Student Rights and Responsibilities
2007-2008

Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook

Dear Federal Way Families:

We are about to embark on another exciting school year.  This will, once again, provide us a great opportunity to work in partnership to achieve academic success for all students.  Please make note of the following as you review this Rights and Responsibilities booklet with your student:

• Attendance – Regular school attendance is essential for student achievement.  Developing good attendance habits will help your students to be successful academically and aid them as they move into the world of work.  Please help your child to understand the importance of arriving at school on time and prepared to learn.  (see Section XIII; pages 33-38).
• Bomb Threats – Last year we experienced several disruptions to the school day due to bomb threats.  In all cases these threats proved to be hoaxes; however, they caused a huge interruption to our school day in addition to the fear and stress they created for our students and staff.  Please speak with your students regarding this concern.  Students found to be responsible for these threats will be immediately expelled from the district.
• Telecommunication/Electronic Devices - The board of education adopted a new policy that puts restrictions on the use of personal electronic devices (including cell phones).  This policy - #3243 - is included in this booklet beginning on page 16.  Please review this policy with your students.
• Safety – Safety continues to be a priority of Federal Way Public Schools.  Please use the Tipline number listed on the back cover of this booklet to report any unsafe situation at one of our schools.
• Parent and Student Rights in Federal Programs – Section XX (page 46) provides notification to parents of their rights under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA).
• Public Access to District Records – Section XXI (page 48) provides notification to parents regarding right to inspect and copy public records retained by the school district.

Thank you for partnering with us in your child’s education.   It is only as we work together - staff, parents and students - that academic success for all students will be achieved. 

Sincerely,

Thomas R. Murphy