Health and Safety

Health and Safety Policy D. 10.0

Policy:  Immunizations

Initial student enrollment, and continued enrollment, in a Green Dot school shall not be granted unless documentary proof of the student’s immunization status is presented at the time of enrollment, and the student has been fully immunized, and maintains full immunizations, against all of the diseases listed in California Health and Safety Code section 120335 within the time periods designated by the State of California.  Students who do not present such documentary proof or are not fully immunized within the appropriate time periods are not allowed a grace period for initial enrollment.  Currently enrolled students who fail to maintain full immunizations against all of the diseases listed in California Health and Safety Code section 120335 shall be excluded for attending school until presenting documentary proof of being fully immunized.

Exemptions 

Prior to January 1, 2016, California law permitted parents/guardians to elect an exemption from certain immunization requirements based upon personal beliefs.  

As of January 1, 2016, California law does not allow parents/guardians to elect any such exemption.  (Cal. Health and Saf. Code, § 120375.) However, a parent/guardian may elect an exemption if his/her child has, prior to January 1, 2016, submitted a letter or affidavit on file at a private or public elementary or secondary school, child day care center, day nursery, nursery school, family day care home, or development center stating beliefs opposed to immunization.  If a parent/guardian elects such a permissible exemption, the child shall be allowed enrollment until the pupil enrolls in the next grade span (e.g., grades 7 to 12, inclusive).  

On and after July 1, 2016, Green Dot shall not unconditionally enroll for the first time, enroll, or advance any pupil to 7th grade unless the pupil has been immunized for his/her age as required by law.  (Cal. Health and Saf. Code, § 120335.)  (“Unconditional enrollment” is enrollment based upon documentation of receipt of all required immunizations or upon documentation of a permanent medical exemption to immunization in accordance with Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations section 6051.)  

A parent/guardian may file with Green Dot a written statement by a licensed physician to the effect that the physical condition of the child is such, or medical circumstances relating to the child are such, that immunization is not considered safe, indicating the specific nature and probable duration of the medical condition or circumstances, including, but not limited to, family medical history, for which the physician does not recommend immunization.  (Cal. Health and Saf. Code, § 120370.)  If Green Dot receives such a written statement, that child shall be exempt from the foregoing immunization requirements to the extent indicated by the physician’s statement.  

Tuberculosis Tests for Pupils

As part of the comprehensive health screening required for school entry, parents/guardians shall provide evidence within ninety (90) days after their child's entry into first grade that their child has been screened for risk of tuberculosis within the preceding 18 months. (Cal. Health and Saf. Code, §§ 124040 and 124085.)

Green Dot is required to cooperate with the county or city health officer in carrying out any programs ordered by the health officer for the tuberculosis examinations of individuals applying for first admission to any elementary or secondary school in Green Dot. (Cal. Health and Saf. Code, § 121515.)  Whenever ordered by the local health officer, students seeking admission for the first time to a Green Dot school at any grade level shall submit to tuberculosis testing. Any student subject to the order shall be admitted to school as follows:

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. • The Principal or designee shall unconditionally admit the student if he/she, prior to admission, submits a certificate, signed by any public or private medical provider, indicating that he/she has completed an approved tuberculosis examination and is free from active tuberculosis. (Cal. Health and Saf. Code, §§ 121485, 121490, and 121500; 22 CCR §§ 41305, 41311, and 41313.)

A student shall not be required to obtain the certificate if his/her parent/guardian or custodian provides the Principal or designee with an affidavit stating that the required examination is contrary to his/her beliefs. If there is probable cause to believe that such a student has active tuberculosis, he/she may be excluded from school until the Principal or designee is satisfied that he/she is not afflicted. (Cal. Health and Saf. Code, § 121505.)

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. • A student who has not submitted the certificate may be conditionally admitted provided that he/she receives an approved tuberculin skin test within ten (10) school days after admission. A student who had a positive skin test and has not subsequently obtained a chest x-ray may be conditionally admitted if he/she receives a chest x-ray within twenty (20) school days after admission. Any student who fails to provide the certificate within those time periods shall be prohibited from further attendance until he/she provides the certificate. (Cal. Health and Saf. Code, § 121495; 22 CCR §§ 41315, 41311, and 41327.)

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. • Whenever the local health officer so orders, a student may be required to complete an additional examination and provide another certificate indicating that he/she is free of communicable tuberculosis. (Cal. Health and Saf. Code, § 121485.)

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. • At the discretion of the local health officer, Green Dot may admit a student without a certificate if he/she is undergoing or has already undergone preventive treatment for tuberculosis infection or treatment for tuberculosis disease. (22 CCR § 41319.) 

Whenever the Principal or designee suspects that a student who has not been examined for tuberculosis either has the disease or has been exposed, he/she shall immediately report by telephone to the local health officer. When required by the local health officer, Green Dot shall exclude the student from school until he/she is certified to be free of communicable tuberculosis. (22 CCR § 41329.)

The Principal or designee shall maintain a record of any student's tuberculosis examination as part of the student's mandatory permanent student record. (22 CCR § 41323.)

The Principal or designee shall annually file a report with the local health department on the results of tuberculosis examinations for all individuals required to complete such examinations in accordance with items delineated above, including, but not necessarily limited to, the number of individuals unconditionally and conditionally admitted and the number of individuals exempted on the basis of their personal beliefs. (22 CCR § 41325.)

Rev. 06/2019

Health and Safety Policy D. 11.0

Policy:  Health Insurance and Medical Services

Green Dot Charter Public Schools does not provide student accident insurance to help cover the costs of paramedic/ambulance care or transportation, or any medical, surgical, dental or hospital costs due to school related injuries to students.

Students with a medical condition, and who have been approved by the school, may be allowed to wear protective gear (hats, sun visors, and/or sunglasses) while outdoors at recess, gym, etc. However, Green Dot may regulate the type of sun protective clothing/headgear worn by students. Green Dot is not required to provide protective materials. Students are also allowed to use sunscreen (over the counter) as an allowable sun protection measure for his/her outdoor activities while at school.

School authorities may excuse any pupil from the school for the purpose of obtaining confidential medical services without the consent of the parent or guardian.

Policy:  Clinical Services Program

 Green Dot Public Schools' Clinical Services Program offers individual and group therapy to students.

Students have access to Licensed Clinical Social Workers and/or graduate level Social Work or Marriage and Family interns/trainees who provide confidential, comprehensive, culturally sensitive and responsive mental health support and assistance managing emotions & behaviors and coping with crisis.  All Clinical Services mental health services are supervised by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Services are limited to the school day and school year, and do not occur during school breaks.  The Clinical Services program also provides referrals to community agencies and resources for services that are beyond the scope or capacity of the program.

Rev. 06/2021

Policy:  Confidentiality

There are four instances in which an Administrator, Counselor, and/or teacher is legally bound to inform a parent and/or authority with information given during a “confidential” counseling session:

• When a student indicates he or she is going to physically harm himself or herself or jeopardize his or her life
• When a student indicates he or she is going to physically harm another or jeopardize another’s life or has knowledge that another’s well-being is threatened
• When a student indicates he or she is being physically and/or emotionally abused
• When a student indicates he or she has committed a felony (i.e., selling drugs, stealing a car, etc.)

Policy:  Child Abuse or Neglect Reporting

 

Green Dot has a responsibility to protect students by facilitating the prompt reporting of known and suspected incidents of child abuse and/or neglect.  All Green Dot employees may not be mandated reporters, as defined by law and related regulations, but Green Dot applies this policy to all of its employees, including part-time, temporary, and seasonal employees whose employment exceeds six weeks from the first date of paid service.  Any such Green Dot employee who has a reasonable suspicion that a student has been abused and/or neglected must report immediately, but in no event later than thirty-six (36) hours after such reasonable suspicion arises, to agencies responsible for investigating and prosecuting cases of child abuse and/or neglect.

 

The following guidelines will be followed for the purpose of interviewing students who are suspected child abuse victims at school.

 

1. California law permits representatives of child protective agencies (Police, Sheriffs, and Children's Services) to interview victims of child abuse during school hours on school premises. A child who is to be interviewed at school is authorized by law select an adult who is a member of the school staff to be present at the interview. However, the staff member shall neither participate in the interview nor discuss the facts or circumstances of the case with the child or anyone else. The sole purpose of the staff person's presence at the interview is to lend support to the child and enable him or her to be as comfortable as possible.

 

2. The law further provides that all such interviews involving a school staff member shall be held at a time during school hours when it does not involve an expense to the school. Therefore, requests for the presence of staff members at child abuse interviews that would disrupt classroom instruction and necessitate special arrangement to cover classes or other school activities may be refused by the Principal.

 

3. When a request is made for the presence of a staff member at a child abuse interview, the Principal or designee shall inform the staff member so selected of the purpose of their presence in the interview and of the confidentiality requirements. The Principal shall also inform the staff member that they have the legal right to decline to be present at the interview.

 

When the child is to be removed from school and taken into custody by the Child Protective Service representative, the Principal or designee must be informed. The representative must leave their name and phone number where they may be reached and where the child is being taken. The school official shall provide the representative with the name, address, and phone number of the pupil's parents or guardian. Parent notification is the responsibility of the Child Protective Service representative

 

Child Abuse Reporting Procedures

 

An employee suspecting child abuse/neglect must immediately, or as soon as practically possible, report such suspicions to an appropriate child protective agency or the local law enforcement department serving the school per applicable state law. The employee will also inform their supervisor.

 

Prohibited Actions

• Never contact the child’s or the alleged perpetrator’s parent/guardian if indicators point to possible abuse or if abuse is suspected prior to making a report.
• Never conduct an investigation of any kind once abuse or neglect is suspected or prior to making a report.
• No removal or arranging of any clothing is permitted to provide a visual inspection of the underclothing, breast, buttocks, or genitalia of a pupil.

 

Consequences for False Reporting/Failure to Report

 

• A violation of Green Dot policies may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension, demotion, and/or termination.
• Generally, school employees are immune from civil and criminal liability when reporting suspected child abuse as required by law.
• A violation of the law (e.g., making a false report) and/or failure to report suspected child abuse varies from state to state but may include a misdemeanor, imprisonment, and/or a monetary fine.

 

California Mandated Reporting Procedures and Reporting Agencies

 

Child abuse or neglect includes the following (Cal. Pen. Code §§ 11165.5 and 11165.6):

1. A physical injury or death inflicted by other than accidental means on a child by another person.
2. Sexual abuse of a child, including sexual assault or sexual exploitation, as defined in California Penal Code § 11165.1.
3. Neglect of a child as defined in California Penal Code § 11165.2
4. Willful harming or injuring of a child or the endangering of the person or health of a child as defined in California Penal Code § 11165.3.
5. Unlawful corporal punishment or injury as defined in California Penal Code § 11165.4.

Child abuse or neglect does not include:

1. A mutual affray between minors. (Cal. Pen. Code §§ 11165.6.)
2. An injury caused by reasonable and necessary force used by a peace officer acting within the course and scope of their employment. (Cal. Pen. Code §§ 11165.6.)
3. An injury resulting from the exercise by a teacher, vice principal, principal, or other certificated employee of the same degree of physical control over a student that a parent/guardian would be privileged to exercise, not exceeding the amount of physical control reasonably necessary to maintain order, protect property, protect the health and safety of students, or maintain proper and appropriate conditions conducive to learning. (Cal. Ed. Code § 44807.)
4. An injury caused by a school employee's use of force that is reasonable and necessary to quell a disturbance threatening physical injury to persons or damage to property, to protect himself/herself, or to obtain weapons or other dangerous objects within the control of the student. (Cal. Ed. Code § 49001.)
5. Physical pain or discomfort caused by athletic competition or other such recreational activity voluntarily engaged in by the student. (Cal. Ed. Code § 49001.)

A mandated reporter shall make a report using the procedures provided below whenever, in their professional capacity or within the scope of their employment, they have knowledge of or observes a child whom the mandated reporter knows or reasonably suspects has been the victim of child abuse or neglect.  Reasonable suspicion means that it is objectively reasonable for a person to entertain a suspicion, based upon facts that could cause a reasonable person in a like position, drawing when appropriate on their training and experience, to suspect child abuse or neglect. However, reasonable suspicion does not require certainty that child abuse or neglect has occurred nor does it require a specific medical indication of child abuse or neglect.  (Cal. Pen. Code § 11166.)

 

The reporting duties of mandated reporters are individual and cannot be delegated to another person.  (Cal. Pen. Code § 11166.)

 

When two (2) or more mandated reporters jointly have knowledge of a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect, the report may be made by a member of the team selected by mutual agreement and a single report may be made and signed by the selected member of the reporting team. Any member who has knowledge that the member designated to report has failed to do so shall thereafter make the report.  (Cal. Pen. Code § 11166.)

 

No supervisor or administrator shall impede or inhibit a mandated reporter from making a report.  (Cal. Pen. Code § 11166.)

 

Child Abuse Reporting Agencies and Procedures

 

• Department of Children and Family Services (“DCFS”) – (800) 540-4000
• Los Angeles Police Department – Child Abuse Unit – (213) 486-0530
• Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department – (323) 267-4800
• City Police Department serving the school

 

Within thirty-six (36) hours of knowing or observing the information concerning the incident, the mandated reporter shall then prepare and either send, fax, or electronically submit to the appropriate agency a written follow-up report, which includes a completed Department of Justice form (SS 8572).  (Cal. Pen. Code §§ 11166 and 11168.)

 

The mandated reporter shall not be required to disclose their identity to their supervisor, the Principal, or Area Superintendent or designee.  (Cal. Pen. Code § 11166.)

 

Victim Interviews by Social Services

 

Whenever a representative from the Department of Social Services or another government agency investigating suspected child abuse or neglect deems it necessary, a suspected victim may be interviewed during school hours, on school premises, concerning a report of suspected child abuse or neglect that occurred within the child's home or out-of-home care facility.  The child shall be given the choice of being interviewed in private or in the presence of any adult school employee or volunteer aide selected by the child.  (Cal. Pen. Code § 11174.3.)

 

A staff member or volunteer aide selected by a child may decline to be present at the interview.  If the selected person accepts, the principal or designee shall inform him/her of the following requirements:

 

1. The purpose of the selected person's presence at the interview is to lend support to the child and enable him/her to be as comfortable as possible.
2. The selected person shall not participate in the interview.
3. The selected person shall not discuss the facts or circumstances of the case with the child.
4. The selected person is subject to the confidentiality requirements of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act, a violation of which is punishable as specified in California Penal Code section 11167.5.

 

If a staff member agrees to be present, the interview shall be held at a time during school hours when it does not involve an expense to the school.  (Cal. Pen. Code § 11174.3.)

Notifications

Green Dot shall provide to all new employees who are mandated reporters a statement that informs them of their status as mandated reporters, their reporting obligations under California Penal Code § 11166, and their confidentiality rights under California Penal Code § 11167.  Green Dot also shall provide these new employees with a copy of California Penal Code §§ 11165.7, 11166, and 11167.  (Cal. Pen. Code §§ 11165.7 and 11166.5.)

Before beginning employment, any person who will be a mandated reporter by virtue of their position shall sign a statement indicating that they have knowledge of the reporting obligations under California Penal Code § 11166 and will comply with those provisions.  The signed statement shall be retained by Green Dot’s Human Resources Department.  (Cal. Pen. Code § 11166.5.)

 

Green Dot also shall notify all employees that:

 

1. A mandated reporter who reports a known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect shall not be held civilly or criminally liable for making a report and this immunity shall apply even if the mandated reporter acquired the knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect outside of their professional capacity or outside the scope of their employment. Any other person making a report shall not incur civil or criminal liability unless it can be proven that they knowingly made a false report or made a report with reckless disregard of the truth or falsity of the report.  (Cal. Pen. Code § 11172.)

 

2. If a mandated reporter fails to report an incident of known or reasonably suspected child abuse or neglect, they may be guilty of a crime punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. (Cal. Pen. Code § 11166.)

 

3. No employee shall be subject to any sanction by Green Dot for making a report. (Cal. Pen. Code § 11166.)

 

Rev. 06/2018

Policy:  Wellness Policy

 

Green Dot recognizes the link between student health and learning, and desires to provide a comprehensive program promoting healthy eating and physical activity for Green Dot Public School (GD) students.

 

To encourage consistent health messages between the home and school environment, the Principal or designee may disseminate information to parents/guardians through school newsletters, meetings, and other communications. Outreach to parents/guardians shall emphasize the relationship between student health and academic performance.

 

School Health

The Principal or designee may involve parents, students, school food service representatives, school board, school administrators and community in the discussion of public health issues at the School Advisory Council (SAC).  At the discretion of the Principal or designee, the SAC may be involved in the planning/implementation of activities to promote health within the school.

 

Scoliosis/Vision/Hearing/Acanthosis Nigricans Testing

Green Dot conducts health screenings at no cost to parents/guardians for scoliosis, vision, hearing, and acanthosis nigricans by appropriately qualified screeners and in accordance with state law.  If you have questions, please contact the Green Dot principal.

 

Nutrition Education and Physical Activity Goals

The school's physical education programs shall be based on research, consistent with the expectations established in the state's curriculum frameworks and content standards.  Nutrition education shall be provided as part of the health education program in grades 6-12 and, as appropriate, shall be integrated into other academic subjects in the regular educational program.

 

Opportunities for physical activity shall be provided through physical education, athletic programs, and other structured and unstructured activities.

 

Nutritional Guidelines for Foods Available at School

The Board believes that foods and beverages available to students at Green Dot Public Schools should promote and protect students’ health, well-being, and ability to learn.  Therefore, it is the policy of Green Dot that:

• Nutritional standards adopted by Green Dot for all foods and beverages sold to students, shall meet or exceed state and federal nutritional standards;
• Meals will be attractive and appealing to children;
• Meals will be served in clean and pleasant settings;
• A variety of fruits and vegetables will be offered;
• All milk served will be low-fat (1%) and/or non-fat milk as defined by USDA;
• Half of the served grains will be whole grain.

 

Guidelines for Reimbursable Meals

Foods and beverages provided through federally reimbursable school meal programs shall meet or exceed federal regulations and guidance issued pursuant to 42 USC 1758(f)(1), 1766(a), and 1779(a) and (b), as they apply to schools. (42 USC 1751 Note)

 

In order to maximize Green Dot’s ability to provide nutritious meals and snacks, all Green Dot schools shall participate in available federal school nutrition programs, including the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs at the discretion of the principal.

 

Green Dot will ensure that a student whose parent/guardian has unpaid school meal fees is not denied a reimbursable meal of the student’s choice because of the fact that the student’s parent or guardian has unpaid meal fees, and such student is not shamed or treated differently from other students.  Green Dot will make every effort to eliminate any social stigma attached to, and prevent overt identification of, students who are eligible for free and reduced-priced meals by using electronic identification and payment systems and promoting the availability of school meals to all students.

 

Rev. 06/2020

Policy:  Comprehensive Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Prevention Education

 

Green Dot Public Schools encourages all students to develop healthy attitudes about adolescent growth and development, body image, gender identity, sexual orientation, dating, marriage, and family.

 

HIV/AIDS prevention education must accurately reflect the latest information and recommendations from the United States Surgeon General, the federal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Academy of Sciences.

 

Green Dot Schools may use trained school personnel or outside consultants to provide comprehensive sexual health education – which means education regarding human development and sexuality, including education on pregnancy, family planning, and sexuality transmitted diseases.  Age appropriate instruction about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) may also be presented.  The course will include information on AIDS and its effects on the human body, HIV transmission and prevention, community resources, decision making and refusal skills, and public health issues.  The course will also include information on human trafficking identification and prevention.

 

Notice and Parental Excuse

 

At the beginning of each school year or at the time of a student’s enrollment, Green Dot shall notify parents/guardians about instruction in comprehensive sexual health education and HIV/AIDS-prevention education and research on student health behaviors and risks planned to be used in instruction for the coming year.  This notification shall include the information required by California Education Code Section 51938(b).  Consistent with the California Healthy Youth Act (Cal. Ed. Code § 51930 et seq.), parents/guardians may opt out passively (parent signature not required, only notification) of all or part of comprehensive sexual health education and HIV/AIDS prevention education.  However, consistent with Green Dot’s Nondiscrimination Policy, parents/guardians may not selectively opt out of content focused on LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning/queer) issues within the comprehensive sexual health education curriculum, while leaving the student in the classroom for other sexual health education.

 

Parents/Guardians may contact the Principal if they would like to preview the classroom materials and may request in writing that their child not receive all or part of comprehensive sexual health education or HIV/AIDS-prevention education.

 

No questionnaire, survey, or examination containing any questions about the student's personal beliefs or practices in sex, family life, morality, or religion or any questions about the student's parents' or guardians' beliefs and practices in sex, family life, morality, and religion will be administered unless the parent or guardian of the student is notified in writing that such test, questionnaire, survey, or examination is to be administered, and the parent or guardian of the pupil gives written permission for the student to participate in the activity.

 

Green Dot Public Schools may administer anonymous, voluntary, and confidential research and evaluation tools to measure students' health behaviors and risks, including tests, questionnaires, and surveys containing age-appropriate questions about the students' attitudes concerning or practices relating to sex, if the parent or guardian is given the opportunity to review the material and to request, in writing, that his or her child not participate.

 

A student must not attend any class in comprehensive sexual education of HIV/AIDS-prevention education or participate in any anonymous, voluntary, and confidential test, questionnaire, or survey on student health behaviors and risks if the school has received a written request from the student's parent or guardian excusing the student from participation.  A student must not be subject to disciplinary action, academic penalty, or other penalty if the student's parent or guardian declines to permit the student to receive comprehensive sexual health education or HIV/AIDS-prevention education or to participate in anonymous, voluntary, and confidential tests, questionnaires, or surveys on student health behaviors and risks.

 

While comprehensive sexual health education, HIV/AIDS-prevention education, or an anonymous, voluntary, and confidential test, questionnaire, or survey on student health behaviors and risks is being administered, an alternative educational activity must be made available to students whose parent or guardian has requested that they not receive the instruction or participate in the test, questionnaire, or survey.

 

Rev. 06/2021

Health and Safety Policy D. 17.0

Policy:  Condom Distribution

Green Dot Charter Public Schools will make condoms available at no cost to students who request them.  This is in an effort to decrease the spread of sexually transmitted disease including HIV. While the school does offer education that emphasizes abstinence as the only one hundred percent effective method of preventing infection, the proper use of a condom does provide protection against sexual transmission of the HIV/AIDS virus and other sexually transmitted diseases. In making condoms available Green Dot assumes no liability.

Policy:  Pregnant or Parent Students

Pregnant or parenting students, regardless of their parental, family, or marital status, have the right to attend Green Dot Public Schools and to participate in any program or activity for which they would otherwise qualify in an environment free from discrimination or harassment.  Classes, programs and materials offered to pregnant and parenting students must be equal to those offered to other students and students must be provided access to those classes needed to complete their course of study.

Pregnant and parenting students have a right to full participation in school classes, programs, and activities and it is the school’s responsibility to make reasonable accommodations to keep pregnant and parenting students safe on campus and facilitate their continued opportunity to succeed academically while protecting their health and the health of their children.  Such accommodations may include, but are not limited to:  additional time for use of facilities and class changes; home schooling during absences due to pregnancy related illness or recovery; up to eight weeks of parental leave, which the student may take before the birth of the student’s infant if there is a medical necessity and after childbirth during the school year in which the birth takes place, inclusive of any mandatory summer instruction.  Students shall not be checked out from a school based on their pregnancy or parenting status. Students shall not be required to attend a charter school, and charter staff may present alternative educational opportunities to pregnant or parenting students, so long as the staff also informs the student that she/he has the right to continued attendance at Green Dot.

Green Dot shall notify known pregnant and parenting students, and parents and guardians of pregnant and parenting students, of the rights and options available to pregnant and parenting pupils under the law through this annual Student Policy Manual and through independent study packets (when applicable).

A complaint of noncompliance with the requirements of this policy may be filed with Green Dot under its Uniform Complaint Procedures set forth in Section C. 16.0 in this Student Policy Manual.

 Rev. 06/2019

Policy:  Banned Substances

Smoking and Vaping

Parents and visitors are asked to support the school’s effort to maintain Green Dot Public Schools are a “Smoke or Vape Free Zone.” Parents are asked to please refrain from smoking or vaping on campus or at any school event or activity.

Drugs and Alcohol

Green Dot schools are 100% drug and alcohol-free campuses.  Green Dot’s Drug/Alcohol Policy ensures a drug and alcohol-free campus while enabling students who are struggling with drug and/or alcohol abuse to receive the treatment they need.  The school-site administrator has the discretion to recommend expulsion for students involved with drugs/alcohol or enter such students into a disciplinary probation period.

Policy: Suicide Prevention

Green Dot Green Dot recognizes that suicide is a major cause of death among youth and should be taken seriously.  To attempt to reduce suicidal behavior and its impact on students and families, Green Dot has developed prevention strategies and intervention procedures.

 

In compliance with Education Code Section 215, this policy has been developed in consultation with Green Dot and community stakeholders, Green Dot school-employed mental health professionals (e.g., school counselors, psychologists, social workers, nurses), administrators, other school staff members, parents/guardians/caregivers, students, local health agencies and professionals, law enforcement, and community organizations in planning, implementing, and evaluating Green Dot’ strategies for suicide prevention and intervention. Green Dot must work in conjunction with local government agencies, community-based organizations, and other community supports to identify additional resources.

 

To ensure the policies regarding suicide prevention are properly adopted, implemented, and updated, Green Dot shall appoint an individual (or team) to serve as the suicide prevention point of contact for Green Dot. This policy shall be reviewed and revised as indicated, at least annually in conjunction with the previously mentioned community stakeholders.

 

1. Staff Development

 

Green Dot, along with its partners, has carefully reviewed available staff training to ensure it promotes the mental health model of suicide prevention and does not encourage the use of the stress model to explain suicide.

 

Training shall be provided for all school staff members.  It may also be provided, when appropriate, for other adults on campus (such as substitutes and intermittent staff, volunteers, interns, tutors, coaches, and afterschool staff).

 

Training:

 

• All suicide prevention trainings shall be offered under the direction of mental health professionals (e.g., school counselors, school psychologists, other public entity professionals, such as psychologists or social workers) who have received advanced training specific to suicide. Staff training may be adjusted year-to-year based on previous professional development activities and emerging best practices.
• At least annually, all staff shall receive training on the risk factors and warning signs of suicide, suicide prevention, intervention, referral, and postvention.
• At a minimum, all staff shall participate in training on the core components of suicide prevention (identification of suicide risk factors and warning signs, prevention, intervention, referral, and postvention) at the beginning of their employment or annually. Core components of the general suicide prevention training shall include:
• Suicide risk factors, warning signs, and protective factors;
• How to talk with a student about thoughts of suicide;
• How to respond appropriately to the youth who has suicidal thoughts. Such responses shall include constant supervision of any student judged to be at risk for suicide and an immediate referral for a suicide risk assessment;
• Emphasis on immediately referring (same day) any student who is identified to be at risk of suicide for assessment while staying under constant monitoring by staff member;
• Emphasis on reducing stigma associated with mental illness and that early prevention and intervention can drastically reduce the risk of suicide;
• Reviewing the data annually to look for any patterns or trends of the prevalence or occurrence of suicide ideation, attempts, or death. Data from the California Healthy Kids Survey should also be analyzed to identify school climate deficits and drive program development.
• Information regarding groups of students judged by the school, and available research, to be at elevated risk for suicide. These groups include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Youth affected by suicide;
• Youth with a history of suicide ideation or attempts;
• Youth with disabilities, mental illness, or substance abuse disorders;
• Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning youth;
• Youth experiencing homelessness or in out-of-home settings, such as foster care; and
• Youth who have suffered traumatic experiences.
• In addition to initial orientations to the core components of suicide prevention, ongoing annual staff professional development for all staff may include the following components:
• The impact of traumatic stress on emotional and mental health;
• Common misconceptions about suicide;
• School and community suicide prevention resources;
• Appropriate messaging about suicide (correct terminology, safe messaging guidelines);
• The factors associated with suicide (risk factors, warning signs, protective factors);
• How to identify youth who may be at risk of suicide;
• Appropriate ways to interact with a youth who is demonstrating emotional distress or is suicidal. Specifically, how to talk with a student about their thoughts of suicide and (based on Green Dot guidelines) how to respond to such thinking; how to talk with a student about thoughts of suicide and appropriately respond and provide support based on Green Dot guidelines;
• Green Dot-approved procedures for responding to suicide risk (including multi-tiered systems of support and referrals). Such procedures should emphasize that the suicidal student should be constantly supervised until a suicide risk assessment is completed;
• Green Dot-approved procedures for responding to the aftermath of suicidal behavior (suicidal behavior postvention);
• Responding after a suicide occurs (suicide postvention);
• Resources regarding youth suicide prevention;
• Emphasis on stigma reduction and the fact that early prevention and intervention can drastically reduce the risk of suicide;
• Emphasis that any student who is identified to be at risk of suicide is to be immediately referred (same day) for assessment while being constantly monitored by a staff member.

 

1. Employee Qualifications and Scope of Services

 

Employees of Green Dot must act only within the authorization and scope of their credential or license. While it is expected that school professionals are able to identify suicide risk factors and warning signs, and to prevent the immediate risk of a suicidal behavior, treatment of suicidal ideation is typically beyond the scope of services offered in the school setting. In addition, treatment of the mental health challenges often associated with suicidal thinking typically requires mental health resources beyond what schools are able to provide.

 

1. Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers Participation and Education

 

• Parents/guardians/caregivers may be included in suicide prevention efforts. At a minimum, schools shall share this suicide prevention policy with parents/guardians/caregivers by notifying them where a complete copy of the policy is available.
• Parents/guardians/caregivers should be invited to provide input on the development and implementation of this policy.
• All parents/guardians/caregivers may have access to suicide prevention training that addresses the following:
• Suicide risk factors, warning signs, and protective factors;
• How to talk with a student about thoughts of suicide;
• How to respond appropriately to the student who has suicidal thoughts. Such responses shall include constant supervision of any student judged to be at risk for suicide and referral for an immediate suicide risk assessment.

 

1. Student Participation and Education

 

Messaging about suicide has an effect on suicidal thinking and behaviors. Consequently, Green Dot along with its partners has carefully reviewed and will continue to review all materials and resources used in awareness efforts to ensure they align with best practices for safe messaging about suicide.  Suicide prevention strategies may include, but not be limited to, efforts to promote a positive school climate that enhances students’ feelings of connectedness with Green Dot and is characterized by caring staff and harmonious interrelationships among students.

 

Green Dot’ instructional and student support program shall promote the healthy mental, emotional, and social development of students including, but not limited to, the development of problem-solving skills, coping skills, and resilience.  The instruction shall not use the stress model to explain suicide.

 

Green Dot’ instructional curriculum may include information about suicide prevention, as appropriate or needed, taking into consideration the grade level and age of the students.  Under the supervision of an appropriately trained individual acting within the scope of her/his credential or license, students shall:

• Receive developmentally appropriate, student-centered education about the warning signs of mental health challenges and emotional distress;
• Receive developmentally appropriate guidance regarding Green Dot’ suicide prevention, intervention, and referral procedures.

 

The content of the education may include:

• Coping strategies for dealing with stress and trauma;
• How to recognize behaviors (warning signs) and life issues (risk factors) associated with suicide and mental health issues in oneself and others;
• Help-seeking strategies for oneself and others, including how to engage school-based and community resources and refer peers for help;
• Emphasis on reducing the stigma associated with mental illness and the fact that early prevention and intervention can drastically reduce the risk of suicide.

 

Student-focused suicide prevention education can be incorporated into classroom curricula (e.g., Advisory, College Readiness, Seminar, physical education).

 

Green Dot will support the creation and implementation of programs and/or activities on campus that raise awareness about mental wellness and suicide prevention (e.g., Mental Health Awareness Week, Peer Counseling, Freshman Success, and National Alliance on Mental Illness on Campus High School Clubs).

 

1. Intervention and Emergency Procedures

 

Green Dot designates the following positions to act as the primary and secondary suicide prevention liaisons:

• School Psychologist
• Social Worker/Clinical Supervisor
• School Counselor

 

Whenever a staff member suspects or has knowledge of a student’s suicidal intentions, they shall promptly notify the primary designated suicide prevention liaison. If this primary suicide prevention liaison is unavailable, the staff shall promptly notify the secondary suicide prevention liaison.

 

The suicide prevention liaison shall immediately notify the Head of School or designee, who shall then notify the student’s parent/guardian as soon as possible if appropriate and in the best interest of the student. Determination of notification to parents/guardians/caregivers should follow a formal initial assessment to ensure that the student is not endangered by parental notification.

 

The suicide prevention liaison shall also refer the student to mental health resources at Green Dot or in the community.

 

When a student is in imminent danger (has access to a gun, is on a rooftop, or in other unsafe conditions), a call shall be made to 911.

 

 

 

When a suicide attempt or threat is reported on campus or at a school-related activity, the suicide prevention liaison shall, at a minimum:

 

1. Ensure the student’s physical safety by one of the following, as appropriate:

• Securing immediate medical treatment if a suicide attempt has occurred;
• Securing law enforcement and/or another emergency assistance if a suicidal act is being actively threatened;
• Keeping the student under continuous adult supervision until the parent/guardian and/or appropriate support agent or agency can be contacted and has the opportunity to intervene.
• Remaining calm, keeping in mind the student is overwhelmed, confused, and emotionally distressed;
• Moving all other students out of the immediate area;
• Not sending the student away or leaving him/her alone, even to go to the restroom;
• Providing comfort to the student, listening and allowing the student to talk and being comfortable with moments of silence;
• Promising privacy and help, but not promising confidentiality.
  2. Document the incident in writing as soon as feasible.
  3. Follow up with the parent/guardian and student in a timely manner to provide referrals to appropriate services as needed.
  4. After a referral is made, Green Dot shall verify with the parent/guardian that the follow up treatment has been accessed. Parents/guardians will be required to provide documentation of care for the student.  If parents/guardians refuse or neglect to access treatment for a student who has been identified to be at risk for suicide or in emotional distress, the suicide prevention liaisons shall meet with the parent to identify barriers to treatment (e.g., cultural stigma, financial issues) and work to rectify the situation and build understanding of care.  If follow up care is still not provided, Green Dot may contact Child Protective Services.
  5. Provide access to counselors or other appropriate personnel to listen to and support students and staff who are directly or indirectly involved with the incident at Green Dot.
  6. Provide an opportunity for all who respond to the incident to debrief, evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies used, and make recommendations for future actions.

 

In the event a suicide occurs or is attempted on the Green Dot campus, the suicide prevention liaison shall follow the crisis intervention procedures contained in Green Dot’ safety plan. After consultation with the Principal or designee and the student’s parent/guardian about facts that may be divulged in accordance with the laws governing confidentiality of student record information, the Principal or designee may provide students, parents/guardians, and staff with information, counseling, and/or referrals to community agencies as needed.  Green Dot staff may receive assistance from Green Dot counselors or other mental health professionals in determining how best to discuss the suicide or attempted suicide with students.

 

In the event a suicide occurs or is attempted off the Green Dot campus and unrelated to school activities, the Principal or designee shall take the following steps to support the student:

 

1. Contact the parent/guardian and offer support to the family.
2. Discuss with the family how they would like Green Dot to respond to the attempt while minimizing widespread rumors among teachers, staff, and students.
3. Obtain permission from the parent/guardian to share information to ensure the facts regarding the crisis are correct.
4. The suicide prevention liaisons shall identify a media spokesperson if needed.
5. Provide care and determine appropriate support to affected students.
6. Follow Green Dot’s re-entry protocol, including, but not limited to, provide an opportunity to the student and parent/guardian to participate in a re-entry planning meeting with the Principal or designee, and Green Dot’s mental-health staff. Re-integration may include obtaining a written release from the parent/guardian to speak with any health care providers; conferring with the student and parent/guardian about any specific requests on how to handle the situation; informing the student’s teachers about possible days of absences; allowing accommodations for make-up work (being understanding that missed assignments may add stress to the student); appropriate administrators maintaining ongoing contact with the student to monitor the student’s actions and mood; and working with the parent/guardian to involve the student in an aftercare plan.

 

1. Supporting Students during or after a Mental Health Crisis

 

Students shall be encouraged through the education program and in Green Dot activities to notify a teacher, the Head of School, another Green Dot administrator, psychologist, Green Dot counselor, suicide prevention liaisons, or other adult when they are experiencing thoughts of suicide or when they suspect or have knowledge of another student’s suicidal intentions.   Green Dot staff should treat each report seriously, calmly, and with active listening and support.  Staff should be non-judgmental to students and discuss with the student, and parent/guardian, about additional resources to support the student.

 

If you would like to commence mental health services for a student at the school, please contact the School Counselor (name), Clinical Supervisor (name), School Psychologist (name), or main office by calling the school's office at (school phone number).

 

1. Responding After a Suicide Death (Postvention)

 

A death by suicide in the school community (whether by a student or staff member) can have devastating consequences on the school community, including students and staff.

Green Dot shall follow the below action plan for responding to a suicide death, which incorporates both immediate and long-term steps and objectives:

 

The suicide prevention liaison shall:

• Coordinate with the Principal or designee to:
• Confirm death and cause;
• Identify a staff member to contact deceased’s family (within 24 hours);
• Enact the Suicide Postvention Response;
• Notify all staff members (ideally in-person or via phone, not via e-mail or mass notification).
• Coordinate an all-staff meeting, to include:
• Notification (if not already conducted) to staff about suicide death;
• Emotional support and resources available to staff;
• Notification to students about suicide death and the availability of support services (if this is the protocol that is decided by administration);
• Share information that is relevant and that which you have permission to disclose.
• Prepare staff to respond to needs of students regarding the following:
• Review of protocols for referring students for support/assessment;
• Talking points for staff to notify students;
• Resources available to students (on and off campus).
• Identify students significantly affected by suicide death and other students at risk of imitative behavior;
• Identify students affected by suicide death but not at risk of imitative behavior;
• Communicate with the larger school community about the suicide death;
• Provide information regarding funeral arrangements for family and school community;
• Respond to memorial requests in respectful and non-harmful manner; responses should be handed in a thoughtful way and their impact on other students should be considered;
• Identify media spokesperson if needed.
• Include long-term suicide postvention responses:
• Support siblings, close friends, teachers, and/or students of deceased
• In the case of any death, consider any short-term or long-term memorials and how they may impact students who are emotionally vulnerable and at risk of suicide

Rev. 06/2018