If you have a problem or concern about Dexter Community Schools, please make your first phone call to the principal or program director for the appropriate department.

It is the policy of this District to provide an equal educational opportunity for all students. Any person who believes that s/he has been discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category while at school or at a school activity should immediately contact the building principal.

The District has two Compliance Officers[1] designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies.

Barb Leonard	Ryan Bruder
Executive Director of Human Resources	Executive Director of Instruction
2704 Baker Road  Dexter MI 48130	2704 Baker Road Dexter MI 48130
734-424-4100 ext. 1031	734-424-4100 ext. 1343
leonardb@dexterschools.org	bruderr@dexterschools.org

Complaints will be investigated. Any student making a complaint or participating in a school investigation will be protected from any threat or retaliation. The principal can provide additional information concerning equal access to educational opportunity.

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[1] Barb Leonard is the Title IX Coordinator for Dexter Community Schools.

 

The Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act provide that no individual will be discriminated against on the basis of a disability. This protection applies not just to the student, but also to all individuals who have access to the District’s programs and facilities. Resources for families of students with a disability may be found at www.dexterschools.org/departments/special-education.

A student can access special education services through the proper evaluation procedures. Parent involvement in this procedure is important and required by Federal (IDEA) and State law. Contact the school principal to inquire about evaluation procedures and programs. The District Compliance Officers are:

Barb Leonard	Ryan Bruder
Executive Director of Human Resources	Executive Director of Instruction
2704 Baker Road  Dexter MI 48130	2704 Baker Road Dexter MI 48130
734-424-4100 ext. 1031	734-424-4100 ext. 1343
leonardb@dexterschools.org	bruderr@dexterschools.org

Building secretaries will be available to register students and provide services at all school buildings two weeks before school begins. Summer registrations take place at our central office at Bates School at 2704 Baker Road. The high school building is open year-round for high school services.

To reach the building secretary please dial 734-424-4100 and use the appropriate extension:

Jenkins ECLC	1411 or 1413
Anchor	2011 or 2012
Beacon	3011 or 3012
Wylie	4011 or 4012
Creekside	6011 or 6012
Mill Creek	5011 or 5012
Dexter High School	7011 or 7012
Dexter Alternative High School	1020

 

Limited proficiency in the English language should not be a barrier to equal participation in the instructional or extracurricular programs of the District. It is, therefore, the policy of this District that those students identified as having limited English proficiency will be provided additional support and instruction to assist them in gaining English proficiency and in accessing the educational and extra­curricular programs offered by the District. Parents should contact English Language Learner (ELL) Coordinator Janine Comella at 734-424-4100 ext. 3315 or ext. 7315 to inquire about evaluation procedures and programs.

Our website can be translated into many languages using the Translate button at the top of the screen. 

The Board of Education typically meets two Mondays each month to conduct regular board business. Meetings begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. at the Bates School Boardroom (2704 Baker Road). A schedule is posted at the Bates School lobby and on the District website: https://www.dexterschools.org/district/board-of-education/meetings. You may also contact the District offices at 734-424-4100 or info@dexterschools.org, for a schedule.

The Board of Education sets its annual meeting schedule no later than the end of June for the following school year. When the Board schedules additional meetings or changes its schedule, notification is posted on the lobby doors of the Bates School building as well as on the District website.

Board meetings follow a standard agenda. The order of business for meetings of the Board is typically as follows:

A.    Roll Call
B.    Approval of Minutes
C.    Approval of Agenda
D.    School Presentations
E.    Public Participation (up to ~30 minutes)
F.     Administrative & Board Updates
1.     Superintendent
2.     Board President
3.     Student Representatives
G.    Consent Items
H.    Action Items
I.      Discussion Items
J.     Committee Updates
K.    Public Participation (up to ~15 minutes)
L.     Board Comments
M.    Information Items
N.    Closed Session (if needed)
O.    Adjournment

Board members receive an agenda for each meeting with supporting materials on Thursday evening before Monday meetings. Members of the public may examine these mate­rials on the District website. Hard copies of the agenda for each Board of Education meeting may be obtained at the Bates School Administrative Offices by request on the Friday preceding each meeting.

The Board of Education may schedule closed sessions. Closed sessions are not open to the public and only persons invited by the Board may attend. During closed sessions, the Board may deal only with matters clearly prescribed by provisions of the Michigan Open Meetings Act. These items include the purchase or lease of property, certain student or employee disciplinary matters, disputes involving court action, the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, and other purposes as allowed by law. The reason for any closed session is included on the agenda and in the motion to move into closed session.

Persons who wish to address the Board may complete a Public Comment Sheet to be presented to the Board president at the beginning of the meeting or prior to speaking.

Each speaker is allotted a maximum of five minutes unless otherwise notified. Total comment time is approximately thirty minutes. In the event that more than six people wish to comment, the thirty-minute comment time will be divided appropriately by the number of speakers, and/or the total time extended at the Board’s discretion.

Each speaker will be asked to announce his/her name, district of residence and indicate if s/he represents any organization or agency.

Toward the end of the meeting, there is a second opportunity for public commentary. During the second public commentary, persons who wish to address the board will be invited to be recognized by the board president. If several people wish to speak, they may form a line. Individual speakers will be allowed a maximum of three minutes. The total allotted time is fifteen minutes to keep the meeting on track. The individual speaking time may be shortened and/or the total comment period extended in the event of high interest, at the Board’s discretion. Each speaker will be asked to announce his/her name and district of residence before beginning to speak. No person may speak more than once on the same subject during a single meeting.

Members of the board and district employees are not able to comment or answer questions during the public commentary per board policy. Individuals are expected to abide by rules of common courtesy and may be asked to leave the meeting if their behavior is disruptive or interferes with the orderly progress of the meeting. For further details, please see board policy 0167.3—Public Participation at Board Meetings.

A student who has been suspended or expelled by another public school in Michigan may be temporarily denied admission to the District's schools during the period of suspension or expulsion even if that student would otherwise be entitled to attend school in the Dis­trict. Likewise, a student who has been expelled or otherwise removed for disciplinary purposes from a public school in another state and the period of expulsion or removal has not expired, may be temporarily denied admission to the District’s schools during the pe­riod of expulsion or removal or until the expiration of the period of expulsion or removal which the student would have received in the District had the student committed the offense while enrolled in the District. Prior to denying admission, however, the superintendent shall offer the student an opportunity for a hearing to review the circumstances of the suspension or expulsion and any other factors the superintendent determines to be relevant.

The Board has established the following residency policy for determining eligibility to attend the schools of this District:

• The Board will educate, tuition free, students who are legal residents of the District. Proof of residency in the District will be required for registration. Legal residency means a student is residing with his/her parents or legal guardians. A student may attend school in this District tuition free if a parent or legal guardian is a legal resident of the District, regardless of whether the parent or legal guardian has actual custody of the student. Legal residency, when living with a relative, must be based on the need for a suitable home and not for educational purposes. If the student temporarily resides in another school district but attends school in this District (where one parent resides), it is the obligation of the parent to provide transportation to and from school for the student from the home of the non-resident, custodial parent.
• A student who is the child of a person who is a member of the District’s administration and/or a member of the District’s bargaining units shall be admitted tuition free.
• The District shall provide a free education to those students who are considered by Federal law to be illegal aliens or considered to be homeless by State-established criteria.
• A student who is a resident within the District by order of juvenile or probate court or placed in the District as a ward of the State by an authorized agency shall be admitted tuition free.
• Foreign students, participating in a bona fide foreign exchange program and living with a resident host family, will be admitted tuition free.
• Students whose parents do not reside within the District but who present evidence that they will move into the District within a short period of time may enroll in the schools of this District for the time not in residence.
• Twelfth grade students who have begun their work toward graduation from the District’s high school and whose parents no longer reside in the District may be permitted to complete their high school education.
• Students from contiguous intermediate school districts who apply, meet the requirements, and are accepted as Schools of choice students during the limited application windows will be admitted tuition free. The District does not provide transportation for schools of choice students.
• A resident student, otherwise eligible to attend school in the District, may be denied admission if s/he has a record of behavior that the superintendent believes would constitute a threat to the safety and well-being of staff and other students.
• A nonresident student placed with the District for educational reasons by a juvenile or probate court order shall be admitted tui­tion free.
• Students included on the official attendance roll of the District may be permitted to continue in attendance for the remainder of the school year after their parents move from the District, provided that hardship to the students or parents can be proven. Requests must be submitted to the superintendent in writing.

Although students reach the “Age of Majority” or legal adulthood on their 18^th birthday, they still are regarded by law as enrolled students and must obey the rules and regulations established by the Board and the administration. If student adults wish to have all school contacts and correspondence on matters affecting them directed to themselves personally, they must fill out the Age of Majority Form. This form requires parent signatures. The office will also inform the student’s parents that the student has exercised this right as an adult. The administration has the right to verify all absences and attendance problems with parents. Age of Majority rights can be taken away if abused.

New students under the age of eighteen (18) must be enrolled by their parent or legal guardian. When enrolling, parents must provide copies of the following:

• An original birth certificate or other appropriate documentary evidence;
• Court orders or placement papers, if applicable;
• Proof of residency consisting of a current tax statement or house closing papers, or rental agreement plus a utility bill.
• Proof of required immunizations or a waiver from the county health department;
• Photo identification for the parent/guardian enrolling the student.

A minor student who is also a parent must provide evidence that s/he is living in an environment supervised by a responsible adult.

Under certain circumstances, temporary enrollment may be permitted. In such cases, parents will be notified about documentation required to establish permanent enrollment.

Students enrolling from another school must have an official transcript from their previous school in order to have credits transferred. The school secretary will assist in obtaining the transcript, if not presented at the time of enrollment.

New students eighteen (18) years of age or older are not required to be accompanied by a parent/guardian when enrolling. When residing with a parent or guardian, these students are encouraged to include the parent/guardian in the enrollment process. When conducting themselves in school, adult students have the responsibilities of both student and parent.

Students must be current with all immunizations required by law or have an authorized waiver. Current waivers (signed within the school year and issued by the County Department of Health) are required for reporting to the State on all new entrants and on all seventh grade students. If a student does not have the necessary shots or waivers, the principal may remove the student or require compliance with a set deadline. This is for the safety of all students and in accordance with State law.  Parents of all new entrants and all seventh graders must sign a release indicating their permission (or not) for the District to share immunization data with the state of Michigan. Any questions about immunizations or waivers should be directed to the school secretary or the district nurse.

• Michigan public health law states that children must have the follow­ing immunizations:
• A minimum of four DPT or DTaP*
• One booster dose of Tdap for children 11 years of age or older upon entry into 7^th grade or higher.
• Four doses of polio (only three doses are required if dose 3 is administered on or after the fourth birthday).
• Two Mumps, Measles, and Rubella (MMR) immunizations on or after 12 months of age.
• A series of three Hepatitis B immunizations given at recommended intervals.
• Two doses of varicella vaccine** at or after 12 months of age OR current lab immunity OR reliable history of disease
• One dose of Meningococcal vaccine for all children 11 years of age or older upon entry into 7^th grade or higher

* For entering kindergartners, the fourth DPT must be on or after 4 years of age.

** Varicella vaccine must be given on the same day as MMR or at least one month apart as both are live vaccines.

Schools may disclose, without consent, “directory” information such as a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, honors and awards, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, height and/or weight (if member of an athletic team), dates of attendance, date of graduation, honor roll, scholarships, school photographs or videos of students participating in school activities, events, or programs. Parents may refuse to allow the Board to disclose any or all such “directory information” upon written notification to the district. Neither the Board nor its employees shall permit the release of the social secu­rity number of a student, or individual except as authorized by law.

Documents containing social security numbers shall be restricted to those employees who have a need to know that information or a need to access those documents. When documents containing social security numbers are no longer needed, they shall be shredded by an employee who has authorized access to those records.

During enrollment, parents complete PowerSchool forms that indicates whether or not the student or the parent/legal guardian wants the student’s directory information to be accessible to official recruiting representatives of the armed forces or institutions of higher learning, as well as choices regarding their child’s photo can or cannot be in the yearbook or on the website. Parents, guardians, and adult students may make changes to these selections at any time by contacting their student's school office. 

Each August, parents and guardians must review their students’ directory information, update health records (if needed), and acknowledge receipt of important policies and other legal notifications. This is done online using the parent/guardian PowerSchool portal. School offices notify each family with their student login, password, and directions to update information at enrollment and send reminders in August to complete the annual review. Families without a computer or internet access may complete this process in the school office by making an appointment with office staff.

Detailed medical updates should be conveyed (at any point in the year) using the Health Information Update Form in PowerSchool. Visit the District Nurse page for further information. Upon receipt of a medical update form, the nurse will contact parents/guardians directly for any clarifications.

You have the right to review any and all school records, files and other data, which relate to you (for adult students) or your child (students under 18 years old). Office staff typically need at least one business day to accommodate these requests for currently enrolled students during the school year. Summer requests may take longer. After you have reviewed any of these materials, if you feel there are any inaccurate, misleading or inappropriate data in these files about you (adult student) or your child, you have the right to request a hearing to challenge and/or correct such information. Such a hearing request should be directed first to the principal, and subsequently to the superintendent, if you are not satisfied with the principal’s deci­sion. Please see Appendix A for the full text of our Annual Notification to Parents Regarding Student Records.  

The District shall arrange for individual instruction to students of legal school age who are not able to attend classes because of a physical or emotional disability. Parents should contact the school administration regarding procedures for such instruction. The District will provide homebound instruction only for those confinements expected to last at least five (5) days.

Requests for individual instruction shall be made by a physician licensed to practice in this State, parent, student, or other caregiver. In all cases, a physician must: certify the nature and existence of a medical condition; state the probable duration of the confinement; request such instruction; and present evidence of the student’s ability to participate in an educational program.

School	Full Day	Half Day
DEEC (Anchor, Beacon)	8:14am – 3:07pm	8:14am – 11:40am
AM Young 5	8:14am – 11:25am	8:14am – 11:40am
Wylie	8:14am – 3:07pm	8:14am – 11:40am
Creekside	8:00am – 2:53pm	8:00am – 11:26am
Mill Creek	8:14am – 3:07pm	8:14am – 11:40am
Dexter High School	8:00am – 2:53pm	8:00am – 11:26am

Alternative High School Hours: T, W, Th 8:30am-2:30pm; half days are 8:30am-11:00am  (M, F are virtual or by appt.)

Families of Creekside students who plan to walk to and/or from school should complete a Walker Safety form available from the office. Families of younger students who may walk to and from school or between buildings should confer with their student's teacher and/or school office. Transportation to and from school is provided by school buses. If students are transported by private vehicles, they should arrive at school no earlier than fifteen (15) minutes prior to the start time and be picked up no later than ten (10) minutes after dismissal time. Student supervision is not available prior to or after these times.

Your child’s safety is important to us. Please call the school office if your child will not be at school for any reason. Please note due to our phone system set-up, all outgoing calls display 424-4100 as the number, no matter which building they originate from. We recommend parents program their students’ building numbers into their phones for quick access. 

Dial the building number, then press 1 for the attendance line at any building. 

School	Phone	Deadline
Jenkins ECLC	734-424-4180	9:00am
Anchor	734-424-4120	9:00am
Beacon	734-424-4130	9:00am
Wylie	734-424-4140	9:00am
Creekside	734-424-4160	8:45am
Mill Creek	734-424-4150	9:00am
Dexter High School	734-424-4240	8:45am
Alternative High School	734-424-4100 ext. 1020	9:30am

Parents/guardians of students in grades 7-12 must send a note or call the school within twenty-four hours of the day of their student’s absence in order to have an absence excused. If a call is not received within twenty-four hours after the return to school stating the reason for the student’s absence, the student will be considered unexcused for the day. The school’s voice mail system can accept attendance messages twenty-four hours a day. A student cannot be excused from a missed class if the student leaves during the day without a pass from the office. (See Early Dismissal.)

Grades Young 5 through 6:

• Tardy—from official start time until one hour after start time
• After One Hour—considered absent for one half day
• Early Departure—if a student leaves school more than one hour before the ending time, s/he will be recorded as absent for one half day; if less than one hour, early departure will be recorded as a tardy.

Grades 7-12:

• Tardy—“Tardy” is defined as arriving between the official start time of each class and up to five minutes after class starts. Mill Creek students who accumulate four tardies in one quarter will get a “4” in citizenship. An administrative intervention will be implemented for any student in grades 9-12 with three or more tardies.
• After Five Minutes—a “late” will be marked for students who arrive more than five minutes after the official start time of class. Mill Creek students who are marked late four times in one quarter will get a “4” in citizenship. An administrative intervention will be implemented for any student in grades 9-12 with three or more lates.

No student will be allowed to leave school prior to dismissal time without a written request signed by the parent/guardian or the parent/guardian coming to the school office to request the release. No student will be released to a person other than a custodial parent/guardian without consent of the principal. Being listed as an emergency contact implies parent/guardian consent. Students will be released to adults only. Authorized adults must present photo identification to school staff for students to be released.

The District accepts only the following as excusable reasons for absence from school:

• Personal illness—The building principal may require a doctor’s confirmation if s/he deems it advisable;
• Illness in the family;
• Quarantine of the home—This is limited to the length of the quarantine as fixed by the proper health officials;
• Death of a relative; 
• Work at home due to absence of parents/guardians—Any absence arising because of this condition shall not extend for a period longer than that for which the parents were absent from the home nor to any students younger than twelve years of age;
• Observance of religious holidays—Any student shall be excused for the purpose of observing a religious holiday consistent with his/ her creed or belief;
• Out of school suspension;
• Absence during the school day for professional appointments—Parents/guardians are encouraged to schedule medical, dental, legal and other necessary appointments at times other than during the school day. Since this is not always possible, when a student is absent for part of the day:
  • The principal may request a statement to that effect from the student;
  • The principal may request a signed statement from the doctor, dentist, lawyer, counselor, etc. to the effect that the student reported promptly for the appointment.

Absences that do not accumulate against this guideline include: school business, field trips/athletic competitions, and college visits which have been approved in advance by administration. Students in grades 9-12 who are excused for any of these three reasons must make arrangements to make up the assignments, tests and quizzes before the scheduled event.

Vacations

Parents and guardians are discouraged from taking vacations during the school year. However, whenever a proposed absence for vacation is requested, parents must discuss it in advance with the teachers (grades Y5-6) or complete a Vacation Request Form (grades 7-12). After a student returns, s/he may be given approximate assignments and materials for completion.

Extracurricular Participation

A student must be in attendance for the full day in order to participate in a sporting event or extracurricular performance that day, unless excused by a prearranged special excuse. A special excuse is defined as a doctor appointment, dentist appointment, or a funeral. Staying home to rest or calling in sick for half the day is not considered an excused absence. Students who are frequently absent the day following an event or performance may be prohibited from future participation by the administration.

Grades 7-12 Excused Absence Makeup Policy

• Any student with an excused absence from school has the right to make up any missing work for the excused days.
• It is the responsibility of the student to request makeup work from the teacher. The student must request the work on the day s/he returns to school.
• The student will be given one (1) day per each day absent to make up assignments and return them to the teacher.
• Teachers are not required to give any additional aid beyond accepting makeup assignments from the student and administering any tests the student may have missed. The student is responsible for making an appointment with the teacher for any such tests.

A student shall be considered truant each day or part of a day s/he is inexcusably absent from his/her assigned location.

Absence is defined as non-presence in the assigned location any time beyond the tardiness limit.

Truancy demonstrates a deliberate disregard for the educational program and is considered a serious matter. A student shall be considered a “habitual truant” when, in spite of warnings and/or his/her parents’ efforts to ensure attendance, s/he has accumulated ten (10) unexcused or excessive excused absences or tardies within a three-month period or term.

The disciplining of truant students shall be in accord with Board policies and due process. Truant students who are minor parents are to be reported to the Washtenaw County Family System.

To measure student progress, students will be tested in accordance with State standards and District policy.

Each student will be expected to take the State and nationally normed tests administered by the District. Makeup dates will be scheduled, but unnecessary absences should be avoided.

Classroom assessments will be used to determine student progress and assign grades. These are selected or prepared by teachers to assess how well the students have achieved specific objectives.

Each school has a grading procedure as well as additional notations that may indicate work in progress or incomplete work. The purpose of a grade is to indicate the extent to which the student has mastered the prescribed curriculum and acquired the necessary learn­ing. Grades may be based on many things, including tests, homework, projects, classroom participation or other assessments as deter­mined by the teacher. Each teacher may place a different emphasis on these areas in determining a grade and will so inform the stu­dents at the beginning of the course work. If a student is not sure how his/her grade will be determined, s/he should ask the teacher.

The following letter system is used in grades Y5/K-6:

GRADE	CRITERIA
“E”      Exceeds*                Exceeds expectations for grade level	(*Grades 5-6 only) Exhibits exceptional quality of work consistently Shows high level of knowledge and understanding Shows creative and new ways of thinking Works independently Applies learning to other subject areas and life situations
“M”      Meets               Meets expectations for grade level	Meets requirements for quality work Shows knowledge and understanding Demonstrates sound thinking Does not require extra time, instruction, assistance and practice Applies learning to other subject areas
“P”       Progressing       Meets some expectations for the grade level	Meets some requirements for quality work Demonstrates some knowledge and understanding Requires extra time, instruction, assistance and practice
“C”      Concern            Not yet meeting expectations for grade level	Seldom meets requirements for quality work Needs more exposure and modeling to develop knowledge and understanding Requires an extended amount of time, instruction, assistance and practice

 

The following letter system is used in 5^th and 6^th grade Summit Learning classes:

LETTER/CRITERIA

A = Excellent achievement

B = Good achievement

C = Satisfactory achievement

D = Minimum acceptable achievement

E and F = Failure

INC = Incomplete (grade will be changed to E or F if work is not completed within a specified amount of time)

P = Acceptable achievement

Mill Creek Grading Scale*

A	93-100%
A-	90-92%
B+	87-89%
B	83-86%
B-	80-82%
C+	77-79%
C	73-76%
C-	70-72%
D+	67-69%
D	63-66%
D-	60-62%
E	Below 60%
NHI	Not Handed In

*Academy: Any student who has two or more failing classes (Ds or Es) in a four-week marking period is required to attend the Academy Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3:20-4:20 p.m. A certified general education teacher and/or special education teacher will supervise and support the Academy.

Work Habit Performance

• Students will be assessed in their daily work habits and will receive an assessment based on turning work on time, use of classroom work time, and other work habits within the classroom:
• E - Exemplifies Standards      M - Meets Standards       P - Progressing towards standards      N - Not Meeting Standards

*Academy: Any student who receives two “Ns” in Work Habit Performance in a four-week marking period is required to attend the Academy Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3:20-4:20 p.m. A certified general education teacher and/or special education teacher will supervise and support the Academy.

Citizenship Performance

• Students will be assessed in citizenship and the ability to demonstrate traits such as courtesy, teamwork, respect, appreciation, responsibility, honesty, cooperation, and so forth:
• E - Exemplifies Standards      M - Meets Standards       P - Progressing towards standards      N - Not Meeting Standards

*After School Privileges: Any student who receives two “Ns” in Citizenship in any four-week marking period is not allowed to attend after school activities such as dance, lock-ins, and other earned privileged events during that four-week period.

DHS Grading Scale

A	93-100%
A-	90-92%
B+	87-89%
B	83-86%
B-	80-82%
C+	77-79%
C	73-76%
C-	70-72%
D+	67-69%
D	63-66%
D-	60-62%
E	Below 60%

Grades will be rounded up to the nearest one place.

Weighted Grades

Students who take Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses will receive a weighted grade with an added value of 1.0 points for each course, except for IB Diploma courses.

• Transcripts would show an un-weighted grade point average and class rank.
• Transcripts would also show a weighted grade point average and class rank.
• Transcripts would indicate how much DHS weighted grades are weighted by.

This change was applied retroactively to all Dexter students beginning in September of 2012.

Students in the graduation class of 2024 must earn 27 credits (out of possible 30) in the content areas described below to be eligible for graduation. 18.0 credits are earned from Michigan Merit Core (MMC) requirements and 3.0 credits consist of pure electives. Please see our website for total credits required for the classes of 2025 and beyond.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS	(4 credits)
English 9	1
World Lit & Comp and World Lit & Speech (English 10 components)	1
Upper Level Lit & Comp A & B  or AP English Language A & B, or IB English HL 1 A & B	1
Elective English Courses	1

 

MATH	(4 credits)
Algebra I A & B	1
Geometry A & B	1
Algebra II A&B or approved CTE course	1
One additional math-related course (during the final year of high school)	1

 

SCIENCE	(3 credits)
Biology or AP Biology or IB Biology	1
Chemistry (or AP Chemistry) or Physics (or AP Physics or IB Physics)	1
Elective Science Courses	1

 

SOCIAL STUDIES	(3 credits)
American History 9	1
World History and Geography A & B	1
American Government (Civics) or AP Government & Politics and  Economics or AP Microeconomics or AP Macroeconomics	.5   .5

 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH	(1 credit)
Health & Wellness	.5
Lifetime Fitness	.5

 

WORLD LANGUAGE	(1 credits
Level I of any world language A & B	.5
Level II of the same world language A & B (or approved CTE course)	.5

 

VISUAL, PERFORMING AND APPLIED ARTS	(1 credit)
Choose total of 1 credit from: Art, Computer Applications and Programming, Film Studies, Graphic Arts, Interior Design, Music, Newspaper, Photojournalism, Speech, SWWC (Consortium), Theater, Yearbook	.5

 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH	(1 credit)
Health & Wellness	.5
Lifetime Fitness	.5

 

ELECTIVES	(3 credits)
Electives can be chosen from any of the content area departments listed above in addition to courses offered by the Life Management and World Languages Departments.

 

ONLINE LEARNING EXPERIENCE	(1 unit/20 hours)
Embedded in curriculum throughout – you don’t have to take an online course.

 

The National Association of Secondary School Principals established the National Honor Society (NHS) in 1921 to recognize outstanding high school students. More than just an honor roll, the National Honor Society serves to recognize those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, citizenship, and character. The Wayne Webb Chapter of the National Honor Society at Dexter High School is truly a service organization. Over the course of each year, the chapter will complete thousands of hours of service at different activities within the school, district, and community. 

Members will be selected in the spring of their sophomore year and will be selected on the basis of their GPA (cumulative), leadership, service, and character. To be eligible for NHS, a student must have and maintain a 3.5 GPA or higher, have a teacher recommendation, and complete an application. The applications are evaluated using a rubric and are read by a minimum of 3 members of the Membership Committee. All applications which have borderline scores may be invited to an interview to better explain their application responses.

Faculty will determine the final recommendations for membership based on the character and qualifications as listed in these bylaws and the NHS Constitution. An induction ceremony will be held to induct the new members and say farewell to the current members. Juniors not inducted as sophomores, who meet the eligibility requirements, will be considered for their senior year. For additional details, please review the NHS Bylaws.

Dexter Community Schools Young 5 (Y5) through 6^th grade classes use Positive Behavioral Support Interventions:

• To provide a clear and consistent message for our students regarding behavior expectations;
• To promote a positive, safe learning environment that enables us to increase instructional time while educating our students’ social and emotional growth;
• To more effectively partner with families and our community.

The other tabs in this section include behavior expectations for students in Y5–Grade 6 and Mill Creek. 

For detailed information about the student code of conduct and discipline, please see Section 7, Student Code of Conduct. 

Dexter Community Schools Young 5 (Y5) through 6^th grade classes use Positive Behavioral Support Interventions:

• To provide a clear and consistent message for our students regarding behavior expectations;
• To promote a positive, safe learning environment that enables us to increase instructional time while educating our students’ social and emotional growth;
• To more effectively partner with families and our community.

Dexter Community Schools Grades Y5-6 Behavior Expectations

	Be Respectful	Be Responsible	Be Safe
Classrooms	Follow directions the first time given.   Use appropriate and positive language and behavior.   Listen when others are speaking and speak when it is your turn.   Respect personal space and property.	Take care of your personal belongings and clean up after yourself. Give your best effort. Complete your work.	Respect others’ personal space.
Restrooms	Respect the privacy of others.   Keep bathrooms clean.   Use a quiet voice.	Report problems to a staff member. Flush the toilet. Be quick.	Wash hands with soap.
Office	Report to the desk and use good manners. Wait quietly.	Tell the truth.	Wait patiently while sitting or standing in one place.
Cafeteria	Use appropriate and positive language and behavior.   Use good manners.   Follow directions the first time given.	Take care of your personal belongings and clean up after yourself.	Get permission to leave your table. Use your hands, feet and objects in a safe way. Walk at a safe pace. Eat your own food.
Arrival/Departure	Use appropriate and positive language and behavior. Follow directions the first time given. Wait quietly.	Wait at the morning spot. Follow procedures. Enter and exit at assigned doors.	Use crosswalks.   Stay on the sidewalk.   Use your hands, feet and objects in a safe way.   Go directly to the bus hub, pick-up area or home.
Hallways	Walk quietly. Respect all hallway displays and equipment.	Wait at the morning spot. Follow procedures. Enter and exit at assigned doors.	Use crosswalks. Stay on the sidewalk. Use your hands, feet and objects in a safe way. Go directly to the bus hub, pick-up area or home.
Recess/Playground	Follow directions the first time given. Use appropriate and positive language and behavior.	Report problems to a staff member. Follow procedures. Put all materials away.	Use your hands, feet and objects in a safe way. Use games, equipment and materials appropriately. Enter and exit in lines.

The Student Responsibility Improvement Program recognizes the positive accomplishments of students in the area of academic achievement and general citizenship. The program is used to reinforce accomplishments and encourage future achievement. Once each quarter, all students attend an activity devoted to celebrating these successes

A GUIDE TO WORK HABITS AND CITIZENSHIP

Work Habits*

Students will be assessed in their daily work habits and will receive an assessment based on turning work on time, use of classroom work time, and other work habits within the classroom:

EXEMPLIFIES STANDARD

• Always completes and submits assignments on due dates;
• Always follows directions ALL of the time;
• Always uses class time wisely;
• Always brings materials to class;
• High quality of work.

MEETS STANDARD

• Regularly completes and submits assignments on due dates;
• Regularly follows directions;
• Regularly uses class time wisely;
• Regularly brings materials to class;
• Work is acceptable.

PROGRESSING TOWARD STANDARD

• Sometimes completes and submits assignments on due dates;
• Sometimes follows directions; 
• Sometimes uses class time wisely;
• Sometimes brings materials to class;
• Quality of work is inconsistent.

NOT MEETING STANDARD

• Seldom completes and submits assignments on due dates;
• Seldom follows directions;
• Seldom uses class time wisely;
• Seldom brings materials to class;
• Quality of work is unsatisfactory.

 

Citizenship**

EXEMPLIFIES STANDARD

Actions in the classroom always contribute positively to the learning environment.

• The student always:  Demonstrates respect;
• Is trustworthy;
• Listens to others;
• Seeks opportunities to include and assist others.

MEETS STANDARD

• Demonstrates respect;
• Is trustworthy;
• Listens to others;
• Helps others.

PROGRESSING TOWARD STANDARD

• Demonstrates respect;
• Is trustworthy;
• Listens to others;
• Helps others, if prompted

NOT MEETING STANDARD

• Demonstrates respect or trustworthiness;
• The student shows little concern for others;
• (4 tardies in a four-week period is an automatic N in citizenship.)

*ACADEMY

Any student who has two or more failing classes (Ds or Es) in a four-week marking period is required to attend the Academy Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3:20-4:20 p.m. A certified general education teacher and/or special education teacher will supervise and support the Academy.

Any student who receives two “Ns” in Work Habit Performance in a four-week marking period is required to attend the Academy Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3:20-4:20 p.m. A certified general education teacher and/or special education teacher will supervise and support the Academy.

**AFTER SCHOOL PRIVILEGES

Any student who receives two “Ns” in Citizenship in any four-week marking period is not allowed to attend after school activities such as dance, lock-ins, and other earned privileged events during that four-week period.

 

The Student Code of Conduct identifies the standards of conduct needed to support the educational objectives of the District and to protect each student’s right to a safe, orderly, and productive learning environment. Administrative imposition of disciplinary consequences for violations of the Student Code of Conduct is sometimes necessary. The Code is not to be construed as an all-inclusive list of conduct which may interfere with the good order of the school system, the proper functioning of the educational process, or the health and safety of students. In those situations that are not expressly defined or referred to in this Code, the administration shall pro­vide consequences for such situations in keeping with the spirit of the Code.

Each prohibited act listed in the Student Code of Conduct sets forth the discipline, which may be imposed for a violation. Discipline for violating prohibited acts ranges from administrative intervention to expulsion. In cases where the stated penalty is set forth in terms of a range, then the actual penalty imposed will depend upon the nature and severity of the offense, the particular facts involved, the age of the student, the student’s prior behavioral record, the persistent and/or chronic nature of the misconduct, the recommenda­tion of school personnel, and all other circumstances deemed relevant. Some prohibited acts mandate expulsion. For further details regarding the Dexter Community Schools suspension/expulsion policy and due process rights, please see Board Policies 5610 and 5611.  

The Code covers all students enrolled in Dexter Community Schools. It applies to a student who is on school premises, in a school-related vehicle, or at a school sponsored activity or trip. While the District is not responsible for supervising or regulating off-campus activities, it may impose disciplinary or remedial measures in the event that off-campus activities of students, including travel to and from school, directly interfere with the operations, discipline or general educational environment of the District.

Due process ensures that disciplinary action is imposed only after review of the facts and/or special circumstances of the situation. Every reasonable effort will be made to maintain confidentiality during the investigation process. However, a proper investigation will, in some circumstances, require the disclosure of names and allegations.

EXPECTED BEHAVIORS

Each student is expected to:

• Abide by national, state, and local laws as well as rules of the school;
• Respect the civil rights of others;
• Act courteously to adults and fellow students;
• Be prompt to school and attentive in class;
• Work cooperatively with others when involved in accomplishing a common goal; regardless of the other’s ability, gender, race, religion, height, weight, disability, ethnic background or sexual orientation;
• Complete assigned tasks on time and as directed;
• Help maintain a school environment that is safe, friendly, and productive;
• Act at all times in a manner that reflects pride in self, family, and in the school.

The Student Code of Conduct identifies the standards of conduct needed to support the educational objectives of the District and to protect each student’s right to a safe, orderly, and productive learning environment. Administrative imposition of disciplinary consequences for violations of the Student Code of Conduct is sometimes necessary. The Code is not to be construed as an all-inclusive list of conduct which may interfere with the good order of the school system, the proper functioning of the educational process, or the health and safety of students. In those situations that are not expressly defined or referred to in this Code, the administration shall pro­vide consequences for such situations in keeping with the spirit of the Code.

Each prohibited act listed in the Student Code of Conduct sets forth the discipline, which may be imposed for a violation. Discipline for violating prohibited acts ranges from administrative intervention to expulsion. In cases where the stated penalty is set forth in terms of a range, then the actual penalty imposed will depend upon the nature and severity of the offense, the particular facts involved, the age of the student, the student’s prior behavioral record, the persistent and/or chronic nature of the misconduct, the recommenda­tion of school personnel, and all other circumstances deemed relevant. Some prohibited acts mandate expulsion. For further details regarding the Dexter Community Schools suspension/expulsion policy and due process rights, please see Board Policies 5610 and 5611.  

The Code covers all students enrolled in Dexter Community Schools. It applies to a student who is on school premises, in a school-related vehicle, or at a school sponsored activity or trip. While the District is not responsible for supervising or regulating off-campus activities, it may impose disciplinary or remedial measures in the event that off-campus activities of students, including travel to and from school, directly interfere with the operations, discipline or general educational environment of the District.

Due process ensures that disciplinary action is imposed only after review of the facts and/or special circumstances of the situation. Every reasonable effort will be made to maintain confidentiality during the investigation process. However, a proper investigation will, in some circumstances, require the disclosure of names and allegations.

EXPECTED BEHAVIORS

Each student is expected to:

• Abide by national, state, and local laws as well as rules of the school;
• Respect the civil rights of others;
• Act courteously to adults and fellow students;
• Be prompt to school and attentive in class;
• Work cooperatively with others when involved in accomplishing a common goal; regardless of the other’s ability, gender, race, religion, height, weight, disability, ethnic background or sexual orientation;
• Complete assigned tasks on time and as directed;
• Help maintain a school environment that is safe, friendly, and productive;
• Act at all times in a manner that reflects pride in self, family, and in the school.

The Student Code of Conduct identifies the standards of conduct needed to support the educational objectives of the District and to protect each student’s right to a safe, orderly, and productive learning environment. Administrative imposition of disciplinary consequences for violations of the Student Code of Conduct is sometimes necessary. The Code is not to be construed as an all-inclusive list of conduct which may interfere with the good order of the school system, the proper functioning of the educational process, or the health and safety of students. In those situations that are not expressly defined or referred to in this Code, the administration shall pro­vide consequences for such situations in keeping with the spirit of the Code.

Each prohibited act listed in the Student Code of Conduct sets forth the discipline, which may be imposed for a violation. Discipline for violating prohibited acts ranges from administrative intervention to expulsion. In cases where the stated penalty is set forth in terms of a range, then the actual penalty imposed will depend upon the nature and severity of the offense, the particular facts involved, the age of the student, the student’s prior behavioral record, the persistent and/or chronic nature of the misconduct, the recommenda­tion of school personnel, and all other circumstances deemed relevant. Some prohibited acts mandate expulsion. For further details regarding the Dexter Community Schools suspension/expulsion policy and due process rights, please see Board Policies 5610 and 5611.  

The Code covers all students enrolled in Dexter Community Schools. It applies to a student who is on school premises, in a school-related vehicle, or at a school sponsored activity or trip. While the District is not responsible for supervising or regulating off-campus activities, it may impose disciplinary or remedial measures in the event that off-campus activities of students, including travel to and from school, directly interfere with the operations, discipline or general educational environment of the District.

Due process ensures that disciplinary action is imposed only after review of the facts and/or special circumstances of the situation. Every reasonable effort will be made to maintain confidentiality during the investigation process. However, a proper investigation will, in some circumstances, require the disclosure of names and allegations.

EXPECTED BEHAVIORS

Each student is expected to:

• Abide by national, state, and local laws as well as rules of the school;
• Respect the civil rights of others;
• Act courteously to adults and fellow students;
• Be prompt to school and attentive in class;
• Work cooperatively with others when involved in accomplishing a common goal; regardless of the other’s ability, gender, race, religion, height, weight, disability, ethnic background or sexual orientation;
• Complete assigned tasks on time and as directed;
• Help maintain a school environment that is safe, friendly, and productive;
• Act at all times in a manner that reflects pride in self, family, and in the school.

STUDENT RIGHTS OF EXPRESSION

The school recognizes the right of students to express themselves. With the right of expression comes the responsibility to do it appropriately. If a student has suggestions that could improve the school, s/he should feel free to offer them. Written suggestions may be presented directly to the principal or to a member of the student government.

Students may distribute or display, at appropriate times, non-sponsored, noncommercial written material and petitions; buttons, badges, or other insignia; clothing; banners; and audio and video materials. All items must meet the following school guidelines:

Material cannot be displayed if it:

• Is obscene to minors, libelous, indecent or vulgar;
• Advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law;
• Intends to be insulting or harassing;
• Intends to incite fighting or presents a likelihood of disrupting school or a school event;
• Is a symbol that is offensive and a disruption to the educational process, i.e.., Confederate flag, Nazi symbol, etc.;
• Presents a clear and present likelihood that, either because of its content or manner of distribution or display, causes or is likely to cause a material and substantial disruption of school or school activities, a violation of school regulations, or the commission of an unlawful act.

Materials may not be displayed or distributed during class periods, or during passing times between classes. Permission may be granted for display or distribution during lunch periods and after school in designated locations, as long as exits are not blocked and there is proper access and egress to the building.

Students who are unsure whether or not materials they wish to display meet school guidelines may present them to the building principal or Superintendent 24 hours prior to display.

Administrative Intervention This pertains to any disciplinary action that does not result in a student being suspended from school. This may include discussion of the incident with a teacher or administrator; the removal of a student from a class period; in-school suspension; a reprimand or warning; detention and/or work assignment before or after school; additional classroom assignments; loss of privileges; revocation of the privilege of attending after school functions, activities, events; Saturday School; written contracts; assignment of probation supervisor; etc. This type of discipline may not be appealed.

Administrative Discretion When behaviors continue to occur after a number of administrative disciplinary steps have been taken, the administrator can assign a consequence that meets the needs of the situation.

Alternative Disciplinary Action may offer an alternative form of disciplinary action. Such action will be defined and described by the building administrator and is generally taken with the approval of parent/guardian. The principal/assistant principal may place a stu­dent on behavioral probation for a specific period of time. This may include a written contract with the student. The contract represents an agreement between the student, the student’s parent(s), counselor, and administrator concerning the specific changes expected. Failure to fulfill the contract or a further infraction of the school rules during the probationary period will result in the imposition of further disciplinary action as set forth in the terms of the contact. Parents/guardians are encouraged to discuss and assist in assuring that the intent and terms of probation are fulfilled. The student may be placed on probation to an administrator with the selection being the result of mutual consent of the student and the administrator. If consensus cannot be reached, the principal will assign a probation supervisor.

Restorative Justice Per State law, (MCL Act 451, Section 380.1310D), before suspending or expelling a pupil, the Superintendent, School Principal, and/or Board of Education shall consider the following factors: student's age; disciplinary history, whether the pupil is a student with a disability, the seriousness of the violation or behavior committed by the pupil, whether the violation or behavior committed by the pupil threatened the safety of any pupil or staff member, whether restorative practices will be used to address the violation or behavior committed by the pupil, whether a lesser intervention would properly address the violation or behavior committed by the pupil. This does not apply to a pupil being expelled for possessing a firearm in a weapon-free school zone.

Student Planning Center This an option open to students at Mill Creek. The Student Planning Center (SPC) provides a positive, non-punitive atmosphere that allows students to evaluate the behaviors they have chosen to exhibit in the classroom and to learn to make responsible choices in the future. While in the SPC, students will discuss and write a plan of action.

Parents will be notified when their child has been sent to the SPC. Generally, the student remains in the SPC only for the remainder of the class period from which s/he was sent. If a student is repeatedly sent to the SPC and proves that s/he is unable to learn to make better choices with this non-punitive approach then other forms of discipline such as detention and suspension will be considered.

Suspension (10 days or less)[1] excludes a student from school for a specific period of time or excludes a student upon the fulfillment of a specific set of conditions.

When a student is being considered for a suspension of ten (10) days or less, the administrator in charge will notify the student of the charges. The student will then be given an opportunity to explain his/her side, and the administrator will then provide the student the evidence supporting the charges. After that informal hearing, the principal will make a decision whether or not to suspend. If a student is suspended, s/he and his/her parents will be notified of the reason for and the length of the suspension. Students who are suspended out of school should not be on school grounds for the duration of the suspension. If a student is suspended from school s/he will not be allowed to participate in sports for the duration of the suspension.

Suspensions over four (4) days in length may be appealed within two (2) school days after the notification of the suspension. Appeals are made first to the building principal then to the superintendent or designee. The request for appeal must be in writing. During the appeal process, the student shall not be allowed to remain in school. The appeal shall be conducted in a private meeting and the student may be represented.

Students who are suspended will be given credit for properly completed assignments and a grade on any made-up tests. Any learning that cannot be made up such as labs, field trips, skill practices, or any learning that the student chooses not to make up may be re­flected in the grades earned.

Long-term Suspension or Expulsion¹ excludes a pupil from school when the pupil’s behavior indicates that his/her presence in school jeopardizes the effective teaching/learning environment or threatens the well-being of others. By the powers vested in the Board of Education by the State, the Board delegates to the superintendent the authority to extend a suspension up to 180 days or to expel. The Board is governed by the Revised School Code, which mandates expulsion for certain offenses. 

When a student is being considered for long-term suspension (more than ten (10) days) or expulsion, the student will receive a formal letter of notification addressed to his/her parents, which will contain:

• The charge and related evidence;
• The time and place of the meeting;
• The length of the recommended suspension or expulsion;
• A brief description of the hearing procedure;
• A statement that the student may bring parents, guardians, and counsel;
• A statement that the student may give testimony, present evidence, and provide a defense;
• A statement that the student may request attendance of school personnel who were party to the action or accused the student of the infraction.

Within three days (3) after notification of a long-term suspension or expulsion, the long-term suspension or expulsion may be appealed, in writing, to the superintendent. If the appeal is heard by the Board, the hearing is governed by the Open Meetings Act. Under the Open Meetings Act, the hearing must be public unless the parents request that meeting be conducted in a closed session. All oppor­tunity to earn grades or credit ends when a student is expelled.

In accordance with MCL 380.1135 records of discipline and attendance are transferred in their entirety when a student transfers be­tween schools or into a new school district. Discipline may have a negative impact on the college application process.

Students with disabilities are entitled to the rights and procedures afforded by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

---

[1] Prior to excluding a student for any of the statutorily mandated reasons outlined in the chart that starts on page 42, except as noted below, the Superintendent may consider the following factors: the student’s age, the student’s disciplinary history, whether the student has a disability, the seriousness of the violation or behavior, whether the violation or behavior by the student threatened the safety of any student or staff member, whether restorative practices will be used to address the violation or behavior, whether a lesser violation would properly address the behavior.

Administrative Intervention This pertains to any disciplinary action that does not result in a student being suspended from school. This may include discussion of the incident with a teacher or administrator; the removal of a student from a class period; in-school suspension; a reprimand or warning; detention and/or work assignment before or after school; additional classroom assignments; loss of privileges; revocation of the privilege of attending after school functions, activities, events; Saturday School; written contracts; assignment of probation supervisor; etc. This type of discipline may not be appealed.

Administrative Discretion When behaviors continue to occur after a number of administrative disciplinary steps have been taken, the administrator can assign a consequence that meets the needs of the situation.

Alternative Disciplinary Action may offer an alternative form of disciplinary action. Such action will be defined and described by the building administrator and is generally taken with the approval of parent/guardian. The principal/assistant principal may place a stu­dent on behavioral probation for a specific period of time. This may include a written contract with the student. The contract represents an agreement between the student, the student’s parent(s), counselor, and administrator concerning the specific changes expected. Failure to fulfill the contract or a further infraction of the school rules during the probationary period will result in the imposition of further disciplinary action as set forth in the terms of the contact. Parents/guardians are encouraged to discuss and assist in assuring that the intent and terms of probation are fulfilled. The student may be placed on probation to an administrator with the selection being the result of mutual consent of the student and the administrator. If consensus cannot be reached, the principal will assign a probation supervisor.

Restorative Justice Per State law, (MCL Act 451, Section 380.1310D), before suspending or expelling a pupil, the Superintendent, School Principal, and/or Board of Education shall consider the following factors: student's age; disciplinary history, whether the pupil is a student with a disability, the seriousness of the violation or behavior committed by the pupil, whether the violation or behavior committed by the pupil threatened the safety of any pupil or staff member, whether restorative practices will be used to address the violation or behavior committed by the pupil, whether a lesser intervention would properly address the violation or behavior committed by the pupil. This does not apply to a pupil being expelled for possessing a firearm in a weapon-free school zone.

Student Planning Center This an option open to students at Mill Creek. The Student Planning Center (SPC) provides a positive, non-punitive atmosphere that allows students to evaluate the behaviors they have chosen to exhibit in the classroom and to learn to make responsible choices in the future. While in the SPC, students will discuss and write a plan of action.

Parents will be notified when their child has been sent to the SPC. Generally, the student remains in the SPC only for the remainder of the class period from which s/he was sent. If a student is repeatedly sent to the SPC and proves that s/he is unable to learn to make better choices with this non-punitive approach then other forms of discipline such as detention and suspension will be considered.

Suspension (10 days or less)[1] excludes a student from school for a specific period of time or excludes a student upon the fulfillment of a specific set of conditions.

When a student is being considered for a suspension of ten (10) days or less, the administrator in charge will notify the student of the charges. The student will then be given an opportunity to explain his/her side, and the administrator will then provide the student the evidence supporting the charges. After that informal hearing, the principal will make a decision whether or not to suspend. If a student is suspended, s/he and his/her parents will be notified of the reason for and the length of the suspension. Students who are suspended out of school should not be on school grounds for the duration of the suspension. If a student is suspended from school s/he will not be allowed to participate in sports for the duration of the suspension.

Suspensions over four (4) days in length may be appealed within two (2) school days after the notification of the suspension. Appeals are made first to the building principal then to the superintendent or designee. The request for appeal must be in writing. During the appeal process, the student shall not be allowed to remain in school. The appeal shall be conducted in a private meeting and the student may be represented.

Students who are suspended will be given credit for properly completed assignments and a grade on any made-up tests. Any learning that cannot be made up such as labs, field trips, skill practices, or any learning that the student chooses not to make up may be re­flected in the grades earned.

Long-term Suspension or Expulsion¹ excludes a pupil from school when the pupil’s behavior indicates that his/her presence in school jeopardizes the effective teaching/learning environment or threatens the well-being of others. By the powers vested in the Board of Education by the State, the Board delegates to the superintendent the authority to extend a suspension up to 180 days or to expel. The Board is governed by the Revised School Code, which mandates expulsion for certain offenses. 

When a student is being considered for long-term suspension (more than ten (10) days) or expulsion, the student will receive a formal letter of notification addressed to his/her parents, which will contain:

• The charge and related evidence;
• The time and place of the meeting;
• The length of the recommended suspension or expulsion;
• A brief description of the hearing procedure;
• A statement that the student may bring parents, guardians, and counsel;
• A statement that the student may give testimony, present evidence, and provide a defense;
• A statement that the student may request attendance of school personnel who were party to the action or accused the student of the infraction.

Within three days (3) after notification of a long-term suspension or expulsion, the long-term suspension or expulsion may be appealed, in writing, to the superintendent. If the appeal is heard by the Board, the hearing is governed by the Open Meetings Act. Under the Open Meetings Act, the hearing must be public unless the parents request that meeting be conducted in a closed session. All oppor­tunity to earn grades or credit ends when a student is expelled.

In accordance with MCL 380.1135 records of discipline and attendance are transferred in their entirety when a student transfers be­tween schools or into a new school district. Discipline may have a negative impact on the college application process.

Students with disabilities are entitled to the rights and procedures afforded by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

---

[1] Prior to excluding a student for any of the statutorily mandated reasons outlined in the chart that starts on page 42, except as noted below, the Superintendent may consider the following factors: the student’s age, the student’s disciplinary history, whether the student has a disability, the seriousness of the violation or behavior, whether the violation or behavior by the student threatened the safety of any student or staff member, whether restorative practices will be used to address the violation or behavior, whether a lesser violation would properly address the behavior.

Please see Reportable Offenses for additional Information.

LEVEL ONE INFRACTIONS*

*Restorative practices may be considered to address the misconduct in addition to, or in lieu of, suspension or expulsion.

Level 1 INFRACTIONS	CONSEQUENCES	GRADES 5-8+	GRADES 9-12*
Displays of Affection+*	1st Offense	Discipline Referral/Warning (See Administrative Intervention)	Detention/Community Service (See Administrative Intervention)
Disruptive Behavior+*	2nd Offense	Discipline Referral/Loss of Privileges (See Administrative Intervention)	Saturday School (See Administrative Intervention)
Dress Code+*	3rd Offense	Detention/Community Service (See Administrative Intervention)	1-5 Days Suspension
Disrespect (See Assault Verbal)*	4th Offense	In-School Suspension (See Administrative Intervention)	Administrative Discretion
Electronic Equipment+*	5th Offense	1 Day Suspension	Administrative Discretion
Inappropriate Language or Gestures (See Assault Verbal)+*	6th Offense	2 Days Suspension	Administrative Discretion
Insulting Remark (See Assault Verbal)*	7th Offense	3 Days Suspension	Administrative Discretion
Profanity (See Assault Ver­bal)+*
Roughhousing (See Assault Physical)+
Teasing (See Assault Ver­bal)+*
Throwing Objects+*
Unauthorized Area+*

LEVEL TWO INFRACTIONS*

*Restorative practices may be considered to address the misconduct in addition to, or in lieu of, suspension or expulsion.

Level 2 INFRACTIONS		CONSEQUENCES	GRADES 5-8+	GRADES 9-12*
Cheating/Plagiarism+*		1st Offense	Detention	Saturday School
Closed Campus (leaving without permission)+*		2nd Offense	In-School Suspension	1-2 Days Suspension
Confrontation*		3rd Offense	1 Day Suspension	3-10 Days Suspension
Defamation (See Assault Verbal)+*		4th offense	2 Days Suspension	Administrative Discretion
Destruction of Property+		5th Offense	3 Days Suspension	Administrative Discretion
Harassment/Bullying+
Insubordination+*
Matches/Lighters/Fireworks*
Profanity Toward Staff (See Assault Verbal)+*
Roughhousing (See Assault Physical)+
Skipping Class+*
Solicitation*
Technology Misuse+*

LEVEL THREE INFRACTIONS*

*Restorative practices may be considered to address the misconduct in addition to, or in lieu of, suspension or expulsion.

Level 3 INFRACTIONS		CONSEQUENCES	GRADES 5-12*
Bullying (See Harassment)*		1st Offense	1 Day Suspension
Conspiracy*		2nd Offense	3 Days Suspension
Defamation (See Assault Verbal)*		3rd Offense	3 Days Suspension
Demonstrations/Strikes+		4th offense	5 Days Suspension
False Alarm/Fire Alarm+		5th Offense	Long-Term Suspension
Fighting (See Assault Physical)+*
Food Fight+*
Forgery*
Gambling*
Graffiti+*
Harassment*
Hazing (See Harassment)*
Indecent Exposure (See Indecency)+*
Lying in a Disciplinary Conference+*
Matches/Lighters/Fireworks+
Theft/Larceny+*
Threat*
Vandalism+*

LEVEL FOUR INFRACTIONS*

*Restorative practices may be considered to address the misconduct in addition to, or in lieu of, suspension or expulsion.

Level 4 INFRACTIONS		GRADES 5-12*
Arson/Fires		Suspension up to Expulsion and Sheriff’s Department Contact
Assault/Physical		Suspension up to Expulsion and Sheriff’s Department Contact
Bomb Threat		Suspension up to Expulsion and Sheriff’s Department Contact
Dangerous Materials		Suspension up to Expulsion and Sheriff’s Department Contact
Distribution (Selling) of Illegal Drugs/Tobacco/Alcohol (See Substance Use)		Suspension up to Expulsion and Sheriff’s Department Contact
Explosives		Suspension up to Expulsion and Sheriff’s Department Contact
Extortion		Suspension up to Expulsion and Sheriff’s Department Contact
False Alarm/Fire Alarm		Suspension up to Expulsion and Sheriff’s Department Contact
Sexual Harassment (See Harassment)		Suspension up to Expulsion and Sheriff’s Department Contact
Substance Use/Possession/ Sale of Illegal Drugs/Tobacco/ Alcohol/ or Look-Alike (1st Offense)		10 Day Suspension or Substance Use Evaluation/Sheriff’s Department Contact
Weapons (also Look-Alike and Toys) Possession/Use/ Knowledge		Suspension up to Expulsion and Sheriff’s Department Contact

 

In compliance with MCL 380.1308 and the Michigan School Safety Response Guide, certain incidents of student misconduct are reported to local police agencies within the limits of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. In judging whether to report an offense to local police, administrators consider multiple criteria including current law, severity of the incident, pattern of the student’s behavior over time and specific context of each incident. Whenever police are contacted, central administration is notified and a record of the contact is kept. The school and the local law enforcement agencies are separate jurisdictions. Consequences from both agencies do not constitute double jeopardy.

Reportable Offenses

Under MCL 380.1308, the District MUST Report to Local Police:	Examples of Other Offenses That the District May Report to Local Police:
Minor in Possession (MIP) alcohol, tobacco products; including under the influence	Gang or other hate-related activity
Possession, use, dealing drugs or other controlled substances	Hazing
Reportable Weapons: “firearms, bombs, silencers, double-edged, non-folding stabbing instruments, a switchblade, a blackjack, a slingshot, a billy club, bludgeon, metallic knuckles, a sand club, a sand bag, a Taser or stun gun, a gas ejecting device that is not a self-defense spray device or any other article carried or possessed for use as a weapon, e.g., a tire iron, a baseball bat carried for purposes of assault or defense”	Demonstrations/strikes
Arson	Smoking
Explosion	Other weapons (not shown in Column 1 not required to be reported under MCL 380.1308 or Michigan School)
Vandalism - over $100 (intentional destruction of property)	Fighting; inciting or prompting others to fight; gang fighting
Theft - over $100	Gambling
Robbery/extortion	Making a false alarm (such as pulling a fire alarm)
Bomb threat	A student on campus during an out-of-school suspension
Criminal sexual conduct	Inappropriate use of vehicle on school premises
Suicide threat or attempt	Suspicious intruders
Suspected/armed student/hostage	Unauthorized removal of student
Intruder if s/he refuses to leave	Suspected child abuse (Must report to Family Independence Agency)
Death or homicide	Harassment/bullying/threats
Physical assault	Other activities or behaviors that school administrators deem advisable to report
Verbal assault
Theft - under $100 (intentional destruction of property)
Bus with students involved in accident or incident

Counseling services are available to students in all grades to deal with a variety of needs. These may include classroom concerns, academic planning and scheduling, career exploration and development, friendship concerns, group counseling, external issues which affect school performance and crisis and self-concept issues.

If a student wishes to see a counselor during the school day, s/he should go to the counseling office and make an appointment. If a counselor is unavailable, students should leave a message and return to class immediately. Students will be seen as soon as time permits.

Because of limited financial means, the Board may need to levy certain charges to students to facilitate the utilization of adequate and appropriate materials for extracurricular, noncredit activities. Such charges would be made on expendable items such as magazines, workbook materials, paperback selections, laboratory supplies and materials for clubs, independent study or special projects, and district-sponsored trips. No student, however, shall be deprived of participation in a school activity because of lack of financial ability to pay a charge. Scholarship applications for Athletic participation fees and Community Education courses are available from those offices. Free and Reduced Lunch applications are available on our website: dexterschools.org/departments/fandn.

In addition to accepting checks at the building offices, Dexter Community Schools has several online methods to pay student fees:

• Athletic Participation Fees and Aftercare fees are paid via Community Education’s registration system, Eleyo: https://dexterschools.ce.eleyo.com/ Scroll to Athletics or School Age Child Care.
• Lunch Fees are paid using Meal Magic at this URL: dexter.familyportal.cloud
• Field trip, T-Shirt, fines, and Club/Activity fees are primarily paid through Eleyo.

When school property, equipment, and/or supplies are damaged, lost, or kept by a student, whether in a regular course or extracurricular offering, a fine will be assessed. The late return of borrowed books or materials from the school media centers will be subject to appropriate fines. Damage to school devices such as iPads and Chromebooks will be subject to repair costs. Parents may purchase insurance policies for technology equipment damages by September 30^th each year. 

CARE OF PROPERTY

Any item brought to school should be necessary for school activities and should never be left at school overnight or during vacation periods. Dexter Community Schools cannot be responsible for any losses or thefts that occur at school. School insurance covers only those items owned by the District. Expensive items such as jewelry, electronic equipment, cameras, collectible cards, etc. should be left at home. Students should not bring large sums of money to school. If a theft occurs, it must be reported to the office immediately. A staff member may confiscate all forbidden items.

Damage to or loss of school equipment and facilities wastes taxpayers’ money and undermines the school program. Therefore, if a student does damage to or loses school property, the student or his/her parents will be required to pay for the replacement or damage.

LOST AND FOUND

Each school has a lost and found area. Students who have lost items should check this area to retrieve any items that have been collected. Unclaimed items will be donated periodically to a charitable organization.

STUDENT VALUABLES

Students are encouraged not to bring items of value to school. Items such as jewelry, expensive clothing, electronic equipment, and the like, are tempting targets for theft and extortion. The school cannot be responsible for their safekeeping and will not be liable for loss or damage to personal valuables. Students in grades 7-12 are expected to place personal items in lockers and lock securely.

USE OF SCHOOL EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

Students must receive the permission of the teacher before using any equipment or materials in the classroom and the permission of the principal to use any other school equipment or facility. Students will be held responsible for the proper use and protection of any equipment or facility they are permitted to use. Use of school facilities outside of the regular school day is managed by Community Education. 

Announcements

General announcements are made in each school. Students should pay close attention to these announcements. Information for announcements should be given to the staff in the school office the day before the announcement is to be made. Announcements are restricted to school activities.

Complaints

Mass Messaging

The Dexter Schools mass messaging software uses contact information from PowerSchool to send emails, texts, and phone calls. If you have any issues receiving messages, pelase contact your school office for assistance. 

App 

The Dexter Community School District (DCSD) App is a great way to stay informed about goings-on at school:

• Receive notifications regarding weather-related school closures, scheduled days off, and other urgent news;
• Access the following functions: deposit lunch money, pay athletics fees, pay yearbook and other school fees through Eleyo;
• Log In to your grade 5 & up student's PowerSchool account;
• Search the Dexter Schools phone and email directory quickly;
• Quickly view lunch menus.

In addition to district news, you can subscribe to updates from individual buildings. Go to Notifications, then click the gear icon in the right top corner of the screen to select the news you want to be notified about. All your news updates are in one place.

This app is available for anyone who wants to follow Dexter goings-on! Student information is only accessible by parents. Find the DCSD Blackboard app in the App Store or on Google Play.

Emails

• The Superintendent generally sends updates once a month during the school year and as needed for timely announcements.
• Building principals generally send weekly emails.
• Classroom teachers send emails as needed. 

Text Messages

• We reserve the use of text messages for urgent situations: school closings, late buses, or to notify families there is an email that needs attention. 

Phone Calls

• We use automated phone recordings to convey school closings and other urgent information. 

 

Dexter High School students will explore career and college pathways through an online platform. This will be presented to students in 9th­–12th grades to continue building their EDP.  Students will take interest and ability assessments to help them explore potential career options and to help them select high school courses that will prepare them for their future college or career endeavors. 

PARENT AND GUARDIAN INVOLVEMENT

The Board of Education believes that durable and significant learning by a student is more likely to occur when there is an effective partnership between the school and the student’s parents/guardians. Such a partnership means a mutual belief in and commitment to significant educational goals for a student, a plan for the means to accomplish those goals, cooperation on developing and implementing solutions to problems that may be encountered, and continuing communication regarding the progress in accomplishing the goal(s). To this end, parents should be meaningfully involved in:

• Developing and implementing appropriate strategies for helping their child achieve the learning objectives that lead to accomplishing the learning outcomes;
• Providing a home environment that encourages learning and augments the learning experiences provided by the school. The Board is committed to communicating to parents at a level and in a language they can understand, where applicable.

The Board encourages parents and guardians to exercise responsibility for their child’s behavior, including the behavior of students who have reached the legal age of majority but are still supported by the parent/guardian. During school hours, the Board, through its designated adminis­trators, recognizes the responsibility to monitor a student’s behavior and, as with academic matters, the importance of cooperation between the school and parents/guardians in matters relating to conduct.

Parent, guardians, and community members who volunteer with school-sponsored activities are required to complete the volunteer placement form located on the district website at dexterschools.org/departments/human-resources. The Volunteer Form is on one of the tabs in the middle of the page. Background checks for volunteers are run upon receipt of the form and periodically again throughout the year depending on the person’s level of involvement.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

At least once a year, parents/guardians are invited to school to talk with their child’s teacher(s) about his/her progress in school. Parents/guardians may also ask for a conference at any time during the school year by calling the teacher and scheduling a meeting with him/her.

MEDIA CENTER

A media center is located in each building. Resources may be checked out for a designated period of time by contacting the media specialist. In order to avoid late fees, all materials checked out of the media center must be returned by the due date.

REVIEW OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS AND ACTIVITIES

Parents and guardians have the right to review any instructional materials being used in the school. Any parent or guardian who wishes to review materials or observe instruction must contact the principal prior to coming to the school. Parents’ and guardians' rights to review teaching materials and instructional activities are subject to reasonable restrictions and limits.

REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

Instruction in Reproductive Health is offered to students in grades 4-12 and is taught by certified teachers who have received special training. As required by the State of Michigan School Code, the curriculum is developed under the guidance of the Sex Education Advisory Board, a committee appointed by the Board of Education. The committee includes parents, guardians, teachers and interested community mem­bers. Questions about reproductive health instruction should be referred to the building principal of the school your child attends. Visit https://www.dexterschools.org/departments/curriculum/seab for further information include Michigan Department of Education requirements for Sex Education.

Each year parents are given notice of when Reproductive Health classes will be taught. Parents/guardians have the opportunity to review the content and materials. Materials are available for review in each school’s office and/or during an evening meeting that is held prior to instruction. The choice to participate in Reproductive Health is up to each child’s parents/guardians, who have the option of excusing their child from the reproductive portion of the curriculum.

The District does not encourage students to take jobs outside of school that could interfere with their success in school; however, students between the ages of 14-17 must have a work permit if they want to work after school or on weekends. Students can pick up a blank application for a permit in the main office at Mill Creek Middle School or Dexter High School during the school year, or at Dexter High School in the summer. Students should pick up the blank permit from the school office, bring it to the employer to be filled out, then bring the form back to the school office to be completed by office staff. We will take a copy for our records and give the student a copy to give to the employer. Proof of age (driver’s license, birth certificate, etc.) is required to complete the work permit application.

Some Dexter High School graduates may qualify for a broad range of local scholarships and awards in addition to those scholarships provided by national organizations. All seniors should complete the Generic Scholarship Form which is available in the early spring of their senior year. Additional information on this topic is available in the Counseling Office.

STUDENT FUNDRAISING

Students participating in school-sponsored groups and activities will be allowed to solicit funds from other students, staff members, and members of the community in accordance with school guidelines. The following general rules will apply to all fundraisers:

• Minimal instructional time is to be used to plan, conduct, assess, or manage a fundraising activity unless such an activity is part of an approved course of study.
• Fundraising activities conducted in a school or on District premises are not to interfere with the conduct of any extracurricular activity. Students involved in the fundraiser are not to interfere with students participating in other activities in order to so­licit funds.
• Student participation in fundraising activities conducted by school-related groups of which they are not members must be voluntary and must be approved by the student’s teacher or counselor to ensure that participation will not adversely affect his/her schoolwork and other school responsibilities.

Per Board Policy 8510 (Wellness), “The sale of foods and beverages to students that do not meet the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the USDA Smart Snacks in Schools nutrition standards to be consumed on the school campus during the school day is prohibited.”

STUDENT SALES

No student is permitted to sell any item or service in school without the approval of the principal. Violation of this rule may lead to disciplinary action.

Outside of morning drop-off and pickup, our school doors are locked to limit access to authorized persons. Visitors with legitimate business with the school will be buzzed into the front office and required to sign in and wear a visitor badge or label. Staff may request photo identification for adults picking up students. 

Parents and guardians are welcome at the school. In order to properly monitor the safety of students and staff and avoid disruption to educational programs, parents and guardians must report to the office upon entering the school to obtain a pass.

Other visitors may not enter the schools during the school day without a staff escort. Any visitor found in the building without a pass shall be reported to the principal. Parents and guardians of prospective students who want a tour should schedule one in advance with the office staff; drop-in tours usually cannot be accommodated for a variety of factors including student safety and privacy. 

If a person wishes to confer with a member of the staff, they should call for an appointment prior to coming to the school, in order to schedule a mutually convenient time. Student visitors are not allowed during the school day. Parents and guardians who will be assisting in the classroom or otherwise volunteering to work with children must submit a volunteer form and provide photo identification in advance of their assignment.

Orders for delivery of any kind must be cleared through an administrator. After receiving such authorization, the item(s) must be de­livered to the school office. Personal deliveries are discouraged.

Parents/Guardians who need to drop off items for their students may do so at the school office. 

Students are not allowed to receive food deliveries from outside sources (delivery services or restaurants such as Panera) during the school day. This is a safety and security issue.

Eye protection must be worn when certain hazardous operations are being performed in a school environment.

Each school complies with all fire safety laws and will conduct fire drills in accordance with State law. Schools will finalize and file their drill schedules by September 15 and notify authorities. Specific instructions on how to proceed will be provided to students by their teachers who will be responsible for the safe, prompt, and orderly evacuation of the building. Within thirty days of drill being conducted, drills will be posted on the district website for public review, or year-to-date emergency drill information may be requested from the building principal during the school year.

Tornado drills will be conducted before the tornado season, using the procedures provided by the State. The alarm signal for tornadoes is different from the alarm signal for fires.

In order for students and staff to be appropriately prepared for unusual circumstances other than fires and tornados, safety drills will be conducted that are appropriate for the age of the child.

A student must be in attendance for the full day in order to participate in a sporting event or extracurricular performance that day, unless excused by a prearranged special excuse. A special excuse is defined as a doctor appointment, dentist appointment, or a funeral. Staying home to rest or calling in sick for half the day is not considered an excused absence. Students who are frequently absent the day following an event or performance may be prohibited from future participation by the administration.

District nurse Rachel Piersol is available to discuss health concerns and answer student/parent questions at 734-424-4100 ext. 1051 or by email: piersolr@dexterschools.org. Duties of the nurse district nurse include:

• Illness, injury assessments and interventions;
• Identification, assessment, planning, intervention and evaluation of student health concerns including writing and distributing individualized nursing care plans or student emergency plans;
• Facilitating first responder teams in each building, training on Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED;
• Monitoring and maintenance of AEDs;
• Health care guidance or education to students, their family, and to staff;
• Chronic disease management and education;
• Crisis team participation;
• Health curriculum recommendations;
• Guidelines for school district health policies, goals and objectives;
• School/community/health care provider liaison;
• Immunization verification and state reporting according to state guideline requirements;
• Medication management and training.

Please contact the district nurse if your child has a health condition that requires an emergency plan to be in place for his/her care and treatment. Examples of such conditions include: insulin dependent diabetes, seizure disorders, severe asthma, anaphylactic reactions to foods or insect stings, etc. The nurse is on call for medical concerns/injuries such as asthma attacks, sprains, strains, etc. In the event of a serious emergency, 911 is called. Parents are always contacted in the event of an emergency.

Parents whose who students experience significant changes to their medical history and/or needs during the course of the school year should update the district nurse using the Medical Update Form found at www.dexterschools.org/parents/district-nurse. These changes might include things such as new medications, activity or food restrictions, or significant injuries that require accommodation at school. The District Nurse will work with building staff to ensure that the student’s needs are met. 

Student Health & Safety

Student safety is a responsibility of the staff. All staff members are familiar with emergency procedures such as fire and tornado drills and accident reporting procedures. Should a student be aware of any dangerous situation or accident, s/he must notify any staff person immediately.

State law requires that all students must have an emergency medical card completed, signed by a parent or guardian, and filed in the school office. A student may be excluded from school until this requirement has been fulfilled.

Students with specific health care needs should deliver written notice about such needs along with proper documentation by a physician, to the school office.

Student Injury or Illness

All injuries must be reported to a teacher or the office. If the injury is minor, the student will be treated and may return to class. If medical attention is required, the office will follow the school’s emergency procedures.

A student who becomes ill during the school day should request permission to go to the office. An appropriate adult in the office will determine whether or not the student should remain in school or go home. No student will be released from school without proper parental permission.

USE OF MEDICATIONS

If any pupil must receive (be administered) medication during school hours, it shall be the policy of the District to provide adequate control and supervision in the administration of the medication when needed. This policy pertains to all medications.

QUICK MENU:

• Prescription Medications Given by Mouth
• Non-Prescription Medications Given by Mouth
• Possession and Use of Asthma Inhalers
• Prescription Medications Given by Injection
• Emergency Medication
• Unauthorized Medication

PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS GIVEN BY MOUTH

• Parents should determine, with their physician’s counsel, whether the medication schedule can be adjusted to avoid administering medication during school hours.
• When medication must be administered at school, written permission on the Parent’s Request for Administration of Medication at School Form signed by the parent or guardian must be kept in the medication administration area and retained until the end of the school year. A new request form must be submitted each school year and for each new medication.
• The order of the physician must appear on the Parent’s Request for Administration of Medication at School Form. If this has not been done, the school nurse may call the physi­cian for a telephone order to be followed by written orders.
• The medication must be given by an adult: administrator, teacher, or another staff person designated by the administrator, such as a building secretary. Unless administered by a school nurse (R.N.), the medication must be administered in the presence of another adult.
• Prescription medication may be self-administered at the high school level with written permission of the parent and physician on the Medication Prescriber/Parent Authorization Form for Self-Administration/Self Possession. Over-the-counter medication may be self-administered in grades 7-12. Parents are encouraged to notify school staff if the student is on long-term medication, for example, anti-epileptics, psychotropic medication etc.
• All prescription medications must be in the original container labeled by the pharmacy. The label must specify the name of the medi­cation, the dosage to be given, and the time of administration, as well as the student’s name. Over the counter medications must be in the original container.
• If, for supportable reasons, the principal wishes to discontinue the privilege of a student self-administering a medication, s/he shall notify the parent of this decision in sufficient time for an alternative administration to be established.
• Parents must notify the school in writing if the medication dosage, schedule, or procedure is changed or eliminated.
• Refill of all medications shall be the responsibility of the parents. For grades K-6, parents must deliver medication to/from school. For grades 7-12, agreement between parent and principal for satisfactory arrangements for transportation of medication should be made. Daily carrying of medication should be avoided, unless previous arrangements have been made through the school principal.
• Any unused medication unclaimed by the parent will be destroyed by school personnel when a prescription is no longer to be admin­istered or at the end of the school year.
• The person administering the medication must complete the Medication Record to include the following information:
  • Student Name
  • Name of medication
  • Dosage (i.e., 10 milligrams)
  • Date
  • Time
  • Initials of person dispensing the medication
  • oInitials of person witnessing the dispensing of medication
• Pupil medication containers shall be kept in a locked and reasonably secure place (safe, file cabinet, locked box, etc.) not accessible to pupils with the exception of emergency medication such as Epinephrine, which shall be kept in a safe but unlocked area.
• At the discretion of the teacher, or upon request of the doctor or parents, a Medication Monitoring Record may be kept daily to record effects of the medication. This record may be copied and sent to the physician or parent. The original will be kept in the student’s records.
• The first (or initial) dose of a new medication will not be given at school due to the possibility of an allergic reaction.  A count of any medication classified as a controlled substance will be taken upon delivery of the medication to school. The date of receipt plus amount received will be recorded in the comment section of the “School District Daily Medication Log.”

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NON-PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS GIVEN BY MOUTH

For students in preschool through 6^th grade, over-the-counter drugs may be administered during school hours only if the above guidelines are met. Students in grades 7-12 may carry and administer their own over-the-counter medications. No over-the-counter medication will be admin­istered by school personnel unless the above guidelines are met with the following exception: In times of urgent need, the district nurse may contact a parent for permission to administer the appropriate dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen. The medication must be administered per District policy. 

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POSSESSION AND USE OF ASTHMA INHALERS

The Medication Prescriber/Parent Authorization Form for Self-Administration/Self Possession shall be completed and signed by a physician and the parents authorizing the student use of metered dose or dry powder inhaler(s) at school, on District transportation, and at school activities. This form must be received at the school office. Notice of this authorization shall be delivered to the staff members and transportation personnel to whom the student is assigned.

Asthma inhalers may be kept at the office with other medication. However, students in grades K-12 may possess and self-administer a metered dose or dry powder inhaler for the relief of asthma, or before exercise to prevent the onset of asthma symptoms, while at school or on school sponsored transportation or activities, if the following conditions are met:

• There is written approval from the student’s physician or other health care provider and the student’s parent/guardian to possess and use the inhaler, and
• The building administrator has received a copy of the written approvals from the physician and parent.

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PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS GIVEN BY INJECTION

Parents of students who self-administer injectable medication at school on a daily basis, e.g., diabetic students, may determine, with building administrator, teachers, and nurses, where the best place will to be check glucose level and administer insulin.

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EMERGENCY MEDICATION

• School personnel should only administer physician-prescribed medication.
• Schools are to be notified, in writing, of a student who may need emergency medication by his/her parents or physician. In all cases, this information should be conveyed to the district nurse who will be responsible for ensuring that selected staff members receive appropriate instruction in the administration of such medication.
• The medication must be taken on field trips and should be available to the leader or designee who should be trained in its proper application.
• The Transportation Department should be notified so the appropriate bus driver can be made aware of the student who may need emergency medication. Bus drivers transporting such students should have the medication available and be trained in its proper application.
• The student’s parent is responsible for providing the medication and is to be informed that the school will call 911 when his/her child receives the medication.
• If a serious situation does occur requiring the administration of emergency medication, the school personnel will contact 911 and request that a mobile unit be dispatched to the school to deal with complications that may arise. The parents and district nurse should also be contacted.
• Injectable medications will only be given in a life-threatening situation, (e.g. Epinephrine for a severe reaction to a bee/wasp sting). Therefore, the parent releases the District from any liability or damage which may occur to the child from the administration of injectable medication.
• In accordance with state law, we will administer emergency epinephrine to any student exhibiting signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis.

All syringes used for the administration of injectable medication must be disposed of in the appropriate sharps container provided for this purpose in each building office or given to the EMS if an emergency medication such as an EpiPen was used.

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UNAUTHORIZED MEDICATION

If a student is found with a medication in his/her possession, his/her record should be checked to determine if the proper authorization is on file. If not, the matter is to be reported to the principal for disciplinary action. The principal may use one or more of the following procedures, depending on the particular situation:

• Contact the parent and arrange for the parent to submit the Medication Prescriber/Parent Authorization Form for Self-Administration/Self Possession as soon as possible;
• Take the medication from the student and keep it in the office until a completed form has been submitted;
• Place the student in school restriction for failure to abide by school rules;
• Suspend the student from school.

The purpose of any disciplinary action on this matter should be to make it clear to all students and parents, that, because of its policy on drug use, the school cannot allow possession or use of any form of unauthorized drug or medication at any time.

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Children are most successful in school when they are present for as many days as possible. However, children who are sick need to stay home if they will not be able to concentrate sufficiently on learning or if they may cause others to become sick.

To help reduce the spread of illness to students and staff, please keep your child home for the following reasons:

• Temperature Greater than 100°: Your child should be fever free (without being medicated) for 24 hours before returning to school.
• Rash: Check with a doctor before bringing a child to school with a rash.
• Vomiting: A child may return to school after s/he has not thrown up for 24 hours and is back on a regular diet.
• Diarrhea: A child who has a loose stool more than one time in 24 hours should stay home. S/he may return to school after being diarrhea free for 24 hours.
• Cough/Cold: A child with a severe or frequent cough and a runny nose is likely not to feel well enough to concentrate sufficiently on learning. S/he would benefit from more rest and fluids at home.
• Doctor Recommendation: If a child has been prescribed an antibiotic, check with the doctor to see if the child needs to be on medication 24 hours prior to returning to school.

CONTROL OF CASUAL CONTACT COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AND PESTS

Because a school has a high concentration of people, it is necessary to take specific measures when the health or safety of the group is at risk. The school’s professional staff has the authority to remove or isolate a student who has been ill or has been exposed to a communicable disease or highly transient pest, such as lice.

Specific diseases include meriting exclusion: diphtheria, scarlet fever, strep infections, whooping cough, mumps, measles, rubella, and other conditions indicated by the Local and State Health Departments.

Any removal will only be for the contagious period as specified in the school’s administrative guidelines.

CONTROL OF NON-CASUAL CONTACT COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

In the case of non-casual contact communicable diseases, the school still has the obligation to protect the safety of the staff and students. In these cases, the person in question will have his/her status reviewed by a panel of resource people, including the County Health Department, to ensure that the rights of the person affected and those in contact with that person are respected. The school will seek to keep students and staff persons in school unless there is definitive evidence to warrant exclusion.

Non-casual contact communicable diseases include sexually transmitted diseases; AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome); ARC-AIDS Related Complex (condition); HIV (Human-immunodeficiency); HBV; HCV (Hepatitis B, C); and other diseases that may be specified by the State Board of Health.

As required by Federal law, parents will be requested to have their child’s blood checked for HIV, HBV, and other blood-borne pathogens when the child has bled at school and students or staff members have been exposed to the blood. Any testing is subject to laws protecting confidentiality.

Administrative guidelines are in place for students with food anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction to a specific food). Common causes of food anaphylaxis are peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy and dairy. Parents of students in K-8 classes with a severely food allergic child will be informed of the specific food the student is allergic to through the classroom teacher’s newsletter and are requested not to bring the food causing the allergy to the classroom. Parents are encouraged to provide ingredient lists for all baked goods brought to the classroom of the student with food anaphylaxis. Ingredients in prepackaged food should be checked prior to distribution in the classroom. If indicated, certain cafeteria tables may be permanently designated as nut-free or allergen-free tables to avoid cross contamination. 

• Agri-science
• Automotive Technology
• Building Trades
• CAD/CAM and Engineering Technology
• Child Care Services
• Computer Servicing
• Cooperative Education - Capstone Experience
• Cosmetology
• GraphX
• Health Sciences Technology
• Hospitality and Culinary Arts
• Machine Tool Technology
• Marketing
• Turf/Landscape Management
• Visual Imaging Technology
• Welding and Fabrication Technology

If you suspect your child may have a disability, please contact any of the following: your child’s teacher, principal, or Anne Nakon, Director of Special Education for Dexter Community Schools at 734-424-4100, ext. 6052. A Parent Information Handbook for Special Education is available from the Dexter Special Education Office and on the Dexter Commu­nity Schools’ website at dexterschools.org/departments/special-education.

Early On is the State of Michigan Early Intervention program. It provides services for children from birth to three years of age who have medical problems or who are delayed in:

• physical development (movement, hearing, vision, etc.)
• communication
• learning ability
• self-help (feeding, dressing, etc.)
• social or emotional development

Early On provides evaluation/assessment, coordination of services, and an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Early On services may include speech, occupational and physical therapy, home visits and nursing services and are generally provided at no charge. Early On is administered by the Washtenaw Intermediate School District. For more information, please visit: http://washtenawisd.org/departments/early-childhood/early-intervention.

About Jenkins ECLC

The Jenkins Early Childhood Learning Center (Jenkins ECLC) is part of the Dexter Community Schools, ultimately responsible to the Board of Education and the Superintendent.

Our 2014 merger with the center formerly known as Generations Together was made possible by a very generous donation from Dexter’s own Jenkins family in honor of their father, Phil Jenkins. Our partnership with HighScope Educational Foundation ensures our programs and curriculum are in line with the very latest research into early childhood development. The HighScope curriculum is an active learning curriculum that promotes hands-on learning. HighScope has over fifty years of validated research in early childhood education.

Jenkins Early Childhood Learning Center is licensed by the State of Michigan's Department of Human Services Bureau of Children and Adult Licensing. We comply with all state regulations for preschools (safety, sanitation, supervision, equipment, etc.).

Non-Discrimination

Dexter Community Schools guarantees access to all classes, programs, activities and services without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category. 

Contact Us

Gina Benson, Director

bensong@dexterschools.org

2801 Baker Rd. Dexter, MI 48130

734-424-4180

• ext.1411 (front desk)
• ext. 1413 (director)

fax: 734-426-9515

ENROLLMENT

• We enroll students in our full-day programs on a rolling basis as space allows.
• Registration for half-day and school-day preschool opens in late February/early March for currently enrolled families, then for new-to-Jenkins DCS staff, then for the general public.

Currently enrolled families and district employees receive first priority for available spots. We maintain a waiting list for all interested families. 

Currently employed full-time Dexter Community Schools staff receive a 20% discount on Jenkins tuition. 

SCHOOL-AGE CARE PROGRAMS

Dexter Community Education operates an after-school program for working families who need care beyond the regular school hours for children in Young Five/kindergarten through sixth grade. The program has consolidated care for all buildings at the Bates building (2704 Baker Road) and runs from the end of school time to 6:00 pm. Our on-site program is convenient, safe, flexible, affordable, and staffed by professionals in the educational field. Our program is licensed and follows the rules that govern child­care centers in the State of Michigan.

Students enrolled in our program participate in fun activities and events specifically designed for the building grade level. Opportunities for art projects, literacy, gym, games, homework, snack time, and socializing are a part of the daily schedule. Our “flexible” scheduling allows working families to choose two to five days of care for their student.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT/NON-SCHOOL DAYS

Dexter Community Education provides programming for most District non-school days. When school is not in session for either a full or half-day, we offer special programs for students in grades Young Five-6^th. Our programs are fun and age-appropriate. They incorporate a wide variety of activities, projects, and presentations. They also include off-site learning opportunities to develop and enhance children’s interests and awareness of the world around them. Please note that after-school care is closed when school is canceled due to weather.

SUMMER PROGRAMS

Community Education offers a summer camp program for students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Camp Dexter offers weekly themes packed full of incredible activities. Each week includes swimming one day a week at the Wylie Pool and other days at off-site field trips. Camp Dexter enrollment is by the week, and registration begins in March.

RECREATION

Community Education offers recreational opportunities for athletes of all ages from the preschooler joining a soccer team for the first time to the senior citizen participating in Senior Water Aerobics at the Dexter Community Pool. Programs are offered throughout the year. Popular adult classes include: Yoga, Men’s & Women’s Recreation Basketball, and Dog Obedience. Youth opportunities include: spring, summer, and fall soccer, flag football, basketball, and field hockey. The most current Community Education brochure can be viewed on the Dexter Community Education web site: www.dexterschools.org/departments/community-education/catalog.

ENRICHMENT

Adult enrichment classes provide area residents with opportunities to explore various areas of interest such as dog obedience, crochet, and yoga, to name a few. Youth enrichment classes are offered throughout the school year and in the summer. Some popular youth classes include art classes, science classes, theater, and SAT prep. Please visit our website at www.dexterschools.org/departments/community-education/catalog to review the most current class offerings.

For your convenience Dexter Community Education has added online registration for many of our programs. This uses eleyo software. Eleyo is also used to pay for preschool tuition, field trips, class fees, and athletics pay to participate fees. To create an account or log into an existing account and register for classes, please visit our eleyo website. 

Community Education staff are happy to assist customers with the registration process. If you need assistance, please call the office at 734-424-4180.

Outside of regular school hours, Dexter Community Schools buildings and grounds facilities are available for public use. The Community Education Office handles all facility reservations: classrooms, gyms, cafeterias, theaters, media centers, sport fields, playgrounds, pools, and parking. School district facilities will be reserved on a space-available basis according to the following priority list:

1. DCS Academic Programs
2. DCS Athletic Department Events
3. Community Education Programs and Events
4. Public Rentals: Dexter community organizations, clubs, and residents; then non-local organizations, clubs, and non-residents.

Fees depend on location, duration of the events, and whether any special services are required. Our fee schedule and reservation forms are posted on our website: www.dexterschools.org/departments/community-education/facility-rentals. Before completing a facility reservation request, please review the Facility Calendar on our website to see if the space you desire is available. Space reservation requests must be turned in at least fifteen (15) days before the requested date. In the event that Dexter Community Schools are closed due to weather or building issues, reservations are usually cancelled. We will make every effort to reschedule any cancelled event whenever feasible.

Dexter Community Schools is part of a national network of schools that are showcasing healthful changes in school meals and nutrition awareness. We offer nutritious choices that create balanced meals. School meal programs can help develop lifelong healthy food behaviors and improve attitudes toward education and lifestyle. Our lunch menus are specifically designed to grow with students, offering increased choices and age-appropriate food preferences as your child matures. Each day we offer students a variety of meal selections to encourage and expand their food preferences and nutritional awareness. All meals include fresh fruits and vegetables. Throughout the year, we feature local items on our menu. Food recipes and preparation methods are developed to provide optimal nutrition, while remaining low in fat and sodium.

Our food quality is of great importance to us and lunch menus are planned to provide one-third of your child’s recommended daily allowances for key nutrients. We also offer breakfast at all of our schools. Please contact us for assistance with any allergy or dietary concerns. We are proud to report all lunches include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins and milk following the recommendations set forth by the US Dietary Guidelines.

Monthly menus are available at https://dexterschools.nutrislice.com/ for the convenience of our students and families. Through this site, specific information regarding allergens and nutrient analysis can be accessed.

Free and reduced-price meal benefits are available from the federal government. We welcome applications at any time during the school year. We wish to assure all applicants that any information submitted to the Food & Nutrition Department is held in strict confidence. The process is handled with complete discretion and our meal debit system prevents students from being identified in the cafeteria line. We urge all families who might qualify for benefits from this program to apply. If you have questions and/or need assistance with this application, please contact Jennifer Mattison, Director of Food & Nutrition, at 734-424-4186.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS

Parents and Guardians may make lunch money deposits, monitor your student’s purchases, and check balances free of charge by setting up a Meal Magic account at dexter.familyportal.cloud.  Should you choose to make an online credit card deposit, there is a $2.95 charge for credit cards and a $1.50 charge for E-check.  Please remember, we always welcome your personal checks at no additional fee. If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Student Accounts Manager at 734-424-4185 or 734-424-4100 ext. 1503.

ACCOUNT BALANCES

Parents/Guardians are encouraged to make meal payments in advance. Student accounts are not allowed to carry a negative balance. Parents will be contacted in regards to student balances via email, phone, and letters home to inform families of current balance status. If account balances are not paid, the Food & Nutrition Department and school administration will work with the parent/guardian using reasonable means to obtain payments or to assist in completing a Free and Reduced Price Meals Application.  Each situation will be assessed based on grade level and individual case by case circumstances. For more information on our procedures regarding student negative balances please see our DCS Meal Charge, Collections & Bad Debt Procedure at https://www.dexterschools.org/departments/fandn.  

ACCOUNT ROLLOVERS/REFUNDS

All student meal account balances roll from year to year throughout their career with Dexter Community Schools.  If a refund is needed due to a move or graduation, please complete the Refund Request Form and return it to Food & Nutrition.  All requests must be received within six months of a student’s departure from the district. Any funds remaining in accounts of students who have left the district after this time will be transferred to a sibling account or to the Dreadnaught Meal Scholarship Fund.

All users must have a signed Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) form on file at Dexter Community Schools. This form can be completed electronically as part of the back-to-school forms review. Middle school and older students must annually acknowledge receipt of guidelines regarding proper use of email. Users must belong to one of the following groups to have an email account on the Dexter Community Schools domain: a student in good standing at Dexter Community Schools (DCS), a staff person who is paid by DCS (includes elected Board members), or a community member who is currently on a Board-appointed committee.

Staff email addresses use this convention: lastnamefirstinitial@dexterschools.org. If you are in doubt about a staff email, please search the District Directory on our website: www.dexterschools.org/directory. Student email addresses use this format: firstname.lastname@dexterschools.org. Only high school students are able to email outside the dexterschools.org domain. Students in grades K-8 can only communicate via email with other users who have @dexterschools.org email addresses. This means that if a student in those grades tries to email someone with an external domain (e.g., [insert name]@gmail.com) they will receive an error message.

Outside of regular school hours, Dexter Community Schools buildings and grounds facilities are available for public use. The Community Education Office handles all facility reservations: classrooms, gyms, cafeterias, theaters, media centers, sport fields, playgrounds, pools, and parking. School district facilities will be reserved on a space-available basis according to the following priority list:

1. DCS Academic Programs
2. DCS Athletic Department Events
3. Community Education Programs and Events
4. Public Rentals: Dexter community organizations, clubs, and residents; then non-local organizations, clubs, and non-residents.

Fees depend on location, duration of the events, and whether any special services are required. Our fee schedule and reservation forms are posted on our website: www.dexterschools.org/departments/community-education/facility-rentals. Before completing a facility reservation request, please review the Facility Calendar on our website to see if the space you desire is available. Space reservation requests must be turned in at least fifteen (15) days before the requested date. In the event that Dexter Community Schools are closed due to weather or building issues, reservations are usually cancelled. We will make every effort to reschedule any cancelled event whenever feasible.

As part of Dexter Community Schools’ Integrated Pest Management program, students, parents or guardians have the right to be noti­fied prior to the application of pesticides in the buildings or on the grounds. Whenever possible, the District will post a pesticide application notification on the front page of its website (www.dexterschools.org) forty-eight hours prior to application. To be personally notified prior to the application of pesticides, the student’s parent or guardian must request and return a “Pesticide Prior Notification Request Form.” The form may be obtained from:

Brian Schuler, Facilities Director
7960 Shield Road, Dexter, MI 48130
734-424-4100 ext. 1201

Please understand that emergencies can arise and that pesticides may be applied without prior notice to parents or guardians. In those cases, parents or guardians who have requested prior notice will be notified after pesticide application. Application of pesticides will be performed only by certified, licensed, or registered applicators where and when required. If a pesticide is applied in a building, students will not occupy the room for a minimum of four hours. A sign will be posted at the building’s primary point of entry 48 hours in advance of the pesticide application. When pesticide is applied to the District grounds, the application will be at least 100 feet away from an occupied classroom. This notice is given pursuant to the requirements under the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act 451.

At times, poor weather can delay school buses. Prior to sending your child to meet a bus in poor weather conditions please make sure they are dressed appropriately. Delays of fifteen (15) minutes to one half hour may occur on some routes while others run on time. The Transportation office will send a text and an email when they are aware buses will be ten minutes or more late. Contact their office for additional delay information at 734-424-4190.

NO-TRANSPORT ZONE

As a result of a long-term, nationwide shortage of bus drivers making it extremely difficult to provide busing to all houses within the DCS district boundaries, the District implemented a no-transport zone effective September 2024. The no-transport zone includes households within an approximately 1.5-mile radius of the DCS bus hub. The no-transport zone is outlined in detail on our transportation website. There is an additional area of no-transport for high school students only, in the Bates Farm neighborhood across Shield Road from Dexter High School. Students whose families reside within the zone may not ride DCS buses to school. 

Shuttles

To reduce the need for our youngest students to cross major roads in the morning, students in grades young 5 through 4th grade will have the option of walking to a shuttle bus stop at one of three locations: close to Lions Park, Huron Farms, and Dexter Crossing. This shuttle will only run in the morning. 

For Creekside and Dexter High School students who are heading to school from the far east boundaries of our no-transport zone, they will be able to ride a shuttle from the solar walkway at the Wylie bus hub to their respective buildings, and back again in the afternoon. 

Shuttle pick-up times and precise locations will be posted on our website with all the bus routes. 

We encourage all families to plan their travel to and from school accordingly for their individual needs, to plan and practice safe routes to school, and to dress appropriately for the expected weather conditions.