Tumwater school board reviews policies on disabilities, phone usage and school visits 

The Tumwater School District Board of Directors held the first reading on policies that safeguard students with disabilities, manage school visitors and regulate telecommunication device usage. 

The policies for students with disabilities and device usage were already adopted and recently updated, while the community access policy is a new proposal.  

Assistant Superintendent Meagan Dawson led the discussion on the three policies at an Aug. 27 school board meeting. 

Students with disabilities 

Policy 2162 (Instruction), or the Education of Students with Disabilities Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, was updated to align with changes in state student discipline law and clarify corresponding language. 

The definition of a “qualified disabled person” was added to the policy, which is an individual between the ages of 3 and 21 years old, who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a record of such an impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment. 

“It also talks about when students are using medication — you can't revoke eligibility … just because students are using medication,” Dawson said. 

The update included new discipline requirements, such as an obligation to continue providing educational services during suspensions or expulsions. 

Telecommunication devices 

Policy 3245 (Students), entitled Students and Telecommunication Devices, sets expectations for student use of telecommunications devices within school premises and during school-sponsored activities.  

The policy limits device usage during school days, except in emergencies or authorized instances, and also prohibits usage that disrupts learning, compromises academic integrity, violates privacy, or involves inappropriate or unlawful content. 

“It also outlines our authority to confiscate. When supported by reasonable suspicion, we can search devices for violations of school rules or law,” Dawson said. 

Students are expected to be responsible for the devices they bring to school, and the district will not be responsible for the loss, theft or destruction of the devices. 

Community access 

The newly proposed Policy 4200 (Community Relations), entitled Family/Community Access and Safe and Orderly Learning Environment, sets guidelines for school visitors. 

“The new policy more clearly outlines the purpose and process for visitors in our buildings, as well as provides clear direction for school personnel when someone is not following our policies or procedures,” wrote Director of Communications & Community Relations Laurie Wiedenmeyer in a memorandum. 

The policy states staff will not be unreasonably interrupted during work time except in emergencies. 

To protect student and staff safety, or prevent disruption of school operations, the principal or designee has the authority to limit, postpone, deny or withdraw approval for a visit when necessary.  

The policy aligns with the draft Washington State School Directors' Association model policy, and merges with the district’s Policy 4009, entitled School Visitation Rights of Non-Students, which will be discontinued.