Handbook

To ensure full transparency and provide a deeper understanding of the standards governing our elementary schools, this handbook includes clickable links to the official Tooele County School District (TCSD) policies, Utah State Board of Education (USBE) board rules, Utah Code, and Federal Laws. The Tooele County Board of Education derives its legal authority for making and enforcing these rules from Utah Code § 53G-4-402, which mandates the control and management of district schools. While this handbook provides summaries to assist families, the linked source documents contain the full, substantive legal language and detailed procedural steps that district administration must follow. 

Stakeholders are strongly encouraged to click these links to verify the most current versions of policies, as they are reviewed and updated regularly—at least every seven years or when prompted by new state or federal legislation. Reviewing the source material directly is particularly important for understanding due process rights, privacy protections under FERPA, and the specific safety standards designed to create an environment where every child can live, learn, and flourish. Please note that if any conflict arises between the text of this handbook and official Board Policy, the Board Policy shall govern. 

• Equal Opportunity & Non-Discrimination (TCSD Policy 4013): The district is committed to an environment free from unlawful discrimination based on race, color, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, age, or disability. This policy establishes the duty of district administration to investigate all reported infractions promptly and prohibits any form of retaliation against individuals who file complaints in good faith. 

  • Citations: Utah Code § 34a-5-106. 

• Title IX (TCSD Policy 6034): This policy specifically addresses sex-based discrimination and sexual harassment among students, adhering to the requirements of federal rule 34 CFR Part 106. It outlines the district's obligation to provide "supportive measures," such as counseling or schedule modifications, and defines a formal grievance process that includes a thorough investigation and a determination of responsibility by a neutral decision-maker. 
   

• Community Council (TCSD Policy 7001): Each school is required to establish a council composed of employees and parent members to involve the community in school-level decision-making. One primary duty of the council is to develop the School LAND Trust Program plan, which uses state-allocated funds to directly impact student instruction in critical academic areas such as ELA, Mathematics, and Science. 

  • Citation: Utah Code § 53G-7-1202. 

• Volunteers (TCSD Policy 7002): School volunteers are vital to the district's mission but must adhere to safety guidelines, including required background checks for those in qualifying positions. Serving as a volunteer is a privilege, not an entitlement, and can be terminated by administration if it becomes a disruption or poses a safety concern. 

• Purpose & Scope (TCSD Policy 1009): This policy establishes the legal authority of the Board of Education to create and enforce rules for the management of district schools, as authorized by Utah Code § 53G-4-402. It defines the substantive process for initiating, amending, or repealing policies, requiring that proposals undergo executive review and multiple board readings where patrons can provide public comment via the district’s policy system. 

• Accessibility Statement (TCSD Policy 5033): In compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), this policy mandates that the district does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, age, or disability. It specifically requires each school to provide a notice of non-discrimination in their student handbooks and annually notify persons with disabilities of the school’s responsibilities and available procedural safeguards. 

• Grading & Academic Progress (TCSD Policy 11012): Grades must accurately reflect academic proficiency in relation to Utah Core Standards, and behavior or attendance cannot be included in the academic grade. Teachers must provide disclosures that follow university or USBE grading requirements, and midterm reports are provided to notify parents of potential failing grades. 

• Special Education (TCSD SpEd Manual): The district ensures a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for all students with disabilities by adhering to state and federal IDEA regulations. This includes systematic IEP reviews, placement in the least restrictive environment (LRE), and providing a continuum of alternative placements to meet individual needs. 

• Citation: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 34 CFR § 300 

• Multilingual Learners (TCSD Policy 11016): This policy outlines the requirements for identifying English learners and providing evidence-based instructional programs like ESL or dual immersion. It ensures that families receive necessary interpretation and translation services for registration, IEP meetings, and disciplinary proceedings. 

• Citation: Utah Admin. Rule R277-716. 

• Academic Integrity (TCSD Policy 5070): Tooele values original work as essential for critical thinking and personal success. The policy strictly prohibits cheating and plagiarism, specifically defining the unauthorized use of Generative AI as a form of academic dishonesty. 

• Maturation Education (TCSD Policy 11014): Medically accurate instruction regarding physical and emotional changes associated with puberty is provided to 5th or 6th-grade students. This instruction requires prior written parental consent, and parents have the right to review all materials and be present during delivery. 

• Compulsory Attendance (TCSD Policy 5021): Per Utah law, parents of students aged 6 to 18 are responsible for enrolling and sending their children to school. Valid excuses for absence include illness, family death, or absences permitted by an IEP or 504 plan, and parents must notify the school within one week of the absence. 

• TCSD Attendance Procedures

• Citation: Utah Code § 53G-6-201 et seq.; Utah Admin. Rule R277-607. 

• Homebound Instruction (TCSD Policy 11018): This service provides short-term instruction for students confined to home or a hospital for at least ten consecutive days due to medical, behavioral, or mental health needs. Referrals must be approved by the Case Management Team (CMT) to ensure the student remains educationally connected. 

• Bullying, Hazing & Retaliation (TCSD Policy 6032): These acts are strictly prohibited on school property, during school-sponsored activities, and on buses. The policy mandates a prompt and reasonable investigation process, including interviews with the alleged victim and perpetrator, while maintaining confidentiality to the extent permitted by law. 

• Citations: Utah Code § 53G-9-601; Utah Admin. Rule R277-613.

Parent and Family Engagement (TCSD Policy 7003): The district actively seeks to build strong partnerships with families to support academic success. Procedures include regularly scheduled report cards, parent-teacher conferences, and initiatives to break down language or cultural barriers to engagement. 

• Concussion Protocol (TCSD Policy 5045): In compliance with Utah Admin. Code R277-614, any student suspected of a traumatic head injury must be immediately removed from activity. A student cannot return to participation until they have been evaluated and cleared in writing by a qualified healthcare provider. 

• Period Products (HB 162): The district provides free period products (tampons/napkins) in all female or unisex restrooms within elementary school facilities to ensure no student misses school due to lack of access. 

• Citation: Utah House Bill 162. 

• Immunizations (TCSD Policy 5062): Students may not attend school without a verified record of required vaccines, proof of immunity, or a valid medical/religious exemption form. Conditional enrollment of 30 days is permitted for military children to meet these requirements. 

• Citation: Utah Code § 53G-9-302. 

• Medications (TCSD Policy 4020): This policy governs the administration of medication by school personnel, requiring a signed provider statement and parental authorization. It provides civil liability immunity for school personnel who substantially comply with these written health care professional statements. 

• Food Guidelines & Wellness (TCSD Policy 5032): The district promotes healthy habits through nutrition education and physical activity. Elementary schools do not allow food and beverage vending machines for student use, and all competitive food items sold on campus must meet federal "Smart Snacks" standards. 

• Child Abuse Reporting (TCSD Policy 5015): All school personnel are mandated by law to report suspected child abuse or neglect immediately to DCFS at 1-855-323-3237 or local law enforcement. 

• Citation: Utah Code § 53E-6-701. 

• Emergency Interventions (TCSD Policy 5047): This policy regulates the use of seclusion or physical restraint only when a student’s behavior presents an immediate danger of serious physical harm to themselves or others. 

• Citation: Utah Admin. Rule R277-609. 

• Threat Assessment (TCSD Policy 6030): The district evaluates students who indicate they present a risk of harm to determine appropriate educational placement. Referrals are made to the Case Management Team (CMT) for a formal Risk Evaluation using evidence-based tools. 

• Dress Code (TCSD Policy 5004): The district seeks a balance between individual expression and a safe learning environment, recognizing that grooming affects student behavior. Clothing must be safe and clean, and accommodations are allowed for sincerely held religious beliefs. 

• Meals / Lunch (TCSD Policy 5049): The district ensures access to nutritious meals and will not deny a meal in the serving line due to a negative account balance. It establishes a formal protocol for notifying parents regarding payment methods and money owed. 

• Lockers & Storage (TCSD Policy 6031): School-owned storage areas remain under the district's control. Students have no expectation of privacy in these areas, and lockers are subject to search at any time, with or without reasonable suspicion. 

• Citation: Utah Code Ann. § 53G-8-509. 

• Media Center (TCSD Policy 11004): Library personnel are responsible for creating collections that reflect a diversity of ideas and meet age-appropriate standards. The policy outlines a transparent "Sensitive Materials Review" process for parents or students to request the reconsideration of specific materials. 

• Citation: Utah Admin. Rule R277-628. 

• Student Clubs (TCSD Policy 5034): This policy provides for curricular clubs related to school courses and non-curricular clubs, provided they do not advocate for illegal acts or interfere with school operations. All clubs require informed, written parental and student consent for participation. 

• Kindergarten Toilet Training (TCSD Policy 5072): Students must be toilet trained to enroll in kindergarten unless the lack of training results from a condition addressed by an IEP or 504 plan. If a student is not trained, the district will coordinate with parents to create an individualized plan. 

• USBE Rule: Utah Admin. Rule R277-631. 

• Authority to Search (TCSD Policy 6031): School officials may search student property—including bags, electronic devices, and vehicles—whenever there is reasonable suspicion of a violation of law or school rules. 

• Citation: Utah Code Ann. § 53G-8-509. 

• Canine Searches (TCSD Policy 5037): Trained canines may be used to sniff lockers and vehicles in school parking lots. A positive alert by a canine constitutes reasonable suspicion but requires a search warrant for a full vehicle search. 

• Discipline Philosophy (TCSD Policy 6001): TCSD affirmations state that every student is a person of value, and discipline is viewed as a developmental process focused on training rather than purely punitive measures. The goal is to teach appropriate alternative behaviors while maintaining an orderly and safe atmosphere conducive to learning for all students. 

• Safe Schools Policy & Grounds for Discipline (TCSD Policy 6008 & 6009): These policies define prohibited behaviors, such as willful disobedience, property destruction, and threats to safety. Mandatory suspension is required for violations involving weapons or controlled substances, and students are entitled to a notice and hearing before penalties are assessed. 

• Citations: Utah Code Annotated Sections 53G-8-1; Utah Admin. Rule R277-609. 

• Detention After Regular School Hours (TCSD Policy 6017): Students in grades K through 6 may be detained after regular school hours for discipline if the administrator determines it is justified. Parents or guardians must receive prior notice of the detention for that specific day, unless detention is necessary for immediate health or safety. 

• Citation: Utah Code § 53A-3-415. 

• Student Records (TCSD Policy 8017): This policy protects the privacy of "education records," defining the rights of parents and eligible students to inspect and request amendments to inaccurate data. 

• Citations: Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA),  20 U.S.C. § 1232g 

Video and Audio Surveillance (TCSD Policy 6033): Surveillance devices are utilized on district property and buses to protect the health and safety of students and staff. These recordings are classified as protected records under the Government Records Access Management Act (GRAMA). 

• Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) (TCSD Policy 5039): Students are granted network access for educational and career development purposes and are expected to follow digital citizenship rules. Prohibited acts include accessing unapproved social media or sharing personal information, and misuse can lead to disciplinary action. 

• Internet Filtering (TCSD Policy 5046): TCSD complies with the federal Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) by using automated content filters to restrict access to obscene or harmful material on all district devices. 

• Electronic Devices (TCSD Policy 5031): Personal electronic devices, such as cell phones and smart watches, must remain turned off and out of sight during school hours unless an exception is made for medical needs or an IEP. Inappropriate use, such as recording in private areas like locker rooms, is strictly forbidden and may result in confiscation. 

• Citation: Utah Admin. Rule R277-495-3, Utah S.B. 178 

• Bus Conduct & Safety (TCSD Policy 5028): Eligibility for busing is determined by distance from the school (1.5 miles for elementary, 2 miles for secondary). The policy establishes safe riding rules and authorizes the use of video cameras to monitor conduct. 

• Citation: Utah Admin. Rule R277-600-4. 

• Tobacco-Free District (TCSD Policy 5005): The use, possession, or distribution of any tobacco or nicotine product is prohibited 24/7 on all district property and at school functions. The district implements prevention curricula aligned with Utah Clean Air Act Section 26-38-2. 

• Drug & Alcohol Enforcement (TCSD Policy 6012): Possession or use of controlled substances leads to immediate suspension. Re-admittance often requires the student to complete an approved drug and alcohol prevention program. 

APPENDIX A — FERPA ANNUAL NOTICE (FULL TEXT) 

NOTICE OF PARENT AND STUDENT RIGHTS: FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT The Tooele County School District maintains general education records required by law. A student’s school records are private and are protected from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the time that the student enters the District until the student withdraws or graduates, and this record moves with the students from school to school. By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is a minor or a dependent for tax purposes, as do students who are 18 years of age or older. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights. 

Parent Rights: 

1. Inspect and Review: The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the District receives a request for access. 

2. Request Amendment: The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights. 

3. Consent to Disclosure: The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information (PII), except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent (such as to school officials with a legitimate educational interest). 

4. File a Complaint: The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if the parent feels the District is not in compliance with the law regarding student records. 

5. Federal Laws: Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA),  20 U.S.C. § 1232g 

6. Utah Code: Utah Code § 53G-6-604. 

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APPENDIX B — DIRECTORY INFORMATION NOTICE 

Certain information about District students is considered directory information. This information will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it, unless the parent objects in writing to the Principal within ten school days after the issuance of this notice. 

Directory information includes: 

• Student’s name, address, and telephone listing. 

• Date and place of birth. 

• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports. 

• Weight and height of members of athletic teams. 

• Dates of attendance and awards received in school. 

• The most recent previous school attended. 

• Federal Rule: 34 C.F.R. § 99.37. 

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APPENDIX D — ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FEES NOTICE (FULL TEXT) 

The Utah Constitution prohibits the charging of fees in elementary schools. If a child is in kindergarten through grade six, they cannot be charged for textbooks, classroom equipment, supplies, musical instruments, field trips, assemblies, or anything else that takes place during the regular school day. 

Exceptions: Fees may only be charged for programs offered before or after school, or during school vacations. Fees may also be charged for a student in grade six who attends a school that follows a secondary model (e.g., a 7-12 school). An elementary school may provide a suggested list of student supplies for use during the regular school day, but these must be preceded by a notice stating that they may be brought on a voluntary basis and will otherwise be furnished by the school. 

• Utah Constitution: Article X, Sections 2 and 3. 

• USBE Rule: Utah Admin. Rule R277-407. 

• Utah Code: Utah Code § 53G-7-501 et seq.. 

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APPENDIX F — NON-DISCRIMINATION NOTICE 

It shall be the policy of Tooele County School District that this district does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, age, or disability in admission or access to, the treatment or employment in, its programs and activities. Any person having inquiries concerning school compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Section 504 is directed to contact school administration at each building, or the district 504 director. 

• Federal Laws: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 

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APPENDIX G — TITLE IX NOTICE 

TCSD is committed to providing educational opportunities to students without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, or disability. The Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its programs and activities and is required by Title IX and 34 CFR Part 106 not to discriminate in such a manner in admission or employment. 

• Federal Rule: 34 CFR Part 106. 

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APPENDIX K — PPRA (EDUCATION AND FAMILY PRIVACY) NOTICE 

(Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment) Except as permitted for crisis intervention, the District prohibits the administration of any psychiatric examination, testing, treatment, or survey without prior written parental consent if the primary purpose is to reveal information concerning political affiliations, mental problems, sexual behavior/attitudes, illegal behavior, critical appraisals of family, legally privileged relationships, religious beliefs, or income. A school may not provide either a reward or a consequence to a student for participation or lack of participation in any such survey or evaluation. 

• Utah Code: Utah Code § 53E-9-203. 

• Federal Law: Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment, 20 U.S.C. § 1232h. 

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APPENDIX L — CHILD ABUSE REPORTING NOTICE 

In compliance with Utah Code §53E-6-701, all school employees are required to report suspected child abuse or neglect immediately upon reasonable suspicion to the Utah Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) or local law enforcement. Employees may not investigate independently. Individuals making reports in good faith are protected from civil or criminal liability. 

• Utah Code: Utah Code § 53E-6-701; Utah Code § 80-2-602. 

• USBE Rule: Utah Admin. Rule R277-401. 

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APPENDIX M — BULLYING / SAFE SCHOOLS REPORTING 

Bullying, cyber-bullying, harassment, and hazing are against federal, state, and local policy and are not tolerated. Reporting Procedures: Students, parents, and staff may report bullying, cyberbullying, or hazing directly to school administration, through a teacher, or via the SafeUT app. The district prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports concerns in good faith. 

•  Utah Code § 53G-9-601; Utah Admin. Rule R277-613. 

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APPENDIX N — FORMAL COMPLAINT / GRIEVANCE PROCESS 

Purpose: The district provides a formal process for resolving complaints related to discrimination, harassment, bullying, and policy violations. 

• Step 1 — Informal Resolution (Recommended): Individuals are encouraged to first address concerns with school staff or administration. 

• Step 2 — Formal Complaint: A formal complaint may be submitted in writing to the School Principal or District Administrator, including a description of the concern, relevant dates, and requested resolution. 

• Step 3 — Investigation: The district will review and investigate the complaint. Relevant parties may be interviewed, and evidence will be reviewed. 

• Step 4 — Decision: A written response will be provided, and actions will be taken as appropriate. 

• Step 5 — Appeal: If unresolved, the complainant may appeal to District Office leadership or the Board of Education (if applicable). 

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APPENDIX O — CONCUSSION ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM 

Any student suspected of sustaining a concussion or traumatic head injury shall be immediately removed from participation and may not resume until evaluated and cleared in writing by a qualified healthcare provider. 

• Qualified Health Care Provider: A provider licensed under Utah Code Title 58 who may evaluate and manage a concussion within their scope of practice. 

• Return to Play: Requires a written statement from the provider and stepwise progression to full activity. 

• USBE Rule: Utah Admin. Code R277-614