outside of the aisle.
• Use headphones and electronics with the sound off.
• Use respectful, responsible, safe and kind behavior.
• Help keep the bus clean, no food or drinks allowed.
Meridian School District is committed to early identification of children with disabilities. The Child Find Program is designed to locate, evaluate, and identify children with suspected disabilities who may be in need of Special Education services, including those who are not currently receiving services. Eligible students between the ages of three and 21 years of age who reside within the Meridian School District may receive Special Education and related services. Children ages birth to two-years-old are referred to their physicians and community agencies. We seek to reach:
- Children residing in school district boundaries, including preschool aged children;
- Children attending approved, nonprofit private elementary and secondary schools located within the district boundaries;
- Highly mobile children (such as homeless, foster care and migrant children);
- Children who have a disability and may need Special Education services, even though they are advancing from
grade to grade; and - Children at home or homeschooled.
Any person who observes a child they suspect may have a disability may refer the child to the district for screening and possible assessment to determine eligibility. Upon completion of the screening, a member of the evaluation team will explain the results to the child’s parents or guardian. If the screening results indicate the child is having difficulty in one or more areas, a referral is made for a comprehensive special education evaluation. Eligible preschool students are entitled to individualized, quality early intervention Special Education services in accordance with the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part B.
If you have concerns about your child’s development in the areas of language, hearing, vision, social-emotional, cognitive, gross motor, fine motor and self-help skills, you are encouraged to contact: Director of Special Services Aaron Jacoby at 360-318-2155.
For an overview on child development and guidance in determining whether to seek help and support, visit www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html.
Meridian School District and school reports which include demographic information and academic achievement can be accessed from our website at www.meridian.wednet.edu/our-district/ or by visiting http://reportcard.ospi.k12.wa.us.
Directory information is not covered by the privacy law and includes a student’s name, address, phone number, date of birth, dates of attendance, participation in activities, awards received, and other information. Videos and photographs are sometimes released in district, school and community newspapers or on broadcast media when students receive awards or participate in school activities. If you do not want your child’s photograph or directory information released, please notify the school district by making this selection in Skyward Family Access. If you have questions, please contact your school office.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.
The Act gives parents certain rights with respect to their children’s education records. These rights transfer to the student when they reach the age of 18 or attend a school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have transferred are considered eligible students. Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student’s education records maintained by the school. Schools are not required to provide copies of records, unless for reasons such as great distance, it is impossible for parents or eligible students to review the records. Schools may charge a fee for copies.
Parents or eligible students have the right to request that a school correct records that they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student then has the right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student has the right to place a statement with the record setting forth their view about the contested information.
Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent or eligible student in order to release any information from a student’s education record. However, FERPA allows schools to disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions (34 CFR § 99.31):
• School officials with legitimate educational interest;
• Other schools to which a student is transferring;
• Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes;
• Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student;
• Organizations conducting certain studies for, or on behalf of the school;
• Accrediting organizations;
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena;
• Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies; and
• State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific state law.
Schools may disclose, without consent, directory information such as a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance. However, schools must tell parents and eligible students about directory information and allow parents and eligible students a reasonable amount of time to request that the school not disclose directory information about them. Schools must notify parents and
eligible students annually of their rights under FERPA. The actual means of notification (special letter, inclusion in a PTA bulletin, student handbook or newspaper article) is left to the discretion of each school.
For additional information, you may call 1-800-USALEARN (1-800-872-5327) (voice). Individuals who use TDD may use the Federal Relay Service. Or you may contact us at the following address:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-8520
Parents have the right to review any and all student records with the principal. Please schedule an appointment with the principal should you wish to do so.
Meridian School District believes in fostering an educational environment that is safe and free of discrimination for all students. Policy and procedure 3211 Gender-Inclusive Schools provide additional information and can be found on our website at www.meridian.wednet.edu/policies-procedures/.
We believe healthy children are successful learners. Our health services staff support student success through assessment, intervention and follow-up care for students. We support the health and well-being of students and staff by integrating health solutions and partnering with parents and health care providers.
Health Screenings
School personnel provide screenings of vision, both near/distance, and hearing, of students in grades K-5 and 7 per RCW 28A.210.020.
Immunizations
Before children can attend school, parents/guardians must provide medically-verified proof that a schedule of immunization has begun or a certificate of exemption. Immunization must be provided against diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, polio, mumps, measles, rubella, hepatitis B and varicella. Immunizations protect the health of your child, and the health of others. For more information about immunization requirements, visit the Department of Health’s website at www.doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/schools/immunization#reqs or talk to your health care provider.
MyIR
MyIR allows you to manage your family’s immunization records securely online. Once registered, you can access the records any time you need them. You can also print your child’s Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) for school or child care. Parents can print your child’s CIS form at home without a trip to the doctor’s office by signing up with the Washington Immunization Information System and logging in to MyIR at this link: https://wa.myir.net/.
If your medical provider does not use the Washington Immunization Information System you can email waiisrecords@doh.wa.gov or call 1-866-397-0337 to request a copy of your child’s CIS.
Medications at School and Life Threatening Conditions
If a student requires medication, either prescription or non-prescription, at school, parents/guardians must return a completed annual health registration form to the student’s school with written authorization and directions for a licensed health care provider. Forms and more information are available at our schools, in Skyward Family Access or on our website: www.meridian.wednet.edu/health-services/.
Inform your school nurse about any student health concerns. Washington State law requires that prior to the start of the school year and annually after, any student determined to have a potentially life threatening condition must have current health care provider orders, medications, equipment and care plans, including school staff training, prior to attending school. The school nurse and parent/guardian will develop an emergency/individual health plan.
A parent who intends to have their child or children receive home-based instruction in lieu of attendance or enrollment in a public school or approved private school must file an annual declaration of intent to do so. The appropriate form may be obtained from the District Office. The form must be filed by Sept. 15.
Parents/guardians have the right to inspect any core district instructional materials. Requests to review materials should be made in writing to the Department of Teaching and Learning or by calling 360-318-2165. A list of district-approved curriculum can be found at www.meridian.wednet.edu/instructional-materials/.
School districts are required to notify the public of pest control and herbicide use. The district manages vegetation and pests using a minimum of pesticides. When pesticides are used, notification signs are posted at buildings 48 hours prior to pesticide use and for 24 hours after.
The 1986 Asbestos Hazardous Emergency Response Act (AHERA) requires school districts to identify buildings that contain asbestos. The act also requires school facilities to maintain written management plans. Detailed reports of both pesticide use and asbestos records are available at individual schools, at Maintenance and Operations or by calling 360-398-7111.
The district provides free interpretation and translation services and follows the Language Access Plan with policy and procedure 4218. This is our annual notification of that plan. Staff are provided with written guidance on how and when interpretation and translation services should be accessed. This written guidance will be updated as needed to reflect available services. If you need interpretation or translation services please contact your school. For our families who speak Spanish, please contact our cultural liaison at 360-306-2886.
Meridian School District provides a Chromebook to students in grades 2-12 and an iPad for students in kindergarten and first grade. We use Google’s G Suite for Education and Google Classroom to enhance your student’s educational experience. We are excited by the learning opportunities these devices provide students.
Google’s G Suite for Education is a set of communication and collaboration tools used by tens of millions of students and teachers around the world. In combination with Google Classroom, Meridian students will use their G Suite account to connect with engaging and meaningful learning while developing the 21st Century Skills they will use in their future careers.
Federal law protects the privacy of student educational records and limits the information that can be collected. More information about Google G Suite and student devices can be found on our website at www.meridian.wednet.edu/tech-resources/.
In Meridian School District we use GoGuardian and LightSpeed to monitor student device use and to restrict specific programs or websites.
GoGuardian Parent App
Parents/guardians can also monitor student’s activity on school-issued Chromebooks by using GoGuardian Parent App. The app provides you with additional controls during out-of-school hours.
GoGuardian Parent is a companion to the classroom management and internet filtering tools that your child’s school uses for devices issued to students. Through the use of this app, we hope to encourage more open and honest conversations between parents and children that will result in safer practices and responsible browsing habits. Learn more on our website at www.meridian.wednet.edu/goguardian/.
Device Care
Like textbooks, library books, athletic equipment and other school property issued to your student, there is a responsibility to take proper care of these valuable resources. A Chromebook or iPad is no different and we know that our students and parents will take appropriate precautions to avoid accidental damage, misuse or abuse.
You may be held responsible for the cost of repair or replacement where failure to exercise proper care results in damage to or loss of the device. If you need help or support with your child’s school device please contact techhelp@meridian.wednet.edu.
- Families doubled up with friends or relatives due to loss of housing.
- Children living in motels, hotels, trailer parks and campgrounds due to lack of alternative accommodations.
- Children living in emergency or transitional shelters.
- Children living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, and bus or train stations.
The McKinney-Vento Act ensures that children have a right to:
- Attend the school they last attended before they became homeless (school of origin) OR enroll in their neighborhood school.
- Immediate enrollment in school even if they lack required documents, such as school records, immunization records, or proof of residence.
- Free transportation to school of origin, when feasible.
- Free meals at school.
- Assistance for school fees, school supplies, and connecting to social service supports.
Please contact your child’s school counselor or our homeless liaison and family services coordinator at 360-318-2486.
School meals, including breakfast and lunch, are served at all schools. It is our goal to provide nourishing meals for students who choose to participate in this program. Free and reduced-price meals are available to those that qualify. It is important to note that funding for many district programs may increase when more families qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Because of this, we encourage parents to fill out the forms and take advantage of this program. Also, all students should know that their participation in qualifying for and receiving free or reduced-price meals is completely confidential. Other students will have no way of knowing if their classmates are receiving this benefit. A new application must be completed each year. Visit www.meridian.wednet.edu/food-service-program/ for more information.
Please tell your school nurse about any student health concerns.
Washington State law requires that any student determined by the school nurse to have a potential life threatening condition must have current health care provider orders, medications, equipment and care plans, including school staff training, prior to attending school.
Any student may carry and self-administer asthma/anaphylaxis rescue medication at school when authorized by his or her parent/guardian and healthcare provider and approved by the school nurse.
Students in grades 7-12 may carry and self-administer their own prescription medication (excluding controlled substances) when authorized by the parent/ guardian, the healthcare provider, and the school nurse. In addition, students may carry a reasonable amount of over-the-counter medication for their own use with appropriate authorization from the parent/guardian and approval by the school nurse.
Students in any grade may carry and self-administer non-prescription sunscreen at school. Students may not share sunscreen with other students. Parents/guardians should write their child’s name on the sunscreen container. Only rub-on sunscreen is permitted; spray sunscreen is not allowed.
All medication or treatment orders must be renewed before attending school each year.
No student may give, dispense or administer any mediation or remedy to another student. Any violation of the conditions for permission to carry and/or self-administer medication may result in termination of that permission as well as discipline.
Multilingual Learners refers to students who have consistent experience with multiple languages. These students may have a current proficiency level in English that qualifies them for additional language support through the Washington State Transitional Bilingual Instructional Program (TBIP). The goal of the program is to assist students in developing their English language proficiency and grade-level content knowledge at the same time.
Program Definition
Washington State law WAC 392-160 defines “Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program” as a system of instruction which:
• Uses two languages, one of which is English, as a means of instruction to build upon and expand language skills to enable a student to achieve competency in English.
• Teaches concepts and knowledge in the primary language of a student, while the student also acquires English language skills.
• Tests students in the subject matter in English.
How are students identified for multilingual services?
All families fill out the home language survey when they enroll their children. This asks what language the student first learned. If it is not English, staff assesses the student’s English skills. Based on the results, the student may qualify for multilingual learner services. Learn more about the multilingual education program on OSPI’s website, https://www.k12.wa.us/student-success/access-opportunity-education/migrant-and-multilingual-education/multilingual-education-program.
The Meridian School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following employee has been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination: Title IX, ADA, and Compliance Coordinator (RCW 28A.640/28A.642) Kurt Harvill, Assistant Superintendent, kharvill@meridian.wednet.edu. Section 504 questions and complaints can be directed to Aaron Jacoby, Director of Special Education, ajacoby@meridian.wednet.edu. The mailing address for each director is: 214 W. Laurel Rd., Bellingham WA 98226. 360-398-7111.
The Meridian School District is a drug-free/tobacco-free workplace. All new employees must complete a satisfactory fingerprint check with the Washington State Patrol and the FBI. All employment is considered temporary until receipt of a satisfactory check.
Students bringing personal property on district property and on school buses do so at their own risk. The district does not assume responsibility for lost, damaged or stolen property. Parking on district property is at the owner’s/driver’s own risk. The district does not assume responsibility for damage to or loss of privately owned vehicles or property in vehicles.
When submitting a request, please make sure to include:
- Your contact information. E-mail addresses are helpful.
- Detailed information of what you are looking for.
Send Records Request to:
Lisa Gilchrist, Public Disclosure Officer
communications@meridian.wednet.edu
360-398-7111 (phone)
360-398-8966 (fax)
Meridian School District
214 W. Laurel Rd.
Bellingham, WA 98226
Cost of Records: Procedure 4040P.
After We Receive Your Request:
The Meridian School District has five business days to respond to a records request.
The Public Disclosure Officer will:
- Provide the records
- or acknowledge receipt of request and give a timetable for delivery
- or ask for clarification
- or deny the request with a statement as to why it is being withheld and with a citation of the RCW.
How to Appeal a Denial:
If we deny your public records request, you may request a review:
- Make your request in writing.
- Include your denial letter or email
- Address your request to Public Records
Federal law requires an annual reminder to parents that the school district is permitted to publicly release certain information about students such as name, photograph, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, dates of attendance, participation in officially recognized sports and activities, weight and height of members of athletic teams, diplomas and awards received and honor roll. Such information is not released for commercial purposes. We make every reasonable effort to protect the privacy of students.
Release of Information to Military Recruiters
Federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act legislation requires that directory information for 11th and 12th grade students be provided to military recruiters unless parents/guardians object. If you object to your high school student’s information being included on the list given to military recruiters, please check the appropriate box in Skyward Family Access. If you have questions or need support, please contact your school office.
Military Affiliation Data
The Washington State Legislature passed a law requiring Washington State public schools to collect information on family military affiliation (SB 5163 – 2015-16). This required information is collected annually by the end of September.
Photo and Video
Meridian School District staff may record videos or take photographs of students for use in district or school-produced publications, or for use on the website or in the news media. If you do not grant permission,
please check the appropriate box in Skyward Family Access. If you have questions or need support, please contact your school office.
The term “sexual harassment” may include:
• acts of sexual violence;
• unwelcome sexual or gender-directed conduct or communication that interferes with an individual’s
educational performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment;
• unwelcome sexual advances;
• unwelcome requests for sexual favors;
• sexual demands when submission is a stated or implied condition of obtaining an educational benefit;
• sexual demands where submission or rejection is a factor in an academic, or other school-related decision affecting an individual.
You can report sexual harassment to any school staff member or to the district’s Title IX Officer. You also have the right to file a complaint. A copy of policy and procedure 3205 and 5011 are available online at www.meridian.wednet.edu, at your school, or at the District Office, 214 W. Laurel Rd, Bellingham, WA 98226 or by calling 360-398-7111.
Complaint Options: Discrimination and Sexual Harassment
If you believe you or your child experienced unlawful discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or sexual harassment at school, you have the right to file a complaint. Before filing a complaint, you can discuss your concerns with your child’s principal or with the district’s Section 504 coordinator, Title IX officer, or civil rights coordinator. This is often the fastest way to resolve your concerns.
File a Complaint
Step 1. Write Out Your Complaint
In most cases, complaints must be filed within one year from the date of the incident or conduct that is the subject of the complaint. A complaint must be in writing. Be sure to describe the conduct or incident, explain why you believe discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or sexual harassment has taken place, and describe what actions you believe the district should take to resolve the problem. Send your written complaint by mail, fax, email or hand delivery to the superintendent or civil rights compliance coordinator.
Step 2: School District Investigates Your Complaint
Once the district receives your written complaint, the coordinator will give you a copy of the complaint procedure and make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The superintendent or designee will respond to you in writing within 30 calendar days, unless you agree on a different time period. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that demand a lengthier investigation, the district will notify you in writing to explain why staff needs a time extension and the new date for their written response.
Step 3: School District Responds to Your Complaint
In its written response, the district will include a summary of the results of the investigation, a determination of whether or not the district failed to comply with civil rights laws, notification that you can appeal this determination, and any measures necessary to bring the district into compliance with civil rights laws. Corrective measures will be put into effect within 30 calendar days after this written response, unless you agree to a different time period.
Appeal Process
If you disagree with the district’s decision, you may appeal to the district’s board of directors. You must file a notice of appeal in writing to the secretary of the School Board within 10 calendar days after you received the district’s response to your complaint. The School Board will schedule a hearing within 20 calendar days after they received your appeal unless you agree on a different timeline. The School Board will send you a written decision within 30 calendar days after the district received your notice of appeal. The School Board’s decision will include information about how to file a complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).
To better serve students and to meet federal rules and regulations, Meridian School District would like to know if your child is having difficulty in areas of development that cause you concern. Meridian School District will work with you to better understand the process used to determine whether or not your child may be eligible for Special Education services. Students from birth to 21 who have an identified disability and would receive educational benefit from specialized instruction are the focus of Special Education services.
Child Find Notice
Meridian School District is committed to early identification of children with disabilities. The Child Find Program is designed to locate, evaluate, and identify children with suspected disabilities who may be in need of Special Education services, including those who are not currently receiving services. Eligible students between the ages of three and 21 years of age who reside within the Meridian School District may receive Special Education and related services. Children ages birth to two-years-old are referred to their physicians and community agencies.
We seek to reach:
• Children residing in school district boundaries, including preschool aged children;
• Children attending approved, nonprofit private elementary and secondary schools located within the district boundaries;
• Highly mobile children (such as homeless, foster care and migrant children);
• Children who have a disability and may need Special Education services, even though they are advancing from grade to grade; and
• Children at home or homeschooled.
Any person who observes a child they suspect may have a disability may refer the child to the district for screening and possible assessment to determine eligibility. Upon completion of the screening, a member of the evaluation team will explain the results to the child’s parents or guardian. If the screening results indicate the child is having difficulty in one or more areas, a referral is made for a comprehensive Special Education evaluation. Eligible preschool students are entitled to individualized, quality early intervention Special Education services in accordance with the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part B.
If you have concerns about your child’s development in the areas of language, hearing, vision, social emotional, cognitive, gross motor, fine motor and self-help skills, you are encouraged to contact Director of Special Services, Aaron Jacoby, ajacoby@meridian.wednet.edu or 360-318-2155.
For an overview on child development and guidance in determining whether to seek help and support, visit
www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html.
Section 504
Students who have a disability or a suspected disability within the definition of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 are identified, evaluated and provided with appropriate services. Students may be disabled under this section even though they do not require services pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Please call Special Services at 360-318-2154 for more information.
Please fill out the emergency enrollment form completely and accurately. If there is a change of address or phone number at any time during the school year, please update the information with your student’s school office promptly, or using Skyward Family Access.
Meridian School District is dedicated to achieving academic excellence while developing self-directed, lifelong learners, respecting individual differences, and preparing responsible citizens. To provide information to parents regarding the policies and regulations for students, we have developed a Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook in accordance with Policy 3200 – Students Responsibilities and Rights, which describes:
- The responsibilities of students to maintain a school attitude and behavior, which is safe, orderly, and promotes a positive learning climate;
- The rights of students to humane, professional, and legal treatment in school;
- Additional policies and regulations that affect students.
A copy of Policy 3200 – Student Rights and Responsibilities is available online at www.meridian.wednet.edu or at the District Office, 214 W. Laurel Rd, Bellingham, WA 98226.
Meridian School District is committed to a safe educational environment for all students that is free from harassment, intimidation or bullying. In order to ensure respect and prevent harm, it is a violation of policy 3207 for a student to be harassed, intimidated, or bullied by others in the school community, at school sponsored events, or when such actions create a substantial disruption to the educational process.
Emergency Preparedness
The safety of our students and staff is a top priority. By law, all of our schools are required to conduct at least one drill a month and must practice three basic functional responses: shelter-in-place, lock down, and evacuation. Schools also conduct at least one earthquake drill each year. These regular drills are meant to make systematic responses second nature for staff and students.
Learn more about these drills on our website at www.meridian.wednet.edu/school-safety/.
Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying
Meridian School District is committed to a safe educational environment for all students that is free from harassment, intimidation or bullying. In order to ensure respect and prevent harm, it is a violation of policy 3207 for a student to be harassed, intimidated, or bullied by others in the school community, at school sponsored events, or when such actions create a substantial disruption to the educational process. Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Regulation is explained in procedure 3207P.
Anyone who believes that harassment, intimidation or bullying has occurred should report the behavior to a teacher, counselor, school nurse or school administrator. To report unresolved, severe or persistent harassment, you can:
• Contact the administrator at the targeted student’s school.
• Contact the District Office at 360-398-7111.
• Use the Vector Alert system to report online, by text, or by phone.
• Print and complete the HIB reporting form available on our website at www.meridian.wednet.edu/school-safety/.
Students may be asked to complete surveys or questionnaires to improve the operation or effectiveness of our district. These surveys are anonymous and are not connected with students or their records. Parents/guardians will be notified if surveys contain sensitive questions or when a personal interview is included. In such cases, parents/guardians or student (if 18 or older) may decline participation. Meridian School District must inform parents/guardians whenever students will be surveyed in any of the following areas so they can review the survey and have an opportunity to opt out, according to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment. Those areas are: political affiliations/beliefs of the student/student’s parent/guardian; mental or psychological problems of the student/student’s family; sexual behavior or attitudes; illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior; critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships; legally recognized privileges or analogous relationships such as those of lawyers, physicians and ministers; religious practices, affiliations or beliefs of the student/student’s family; or income (other than that required by law to determined eligibility for participation in a program for receiving financial assistance under such programs.)
The Learning Assistance Program (LAP) provides targeted assistance to students below grade level in reading or math, and in some cases for behavior. Information about the LAP program can be found on our website at www.meridian.wednet.edu/programs/learning-assistance-program/.
In compliance with state law, Meridian School District policy prohibits smoking or any other use of tobacco products on all school property. The public is asked to remember that the smoking ban includes all buildings and grounds and is 24 hours a day. Also in compliance with state law and district policy, all school buildings, grounds and buses are drug-free and gun-free zones. Vaping and e-cigarettes are also prohibited on school grounds.
We request that all visitors check in at school offices and follow procedures. Guidelines for visits to schools are available at our schools and are listed in policy and procedure 4200.
Volunteers provide invaluable support to our schools. All volunteers are required to complete a background check with Washington State Patrol. Please contact the school you would like to volunteer at to start the process. More information on volunteering is available on our website.
The Washington State Office of Education Ombuds (OEO) listens, shares information and referrals, and works with families, communities, and schools to address concerns so that every student can fully participate and thrive in our state’s public schools. OEO provides support in multiple languages and has telephone interpretation available. To get help or learn more about what OEO does, please visit our website: https://www.oeo.wa.gov/en; email oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov, or call: 1-866-297-2597 (interpretation available).
The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO) is an independent state agency that helps to reduce educational opportunity gaps by supporting families, students, educators, and other stakeholders in communities across WA in understanding the K-12 school system and resolving concerns collaboratively. OEO services are free and confidential. Anyone can contact OEO with a question or concern about K-12 public schools.
We are committed to providing access to all individuals, with or without disabilities, seeking information on our website.
To meet this commitment we will comply with the standards of the World Wide Web Consortium’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA and the Web Accessibility Initiative Accessible Rich Internet Applications Suite (WAI-ARIA) 1.0 for web-based content.
If, because of a disability, you are unable to access content on our website and/or would like to report barriers to accessing any information on our website, please contact us at webmaster@meridian.wednet.edu and indicate:
- The nature of your accessibility or alternative format needs
- The URL (web address) of the material you would like to access
- Your contact information
We will contact you to attempt to provide the information you are seeking and will seek to resolve any issues regarding inaccessibility of the information on our website.
Grievances
If you wish to file a grievance under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, information about the grievance process is available within procedure 3210.
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