YELLOWJACKET BUZZ 2020-2021

The Stevensville School District welcomes our students, families, and the entire community to the 2020-2021 school year. Without a doubt, the last six months have presented unique learning and teaching challenges for the entire community. The District administrative team has spent the months of July and August planning and hosting a task force of representatives from the school and community to plan for the re-opening of our schools. This plan was adopted by the Board of Trustees and revised to comply with new information, the Governor’s mandate, and fiscal information.

The Stevensville School District is committed to opening as planned for our fall session. We will be providing both in-person and online environments for our students. As always, we are committed to a safe learning environment. This statement has taken on new meaning due to COVID-19. The Stevensville School District is taking significant actions to make sure our buildings are maintained and disinfected on a daily basis. We will assign custodial staff to each building during student attendance hours to clean and disinfect, and will continue our nightly cleaning routines.

Although we are committed to opening, we will remain flexible and ready to address changes and requirements that may arise due to COVID-19. In the spring of 2020, the Stevensville Schools were able to convert to distance learning in a 48-hour period. This was no small task, but the Stevensville teaching staff moved to this environment very adeptly. We hope to remain fully open while providing online instruction using our teaching staff to provide both real time instruction in the classroom and via internet. We are also exploring the option of providing this instruction in an asynchronous model using our staff to better assist families.

Stevensville Schools will also see significant changes due to construction throughout the District. Construction continued throughout the summer and will occur during the school year as well. To accommodate construction, we moved some teachers to open classrooms in the middle school, and students will transition between buildings. Class schedules will change to a full block schedule in grades 6-12 to minimize student transitions between buildings and reduce time spent in halls. We will be closing the main entrance to the high school and relocating the high school offices to a temporary entrance at the north high school doors. Parking will be limited, and we encourage all students to park in the student lot behind the school to relieve congestion. The District leased parking at the corner of Park Avenue and 5^th Street to accommodate staff and visitor parking. The bus loop will remain open for bussing, and the drop-off lane for students will remain operational. However, these lanes will be shorter due to construction. “Drop and go only” traffic will be absolutely necessary. Please do not park in the drop-off lane or bus lanes for any reason.

As with any new school year, we are also welcoming new staff to our District. This year we welcome the following new staff: Clayton Curley-MS Health/PE teacher, Zachary Paulus-Band teacher, Thomas Boelman-Industrial Arts teacher, Kyra Mycroft-HS Special Education teacher, Rachel Gearheart-MS counselor, Katy Cardoza-HS counselor, Mary Miller-HS counselor, and Chance Edman-7-12 Activities Administrator.

I welcome everyone to the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year on behalf of the Board of Trustees. We appreciate your support and trust in the Stevensville Public Schools and look forward to providing the best possible educational opportunities available for the students in the Stevensville community. Please register for our Infinite Campus messages and visit our website and school Facebook pages for ongoing changes and adjustments as we begin the year. I have no doubt that we will need to remain flexible as we work to reopen our schools.

Sincerely,

Robert Moore Ed. D.

Superintendent

Immunization Requirements for Attendance

As of the fall of 2016, all students must meet immunization requirements to attend or they must have a proper exemption on file. Montana Law requires students attending school be vaccinated against varicella disease (chickenpox) and receive a booster of pertussis vaccine before entering 7^th grade.

The following is a list of immunization requirements:

• DTaP/DTP – 4 vaccinations before entering kindergarten with at least one of these being given after the 4^th birthday.
• Polio (IPV/OPV) – 3 vaccinations before entering kindergarten  with at least one of these being given after the 4^th birthday.
• MMR (Measles/Mumps/Rubella) – 2 vaccinations before entering kindergarten with the first shot being given after the first birthday.
• Varicella (chickenpox) – Students in kindergarten through 12^th grade will need to have two doses of varicella vaccine or laboratory evidence of immunity/confirmation of disease. Diagnosis or verification of varicella/herpes zoster disease in past by health care provider.
• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) – Will be required for students prior to attending 7^th grade. Students currently in grades 8-12 who have not yet received their Tdap will require a single dose. There has been a booster shot required before entering 7^th grade for years but the requirement did not include the pertussis portion of the vaccination. Your child may have received a booster before 7^th grade, but unless it included the pertussis portion of the shot they will still need to receive an additional vaccination.

It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to provide the school with proof of the required vaccinations. In order for your child to attend school, all vaccinations must be up to date.

If you have any questions please contact:

School Nurse Connie Johnson @777-5481, Ext:  333 or Ravalli Co. Public Health Dept. @ 375-6670

Special Education & 504 Services

Stevensville Public Schools provide Special Education and 504 Services (resource room, self-contained speech therapy, home-bound and psychological services). By state and federal mandate, services will be provided for all handicapping conditions of students between the ages of 3 and 18, inclusive. If you have any questions, please contact Stevensville Primary Principal, Jessica Shourd, Middle School Principal, Tracey Rogstad, or High School Principal, Brian Gum.

Title I Notice

Parents may request and the district will provide the following information regarding the professional qualifications of the student’s classroom teachers: Whether the teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction; whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which state qualification or licensing criteria have been waived; the baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certificate or degree; and/or whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.

For more information on the Title programs, please contact Dr. Robert Moore.

Limited English Proficient (LEP) Students

The Stevensville School District has the responsibility under federal law to serve students who are limited English proficient and need English instructional services.  The District will ensure opportunities are provided for parents to meet with building principals and teachers, provide information how parents can be involved in their child’s education, and how parents can help their child attain English proficiency and succeed in school.  The District works hard to provide information to parents in a format and language that they can understand.

Each year, within 30 days of the start of the school year or the student’s enrollment if after the start, the District will notify parents of a student identified as limited English proficient of the reasons their child has so been identified, the child’s level of English proficiency and how it was assessed, the methods of instruction used in its programs and others, how its program will help their child, and when the child is expected to gain English proficiency.

The District will provide notice to parents of limited English proficient students when the child fails to make progress on annual achievement objectives within 30 days of learning of such status.

Parents seeking more information about the District’s identification of and programs for students with limited English proficiency should contact Curriculum Coordinator, Jessica Shourd.

AHERA Notice

In the past, asbestos was used extensively in building materials because of its insulating, sound absorbing, and fire retarding capabilities. Virtually any building constructed before the late 1970s contained some asbestos. Intact and undisturbed asbestos materials generally do not pose a health risk. Asbestos materials, however, can become hazardous when, due to damage or deterioration over time, they release fibers. If the fibers are inhaled, they can lead to health problems, since as cancer and asbestosis.

In 1986, Congress passed the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) which requires schools to be inspected to identify any asbestos containing building materials. Suspected asbestos-containing building materials were located, sampled (or assumed) and rated according to condition and potential hazard. Every three years, Stevensville Public School District has conducted a re-inspection to determine whether the condition of the known or assumed asbestos containing building materials (ACBM) has changed and to make recommendations on managing or removing the ACBM. At the last re-inspection conducted on November 19, 2019, all materials listed in the Management Plan as asbestos containing (or assumed to be asbestos-containing) were inspected and found to be in good condition.

The law further requires an asbestos management plan to be in place by July 1989. Stevensville Public School District developed a plan, as required, which has been continually updated. The plan has several ongoing requirements: publish a notification on management plan availability and the status of asbestos activities; educate and train its employees about asbestos and how to deal with it; notify short-term or temporary workers on the locations of the asbestos containing building materials; post warning labels in routine maintenance areas where asbestos was previously identified or assumed; follow set plans and procedures designed to minimize the disturbance of asbestos containing building materials; and survey the condition of these materials every six months to assure that they remain in good condition.

The following buildings contain no asbestos-containing building materials; therefore, no operations and maintenance programs or future inspections are required Middle School, Elementary Gymnasium, Bus Barn, Industrial Arts Building, and Agriculture Building. During the past year, asbestos containing building materials have been removed, encapsulated, or enclosed in the following buildings: High School and K-3 buildings. During the next year, we plan to conduct the following asbestos related activities at the following school buildings remodeling of K-3 and High School buildings and demolition of the Maintenance building to include removal of 1 style of vinyl sheet flooring, 6 styles of floor tile and associated mastics, window caulk.

It is the intention of Stevensville Public Schools to comply with all federal and state regulations controlling asbestos and to take whatever steps are necessary to ensure students and employees have a healthy and safe environment in which to learn and work. You are welcome to review a copy of the asbestos management plan in school district administrative office or administrative office of the school during regular business hours. David Haacke, Maintenance Director is our designed asbestos program coordinator, and all inquiries regarding the asbestos plan and asbestos-related issues should be directed to him at (406) 777-5481.

Notice of Non-Discrimination

The Stevensville School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:

Eric Larson (Title IX Coordinator)

300 Park Avenue

Stevensville Montana

(406) 777-5481

Robert Moore, Superintendent (Non-Discrimination Coordinator), 300 Park Avenue, Stevensville,  Montana (406) 777-5481

Nate Fry (Section 504 Coordinator), 300 Park Avenue, Stevensville, Montana (406) 777-5533

For further information on notice of nondiscrimination, visit  http://wdcrobcolp01.ed.gov/CFAPPS/OCR/contactus.cfm for the address and phone number of the office that serves your area, or call 1-800-421-3481.

Allergens on School Campus

Stevensville Public Schools takes the health of all students very seriously. We ask that you be mindful of allergens such as nuts, and latex. We cannot control all allergens. However, we do not allow latex such as balloons, and gloves, etc., in the school or at school events due to student allergies.

McKinney-Vento Homeless Act

If your family lives in any of the following situations: 1) in a shelter, 2) in a motel or campground due to lack of alternative adequate accommodation, 3) in a car, park, abandoned building, bus or train station, or 4) double up with other people due to loss of housing or economic hardship, your school-age children may qualify for certain rights under the federal McKinney-Vento Act. Eligible children have the right to receive a free and appropriate public education regardless of their enrollment eligibility. For further information and eligibility please contact elementary principal Jessica Shourd, or your building principal.

School District Website Access

The Stevensville School District website address is www.stevensvilleschools.org.

The Stevensville Public Schools website is designed to provide equal access information to all members of the Stevensville Community. Contact the Superintendent at 406-777-5481 regarding questions about the functionality of, or content on the website that is inaccessible. Information on filing a formal grievance with the District pursuant to the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act 1990 can be found by clicking the “Federal and Montana Legal Notices” link under “Quick Links.” Policy 1700 – Uniform  Procedure can be found under the School Board Tab by selection “Board Policies.” This information may also be obtained by contacting the Superintendent at 406-777-5481.

This newsletter contains a large amount of information. This information can also be accessed on the Stevensville School District website at www.stevensvilleschools.org. All information will be available throughout the year and the webpage is updated with new information and announcements on a daily basis. If you cannot find information you are seeking on the website, please contact the District webmaster and he/she will direct you to the correct information or provide information at your request.

Notification of Electronic Photograph Repository

The 2019 Montana Legislature passed Senate Bill 40 requiring the Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI) to create and maintain an electronic directory photograph repository of all Montana students for the exclusive purpose of locating missing school-age children.  The repository is expected to be available to law enforcement in 2020.  It will use students’ current school photos that most schools take annually for school directories, ID cards, year books, etc.

Parents have the right to have their child’s photograph included in this repository by “opting-in.”  If a parent chooses to have his/her child’s photograph included in the repository, the District will notify OPI.

Your child’s photograph will only be used by law enforcement for the express purpose of locating your child should he/she be reported to law enforcement as missing.  No other use by OPI or law enforcement is permitted. Access by OPI staff will be strictly limited and controlled to staff or contractors creating and maintaining the repository.

Photos will be updated annually; you will be given an opportunity each year to opt-in to the repository.  If you fail to opt-in in any year after previously permitting your child’s photograph to be included in the repository, the photo will be purged after two years.

Even if you have opted-in to the inclusion of your child’s photograph in the repository, you may opt-out at any time and your child’s photograph will be removed from the repository.

If you would like your child’s photograph included in the electronic photograph repository please contact your building principal.

Protection of Pupil Rights

PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams.  These include the right to:

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

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;

2. Mental or psychological problems of the student/student’s family;

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

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

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

• Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –

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

These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law.

The Stevensville School District has developed and adopted policies regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes.

The Stevensville School District will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. The Stevensville School District will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. The Stevensville School District will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the school year if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement:

• Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution.
• Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED.
• Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above.

Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20202

School Wellness

The Stevensville School District is committed to providing school environments that promote and protect children’s health, well-being, and ability to learn, by supporting healthy eating and physical activity. Therefore, it is the policy of the Stevensville School District that:

• The Stevensville School District will engage students, parents, teachers, food service professionals, health professionals, and other interested community members in developing, implementing, monitoring, and reviewing District-wide nutrition and physical activity policies and procedures.
• All students in grades K-12 will have opportunities, support, and encouragement to be physically active on a regular basis.

The Stevensville School District will inform and update the public every 3 years, at a minimum, (including parents, students, and others in the community) about the content and implementation of the local wellness policies. The District will also measure periodically and make available to the public an assessment of the local wellness policy.

Notice of Family Educational Rights and Privacy (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or older (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records.  These rights are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days after the day the Stevensville Public Schools receive a request for access.

Parents or eligible students who wish to inspect their child’s or their education records should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect.  The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.

Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the Stevensville Public Schools to amend their child’s or their education record should write the school principal clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed.  If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.  The criteria for determining who constitutes a school official and what constitutes a legitimate educational interest must be set forth in the school’s or school district’s annual notification for FERPA rights.  A school official typically includes a person employed by the school or school district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel) or a person serving on the school board.  A school official also may include a volunteer,  contractor, or consultant who, while not employed by the school, performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist; a parent or student volunteering to serve on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or a parent, student, or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.  A school official typically has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

Upon request, the school discloses education records without consent to officials of another school or school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the [School] to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Student Privacy Policy Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC  20202

Listed below are disclosures that elementary and secondary schools may make without consent:

FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’ education records, without consent of the parent or eligible student, if the disclosure meets certain conditions found in 34 C.F.R. 99.31 of the FERPA regulations.  Except for disclosures to school officials, disclosures related to some judicial orders or lawfully issued subpoenas, disclosures of directory information, and disclosures to the parent or eligible student, §99.32 of the FERPA regulations requires the school to record the disclosure.  Parents and eligible students have a right to inspect and review the record of disclosures.  A school may disclose PII from the education records of a student without obtaining prior written consent of the parents or the eligible student –

• To other school officials, including teachers, within the educational agency or institution whom the school has determined to have legitimate educational interests. This includes contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to whom the school has outsourced institutional services or functions, provided that the conditions listed in §99.31(a)(1)(i)(B)(1) – (a)(1)(i)(B)(2) are met. (§99.31(a)(1))
• To officials of another school, school system, or institution of post secondary education where the student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer, subject to the requirements of §99.34. (§99.31(a)(2))
• To authorized representatives of the U. S. Comptroller General, the U. S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education, or State and local educational authorities, such as the State educational agency in the parent or eligible student’s State (SEA). Disclosures under this provision may be made, subject to the requirements of §99.35, in connection with an audit or evaluation of Federal or State supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs.  These entities may make further disclosures of PII to outside entities that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any audit, evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf.  (§§99.31(a)(3) and 99.35)
• In connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the information is necessary to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of the aid, determine the conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. (§99.31(a)(4))
• To State and local officials or authorities to whom information is specifically allowed to be reported or disclosed by a State statute that concerns the juvenile justice system and the system’s ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records were released, subject to §99.38. (§99.31(a)(5))
• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to: (a)  develop, validate, or administer predictive tests; (b)  administer student aid programs; or (c)  improve instruction.  (§99.31(a)(6))
• To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions. (§99.31(a)(7))
• To parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes. (§99.31(a)(8))
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. (§99.31(a)(9))
• To caseworkers or other Child Protective Services representatives when DPHHS/CPS is legally responsible for the care and protection of the student. 20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1)(L).
• To the Secretary of Agriculture or authorized representatives of the Food and Nutrition Service for purposes of conducting program monitoring, evaluations, and performance measurements of programs authorized under the National School Lunch Act or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966.  (20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1)(K))
• To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency, subject to §99.36. (§99.31(a)(10)
• Information the school has designated as “directory information” under §99.37. (§99.31(a)(11))

• In connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the information is necessary to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of the aid, determine the conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. (§99.31(a)(4))
• To State and local officials or authorities to whom information is specifically allowed to be reported or disclosed by a State statute that concerns the juvenile justice system and the system’s ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records were released, subject to §99.38. (§99.31(a)(5))
• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to: (a)  develop, validate, or administer predictive tests; (b)  administer student aid programs; or (c)  improve instruction.  (§99.31(a)(6))
• To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions. (§99.31(a)(7))
• To parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes. (§99.31(a)(8))
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. (§99.31(a)(9))
• To caseworkers or other Child Protective Services representatives when DPHHS/CPS is legally responsible for the care and protection of the student. 20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1)(L).
• To the Secretary of Agriculture or authorized representatives of the Food and Nutrition Service for purposes of conducting program monitoring, evaluations, and performance measurements of programs authorized under the National School Lunch Act or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966.  (20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1)(K))
• To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency, subject to §99.36. (§99.31(a)(10)
• Information the school has designated as “directory information” under §99.37. (§99.31(a)(11))

Notice for Directory Information

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires Stevensville Public School District, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records.  However, Stevensville Public School District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures.  The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Stevensville Public School District to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications.  Examples include:

-A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama pro  duction;

– The annual yearbook;

– Honor roll or other recognition lists;

– Student directories;

– Graduation programs; and

– Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing  weight and height of team members.

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent.  Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks.  In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following information – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.

If you do not want the Stevensville Public School District to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by September 25, 2020.  Stevensville Public School District has designated the following information as directory information:

Student’s name

Address

Telephone listing

Electronic mail address

Photograph (including electronic version)

Date and place of birth

Major Field of Study

Dates of attendance

Grade level

Enrollment status (e.g., undergraduate or graduate; full- time or part-time)

Participation in officially recognized activities and sports

Weight and height of members of athletic teams

Degrees -Honors and awards received

Most recent educational agency or institution attended

These laws are: Section 9528 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (20 U.S.C. § 7908) and 10 U.S.C. § 503(c).

Schedule for First Day of School September 9th

Just a reminder that classes will begin for all students September 9, 2020. Classes will be dismissed at 2:30 p.m. September 9th. Full days will begin September 10^th .

District Open House

The District Open House schedule for September 8, 2020 is cancelled to avoid a large public gathering in relation to COVID-19 rules.

Student Information System – Infinite Campus

The Stevensville School District is in the third year using Infinite Campus as our student information system. This student information system is not just for the school. Parents have full access to their student’s academic progress, assignments, and attendance. We highly encourage every parent to contact the office staff at your child’s school to get your login information and password.

This is a great tool for parents and you can access your child’s academic information via the internet at any time.

New School  Day Schedule for 2020-2021 School Year

Stevensville Schools have adopted full block schedule for the 2020-2021 school year to allow our construction company the maximum amount of time during the summer break for construction. This schedule increases the number of instructional minutes per day and reduces the number of attendance days required for the school year. Please note school begins September 9, 2020 and ends May 21, 2021.

Start and end times for the school day will be:

8:15 am to 4:00 pm grades K-12.

Please see the individual building schedules and the Stevensville School District Calendar included in this mailing for detailed information.

Primary  (K-3) School Bell Schedule
8:15	School Day Begins
9:00-9:30	Kindergarten Recess
9:30-10:00	1st Grade Recess
10:00-10:30	2nd Grade Recess
10:30-11:00	3rd Grade Recess
11:05-11:35	K-1 Lunch (in classrooms)
11:40-12:10	2-3 Lunch (in classrooms)
12:45-1:15	Kindergarten Recess
1:15-1:45	1st Grade Recess
1:45-2:15	2nd Grade Recess
2:15-2:45	3rd Grade Recess
2:45-3:00	Kindergarten Recess
3:00-3:15	1st Grade Recess
3:15-3:30	2nd Grade Recess
3:30-3:45	3rd Grade Recess
4:00	School Day Ends

Grades 4-5
Grab and Go Breakfast	8:10
Class time	8:15-11:15
Recess and Lunch	11:15-12:00
*subject to change to provide social distancing in the lunchroom
Class time	12:00-2:45
Recess	2:30-2:45
*subject to change to stagger use of the playground
Class time	2:45-4:00
Class time consists of, but is not limited to, Math, English Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, PE, Music, Library

 

2020-2021
A DAY-Monday/Wednesday
Grab and Go MS	8:10
1st	8:15 – 10:00
Break Time HS/MS	10:05 – 10:15
2nd	10:15 – 11:55
Lunch	12:00 – 12:30
3rd	12:35 – 2:15
4th	2:20 – 4:00

 

2020-2021
B DAY – Tuesday/Thursday
Grab and Go MS	8:10
5th	8:15 – 10:00
Grab and Go HS	10:00 – 10:15
Jacket Time	10:15 – 11:55
Lunch	12:00 – 12:30
6th	12:35 – 2:15
7th	2:20 – 4:00

 

Friday – HS/MS
First Bell	8:10	MS Grab & Go
1st	8:15-9:15
	9:15-9:25	HS Grab & Go
2nd	9:20-10:20	HS begins @ 9:25
3rd	10:25-11:20	MS begtins @ 9:20
4th	11:25-12:20
Lunch	12:25-12:55
5th	1:05-2:00
6th	2:05-3:00
7th	3:05-4:00

Changes for 2020-2021

All classes 8:15-4:00 – Due to construction

All passing periods 5 minutes

Additional 5 minutes first period of day for announcements

Extra-Curricular Activities

Extra Curricular Sports practice for fall athletics starts on   August 14, 2020.  Student athletes must have a physical before the first day of practice.  No student athlete will be allowed to participate in practice without physicals being completed prior to the first day of practice. Fall coaches for the District are as follows:

Football- –

Head Coach – Trae Williams

Assistant Coach – Andy Sieges

Assistant Coach  – Clayton Curley

Assistant Coach –  Joel Martin-Williams

Volunteer –  Loren  Hochhalter

Volleyball- –

Head Coach – Kyla Paulsen

Assistant – Casey Ferguson

Assistant  –  Kara Jennings

Golf- –

Head Coach – Jack Filcher

Soccer- –

Head Boys’ Coach – Ralph Serrette

Assistant – Eric Depee

Head Girls’ Coach – Nick Giese

Assistant – Alli Emery

Speech – –

Head – Alexzandera Miller

Assistant – TBA

Cross Country – –

Head Coach – Lori Lewis

Assistant – Hannah Williams

Cheerleading – –

Head – Rebecca Blair

Stevensville Booster Club

The Stevensville Booster Club has worked to support our School District since the early 1980’s.  It is only through support from our Community and School District that we are able to lend a hand to support Athletics and Extra-Curricular activities for our Fighting Yellowjackets.

The Booster Club can always use the helping hands of community and school volunteers to support the number of activities we host.  Some of these activities include: Homecoming T-shirt sales, Homecoming Parade, Annual Holiday Bazaar, Spring Carnival and putting bags together for students attending state or national events.  We meet the first Monday of every month.

Join us as we work toward the development of new and existing athletic facilities, as well as boosting our great school!  If you are interested in receiving email notification, please send an email of interest to [email protected].

President Fran Schmitz, at 406-777-3579 .

Stevensville Parent Teacher Club

The Stevensville Schools Parent Teacher Club is a non-profit organization based on parent and teacher volunteers working together to support various projects within Stevensville Schools.

Some activities the Club is involved with include the Homecoming Parade, yearly/continual sales of Yellow Jacket Swag, and coordination of the Jog-a-thon with grades K-8.  We assist with the Kindergarten Roundup, support The Backpack Program, provide meals during Parent Teacher Conferences, we recognize the staff with an appreciation week and breakfast, and this year we will host the 4th annual “Stevi’s Got Talent”.

Please contact us if you are interested in joining our organization either by emailing [email protected] or you can find us on facebook at Stevensville MT Parent Teacher Club.  There is also a membership form attached in this newsletter.

Transportation News

To begin the school year, the Stevensville School District will be examining all bus routes to determine the number of riders on each route. We will be adding routes where possible to reduce the number of students on each bus due to COVID-19. All riders will wear masks as per the Governor’s mandate.

We have included routes and times on the next pages. However, these are subject to change as we determine ridership.

Unfortunately, the beginning of school is also a time when children are at increased risk of transportation related injuries from pedestrian, bicycle, school bus, and motor vehicle crashes because there are many more children on the road each morning and afternoon and many drivers’ patterns change. Therefore, as the school opens its doors, it is time for everyone – motorists, parents, educators, and students – to improve their traffic safety practices. The following tips can help make it a safe and happy school year for the whole community.

Tips for Motorists

Slow down and obey all traffic laws and speed limits.

Always stop for a school bus that has stopped to load or unload students. Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm tell you the school bus is stopped to load or unload students. State law requires you to STOP.

When driving in neighborhoods or school zones, watch for young people who may be in a hurry to get to school and may not be thinking about getting there safely.

Tips for Parents

Help your children learn and practice the safety rules for walking, bicycling, or riding in a passenger car or school bus.

Supervise young children as they are walking or biking to school or as they wait at the school bus stop.

Be a good role model, especially when you are with your kids. Always buckle up in the car, always wear a helmet when biking, and always follow pedestrian safety rules.

Tips for Students

Always buckle up when you are riding in a car.

Always wear a helmet and follow traffic safety rules when riding your bike.

If you ride a school bus, learn and practice the safety rules for waiting at the bus stop, getting on and off the bus, and riding the bus.

If you walk to school, learn and practice the safety rules for pedestrians. Always cross at cross walks and obey all traffic signs.

Be a good role model for your younger brothers and sisters and friends, and help them learn and practice the safety rules.

Bus Schedules

2020 2021 Bus Routes (PDF Version)

2020 2021 Bus Routes (MS Word Version)

Google Document Version of Bus Schedules

 

Drop-Off Lane Guidelines

In an effort to keep our students safe and traffic moving during drop-off times, we are instituting a drop-off area traffic safety person. The hope is that this person will help ease the congestion in the area and make the area a safer place for our parents and students. We appreciate your help in this matter. The following are guidelines to help with this process:

The two lanes closest to the buildings are for bus traffic only. Do not park in these lanes. This is especially important during bus loading.

Do not park in the traffic loops during the day. This will allow for emergency vehicles and alleviate traffic congestion and back up onto Park Avenue.

The two lanes closest to the parking area are for stop and go drop-off traffic. No vehicles should be parked or unattended in these lanes. The right lane is for quick drop off traffic only. The left lane is for moving traffic only. Please do not drop a child in the left lane for their safety. Once you have dropped your child(ren) please merge left and depart.

Vehicles using the drop-off lane need to move forward (North) to allow space for cars entering from the street prior to dropping off students. PLEASE DO NOT STOP AT THE CORNER OF THE LOOP AS THIS CAUSES SEVERE CONGESTION. Due to traffic volume in the drop-off loop, vehicles must pull forward to avoid the hazard of blocking Park Avenue. Please remember that this traffic pattern is for your safety as well as the safety of our children.

If you would like to walk your child to their classroom, we ask that you please park street-side on the west side of Park Avenue. The traffic loop is for stop and go drop-off traffic.

Please refer to the diagram on the next page for clarification.

Some adjustments have been made in reference to loading and seating on buses due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, they are as follows:

1.     Bus loading will be back to front with siblings sitting together.

2.     Bus unloading will be front to back, again with siblings sitting together.

3.     Bus seats will have marking in places where you are not allowed to sit.

4.     Because of the lack of social distancing, face masks will be required.

Transportation Supervisors:

Paul Ludington–Stevensville School 777-5481 ext. 646 Frank McMurtry–Harlow’s Bus Service 777-2189 cell (406) 214-9922 cell (406) 868-7959

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT FREE AND REDUCED PRICE SCHOOL MEALS

Children need healthy meals to learn. The Stevensville Public School District offers healthy meals every school day. Breakfast costs $1.25; lunch costs $2.25 grades K-5, $2.50 grades 6-12. Your children may qualify for free meals or for reduced price meals. Reduced price is $.30 for breakfast and $.40 for lunch. This packet includes an application for free or reduced price meal benefits, and a set of detailed instructions. Below are some common questions and answers to help you with the application process.

Who can get free OR REDUCED PRICE meals?

–  All children in households receiving benefits from [State SNAP], [the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservation  (FDPIR)] or [State TANF], are eligible for free meals.

–  Foster children that are under the legal responsibility of a foster care agency or court are eligible for free meals.

–  Children participating in their school’s Head Start program are eligible for free meals.

–  Children who meet the definition of homeless, runaway, or migrant are eligible for free meals.

–  Children may receive free or reduced price meals if your household’s income is within the limits on the     Federal In    come Eligibility Guidelines. Your children may qualify for free or reduced price meals if your   household income falls at or below the limits on this chart.

Free-Reduced Lunch Application 2020-21

FEDERAL ELIGIBILITY INCOME CHART For School Year 2020-21
Household size	Yearly	Monthly	Weekly
1	$23606	$1968	$454
2	$31894	$2658 $	$614
3	$40182	$3349	$773
4	$48470	$4040	$933
5	$56758	$4730	$1092
6	$65046	$5421	$1251
7	$73334	$6112	$1411
8	$81622	$6802	$1570
Each additional person:	$8288	$691	$160

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILDREN QUALIFY AS homeless, MIGRANT, OR RUNAWAY? Do the members of your house hold lack a permanent address? Are you staying together in a shelter, hotel, or other temporary housing arrangement? Does your family relocate on a seasonal basis? Are any children living with you who have chosen to leave their prior family or household? If you believe children in your household meet these descriptions and haven’t been told your children will get free meals, please call or e-mail Jessica Shourd, homeless liaison at Stevensville Public Schools, 300 Park Ave. Stevensville, MT 59870, email [email protected], Phone (406) 777-5613.

Do I need to fill out an application for each child?  No. Use one Free and Reduced Price School Meals Application for all students in your household. We cannot approve an application that is not complete, so be sure to fill out all required information. Return the completed application to: Janet Schott, Stevensville Public Schools, 300 Park Ave. Stevensville, MT 59870, Phone – (406) 777-5613, email [email protected].

SHOULD I FILL OUT AN APPLICATION IF I RECEIVED A LETTER THIS SCHOOL YEAR SAYING MY CHILDREN ARE ALREADY APPROVED FOR FREE MEALS?  No, but please read the letter you got carefully and follow the instructions. If any children in your household were missing from your eligibility notification contact Janet Schott, Stevensville Public Schools, 300 Park Ave. Stevensville, MT 59870, Phone – (406) 777-5613, email [email protected]., immediately.

MY CHILD’S APPLICATION WAS APPROVED LAST YEAR.  DO I NEED TO FILL OUT A NEW ONE?  Yes.  Your child’s application is only good for that school year and for the first few days of this school year, through September 25, 2020.  You must send in a new application unless the school told you that your child is eligible for the new school year.  If you do not send in a new application that is approved by the school or you have not been notified that your child is eligible for free meals, your child will be charged the full price for meals.

I GET WIC.  CAN MY CHILDREN GET FREE MEALS?  Children in households participating in WIC may be eligible for free or reduced price meals.  Please send in an application.

Will the information I give be checked? Yes. We may also ask you to send written proof of the household income you report.

If I don’t qualify now, may I apply later? Yes, you may apply at any time during the school year.  For example, children with a parent or guardian who becomes unemployed may become eligible for free and reduced price meals if the household income drops below the income limit.

What if I disagree with the school’s decision about my application? You should talk to school officials. You also may ask for a hearing by calling or writing to: Dr. Robert Moore, Superintendent, Stevensville Public Schools 300 Park Ave. Stevensville, MT 59870, Phone – (406) 777-5481, email – [email protected].

May I apply if someone in my household is not a U.S. citizen? Yes. You, your children, or other household members do not have to be U.S. citizens to apply for free or reduced price meals.

What if my income is not always the same? List the amount that you normally receive. For example, if you normally make $1000 each month, but you missed some work last month and only made $900, put down that you made $1000 per month.  If you normally get overtime, include it, but do not include it if you only work overtime sometimes.  If you have lost a job or had your hours or wages reduced, use your current income.

WHAT IF SOME HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS HAVE NO INCOME TO REPORT? Household members may not receive some types of income we ask you to report on the application, or may not receive income at all. Whenever this happens, please write a 0 in the field. However, if any income fields are left empty or blank, those will also be counted as zeroes. Please be careful when leaving income fields blank, as we will assume you meant to do so.

We are in the military. do we REPORT OUR INCOME DIFFERENTLY? Your basic pay and cash bonuses must be reported as income. If you get any cash value allowances for off-base housing, food, or clothing, it must also be included as income. However, if your housing is part of the Military Housing Privatization Initiative, do not include your housing allowance as income. Any additional combat pay resulting from deployment is also excluded from income.

WHAT IF THERE ISN’T ENOUGH SPACE ON THE APPLICATION FOR MY FAMILY?  List any additional household members on a separate piece of paper, and attach it to your application. Contact Janet Schott, Stevensville Public Schools, 300 Park Ave. Stevensville, MT 59870, Phone – (406) 777-5613, email [email protected]] to receive a second application.

My family needs more help. Are there other programs we might apply for? To find out how to apply for [State SNAP] or other assistance benefits, contact your local assistance office or call 888-706-1535.

If you have other questions or need help, call (406) 777-5613.

Sincerely,

    Robert Moore Ed.D.

Superintendent

Stevensville Public Schools

SUPPLY LISTS FOR STEVENSVILLE SCHOOL STUDENTS

2020-2021

Regular Classroom Supply Lists (K-3)

KINDERGARTEN
Please label the following:
1 Standard size backpack	1 Large box of Kleenex	1 Box of fine point Expo markers
1 Pair of PE shoes to be left at school	2 Boxes of Crayola crayons	1 Container of Clorox wipes
3 Composition books	8 Glue sticks	1 Healthy nut free store bought snack to share(ie. Cheese sticks, crackers, apple sauce packets, go-gurts, granola bars)
1 Plastic soap box	2 Packages of playdough	1 Package of dinner paper plates or package of brown lunch bags(Ms. Gum’s class only)
1 Standard plastic pencil case (approximately 13in by 5in) to hold all student’s supplies	1 Large bottle of hand sanitizer	1 Package of Q-tips(Mrs. Walthall’s class only)
1 Pair of blunt scissors	1 Box of Latex free band aids	1 Box of gallon size baggies(Mrs. Johnson’s class only)
1 Yoga mat	1 Standard pack of watercolors	1 Package of coffee filters(Mrs. Golder’s class only)
1 Envelope with $5 for sensory bin supplies	1 Package of markers

First Grade
A box of 24 crayons (standard colors)	Boys – sandwich size Ziploc bags    Girls – gallon size Ziploc bags
A box of non – permanent markers for art	Earbuds or headphones
A box of colored pencils for art (12 or 24 pack)	Hand sanitizer (if available)
12 pencils sharpened	A plastic school box (for storing supplies in desk)
2 large “Pink Pearl” rectangular type erasers	P.E. shoes (old clean shoes are fine)
1 spiral notebook	A backpack
1 medium bottle of Elmer’s glue	Please no binders, scissors, or rulers.
4 glue sticks	2 Folders (pocket folders)

Second Grade
1 Glue Stick	1 Box of Markers
12 Pencils (please check to see when your child needs new pencils)	1 Box of Colored Pencils
2 to 4 large pink erasers	1 Pocket Folder  (plastic if possible)
1 Box of Crayons (no more than 24)	1 Backpack
1 School Box (do not send a big pencil box, as there is not room in their desks.)	P.E. shoes, white soles (old clean shoes are fine)
1 Box of Kleenex	1 pair of Earbuds/Headphones
1 Clorox Wipes or 1 bottle of Hand Sanitizer	Please do not send trapper keepers with your child, there is not enough room in their desks.

Third Grade
2 standard-sized spiral notebooks (wide-ruled)	1 each – glue stick and Elmer’s white glue (small size)
24 sharpened #2 pencils – standard, yellow	1 box each – markers, colored pencils, and crayons
1 sharp pointed scissors (Fiskars are best)	1 ruler with inches and centimeters
1 white or pink pearl eraser	1 pair of earbuds
4 fine-tipped dry erase markers – black, thin	1 backpack
5 pocket folders, individual only  (Plastic, if possible)	1 pair white-soled tennis shoes for Physical Education
1 box of Tissues (Kleenex)	1 soft pencil pouch with closure
Clorox Wipes	1 hand-held pencil sharpener

SUPPLY LISTS FOR STEVENSVILLE SCHOOL STUDENTS

***Distance Learning Students ONLY***

Parents – If you are unable to acquire items on this list, please contact the school.

Distance Learning List ONLY   –  ALL K-12 Students

1 Electronic Device (tablet, Chromebook, laptop, home computer) *The school needs to keep our Chromebooks on campus for on-site learning. We need families to provide their own electronic device.

1 Headphone or headset

1 Mouse (wireless or wired)

1 Webcam (unless built-in to your electronic device)

1 Cell phone holder (for those who are using tablets only)

1 Timer (to encourage active participation on tasks and allow for students to know how much time they have left to complete a task

1 Reliable Internet connection

1 Comfortable workspace (calm and quiet desk area, laptop desk, office space, etc)

1 Small dry erase board

1 Package of fine point dry erase marker

Kindergarten – Distance Learning Supplies ONLY

3 Composition books

1 Pair of blunt scissors

1 Package of markers

1 Standard pack of watercolors

2 Boxes of Crayola crayons

2 Glue sticks

2 Packages of playdough

12 Number 2 pencils

1 pink eraser

2 pocket folders

First Grade – Distance Learning Supplies ONLY

A box of 24 crayons (standard colors)

A box of non – permanent markers

A box of colored pencils for art (12 or 24 pack)

12 pencils sharpened

2 large “Pink Pearl” rectangular type erasers

1 spiral notebook

1 medium bottle of Elmer’s glue

4 glue sticks

2 Folders (pocket folders)

Second Grade – Distance Learning Supplies ONLY

1 Glue Stick

12 Pencils (please check to see when your child needs new pencils)

2 to 4 large pink erasers

1 Box of Crayons (no more than 24)

1 Box of Markers

1 Box of Colored Pencils

1 Pocket Folder  (plastic if possible)

Third Grade – Distance Learning Supplies ONLY

2 standard-sized spiral notebooks (wide-ruled)

24 sharpened #2 pencils – standard, yellow

1 sharp pointed scissors (Fiskars are best)

1 white or pink pearl eraser

5 pocket folders, individual only

1 each – glue stick and Elmer’s white glue (small size)

1 box each – markers, colored pencils, and crayons

1 ruler with inches and centimeters

1 hand-held pencil sharpener

SUPPLY LISTS FOR STEVENSVILLE MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS

2020-2021

Fourth Grade
Pencils (#2) – enough for the year	1 – scissor
Packages of loose leaf paper (3 whole punched) – enough for the year	1 – sharpener (with lid to hold shavings)
6 – pocket folders with three holes punched (different colors if possible)	2 – black flair pens
1 – package colored pencils	1 – 2” three ring binder
1- package markers	1- 1” three ring binder
1 large box of Kleenex	1 package of 5 Subject Dividers
1 container of disinfectant wipes	Pencil bag that goes inside of a binder
2 one-subject spiral notebooks	Earbuds or headphones for computers (not expensive)
1 package of dry erase markers	Gym shoes (to be left at school)
1 – glue bottle or glue stick	1 – Yamaha YRS-24B Soprano Recorder (available online) or $5.00 to purchase one thru the school

Fifth Grade
#2 pencils–enough for the year	1 – sharpener (with lid to hold shavings)
Pencil bag that goes inside of a binder	1 – package colored pencils
6 – 3 hole punched pocket folders	1 – Package of markers
2 – notebooks	1 – box of Kleenex
Packages of loose leaf paper, 3 hole size, college rule–enough for the year	2 – black sharpie permanent felt-tip markers
2 – ink pens (blue or black, erasable)	2 – packages of dry erase markers
2 – correcting pen or pencil (red)	1 – 2” three ring binder OR Trapper Keeper
1 – glue	2 containers of clorox wipes
1- glue sticks	1 personal hand sanitizer
1 – ruler	earbuds (inexpensive)
1 – scissor	Gym shoes (to be left at school)

6-8th Grade
2 containers of disinfecting wipes	2 large pink erasers
1 bottle of hand sanitizer	3 one inch three-ring binders (7th and 8th only)
2 boxes of Kleenex	1 three-hole punched folder  (7th and 8th only)
Locker organizer shelf (optional)	3 notebooks/composition notebook (college ruled)
3 packs College ruled paper (150-200pgs each)	5 packs lined or blank index cards (6th and 7th grade English)
5 boxes of pencils (#2)	1 pack of unlined index cards (8th Grade English only)
1 box pens (black or blue)	5 packs of unlined index cards (Spanish only)
Headphones or earbuds (bluetooth will not work on our desktop computers)
Red correcting marker/pen	Gym shoes (to be left at school)
Colored pencils or markers	Stick deodorant (to be left at school)
1 bottle of Elmer’s liquid glue (6th and 7th only)	Daily Planner
1 pack of highlighters
6th grade only-
One 2-inch binder	1 package dividers (8 pack)
7 three-hole punched plastic pocket folders	1  three-hole punched pencil pouch