Below is the complete information from the Back to School tab in Thursday, August 7th's edition of the Wellington Daily News. For more information, please visit usd353.com.

WELCOME TO THE 2008 – 2009 SCHOOL YEAR

On behalf of the Board of Education and everyone associated with USD 353, I would like to welcome you to the 2008-2009 school year.  At this time, those of us associated with USD 353 would like to thank the area sponsors and the Wellington Daily News for making the “Back to School” issue to our constituency.  Classes will begin with a complete daily schedule on Monday, August 25, 2008.  The anticipation of the beginning of a new school year is always exciting for everyone involved in our school system as we eagerly await the opportunity to observe our students successfully complete all of their educational endeavors.  We hope this information will be helpful to everyone and if you should have any questions, please contact us.  All of our patrons are encouraged to become part of the school system.  We appreciate hearing your concerns and ideas regarding any subject that can help make our school system better.  Please know that those of us associated with USD 353 are more than willing to visit with community and county organizations regarding our school system so if we can help you in any way, please contact us.

With the concerted effort of many educators and students within the district improvements were made on the mandated standardized tests resulting in our schools being accredited by the state and reaching goals associated with No Child Left Behind.  We plan to continue those efforts along with the potential of utilizing our technological facilities to enhance the educational opportunities of our students.  The possibility of bringing dual credit classes to Wellington High School through the IDL classroom is very exciting.  Along with the South Central Kansas Educational Service Center the possibility of many cooperative programs via technological facilities and on the job training classes brings much excitement to that level.  Students and parents are encouraged to inquire of these possibilities.

The education of our children is vital to the sovereignty of our nation.  By working together in a cooperative manner, the potential to achieve success increases and the results will enable our children to experience the opportunities a free and democratic society can provide.  We extend our best wishes to everyone for a successful school year as we encourage everyone to extend their best effort in achieving success.

Respectfully,

Rick Weiss, Superintendent
USD 353, Wellington

ACCREDITATION

    Wellington Unified School District 353 holds a fully accredited rating from the State Department of Education, which meets all provisions of Kansas statutes and State Board of Education rules and regulations.  Wellington High School, the Middle School and all elementary schools are accredited under Quality Performance Accreditation (QPA) standards.  Wellington High School is also currently North Central accredited.

CURRICULUM

    Wellington Unified School District 353 offers its students a curriculum in accordance with the accreditation regulations applicable to Kansas schools and school districts. The high school curriculum consists of different areas of study with many courses to choose from, ranging from general education, foreign language and college preparatory, through an expanded vocational offering which includes business education, metals, electronics, vocational agriculture and visual communications. All this, of course, is in addition to a well-rounded program in the areas of speech, music and athletics.

FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS

    Wellington USD 353 does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, handicap, or age in admission or access to treatment or employment in its programs or activities.
    All employment procedures have been evaluated, changed, and approved by the Board of Education.  The school district is also working toward compliance with Public Law 101-336, the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Kansas Disabilities Act.  This will assure that the district complies with all provisions of Title II, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by public entities.
    Any questions regarding the district's compliance with Title II, Title VI, Title IX, ADA, or Section 504 may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator, John Walton, who can be reached at 620-326-4340, 924 North Plum, Wellington, KS 67152, the 504 Coordinator, Dr. Jackie Glasgow, who can be reached at 620-326-4300, 221 South Washington, Wellington, KS 67152, or the Special Education/504 Coordinator, Dr. Jackie Glasgow, at the same address.









SCHOOL ADDRESSES AND PHONE NUMBERS

USD 353 Central Office
221 S. Washington
326-4300

Wellington High School
1700 East 16th
326-4310

Wellington Middle School
605 N. A Street
326-4320

Eisenhower Elementary
924 N. Plum
326-4340

Kennedy Elementary
501 N. Woodlawn
326-4350

Lincoln Elementary
104 S. F Street
326-4360

Washington Elementary
1100 N. Washington
326-4370

Wellington Therapeutic Alternative School (WTAS)
201 N. B Street
326-4330

Alternative Center for Education (ACE)
201 N. B Street
326-4330   

GENERAL INFORMATION

    All schools in Wellington USD 353 will begin the 2008-09 school year, Monday, August 25, 2008.  Classes will be in full operation, school lunches will be served and buses will run on schedule.  In order to make the necessary arrangements for enrollment, new pupils in the district should call or visit as soon as possible the school office where they will attend.  Parents who are unsure as to where their child should attend may call 326-4300.  (Central Office, 221 S. Washington)
    All rural elementary bus students attend Eisenhower Elementary School at 924 North Plum.
    District facilities will be open for your convenience as follows:
Central Office                    Mon.  - Fri. 8:00-4:30
Wellington High School                Mon.  - Fri. 8:00-4:00
Wellington Middle School                Mon.  - Fri. 8:00-4:00   
Lincoln                         Mon.  - Fri. 8:00-3:30           
Eisenhower                      Mon.  - Fri. 8:00-3:30       
Washington                     Mon.  - Fri. 8:00-3:30       
Kennedy                     Mon.  - Fri. 8:00-3:30           






2008 - 2009  SCHOOL YEAR HOURS

                         STARTING        CLOSING        
    SCHOOL                TIMES            TIMES
Wellington Senior High                8:00            3:05
Wellington Middle School                8:00            3:10
Elementary                    8:10            3:25

ENROLLMENT

    Pupils transferring to Wellington USD 353 from other districts must present a copy of transfer records from the previous school attended.
    Pupils enrolling in Kansas schools for the first time must present an up-to-date immunization record, completed health assessment for children age eight and under, and a birth certificate which includes a state file number.  (Applications for requesting a Certified Copy of Birth Certificate or for a replacement copy that includes the state file number will be available at individual schools during enrollment or at the Central Office for your convenience.)

REGISTRATION/ENROLLMENT SCHEDULE

Wellington Senior High (Grades 9,10,11 & 12)
    August  12                    9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
    August     13                    9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
    August      14         WHS New Students    9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Wellington Middle School (Grades 6, 7 & 8)
    August   12                    9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.    August   13                    9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
    August   14     (any MS student may enroll today)    9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
   
Elementary (K-5)
    August  12                    9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
    August  13                    9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
 
    New students to the district need to enroll with the guidance office or the principal's office of the appropriate school and grade level.

KINDERGARTEN

Kindergarten     (8:10 a.m. - 3:25 p.m.)   

    Children who will be five (5) years old on or before August 31, 2008, are eligible to enter kindergarten.

    Children enrolling in Kindergarten will need to present the following on enrollment day:
    1.    Birth Certificate, which includes a state file number
    2.    Kansas Certificate of Immunization
    3.            Completed Physical Form (Health Assessment)
    Health forms may be acquired at the office of each elementary school starting August 4th, at the Central Office, or at the County Health Office.  Forms requesting birth certificates, which include a state file number, will be available at school offices during enrollment and at the Central Office.

BUS TRANSPORTATION OF STUDENTS

BOARD POLICIES ON TRANSPORTATION OF STUDENTS
    5011  Rural Students  Bus service will be furnished to one (1) attendance center for students living 2 1/2 miles or more from school.
    5012  Discipline on Bus (K.S.A. 78-8302)     Violations of students will be reported to the transportation supervisor and the driver and supervisor will contact the principal of the student's school.  The principal will have a conference with the student, driver, and supervisor, issuing a discipline report.  A copy will be mailed to the parents.  The supervisor and principal will each keep a copy.  Disposition of report will depend on violation.  Student can be denied the privilege of bus service for a period of time.  All notifications of conduct report should be mailed from the principal's office.
    5013  Use of Buses  Buses will be allowed to go to school connected activities, with the approval of the Superintendent of Schools, provided that two-thirds (2/3) capacity of the bus be filled before the bus goes on an activity trip.  On all overnight trips, one (1) sponsor for every twelve (12) students shall be required.  The use of the vehicles owned by USD 353 is to be restricted to the transportation of school students on administration approved school activities.  Students who participate will be the only ones transported without a charge.  Requests by other groups must be made through the transportation department. 
    5015  Turnaround  If a patron's home is located on a road calling for a turnaround of the bus such a turnaround must be provided for the bus off of the public road.  It will be the responsibility of the patron to provide a safe and usable turnaround on his property.  At no times shall a bus be allowed to back into the roadway to make a turnaround nor will the bus be allowed to drive an extra distance, like around the section, to avoid a turnaround.  If no turnaround is provided the bus must be met at the closest point to avoid the turnaround.

SCHOOL DAY

    School starts for students when the school bus is boarded of a morning and ends when a student gets off the bus in the afternoon.  Classroom conduct will be demanded at all times.
    If a student is not going to ride the bus to school, please call the Transportation Department, 326-3318 before 6:30 a.m. for all Wellington schools.  Please notify the Transportation Department if the student is not riding home, also.

The Transportation Department will make available a complete list
of Rules, Board Policies, Student Discipline, etc. to all bus riders
prior to the beginning of school.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

    Substitute teachers are always needed during the school year.  The school district prepares a list of available substitutes each year and the building principals use it to secure substitutes for absent teachers.
    Persons are eligible for the substitute list if they meet any one of the following three criteria.
        1.  Active Kansas Teaching Certificate
2.  Substitute Teaching Certificate issued by the Kansas State Board of              Education.
3.  Emergency Substitute Certificate for individuals with 60 hours of college credit.  The renewal process is now an ONLINE APPLICATION PROCESS.  Any person who has held an emergency substitute license since the 1999-2000 school year should use the online application process ( HYPERLINK "http://www.ksde.org" www.ksde.org) to obtain an emergency substitute license for the 2008-09 school year.  Application forms are available at the Central Office for those who will be applying for the first time.  The new application fee is $39.00.
    The pay for a day of substitute teaching during the 2008-2009 school year will be $75.00 per day.

    All substitute teachers who have applied to work for USD 353 for the 2008-09 school year
MUST ATTEND THE INSERVICE on August 22, 2008, 8:30-10:00AM at the Central Office Board Room.


TYPES OF EDUCATIONAL RECORDS MAINTAINED

The types of educational records regularly maintained and directly related to each student includes the following:
    a.    Personal data and family background information
    b.    Medical and health information
    c.    Date of school entry
    d.    School grades, academic work completed and attendance
    e.    Transcripts from previous schools attended
    f.    School-wide test results
    g.     School activities
    h.    Cumulative folders
    i.    Suspension and expulsion from school
    j.    Not all of the above records are kept at each attendance center in the    
        district. All original special education records and documents are to be
        housed in the Central Office file, office of the Director of Special
        Education. These records include, but are not limited to:
            1.    Pre-assessment data
            2.    Comprehensive Evaluation Referral
            3.    Consent to Evaluate
            4.    Notice regarding reevaluation and observations
            5.    Individual report related to multidisciplinary evaluation
            6.    Staffing Summary - placement decision
            7.    Permission for placement - signed by parent/guardian
            8.    Individual Education Program
            9.    Any IEP addendum
            10.    Vision, hearing screenings
            11.    Any additional information or communication pertinent to
                the student's educational program
            12.    Group achievement scores
    k.    Copies of the following are housed in the IEP developer's special
        education teacher's file in the classroom:
            1.    Reports and observations relating to multidisciplinary
                evaluation
            2.    Staffing Summary - placement decision
            3.    IEP's IEP objectives, IEP reviews
            4.    IEP addendum
            5.    Teacher's own administered evaluations
            6.    Behavior charts
            7.    Academic graphs in spelling, reading, arithmetic, etc., and their
                results
            8.    Extended school year test results
            9.    Group achievement scores
    l.    Copies of the following are housed in the Speech Pathologist's files:
            1.    Classroom performance data
            2.    Speech/Language referral
            3.    Consent to Evaluate - Speech/Language
            4.    Speech Pathologist administered evaluations
            5.    Staffing Summary - placement decision
            6.    Permission for placement - signed by parent/guardian
            7.    Individual Education Program
            8.    Any additional information or communication pertinent to
                the student's educational program
            9.    Vision, hearing screenings

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)
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.
FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children's education records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have transferred are "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 which 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 his or her 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 (202) 260-3887 (voice). Individuals who use TDD may call the Federal Information Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339.  A copy of USD 353's policies for complying with FERPA may be obtained from the Superintendent's Office.
Or you may contact the following address:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

SCHOOL FOOD SERVICES

    The Food Service program of the district will begin serving breakfast and lunch on Monday, August 25, 2008.

Elementary (Grades K-5)
    Cash daily                $ 2.00
    Reduced plan                     .40
    Five meals (week)              10.00
    Twenty meals (month)              40.00
Secondary (Grades 6-12)               
    Cash or account daily               2.25
    Reduced plan                     .40
    Cash double meat                   3.00
    Weekly                     11.25
    Monthly                     45.00   
Cash Items Only
    Double meat                     .75
    Extra milk                     .30
Adults
    Cash daily                    3.00
    Cash double meat                    3.75
Breakfast
    Students                       1.10
    Reduced price                     .30
   
    A new program was implemented in the 2006-07 school year for all students in grades K-12.  Parents and students will be able to log in to their individual Infinite Campus accounts to retrieve information regarding account balances and account use.
    Each student will have a separate lunch account and any amount of money may be deposited in a student’s account.  Breakfast, lunch and ala carte will be deducted from the account balance.  Students will not be able to use another student’s account for any reason.
    If the student rings up with a negative balance, he or she will not receive breakfast or lunch unless he or she can pay with cash.
    Staff from Food Service will be available on enrollment day to collect lunch money.  The district has a policy for free or reduced-priced meals for children unable to pay full price for meals served under the National School Lunch Program. Application forms will be available at enrollment at individual school buildings and also at the USD 353 Central Office, 221 South Washington. These forms must be filled out, approved and on file August 25th, or the student will be charged full price for lunches.  After receiving application verification on free and reduced, status of that child will be changed immediately.
If you have any questions please feel free to call Sandy Clift, Food Service Director at 326-4392.

ANNOUNCEMENT OF CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS
AND FEE REDUCTIONS

    Unified School District 353, Wellington, announces its participation in the School Lunch Program and administrated by the State Department of Education. Local school officials have adopted the following family income guidelines for determining eligibility for free or reduced price meals.

INCOME ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES, SCHOOL YEAR 2008-2009
FAMILY SIZE                Free Benefits        Reduced Price Benefits
1                       $ 13,520            $19,240
2                       18,200                25,900
3                       22,800                     32,560
4                       27,560            39,220
5                       32,240                       45,880
6                       36,920               52,540
7                       41,600                  59,200
8                       46,280              65,860
Each additional household member add          +4,680                       +6,660

    Application forms will be available at each school building during enrollment and will also be available at the USD 353 Central Office, 221 South Washington. Applications may be submitted at any time during the year. These forms must be filled out, approved and on file August 25th, or the student will be charged full price for lunches.
    If your student is approved for free lunches, he/she will also have their school fees waived. If approved for reduced lunches, school fees will be reduced by half (50%).

       AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
                                                         NOW AT EACH ELEMENTARY SITE

Information and enrollment forms are now available at the USD 353 Central Office.

COMPUTER STUDENT SECURITY POLICY
Kansas State Statutes 21-3755

Computer crime, computer password disclosure; computer trespass.
1.    Willfully and without authorization gaining or attempting to gain access to and/or damaging, modifying, altering, destroying, copying, disclosing or taking possessions of a computer, computer system, computer network or any other property.
2.    Using a computer, computer system, computer network or any other property for the purpose with the intent to defraud or for the purpose of obtaining money, property, service or any other thing of value by means of false or fraudulent pretense or representation.
3.    Willfully exceeding the limits of authorization and/or damaging, altering, destroying, copying, disclosing taking possession of a computer, computer system, computer network or any other property.

Compliance with Copyright Laws
The District intends to adhere to all copyright laws as applied to computer software. The District also intends to comply with the license agreements and/or policy statements contained in the software packages used in the District. Therefore, all software used on District computers shall be purchased by the District, properly licensed and registered with the publisher, and installed by Computer Services Department personnel.

Use of Unauthorized Software/Unauthorized Copying of Software
1.    Students shall not be permitted to load any non-district owned software onto District computers without the express written permission of the District Technology Director or designee.
2.    Students shall not be permitted to copy any software without the express written permission of the District Technology Director or designee.

Unauthorized Access/Sharing Passwords
1.    Students shall not tamper with, attempt to gain or gain access to computer data or operating system to which the student has no security authorization (such as, but not limited to student files, teacher files, confidential information, student record data.)
2.    Students shall not share or disclose any passwords and shall be held responsible for all physical and monetary damages as a result of any misuse associated with the user account. Students will be held accountable for all computer activity performed under their security authorization.
   
Unauthorized Use of District Computers or Software
Student shall not use District computers or software for any non-district purpose except with the expressed
written consent of the District Technology Director or designee.

Internet Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
Internet access should be used for educational purposes. Teacher-directed classroom activities,
individual study projects, and planned self-discovery activities will receive priority.

Access is Privilege, Not a Right
Use the rules of etiquette when communication on the Internet. Students should immediately
notify a teacher, if by accident they encounter materials that violate appropriate use.

Objectionable Behavior
Users will not:
*Purposefully send or receive and/or view obscene or pornographic material or material which
  facilitates illegal activities.
*Use chat rooms without prior approval of the Technology Director.
*Harass, insult, or attack others.
*Intentionally waste limited resources, supplies.
*Use the internet for commercial or political purposes.
*Knowingly spread computer viruses.
*Join a list serve.

Violation of Policy
Ultimately, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying standards that their
children should follow when using media and information sources. Any student who abuses the USD 353
Computer Security Policy shall be subject to disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, suspension from
or denial of access to all District computers and suspension or expulsion from school. Minimum punishment
shall be removal of network access for five days. Students who utilize computer data (i.e., other student's work
product or a teacher's test) without authorization to gain an improper academic advantage may also be subject
to discipline under the Board's policies on cheating. Additionally, if student conduct constitutes a violation
of copyright laws of Kansas Statute 21-3755, the student may be subject to prosecution under such laws. Any
student who intentionally damages or destroys District hardware and/or software, either directly or indirectly
shall be responsible for all costs associated with repair and/or replacement of parts and services.

ANNUAL ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION

    Wellington USD 353, in keeping with Federal Asbestos Regulations, is using the "Back to School" brochure to inform the public that the district is in compliance concerning asbestos management.
    All asbestos material has been identified and is being managed and maintained as stipulated in the management plan. The six months surveillance inspection was performed in December and again in June of the 2007-08 school year.  Repair was done to asbestos as needed.
    Management plans and related information are on file at each building office and the district office. For answers to asbestos questions concerning USD 353, contact the superintendent at 326-4300. Persons wishing more information may call the Environmental Protection Agency at Region VII, E.P.A. 726 Minnesota Avenue, Kansas City, KS, 66101, (913) 236-2835.

HEALTH  SERVICES
The School Nurse provides a variety of health related services to the students of USD 353.  The School Nurse works together with students, parents/guardians and school personnel to foster the optimum health of each individual student.  Health records which include immunization records as required by Kansas State Law are maintained by the Nurse for each student.  First aid or emergency treatment will be handled by the School Nurse for the school building in which she is present.  Other school personnel are designated to perform emergency treatment and medication administration when the Nurse is not present.  Students who become ill or are injured during the school day are to report directly to the Nurses Office for care.  In the High School and Middle School the Agenda book is to be signed by the classroom teacher sending the student to the Nurse (unless it is an emergency situation).  Parent/Guardian contact is to be initiated by the Nurse or her designee from her office or by the Principal or Secretary from his/her office to the ill or injured student’s parent/guardian.  Students will be cared for in the Nurse Office and return to class if appropriate and able.  General guidelines for student dismissal for illness include:  temperature of 100.00F or above, vomiting, identification of potential communicable disease, etc.  General guidelines for student dismissal for injury include:  loss of consciousness, potential fractures, need for stitches or an injury which prevents them from participating in school/events, etc.  The student’s Parent/Guardian may opt to take/send their student home for illness or injury.  Building attendance policy will apply anytime a student is dismissed as ill or injured.  Only the school nurse or principal’s office may dismiss students from school for injury/illness.  In the event of a serious accident, the school will contact the Parent/Guardian while continuing to care for the student.  In the event that the Parent/Guardian cannot be located or is unable to come to the school and immediate medical care is needed for the student, 911 will be called by school personnel to facilitate EMS transport to the hospital.  The Parent/Guardian can decline EMS care/transport if they are present to care for and/or transport their student.  Screenings for the control and prevention of communicable diseases, vision and hearing are also offered through the school year.  Students with communicable diseases will be handled following guidelines established by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.  Students are screened every 2 years for vision and every 3 years for hearing.  If you do not want your student to receive vision or hearing screening, you must send a written refusal of these services to the School Nurse in your student's building. 

AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS (AED’S)
WHS will have 2 AED’s available for use during the school year.  One is located on the wall between the Main & Auxiliary Gym.  The second is located on the wall between the entrance doors to the Library.  Wellington Middle School has one AED – located on the wall outside the Gym.  Each of the four elementary buildings has one AED Unit located in a cabinet in their Commons or Office hallway area.  AED’s are ONLY to be used by staff, students or patrons who are trained and certified in their use by the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.  If an AED is used, notify the School Nurse immediately.  There are mobile AED units available for use during High School and Middle School extracurricular school activities.  There must be at least one trained staff person, coach, or student/manager for an AED to be checked out for an activity out of the WHS or WMS building.  Contact the High School or Middle School Nurse to check out a mobile unit.  Tampering with the cabinetry or vandalism of an AED unit will be dealt with as a disciplinary matter through the office of the Principal.  Replacement costs if the AED Unit or the AED Cabinet are damaged will be the responsibility of the student and/or parent/guardian causing the damage.

IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS
Kansas Law K.S.A. 72-5209 through 72-5211 states that every student enrolled in Kansas, who has not already done so, will be required upon admission to school to present certification of a physician or local Health Department showing that the student has received the immunizations as designated by the Secretary of the State Department of Health and Environment.  The minimum requirements are listed below.
*4-5 DTP, DtaP and/or DT/Td   (Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) - Depending on dosing schedule.
* 3-4 OPV or IPV   (Polio) - Depending on dosing schedule.                                                                                                                                          
*2 MMR   (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) – Dose 1 after 1st birthday, dose 2 a minimum of 4 weeks later.       
 *3 Hepatitis B   Required for KG through 5th grade students in the 2008-09 school year.
 *1 VAR   (Varicella—Chicken Pox)  vaccination must be on or after the 1st birthday, or date of the illness must be provided to the school signed by the parent/guardian or family physician.  Required for KG thru 5th grade students in the 2008-09 school year.
**Specific timelines and variables for immunizations are available from the School Nurse or Health Department.  
For Students Ages 7 and older the following Immunization Requirements will be followed:
*3-4 DTP, DtaP and/or DT/Td   (Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) - Depending on dosing schedule.  A Td booster is required 10 years after the date of the last DTP, and is due at the start of the school year in which the booster is due.  The Tdap booster may be given in place of the Td booster.
* 3-4 OPV or IPV   (Polio) - Depending on dosing schedule.                                                                                                                                          
*2 MMR   (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) – Dose one after 1st birthday, dose 2 a minimum of 4 weeks later.       
 *3 Hepatitis B    Required for KG through 5th grade students in the 2008-09 school year.
 *1 VAR   (Varicella—Chicken Pox)  vaccination or date of the illness signed by the parent/guardian.   Required for KG thru 5th grade students in the 2008-09 school year.
**Specific timelines and variables for immunizations are available from the School Nurse or Health Department.  
As an alternative to the required immunizations the parent/guardian of the student must present:                                 a.    An annual written statement signed by a licensed physician (MD or DO) stating the physical condition of the child to be such that the immunization would seriously endanger the life or health of the child.                              b.     A written statement signed by one parent or guardian that the child is an adherent of a religious denomination whose religious teaching are opposed to the required immunizations.                                  c.    A written statement signed by one parent or guardian that such immunizations are in process of being received and will be completed within 90 days after admission to school.  A copy of the completed immunization record will then be presented to the school the student attends.                                                                                                                         
Non-compliance with the provisions of KSA 72-5209 as amended will result in the child being excluded from school until compliance with the law has occurred.  The building principal or designee (often times the School Nurse) will notify the parent or guardian in writing of the date the child will be excluded from school.  On the fourth consecutive day of absence due to exclusion the student will be reported to the SRS or Juvenile Court System as truant.
Questions about immunizations may be addressed to the Sumner County Health Department or one of the USD 353 School Nurses.  (Jane Norris at 326-4310, Janet Fine at 326-4350, Danette Jacobs-Guinn at 326-4320)

Vision & Hearing

Vision screening is provided to all USD 353 students every other school year (every 2 years).  Hearing screening is provided every 3 years.  Elementary students will receive a pass note to bring home for these screenings.  A referral letter will be mailed to the parent or guardian of any student who fails the vision or hearing screening. 

HEALTH ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENT
On and after July 1, 1994, every pupil up to the age of nine years who has not previously enrolled in any school in this state, prior to admission to and attendance in school, shall present to the school they are enrolling a Health Assessment conducted by a physician, or staff under their direction, or nurse certified by KDHE, completed within 12 months of school entry.  Health Assessment means a health history, physical exam and such screening tests as are medically indicated to determine hearing ability, vision ability, nutrition adequacy and appropriate growth and development.  As an alternative to the Health Assessment requirement, a pupil shall present:                                         1.   A written statement signed by one parent/guardian that the child is an adherent of a religious denomination whose religious teachings are opposed to such assessments; or                                                                                     2.   A written statement signed by one parent/guardian that such an assessment will be scheduled and completed within 90 days after admission to school.          
Failure to comply with the Health Assessment requirement will result in the student being excluded from school.  Written notice of potential exclusion and the date of exclusion will be sent to the parent/guardian by the principal or school nurse.  On the fourth consecutive day of absence due to exclusion the student will be reported to SRS as truant.

HEAD LICE POLICY
Students with head lice will be sent home from school.  Additional information regarding the method of spread, removal and control of head lice is available through the School Nurse or the Health Department.  The regulation states “Each student infested with lice shall be excluded from school, child care facility or family day care home until treatment with an antiparasitic drug is initiated.”  Kansas regulations no longer require children to be nit free before returning to school.  The complete regulation can be found at: 333.kdheks.gov/epi/download/28_1_6.pdf.
Absence Policy related to head lice:                                                                                                                              1. If a child misses 8 days per semester or 10 days per year they will be referred to the proper authorities.                 2. Children under the age of 14 will be referred to SRS.                                                                                               3. Children 14 and older will be referred to the County Attorney.  (BOE approved 10/9/1997)

MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION
In order to comply with the USD 353 Board of Education policy JGFGB & JGFGBA on Administration of Medication, school personnel do not dispense any medication, not even Tylenol or an antacid, without a written order from a health care provider and parent/guardian written permission.  Health Care Provider is defined as:  MD, DO, ARNP, AP or Dentist/Orthodontist.  Any medication needed by or taken by students during school hours are to be kept in and dispensed from the Health Room/Nurse Office.  If a student is to take medication during school time, the school will work with the student's parent/guardian to obtain permits and begin/maintain medication administration. Medication ordered three times daily is usually given before school, after school and at bedtime.  Self-Administrated medications are addressed in a separate section immediately following this information.  Students who do not follow the Medication Administration Policy or Self-Administered Medication Policy will be held responsible and subject to appropriate disciplinary measures.  If a medication is ordered to be given four times a day or at a specific time during school hours, the following criteria must be followed:
1.  An Annual Written Health Care Provided Order (or copy of) and written parent/guardian authorization to give the prescription or over-the-counter medication. A form is available in school offices for this purpose.  It is not a mandatory form, provided all information is included as identified below for dispensing by the physician/dentist and written authorization is received from the parent/guardian.                                                                                                       2.  The student must have received at least one dose of the medication before it is given at school.                             3.  The medication must be sent to school in its original container.  Pharmacists will generally give you an additional labeled prescription container (if you request it) at the time the prescription is filled.  Over the counter medications must be sent to school in their original container.                                                                                                          4. If a student needs prescribed medication during a school-sponsored event such as a field trip or athletic event, arrangements will be made prior to the event.  Depending on the student's age and situation, the medication will be administered by a supervising adult or the student.                                                                                                        5.  A new Annual Written Health Care Provider Order and written Parent/Guardian permissions are required for each school year.

Self-Administration of Medication – Medication in this section will be defined as a medicine prescribed by a health care provider for the treatment of anaphylaxis (allergic reaction) or asthma.  This includes but is not limited to any medicine defined in section 201 of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, inhaled bronchodilators and auto-injectible epinephrine.  The following requirements must be met before a student will be allowed to self-administer inhaled bronchodilators or auto-injectible epinephrine.  This policy applies to all students, grades Kindergarten through 12th.                                                                                                                                                                    1.  The parent/guardian will provide the school with an Annual Written Health Care Provider Order from the health care provider (as defined earlier), stating the name and purpose of the medication; the prescribed dosage, the time the medication is to be regularly administered and any additional special circumstances under which the medication is to be administered.
2.  A statement from the health care provider or their designee that the student has the skill level necessary to use the medication and any device that is necessary to administer such medication as prescribed.
3.  The health care provider will prepare a written treatment plan for managing asthma or anaphylaxis episodes of the student and for the medication used by the student during school hours.
4.  The student’s parent/guardian will provide to the school a written plan of action for the medication, and that the student has the skills required to self-administer the medication.
5.  Teachers will be notified by the School Nurse or building principal that the student has available in the Health Office or is carrying with them the prescribed medication.
6.  Parents/guardians are to be aware that the school district and its officers, employees and agents are not liable for damage, injury or death resulting directly or indirectly from the self-administration of medication, and that they agree to release, indemnify and hold the school and its officers, employees and agents, harmless from and against any claims relating to self-administered medications and will sign a statement to that effect.
7.  If a student abuses this policy by sharing medication with another student, or other identified misuse, their right to self-administration of medication as defined here will be revoked by the principal and school nurse for their building.
8.  A new Annual Written Health Care Provider Order and written Parent/Guardian permission are required for each school year.
9.  A recommended form for the Self-Administrated medication is available in the nurse office or school office of each attendance building in the district.


STUDENT INSURANCE

    USD 353 will provide a basic insurance on our students for medical expense arising from a school related accidental bodily injury. The schools will have pamphlets available with information concerning coverage and filing claims. This coverage is primary coverage for students with no health insurance, and secondary for students who have other health coverage.

CHEMICAL HEALTH SCHOOL POLICY & STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

    The Wellington Unified School District 353 recognizes that the use of alcohol and other drugs and the problems associated with it are becoming increasingly commonplace in our society and among youth.  One's own chemical use or that of a loved one is detrimental to individual development, personal development, and undermines effective education.
    The Wellington Unified School District also recognizes that a person's use of alcohol or other drugs can lead to the illness of chemical dependency.  Complete recovery is possible with early identification, intervention, and treatment through referral to appropriate community agencies. 
    Unified School District 353, along with parents, law enforcement officials, and other segments of the community, has the responsibility to help students remain drug free.  USD 353 believes that it is also in the best interest of our students and the community for it to take steps to promote, enhance, and maintain a drug-free school system and student body.  All students have the right to attend school in an environment free of alcohol and other drugs.  According to the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act a student is forbidden to:  (1) use, or have in possession, tobacco products; (2) use, consume or have in possession, a beverage containing alcohol;  (3) use or consume any type of mood altering chemical;  (4) use or consume, have in possession, buy, sell or give away any illicit or controlled substance defined by law as a drug; (5) be in possession of paraphernalia determined to be drug related.
    This policy is in effect on all school district property and at any district sponsored activities.  Any student found in violation of this policy will not be a bona fide student in good standing.
    The Student Assistance Program is a process of intervention within the school setting.  Though originally intended only for chemical use/abuse problems, it is applicable whenever concern is expressed over a student's inappropriate or unacceptable behavior.  The reason for establishing an intervention process within the school is to allow systematic identification of students who demonstrate those types of behaviors.  In many cases a pattern of inappropriate/unacceptable behavior is symptomatic of a more serious, underlying problem.  The intervention process allows early identification of such behaviors and provides the staff with a method for handling their concerns.  It is not a diagnostic or labeling process, nor is it a treatment procedure.  A teacher's knowledge and understanding of this process and the ability to apply it to the classroom and school situations will be the first step in assisting students to enrich and improve their lives.  It is the initial step in getting help for students and families.
    Confidentiality is a key element in maintaining an effective and caring student assistance program.  When a student is involved in any phase of use/abuse of chemicals all information will be kept confidential and shared only with involved faculty, counseling staff and the student's parents; however, confidentiality can be broken when use/abuse is obvious, suicide becomes a possibility, there are threats to life or property, or subpoenas are issued.  Only disciplinary action records (as in witnessed use or sale) will be kept in the school files.  Other information (assessment results) will be kept in confidential health files.
    Karen Fuchs, the Student Assistance Program Coordinator for USD 353 can be reached at 326-4310.

COUNSELING SERVICES

    Counseling services are available in all USD 353 schools.  Topics covered in group sessions include drug and alcohol abuse prevention, violence prevention, conflict resolution, individual responsibility, and other related topics.  Individual counseling may be done on an as needed basis when a student is referred by a teacher, parent, or the student.  Students may also be referred to multi-disciplinary team agencies for additional help.  If you have questions about any counseling services offered, contact the counselor in your student's building.

          GOOD-TOUCH/BAD-TOUCH
    The curriculum provides children with a comfortable and non-threatening way to talk about the sensitive and complex problem of sexual abuse.  GOOD-TOUCH/BAD-TOUCH is age-appropriate and is presented over three sessions by specially trained and certified instructors.  It is supplemented with visual aids and video tapes.
    Children in pre-school through 6th grade are taught protective skills and information so they can participate in their own personal body safety.  They learn what abuse is and are empowered to act if they are threatened or victimized.  Children learn abuse is NEVER the child’s fault!
    GOOD-TOUCH/BAD-TOUCH is not sex education.  It is violence prevention!

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

    JGEC Sexual Harassment
    Sexual harassment will not be tolerated in the school district.  Sexual harassment of employees or students of the district by board members, administrators, certificated and support personnel, students, vendors, and any others having business or other contact with the school district is strictly prohibited.
    It shall be a violation of this policy for any employee to sexually harass a student, for a student to sexually harass another student, or for any employee to discourage a student from filing a complaint or to fail to investigate or refer for investigation, any complaint lodged under the provisions of this policy.   
    Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other inappropriate oral, written, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when made by a member of the school staff to a student or when made by any student to another student when: (1) submission to such conduct is made, explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of the individual's education; (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic decisions affecting that individual; or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with an individual's academic or professional performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive academic environment. Sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to: verbal harassment or abuse, pressure for sexual activity; repeated remarks to a person, with sexual or demeaning implication; unwelcome touching; or suggesting or demanding sexual involvement accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning a student's grades, participation in extra-curricular activities, etc.
    Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment should discuss the alleged harassment with the principal, guidance counselor, or another certified staff member. If the matter is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student in this meeting, the student may initiate a complaint under the district's discrimination plan.   
    The filing of a complaint or otherwise reporting sexual harassment will not reflect on the individual's status nor will it affect grades, future employment or assignments. Confidentiality will be maintained throughout the complaint procedure.

COMPLAINT PROCEDURES IN CASE OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT OR DISCRIMINATION
    Sexual harassment or discrimination against any individual on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age or religion in the admission or access to, of treatment or employment in the district's programs and activities is prohibited. Complaints by a student should be addressed to the building principal or to the 504 Coordinators. Complaints by any other person alleging discrimination should be addressed to the building administrator or the 504 Coordinators. Complaints about discrimination will be resolved through the following complaint procedure:
1.  A complaint should be filed in writing and contain the name and address of the person filing the complaint. The complaint should briefly describe the alleged violation.
2.  A complaint should be filed within 10 days after the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation, unless the conduct forming the basis for the complaint is ongoing.
3.  If appropriate, an investigation shall follow the filing of the complaint. The investigation shall be informal, but
thorough. All interested persons, including the complainant and the person against whom the complaint is lodged, will be afforded an opportunity to submit relevant evidence, written or oral, to the investigator.
4.  A written determination of the complaint's validity and a description of the resolution shall be issued by the investigator, and a copy forwarded to the complainant no later than 10 days after the filing of the complaint.
5.  Records relating to complaints filed and their resolution shall be maintained in a confidential manner by the compliance coordinators.
6.  The complainant may appeal the resolution of the complaint to Jackie Glasgow, USD 353 District Hearing Officer, or to the Board of Education if the complaint was against the Superintendent. The request to appeal the resolution shall be made within 10 days after the date of the written resolution of the complaint at the lower level. The appeal officer shall review the evidence gathered by the investigator and the investigator's report, and shall afford the complainant and the person against whom the complaint is filed an opportunity to submit further evidence, orally or in writing, within 5 days after the appeal is filed. The appeal officer will issue a written determination of the complaint's validity and a description of its resolution within 10 days after the appeal is filed.

SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973

    Section 504 prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in any program receiving federal financial assistance. The Act defines a person with a disability as anyone who:
    1.  has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more  major life activities;
    2.  has a record of such impairment; or
    3.  is regarded as having such an impairment.   
    In order to fulfill obligations under Section 504, the Wellington school district has the responsibility to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and students. No discrimination against any person with a disability should knowingly be permitted in any of the programs and practices of the school system.
    The school district has responsibilities under Section 504, which include the obligation to identify, evaluate, and if the student is determined to be eligible under Section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational services. If the parent or guardian disagrees with determination made by the professional staff of the school district, he/she has a right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer.
    The USD 353 Board of Education encourages all complaints regarding the district to be resolved at the lowest possible administrative level. Whenever a complaint is made directly to the board as a whole or to a board member as an individual, it will be referred to the administration for study and possible solution.

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

    The Wellington Special Education Services, District 353, is an educational service that furnishes special education services to Wellington School District 353.  In the provision of special education and related services the Kansas State Department of Education and the Wellington Special Education Service adheres to and is subject to all the requirements set forth under both federal and state mandates governing special education.  Included under this mandate are:
    1.    The identification and referral of children in need of special education and related services;
    2.    The provision of a free, appropriate education;
    3.    Administration of non-discriminatory, multi-disciplinary, multi-source evaluations;        
    4.    The advisement of parental rights to due process;
    5.    Informing parents before any special education action is taken and                         advising parents of their right to protest such placement through due process proceedings;
    6.    The development of an individualized education program for all children                     prior to placement in special education;
7.    Informing and insuring parents of access to records and the safeguarding
    of each student's confidentiality;
    8.    Informing parents of the destruction of personally identifiable information                     when it is no longer needed and the parent's right to request or deny such destruction;
    9.    Comprehensive reevaluation of special education students at least every three years.

    Persons wishing additional information about special education may contact Dr. Jackie Glasgow, Director of Special Education, 221 S. Washington, Wellington, Kansas; phone 326-4300.  Additional information may also be obtained from the following sources:  Kansas State Department of Education (800) 203-9462; Families Together, Inc.
(800) 264-6343; Kansas Advocacy and Protective Services, Inc. (800) 432-8276.  The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) assurances, procedures, and budget application are also available to the public for review and comment.

PARENTAL RIGHTS IN SPECIAL EDUCATION

    Children with disabilities and their parents have certain rights in regard to special education services.  These rights are safeguarded by State and Federal statutes. Each educational agency or institution shall annually notify parents of students currently in attendance, and eligible students currently in attendance, of their rights under the act.
    The following abbreviated statements are child and parent rights required under state and federal statutes and regulations. It is important that you, as a parent, understand your rights in special education matters relating to your child. Our staff is available to assist you in understanding your rights and to provide you with further explanation of these rights.
    —Right to inspect and review the student's educational records.
    —Right to request the amendment of the student's education records to insure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights.
    —Right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that the Act and the regulations in this part authorize disclosure without consent.
    —Right to file with the U.S. Department of Education a complaint concerning alleged failures by the agency or institution to comply with the requirements of the Act and this part.
    —Right to obtain a copy of the Agency's policy regarding annual notification.
 
    A complete copy of our Special Education Policies and Procedures is available for your review and inspection at 221 S. Washington, Wellington, Kansas. If you would like further explanation of any of these rights, you may contact the Superintendent of Schools USD 353; Coordinator of Special Education USD 353; or the Special Education Outcomes Team of the Kansas State Board of Education, 120 S.E. 10th Avenue, Topeka, Kansas 66612, or call the Make A Difference Network at (800) 332-6262.  A copy of USD 353 Special Education Agency Application (formerly called Local Comprehensive Plan for Special Education Services) is available for public review and inspection at the Administration Office.
Free or low-cost legal services and other relevant services are available from Kansas Legal Services (913) 764-8585 or Kansas Advocacy and Protective Services (800) 432-8276.

  ATHLETIC ADMISSION

     The Crusader Hamburger Fry & Scrimmage is scheduled for Thursday, August 28th.  The Hamburger Fry will start at 6:00PM.  Ticket sales and the scrimmage will follow.
    *Tickets - The adult general admission prices at the gate will be $5.00 adult and $3.00 students (1st -12th grade) for all home athletic events.
   
The following passes are available:
All Sports Ticket - Family  -  $100.00
All Sports Ticket - Adult  -  $50.00
All Sports Ticket - Student  -  $20.00
Football Ticket - Family  -  $40.00
Football Ticket - Adult   -  $15.00   

Senior Citizens (USD patrons 65 years and older ) = FREE 
Family passes are good only for immediate family members.       
   
*Tickets will be sold at the Hamburger Fry (Scrimmage), at WHS prior to the first game, and at the first game of each season.

BOARD OF EDUCATION
David Peck                    President
Leonard Scheufler                Vice-President
Robert White                    Member
Jackie Berryman                    Member   
Philip Weakly                    Member
Benny Ybarra, Jr.                    Member
    Dixie Blankinship                Member
Sharon Hays                     Clerk
David Carr                      Treasurer
Kerwin Spencer                    Attorney

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Rick Weiss                Superintendent
Dr. Jackie Glasgow            Assistant Superintendent
Dr. Jackie Glasgow            Director of Curriculum
Dr. Jackie Glasgow            Director of Special Education
Dale Liston                Principal, Wellington High School
Joe Jacobs                Assistant Principal, Wellington High School
Jerry Hodson                Principal, Wellington Middle School
James Ybarra                Assistant Principal, Wellington Middle School   
Larry Roth                Director, Wellington Therapeutic Alternative School (WTAS) &                        Alternative Center for Education (ACE)
Rosemary Klish                Therapeutic Coordiantor, WTAS/ACE
Kelly Adams                Principal, Eisenhower Elementary
Ron Brown                Principal, Kennedy Elementary
John Walton                Principal, Lincoln Elementary
John Walton                Principal, Washington Elementary
Dr. Jackie Glasgow            After-School Program Director                                        

SPECIAL PERSONNEL
Jane Norris                School Nurse - Wellington Senior High
Danette Jacobs-Guinn            School Nurse - Middle School, WTAS & ACE
Janet Fine                School Nurse - Kennedy, Eisenhower, Lincoln & Washington
Sandra Clift                Food Service Director
John Gifford                High School Guidance Counselor
Nancy Roth                Middle School Guidance Counselor
Kim Hefley                Elementary Counselor
Tracy Schenk-Lara            Elementary Counselor
Marla Clouse                Elementary Counselor
Sarah Hall                Elementary Social Worker
Karen Fuchs                Student Assistance Program Coordinator


TEXTBOOK, RENTAL FEES
Textbook rental paid at enrollment time
Kindergarten                $35.00
Grades 1 - 12                $55.00

FEES - MIDDLE SCHOOL
All 6th – 7th – 8th graders
Book Rental                        $55.00
P.E. Towel Fee                          $6.00
P.E. Combo. Lock            $2.00
Book Locker                $3.00
Agenda Book                $5.00
TOTAL                    $71.00

Sports Fee Per Athlete                            $25.00


FEES – HIGH SCHOOL
General
Book Rental                 $55.00
Agenda                       $5.00
Book Locker                    $2.00
Physical Ed.                 $11.00

Summer Driver’s Education               $100.00 (in-District Students) Spring Enrollment
                           $140.00 (Out of District Students) Spring Enrollment


    If your student is approved for free lunches, he/she will also have their school fees waived.  If approved for reduced lunches, fees will be reduced by half (50%).  **Fees not eligible for waiver include Driver Education fees and student athletic activity fees.

STUDENT ATHLETIC ACTIVITY FEES

    Students in grades 6-12 who participate in one or more athletic activities, including cheerleading, will be charged an annual fee of $25. Team managers and trainers will be excluded from the fee.  This fee is not eligible for waiver.  The fee must be paid before the first regular athletic contest in which the student athlete participates.

KSHSAA ELIGIBILITY

    Schools may have stricter rules than those listed below.  Contact the principal or coach on any matter of eligibility.  In order for a student to be eligible to participate in interscholastic activities, he/she must first be certified by the school principal as meeting all eligibility standards.  The complete regulations are published in the official KSHSAA Handbook which is distributed annually and is available at your school principal's office.

You are eligible if:
1.    You are a bona fide undergraduate student in good standing.
2.    Your conduct and standard of sportsmanship are satisfactory and do not bring discredit to yourself or your school.
3.    You are not nineteen years of age (sixteen, fifteen or fourteen for junior high school student) on or before September 1 of the school year in which you compete.
4.    You have met the following semester requirements:  A student shall not have more than two semesters of possible eligibility in grade seven and two semesters in grade eight.  A student shall not have more than eight semesters of possible eligibility in grades nine through twelve, regardless of whether the ninth grade is included in middle school or in a senior high school.  NOTE:  If a student does not participate or is ineligible due to transfer, scholarship, etc., the semester(s) during that period shall be counted toward the total number of semesters possible.
5.    You passed five new subjects (those not previously passed) of unit weight in your last semester of attendance.  (If you are a first semester junior or senior high school student, you must have passed five new subjects (those not previously passed) of unit weight in your last semester of attendance).
6.    You are enrolled and attending five new subjects (those not previously passed) of unit weight.
7.    You have not been in more than four seasons in one sport in a four-year high school, three seasons in a three-year high school or two seasons in a two-year high school.
8.    You do not engage in outside athletic competition in the same sport while you are a member of a school squad.  Consult your coach or principal before you participate individually or on a team in any game, training session, or tryout conducted by an outside organization.
9.    You have passed an adequate physical examination by a practicing physician and have the written consent of your parents or legal guardian. (The completed form must be in the hands of your principal prior to your first practice.)

COLLEGE COURSES & GED CLASSES

    Cowley County Community College, Pratt Community College and Inter-Distance Learning Lab (IDL) each offer a variety of classes.  Persons of all ages can find courses of interest, whether pursuing a degree or wanting to increase their knowledge in a particular area.
Wellington High School will be offering college classes at various times for their juniors and seniors. Any student who is classified as a junior may begin taking college classes at night and during the summer. If a student is ambitious and schedules college classes carefully during his or her junior and senior high school years, he or she can obtain enough credit hours to begin full-time college as a sophomore. Some students have even graduated from Cowley Community College with an associate degree the same year they graduated from Wellington High School.
    Cowley Community College tuition is significantly less than what it would be at the state colleges. There are scholarships available for both full-time and some part-time students.  You may contact Cowley at (800) 593-2222.
    GED classes are available by contacting Cowley County Community College (800) 593-2222, Wichita Area Technical College (316) 677-9282, or Kansel (316) 263-9620.

RECREATION COMMISSION

    The Wellington Recreation Commission, 206 So. Jefferson, 326-3323, is an entity of USD 353 School District and is funded by user fees and a mill levy.  The Recreation Center has offered varied programs over the years, beginning in 1956 with swimming lessons and growing to currently include sports, physical fitness, leisure arts, aquatics, special events and special interest activities for our youth, adults and senior citizens.
    The Recreation Commission Youth Center will open for students beginning Tuesday, September 2nd.
Students in 7th through 10th grades may not leave the Recreation Center in the evenings, or at dances, until the center closes or the dance is over, unless a parent sends a note or they call the supervisor.  Parents should be there to pick up their student promptly in order to prevent mischief or having a large amount of students attempting to call for rides.
   
SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY

    The Kansas School Safety and Security Act (K.S.A.72-89b03) and USD 353 Board Policy EBC and JCAC require school personnel to report all felony and misdemeanor crimes committed on school property or at a school supervised activity to the appropriate law enforcement agency. If an administrator's preliminary investigation reveals information which indicates a crime (felony or misdemeanor) may have been committed, the administrator is required to file a report. Whether or not the report is made in writing (for later follow-up by law enforcement) or by phone (for immediate follow-up by law enforcement) is dependent upon the seriousness and nature of the situation. Fighting with blows involved is considered reason to file a report with law enforcement.
    When law enforcement officers conduct an investigation and/or question a student(s) during school hours, the building principal will make a reasonable attempt to contact parents, guardians, or the building principal will make a reasonable attempt to contact parents, guardians or representatives of the student(s) prior to questioning. To the extent possible, reasonable requests of parents, guardians or representatives of the student(s) will be documented by the Administrator involved.
    If a student's parents, guardian, or representative is not present during questioning of a student, the principal or a certified school staff member will be present. The decision to arrest a student and remove the student from the school jurisdiction is up to law enforcement and not under the authority of school personnel.
    Please talk with your students about this policy. It is enforced in all buildings.

The Kansas School SAFETY HOTLINE Number is 1-877-626-8203

    The 1999 Kansas Legislature appropriated funds to assist the State Department of Education, in cooperation with the Kansas Highway Patrol, in establishing a School Safety Hotline. This hotline is a toll free number available 24 hours per day, 365 days per year to give students, parents and community members the opportunity to report any impending school violence. As you are aware, students usually have knowledge of potential school violence before it occurs. This hotline gives students the opportunity to anonymously report any potential violence.

DRIVERS’ LICENSE PROVISIONS

Starting July 1, 1999, a first-time drivers’ license applicant who is 16 or 17, and farm permit holders prior to age 16, must submit a signed affidavit from either parent or guardian stating that the applicant has completed at least 50 hours with adult supervision with at least 10 of those hours being at night. The bill does not require the additional supervised instruction to be provided by a parent or guardian and, as a result there may be increased demand for driver’s education programs. Also, if any person under 21 years old produces an alcohol concentration test between the range of .02 and .08 or, has an alcohol or drug related conviction, the Division of Motor Vehicles must suspend the person’s driving privileges for a period of one year or the term of the diversion agreement

NEW STAFF TO USD 353
   
    Mandi Harris        Central Office            ParaEducator Facilitator
    Karen Gerberding    Central Office            Speech/Language Pathologist
    Shawn Worley        Central Office            Network Technician
    Kay Tibbs        Central Office            Instructional Technology Coordinator
    Rosemary Klish        Roosevelt            Therapeutic Coordinator
John Gifford        High School            Counselor
    Randy Sawyer        High School            Art
    Amanda Garcia        High School            Grades 9-12 English
    Kevin Hackerott        High School            Grades 9-12 Math
Tiffany Roth        High School            Grades 9-12 Math
Larry Clark        High School            Part time Math
    Caron Carlile        High School            Sp Educ Interrelated/Transition Coordinator
Katie Franke        High School            Sp Educ Interrelated
Danette Jacobs-Guinn    Middle School            Nurse
    Andrew Pearson        Middle School            Grade 8 English
    Nancy Roth        Middle School            Counselor
    Scott Sisson        Middle School            Physical Education
Terrie Chevreaux        Lincoln                Reading Recovery/Title 1
    Sarah Hall        Lincoln                Title I Counselor
    Gina Schnelle        Washington            Grade 4
    Samantha Heasty        Eisenhower            Grade 4
    Jennifer Worley        Eisenhower            Grade 2
Tracy Schenk-Lara    Eisenhower            Title I Counselor
    Vicki Barton        Kennedy            Special Education - Interrelated
    Marla Clouse        Kennedy            Title I Counselor
     
   
                                                              8/5/2008