Handbook Detail Page
Right to Inspect Curricular Materials: Parents and guardians have the right to inspect any instructional materials that are used as part of the educational curriculum for their children. Requests to inspect instructional materials should be made to the district’s Department of Teaching and Learning. District staff will schedule a mutually agreeable time within a reasonable time frame for the parents or guardians to inspect the materials. Requests should be made in writing to Department of Teaching and Learning, Tacoma Public Schools, 601 S. 8th St., Tacoma, WA 98405.
Controversial Issues: The district has established regulations regarding the study of controversial issues that have publicly evoked opposing viewpoints in society. Contact your school principal for guidelines. (Policy 2331; Regulation 2331R)
Procedures for Visiting Schools: Parents/guardians and other patrons of Tacoma Public Schools are encouraged to visit their schools. Guidelines for visitations to schools are available through your school principal. (RCW 28A.605.020, Policy 4200, Regulation 4200R)
Interview, Custody of Students: On occasion, it is necessary for law enforcement officers or Child Protective Services (CPS) authorities to interview students or take them into custody during school hours. In such instances, the district will act in accordance with procedures established in Policy 3421, Regulation 3421R and Policy 4310 in accordance with RCW 26.44.030. Law enforcement or CPS will determine when to notify the parents if a student is removed or interviewed due to an allegation of abuse or neglect. Parents will be notified as soon as possible when a student is removed by law enforcement for other reasons.
Removing Students From Grounds: A student will not be released from school grounds, any school building or school function during school hours except by a person duly authorized in accordance with district procedures. Before a student is removed or excused, the person seeking to remove the student must present to the satisfaction of the principal evidence of his/her proper authority to remove the student. If in doubt, school officials will rely on information provided in enrollment records. Exceptions will be made when custody has been established by valid legal authority or in the case of an emergency. (RCW 28A.605.010, Policy 3124, Regulation 3124R)
Child Abuse Reporting: District employees are required to notify Child Protective Services or law enforcement when they reasonably believe a student has been abused or neglected. By doing so, they are protected from civil and criminal liability. Child abuse and/or neglect cases must be reported within 48 hours. (RCW 26.44.030, RCW 26.44.040, Policy 3421; Regulation 3421R) Law enforcement or CPS determine when to notify parents of allegations of child abuse or neglect. School counselors are available to work with students individually on concerns including divorce, child abuse, etc. Contact your school’s counseling office. The Children’s Advocacy Center of Pierce County is also available at 253-403-1478.
Page last updated: 06/30/18
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