Annual Notifications

Annual Reporting of Achievement Levels

The Lynden School District reports annually on the results of the approved assessments used to determine student achievement. Each parent receives information on the level of their child’s achievement in addition to the level of achievement of their child’s school. Washington State utilizes the following assessment tools:

Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) for Grades 3 – 8 ELA and Math; Grade 10 for ELA and Math.
Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science (WCAS) Grades 5, 8 and 11 in Science.

All students are required to meet statewide graduation requirements in order to earn a diploma. The goal is that more students will be better prepared to meet 21st-century demands in their working and personal lives. Families, students, and educators can learn more about each of the Graduation Pathways, including what each requirement is designed to do and how students will be supported. To earn a high school diploma, a student must: Earn high school credit; Pass state tests or an approved Pathway alternative to those tests; Complete a High School and Beyond Plan. OSPI has several resources to help understand graduation requirements at https://www.k12.wa.us/student-success/graduation.

Annual School Reports

Annually, the district provides a report card on each district school. The report includes student demographics, student achievement data, assessment summaries, and teacher qualifications. You may view the report cards at: www.washingtonstatereportcard.ospi.k12.wa.us.

Access to and Publication of Student Directory Information

Federal law requires an annual notification to parents that the school district is permitted to release and publish student directory information without family/student consent. The Lynden School District defines this directory information as the student’s name, photograph, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, dates of attendance, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, diplomas and awards received, and the most recent previous school attended. Directory information is also subject to public records requests.

Federal law also requires school districts to provide military recruiters with the same access to directory information of 11th and 12th grade students as that provided to post-secondary educational institutions and prospective employers. This directory of information includes names, addresses, and telephone listings.

The district allows families who do not want directory information released to opt out by completing a Restriction of Directory Information form, which is available at every school office. This form must be submitted to the school office by October 3rd. A copy of this form is kept at the school. This Restriction of Directory Information must be renewed annually. If a form is not received by the October 3rd deadline, it will be assumed that there is no objection to the release of directory information.

Non-Discrimination and Sexual Harassment

Our schools stand against discrimination. Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because they are part of a protected class, including their race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, creed, disability, use of a service animal, or veteran or military status.

What is discriminatory harassment? Discriminatory harassment can include teasing and name-calling; graphic and written statements; or other conduct that may be physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Discriminatory harassment happens when the conduct is based on a student’s protected class and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when conduct is so severe, pervasive, or persistent that it limits a student’s ability to participate in, or benefit from, the school’s services, activities, or opportunities. To review the district’s Nondiscrimination Policy 3210 and Procedure 3210P visit https://lynden.wednet.edu/school-board/board-policies-and-procedures/.

What is sexual harassment? Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct or communication that is sexual in nature and substantially interferes with a student’s educational performance or creates an intimidating or hostile environment. Sexual harassment can also occur when a student is led to believe they must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or communication to gain something in return, such as a grade or a place on a sports team.
Examples of sexual harassment can include pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors; unwelcome touching of a sexual nature; graphic or written statements of a sexual nature; distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures; making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks; and physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.
Our schools do not discriminate based on sex and prohibit sex discrimination in all of our education programs and employment, as required by Title IX and state law. To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy 3205 and Procedure 3205P visit https://lynden.wednet.edu/school-board/board-policies-and-procedures/ .

What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment? When a school becomes aware of possible discriminatory or sexual harassment, it must investigate and stop the harassment. The school must address any effects the harassment had on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and make sure that the harassment does not happen again.

What can I do if I’m concerned about discrimination or harassment? Talk to a Coordinator or submit a written complaint. You may contact the following school district staff members to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns.

Concerns about discrimination:
Civil Rights Coordinator: Tim Metz, Director of Student Services, MetzT@lynden.wednet.edu, 360-354-4443

Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment:
Title IX Coordinator: Tim Metz, Director of Student Services, MetzT@lynden.wednet.edu, 360-354-4443

Concerns about disability discrimination:
Section 504 Coordinator: Tim Metz, Director of Student Services, MetzT@lynden.wednet.edu, 360-354-4443

Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity:
Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Tim Metz, Director of Student Services, MetzT@lynden.wednet.edu,, 360-354-4443

To submit a written complaint, describe the conduct or incident that may be discriminatory and send it by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery to the school principal, district superintendent, or civil rights coordinator. Submit the complaint as soon as possible for a prompt investigation, and within one year of the conduct or incident.

What happens after I file a discrimination complaint? The Civil Rights Coordinator will give you a copy of the school district’s discrimination complaint procedure. The Civil Rights Coordinator must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that require a longer investigation, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing with the anticipated date for their response.
When the investigation is complete, the school district superintendent or the staff member leading the investigation will send you a written response. This response will include:

A summary of the results of the investigation
A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws
Any corrective measures or remedies needed
Notice about how you can appeal the decision

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome? If you do not agree with the outcome of your complaint, you may appeal the decision to the district’s board of directors and then to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). More information about this process, including important timelines, is included in the district’s Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and Sexual Harassment Procedure (3205P).

I already submitted an HIB complaint – what will my school do? Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) can also be discrimination if it’s related to a protected class. If you give your school a written report of HIB that involves discrimination or sexual harassment, your school will notify the Civil Rights Coordinator. The school district will investigate the complaint using both the Nondiscrimination Procedure (3210P) and the HIB Procedure (3207P) to fully resolve your complaint.

Who else can help with HIB or Discrimination Concerns?

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) All reports must start locally at the school or district level. However, OSPI can assist students, families, communities, and school staff with questions about state law, the HIB complaint process, and the discrimination and sexual harassment complaint processes.

OSPI School Safety Center (For questions about harassment, intimidation, and bullying)
Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/health-safety/school-safety-center
Email: schoolsafety@k12.wa.us
Phone: 360-725-6068

OSPI Equity and Civil Rights Office (For questions about discrimination and sexual harassment)
Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/policy-funding/equity-and-civil-rights
Email: equity@k12.wa.us
Phone: 360-725-6162
Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO) The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds works with families, communities, and schools to address problems together so every student can fully participate and thrive in Washington’s K-12 public schools. OEO provides informal conflict resolution tools, coaching, facilitation, and training about family, community engagement, and systems advocacy.
Website: www.oeo.wa.gov
Email: oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov
Phone: 1-866-297-2597
U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR)– The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces federal nondiscrimination laws in public schools, including those that prohibit discrimination based on sex, race, color, national origin, disability, and age. OCR also has a discrimination complaint process.
Website: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html
Email: orc@ed.gov
Phone: 800-421-3481

Educational Services for Homeless Children and Youth

The Lynden School District will provide written notice to the parent or guardian of a homeless child or youth (or, in the case of an unaccompanied youth, the youth) that the District will:

Provide contact information for the local liaison for homeless children and youths and the State Coordinator for Education of Homeless Children and Youths;
Provide assistance to the parent or guardian of each homeless child, youth, or unaccompanied youth to exercise the right to attend the parent’s, guardian’s, or unaccompanied youth’s choice of schools;
Coordinate with the local school districts to provide transportation and other necessary services; and
Provide a full range of education and related services, including services applicable to students with disabilities;
Not have homeless children or youths to attend any separate school for homeless children or youths;
Provide the same services to homeless children and youth including transportation services, educational services, and meals through the school meals programs; and
Assure that homeless youth are not stigmatized by school personnel.

Parents or guardians of homeless youth (or any unaccompanied homeless youth) within the Lynden School District should contact:
Family Services Coordinator, Margaret Vailencour
516 Main St., Lynden, WA 98264
Telephone: (360) 354-1549

Education Ombuds Awareness

The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO) is an independent state agency that helps to reduce educational opportunity gaps by supporting families, students, educators, and other stakeholders in communities across Washington State in understanding the K-12 school system and resolving concerns collaboratively. OEO services are free and confidential. Anyone can contact OEO with a question or concern about school. OEO listens, shares information and referrals, and works informally with families, communities, and schools to address concerns so that every student can fully participate and thrive in our state’s public schools. OEO provides support in multiple languages and has telephone interpretation available. To get help or learn more about what OEO does, please visit their website at: www.oeo.wa.gov/en or call 1-800-297-2597.

School Regulations

School regulations and expectations for students will be given to all students by each school building. It is important for parents to become familiar with these rules and procedures in order for consistency and support to take place (Board Policy 3241, Student Discipline). Lynden School District has a gun free policy (Board Policy 4210, Regulation of Dangerous Weapons on School Premises) that includes one-year mandatory expulsion for firearms, mandatory notification for student violations to parents/ guardians and law enforcement and allows the expulsion to be modified by the chief school district officer or designee on a case by case basis.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) gives parents and students over 18 years of age certain rights with respect to the student’s educational records. These include:

The right to inspect and review a student’s records within 45 days after the district receives a written request from the parent and/or student over 18 years of age. The parent or eligible student should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the record(s) 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.
The right to request the amendment of information in a student’s records that the parent or student over 18 years of age believes to be misleading or inaccurate. Parents or eligible students may ask the school to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed and specify why it is inaccurate. If the school decides not to amend the records as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.
The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information in a student’s file, 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. A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the school has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
The right to file a complaint concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with FERPA requirements with the Family Policy Compliance Office, US Department of Education, 400 South Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20202-5901.

SpeakUp Alert—Anonymous Tip Reporting Service

The Lynden School District uses SpeakUp Alert, a tip reporting system that allows students, staff, and parents to submit safety concerns to us in different ways, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Easily report anonymous tips on bullying, harassment, drugs, vandalism, or any safety issue you’re concerned about.
Phone/Text: (360) 505-0070
Email: speakup@lynden.wednet.edu

Digital Citizenship and Online Safety

As our students engage with educational technology, it becomes increasingly necessary to model and explicitly teach digital citizenship and online safety. Ensuring that students understand how to wisely use technology and navigate media is an essential skill for our learners to be productive in life and learning. Safe online behavior should frequently be part of classroom discussion, teaching the learner how to use technology in meaningful, productive respectful, and appropriate ways in their school life and personal life. In the Lynden School District, digital citizenship and online safety are explicitly taught by district staff, guest speakers, and law enforcement. The classroom is not the only place where digital citizenship should be discussed and modeled. It is important for the community and parents t get involved and remain educated in this discussion.

Teacher and Paraprofessional Qualifications

In compliance with the requirements of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) the Lynden School District would like to inform you that you may request information about the professional qualifications of your student’s teacher(s) or instructional paraprofessional(s).

The following information may be requested for teacher(s):

Whether the teacher has met Washington teacher certification requirements for the grade level and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.
Whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency or other provisional status through which Washington qualifications or certification criteria have been waived.
The college major and any graduate certification or degree held by the teacher.
Whether the student is provided services by paraprofessionals, and if so, their qualifications.

The following information may be requested for instructional paraprofessional(s):
Paraprofessionals must work under the supervision of a certiﬁed teacher. Beginning July 23, 2023, all employed paraeducators must meet the following minimum employment requirements:

– Be at least 18 years of age and hold a high school diploma or its equivalent

In addition, a paraeducator must meet one of the following:

Have received a passing score on one of the assessments approved by the board
Hold an associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university
Have earned 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits at the 100 level or higher at an accredited college or university
Have completed an apprenticeship as a paraeducator, in a program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council

Paras are also required to participate in a fundamental course of study class, which teaches classroom management and other skills, through the district that employs them. These requirements are significantly more stringent than the requirements established by previous policies, which only required paraeducators to complete at least two years of higher education.

If you wish to request information concerning your child’s teacher(s) and/or instructional paraprofessional’s qualification, please contact the Lynden School District Office at (360) 354-4443.

Descriptive Guide

The Lynden School District website is intended to provide the public with access to information on educational programs, staffing, budget, and special levy information. In accordance with RCW28A.320.090, Lynden School District is authorized to spend funds for the purpose of preparing this information for the general public.

As required by WAC 180-16– 240, the public is hereby notified that Lynden School District is in compliance with all state program requirements for basic education.

Lynden School District is an equal opportunity employer and is in compliance with Title IX of the education amendments of 1972.

Asbestos Management

The annual Asbestos Management Program training and inspection has been completed. Federal law requires that notification be given to patrons, students, employees, and workers about the location of asbestos, potential hazards and the procedures being used to manage asbestos. A management plan is available at the District Office and Lynden High School for unrestricted review by the Environmental Protection Agency, state officials, general public, school employees and parents of students.

Pesticide Notification

Upon request, the district will provide notification to staff and parents of the district’s pesticide, methods and its posting and notification requirements. The District complies with the requirements of law regarding pesticide notification, posting and record keeping.

The District’s procedures for notification will include posting of sites of pesticide applications and record keeping, including an annual summary report of pesticide usage.

Harassment, Intimidation, & Bullying (Policy 3207)

Our schools protect students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying. Schools are meant to be safe and inclusive environments where students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities. This section defines HIB, explains what to do when you see or experience it, and our school’s process for responding to it.

What is HIB? HIB is any intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical act of a student that:

Physically harms another students or damages their property
has the effect of greatly interfering with another student’s education
Is so severe, persistent, or significant that it creates an intimidating or threatening education environment for other students.

HIB generally involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated. HIB is not allowed, by law, in our schools.

How can I make a report or complaint about HIB?

Talk to any school staff member (consider starting with whoever you are most comfortable with). You may use our district’s reporting form to share concerns about HIB (https://lynden.wednet.edu/parents-students/forms/) but reports about HIB can be made in writing or verbally. Your report can be made anonymously, if you are uncomfortable revealing your identity, or confidentially if you prefer it not be shared with other students involved with the report. No disciplinary action will be taken against another students based solely on an anonymous or confidential report.
If a staff member is notified of, observes, or otherwise witnesses HIB, they must take prompt and appropriate action to stop the HIB behavior and to prevent it from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer, Tim Metz- MetzT@lynden.wednet.edu, that supports prevention and response to HIB.

What happens after I make a report about HIB?

If you report HIB, school staff must attempt to resolve the concerns. If the concerns are resolved, then no further action may be necessary. However, if you feel that you or someone you know if the victim of unresolved, sever, or persistent HIB that requires further investigation and action, then you should request an official HIB investigation. Also, the school must take actions to ensure that those who report HIB don’t experience retaliation.

What is the investigation process?

When you report a complaint, the HIB Compliance Officer or staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved with the complaint and must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 5 school days, unless you agree on a different timeline. If you complaint involves circumstances that require a longer investigation, the district will notify you with the anticipated date of their response.

When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must provide you with the outcomes of the investigation within 2 school days. This response should include:

A summary of the results of the investigation
A determination of whether the HIB is substantiated
Any corrected measures or remedies needed
Clear information about how you can appeal the decision

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

For the student designated as the “targeted student” in a complaint:

If you do not agree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal the decision and include any additional information regarding the complaint to the superintendent, or the person assigned to lead the appeal, and then to the school board.

For the student designated as the “aggressor” in a complaint:

A student found to be an “aggressor” in a HIB complaint may not appeal the decision of a HIB investigation. They can, however, appeal corrective actions that result from the findings of the HIB investigation. For more information about the HIB complaint processes, including important timelines, please see the district’s webpage or the district’s HIB policy 3207 and procedure (3207P).

Parent and Student Rights in Administration of Surveys
(Policy 3232)

The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection, and use of information for marketing purposes and certain physical exams. These include rights to:

A. Consent before students are required to submit a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the US Department of Education:

Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent
Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family
Sex behavior or attitues
Illegal, anit-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior
Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have a close family relationship
Legally recognized privileged relationship such as with lawyers, doctors or ministers
Income, other than as required by law, to determine program eligbility

B. Receive notice an an opportunity to opt a student out of:

Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding
Any non-emergency, invasive 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 any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and
Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

C. Inspect, upon request and before administration or use:

Protected information surveys of students
Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes, and
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. Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office, US Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20202-5901.

Student Discipline (District Policy 3241)

All students will follow the reasonable rules of the district. Refusal to comply with written rules and regulations established for the governing of the school will constitute sufficient cause for discipline, suspension, or expulsion. Corrective action and/or punishment for misconduct must reflect good faith effort on the part of the staff. A copy of the district’s policy can be reviewed at the District Office, 516 Main Street, Lynden WA or on our district website at: https://lynden.wednet.edu/school-board/board-policies-and-procedures/

Gender Inclusive Schools (District Policy 3211)

Our schools are gender-inclusive. In Washington, all students have the right to be treated consistent with their gender identity at school. Our school will:

Parents have the right under FERPA to request their student’s educational records
Address students by their requested name and pronouns, with or without a legal name change
Change a student’s gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records
Allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity
Allow students to participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips in accordance with their gender identity
Keep health and education information confidential and private
Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and apply dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender.
Protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity

To review the district’s Gender Inclusive School Policy 3211 and procedure 3211P, visit https://lynden.wednet.edu/school-board/board-policies-and-procedures/ . If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender Inclusive Schools Coordinator, Tim Metz, Director of Student Services- MetzT@lynden.wednet.edu.

Video Surveillance (District Policy 6610)

The board authorizes the use of video surveillance on district property for the purpose of maintaining the health, welfare, and safety of students, staff, and visitors, and to protect district equipment and facilities. The board authorizes video surveillance in common areas on district property. However, the district will not install or use cameras in restrooms and locker rooms. The district may use footage from video surveillance for student disciplinary action. A copy of the district’s policy can be reviewed at the District Office, 516 Main Street, Lynden, WA 98264 or on our district website at https://lynden.wednet.edu/school-board/board-policies-and-procedures/.

Title I Parent and Family Engagement (District Policy 4130)

Parents of children receiving Title I, Part A services must be involved in the development of the district parent involvement policy and must be used to conduct programs and activities to involve parents in the planning and implementation of the Title I, Part A program, including promoting family literacy and parenting skills. A copy of the district’s policy can be reviewed at the District Office, 516 Main Street, Lynden WA or on our district website at https://lynden.wednet.edu/school-board/board-policies-and-procedures/

Title 1 School Complaint Procedures
Report your Title 1 concern directly to the Principal where your child attends, After processing the concern with the Principal, you can share your concern directly with the Title 1 Compliance Coordinator.
If unsatisfied with the outcome after processing your Title 1 concern with the Title 1 Compliance Coordinator, you can share your concern directly with the Superintendent. If unsatisfied with the outcome after processing your Title 1 concern with the Superintendent, you can share your concern with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). Information on how to file a complaint can be found at: www.k12.wa.us/policy-funding/grants-grant-management/closing-educational-achievement-gaps-title-i-part/citizen-complaints-federal-programs.

Maintaining Professional Staff/Student Boundaries
(District Policy 5253)

This policy is to provide all staff, students, volunteers and community members with information about their role in protecting children from inappropriate conduct by adults. This policy applies to all district staff and volunteers. For purposes of this policy and its procedure, the terms “district staff”, “staff member(s)”, and “staff” also includes volunteers. A copy of the district’s policy can be reviewed at the District Office, 516 Main Street, Lynden, WA or on our district website at: https://lynden.wednet.edu/school-board/board-policies-and-procedures/

Parents & Students