1.0 Policy:  Attendance, Absenteeism, Truancy and SART 

Green Dot believes that regular attendance is critical for a student’s preparation for college, leadership and life.  Accordingly, Green Dot will work with parents/guardians and students to ensure their compliance with this attendance policy. 

 Absences

Students are expected to attend all classes every day.  Students and parents should do everything in their power to ensure punctual arrival to school and prevent unexcused absences, including maintaining good health, arranging necessary appointments outside of school time, and scheduling family vacations outside of the academic calendar. 

An “absence” means not being present in a class in which the student is enrolled for greater than 30 minutes in a school day.

Any absence will be recorded as an “excused absence” for the following reasons ONLY:

• personal illness;
• emergency medical, dental, and optometry appointments (verified by a note signed by a physician)
• attending funeral services of an immediate family member:

   

  • excused absence in this instance shall be limited to one day if the service is conducted in California or three days if the service is conducted out of state.

     

  • “immediate family” shall be defined as mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, spouse, son/son-in-law, daughter/daughter-in-law, brother, sister or any relative living in the student’s immediate household.

     

• court summons;
• observance of a religious holiday, instruction, or exercises, as described below;
• school approved activity;
• serious family emergencies, or other justifiable personal reasons, subject to approval by the Principal or designee; 
• attendance at the pupil’s naturalization ceremony to become a United States citizen; and
• participation in a civic or political event provided the student notifies the School ahead of the absence (limited to one school day per school year.)

Any absence not recorded as an “excused absence” shall be recorded as an “unexcused absence”.

Students with absences (excused) from a class period more than four times in a given semester will be referred to the Student Attendance Review Team (SART) for support with interventions.  If a student is absent from a class period for more than 15 days during the course of a semester, they may not receive credit in that course.

Procedure for Reporting an Absence
The parent or guardian must notify the school office by 9:00 a.m. of each day the student is absent.  If the parent/guardian does not make the call by 9:00 am, the school will notify the parent in an effort to find out if the student has an excused absence. 

Procedure for Returning to School after an Absence
Parents and/or guardians are required to provide a satisfactory explanation for their child’s absence within 10 school days.  When the student returns to school, they should bring a written note from their parent/guardian. Any student who is absest for medical, dental or other professional services must, in addition, present a note to the school office directly from the respective provider’s office.  The school is required to keep on file a note signed by a parent/guardian for every student absence.  The note must be legible and written in ink.  A valid note should contain:

• Full name of the student 
• Date(s) or time of absence
• Specific reason for absence
• Telephone numbers where both parents/guardians may be reached (home and work)
• Signature of parent or guardian

If a student does not bring a note, they will be marked as unexcused or truant.  In addition, a doctor’s note is required for absences due illness lasting 5 or more consecutive days. 

In summary:

• Time Frame: Absences must be cleared within 10 school days.
• Accepted Forms of Explanation: Written notes from parents/guardians, doctor’s notes
• Consequences of Non-Compliance: Absences not cleared within the specified time frame will be classified as unexcused or truancy.
• Documentation for Illness: A doctor’s note is required for absences due to illness lasting 5 or more consecutive days.

The school will notify parents/ guardians of any opportunities to recoup absences through attendance recovery programs in alignment with state law, including Assembly Bill 176 (2024).

Procedure for Early Dismissal
After their arrival on campus in the morning, students may NOT leave campus until dismissal time. Students leaving campus without permission are considered truant.  If a student requests an early dismissal (for example, if a parent/guardian is picking him/her up for a doctor’s appointment), the parent/guardian reports to the office to sign out the student.

Tardies
A student is considered tardy if they are  not in their seat when the bell rings signaling the start of class.  If a student arrives late to school, they  must obtain a late-slip from the school office.  Any tardiness of more than 30 minutes for any class without a valid excuse is considered an unexcused absence.  Excessive tardies will result in disciplinary action and may result in an appearance before the Student Attendance Review Team (“SART”).

Tardies between Classes
Students have an allotted time to travel from one classroom to another.  Students who take longer than that time will receive an unexcused tardy from the teacher.

Passes
All students must carry passes verifying their authorization to be out of class during class time.  Passes are issued by the teacher/Principal/Assistant Principal as necessary.

Dismissal for Work or Participation in Events with External Organizations
In general, students may only be released to parents, guardians, or other individuals as indicated on the student’s enrollment form and/or emergency contact information.  Students may be picked up for work or participation in events with external organizations by representatives of such external organizations only with prior written consent from parents/guardians.  Upon student pick-up, any representative of an authorized external organization shall be required to show appropriate identification to appropriate school staff in accord with the school’s standard pick-up processes. 

Truancy
Students absent from any class or activity period without permission, or students who leave campus after arriving without permission are considered truant, even if they return to campus in time for class.  A student is considered a habitual truant if they have been reported truant three or more times per school year.  In addition, students shall be classified as a habitual truant if the student is absent from school without a valid excuse for 10 percent or more of the school days in one school, from the date of enrollment to the current date. Consequences for truancy will include a disciplinary action, up to and including referral to the Student Attendance Review Team (“SART”).

Student Attendance Review Team
The SART aims to work with families to ensure that students comply with compulsory education laws.  The SART is both a prevention and intervention tool that can be utilized to address truancies, excessive tardies, and excessive absences.  The SART’s duties include: 

• Reviewing school-wide attendance data
• Creating prevention strategies to encourage consistent student attendance
• Identifying students struggling to meet attendance expectations
• Creating intervention plans for struggling students
• Monitoring progress of students on contracts
• Determining consequences for excessive absences, up to and including, loss of course credit or referral to the judicial system

SART Members:  The SART consists of the Principal and designated classified and certificated personnel.  The student and parent/guardian experiencing attendance issues are encouraged to participate in the SART process.  Members shall be trained and shall understand the confidential nature of the SART when dealing with student names and identifying information.  Members should meet on a regular basis to execute the duties defined above.  In addition, the SART should convene as required when a student has accumulated an excessive amount of absences or truancies.

Process for Addressing Excessive Unexcused Absences:

Process for Addressing Excessive Tardies:

Detailed Description of Working Through the Unexcused Absence Matrix, Above

1. After two (2) days of unexcused absence, the school will call the parent/guardian.  The student’s classroom teacher may also call home.
2. Each of the third (3rd) and fourth (4th) unexcused absences will result in a call home to the parent/guardian by Principal or designee. In addition, the student’s classroom teacher may also call home and/or the School may send the parent an email notification.  In addition, upon reaching fourth (4th) unexcused absences in a school year, the parent/guardian will receive “4 Day Letter” from the School.  All SART-related communications with the parent/guardian shall be tracked in the School’s student information system (e.g., PowerSchool).
3. Upon reaching seven (7) unexcused absences, the parent/guardian will receive “7 Day Letter with Notice of SART,” and a parent/guardian conference will be requested to review the student’s records and any student agreements, which may include terms requiring regular student attendance, abiding by all school rules and policies, among others.  In addition, the School will consult with a school counselor regarding the appropriateness of a home visitation and/or case management.
4. Upon reaching ten (10) unexcused absences, the student will be referred to the SART.  In addition, the parent/guardian will receive a 10 Day Letter,” and will be asked/invited to attend an evening assembly for parents/guardians of chronically absent students. 
5. The SART will discuss the absence problem with the Parent/Guardian to work on solutions, develop strategies, discuss appropriate support services for the student and their family, and establish a plan to resolve the attendance issue. 

1. The SART shall direct the parent/guardian that no further unexcused absences or tardies can be tolerated.
2. The SART will review and update the previously drafted Student Agreement. Parent shall be required to sign the updated Agreement formalizing the agreement by the parents to improve the child’s attendance or face additional administrative action.  The Agreement will identify the corrective actions required in the future, and indicate that the SART shall have the authority to order one or more of the following consequences for non-compliance with the terms of the Agreement:
3.   Parent/guardian to attend school with the child for one day
4. Student retention

Iii. After school detention program

1. Required school counseling

vii. Loss of school event privileges

viii. Required remediation plan as set by the SART

1. Notice of action recommended by the SART will be provided in writing to the parent/guardian.

1. If the conditions of the SART Agreement are not met, the student may incur additional administrative action up to and including disenrollment from the school and notification of the disenrollment sent to the student’s district of residence.
2. For all communications set forth in this process, Green Dot will use the contact information provided by the parent/guardian in the registration packet. It is the parent’s or guardian’s responsibility to update Green Dot with any new contact information.
3. If student is absent fifteen (15) or more consecutive school days without valid excuse and parent/guardian cannot be reached at the number or address provided in the registration packet and does not otherwise respond to Green Dot’s communication attempts, as set forth above, the student will be in violation of the SART Agreement and shall be disenrolled. Notification of the disenrollment shall be sent to the student’s district of residence.

Legal Interventions:  The SART reserves the right to involve the judicial system in cases of excessive absences, excessive tardies and habitual truancy.  Once the case is referred to the authorities, the student and parent/guardian may be subject to the following sections of the California Penal Code:

• Sections 13202.7 (a) California Vehicle Code: “Any minor under the age of 18 years, but 13 years of age or older, who is an habitual truant, or who is adjudged by the juvenile court to be a ward of the court under subdivision (b) Section 601 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, may have their driving privilege suspended for one year by the court.” A habitually truant may loss driving privileges for one year.

   

• Section 601. Welfare and Institutions Code: (a) “Any persons under the age of 18 years who persistently or habitually refuses to obey the reasonable and proper orders or directions of his or her parents, guardian, or custodian, or who is beyond the control of that person…is within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court…” A student who does not follow orders of parents or guardians can be placed under the control of the court.

   

• Section 601. Welfare and Institutions Code: (b)“If a minor has four or more truancies within one school year as, or a school attendance review board or probation officer determines that the available public and private services are insufficient or inappropriate to correct the habitual truancy of the minor, or to correct the minor’s persistent or habitual refusal to obey the reasonable and proper orders or directions of school authorities, or if the minor fails to respond to directives of a school attendance review board or probation officer or to services provided, the minor then within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court which may adjudge the minor to be a ward of the court. 

Rev. 06/2025 

2.0 Policy: Accommodations for Student Religious Practices

In accordance with Green Dot policy against discrimination and the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution, students are entitled to excused absences for the observance of religious holidays provided : (1) they adhere to the school’s attendance notification procedures, and (2) the accommodation does not place an undue burden on the school. Additionally, a student may be entitled to excused absences for participation in religious instruction or exercises provided, again, they adhere to the school’s attendance notification procedures.  A student may be granted an “excused absence” for religious observance for no more than three (3) days per semester, and/or five (5) days total per school year. Students that are absent are responsible for making up any missed assignments.  A student may be granted an “excused absence” for participation in religious instruction or exercises for no more than four (4) school days per month.  Students that are absent are responsible for making up any missed assignments.

If any additional accommodations are required, a student’s parent or guardian must submit a written request to the Principal.  The request must state: (a) the specific accommodation requested; (b) why the accommodation is needed; and (c) the time and duration of accommodation.  To the extent possible, students should fulfill their religious obligations during lunch or free periods.  If a student must fulfill a religious obligation during class time, the Green Dot Principal should grant an excused absence for a limited, defined time.  Students who are excused from class for religious needs must have an opportunity to make up any work, assignment or test missed as a result of their absence. 

Rev. 06/2021

Green Dot has a progressive student discipline plan in place at each of its schools.  This plan is published at the beginning of each school year in this Student Policy Manual, which is prepared to be consistent with applicable law, this charter petition and any policies and procedures as stated therein.The discipline policy of Charter School will be reviewed with students and parents, by the Principal or designee, upon admission to Charter School and the signing of the Student Policy Manual.  .  The plan outlines day-to-day discipline including, but not limited to, warnings, restorative practices, parent-teacher communication, student conduct agreements, counseling referrals, written assignment or reflections, restorative resets, Saturday schools, campus community service, and student conduct agreements, as well as guidelines for suspension and expulsion.  Parents and students who do not sign this Student Policy Manual are not relieved of any obligation to adhere to the Discipline Plan.  Students shall not be suspended or expelled for academic failure.  Students shall only be suspended or expelled as established below.

Language translation and other necessary accommodations will be provided for students and parents as needed during any discipline conference, including the Discipline Review Board and Discipline Review Panel.

See Policy G. 5.0 for the school’s consequence matrix.

Green Dot’s student discipline policy defines student responsibilities and expected behavior.  The discipline policy promotes learning, protects the safety and well-being of all students, staff, and visitors at the school and serves the best interests of the school’s students and their parents/guardians.  These procedures are prepared to provide due process to all students.  Staff shall enforce disciplinary rules and procedures fairly and consistently among all students.    

This discipline plan follows the District’s Discipline Foundation Policy.  Each school implements school-wide behavior supports and alternatives to out-of-school suspension. Each school follows the research-based Structures for Success, Teaching Expectations, Observing and Monitoring student behavior, Interacting Positively and Correcting Fluently (“STOIC”) classroom management model as the foundation for addressing student behavior. This comprehensive model focuses on providing students with clear expectations, actively supervising student behavior and correcting misbehavior promptly and with positive interactions. The STOIC model creates transparent expectations for students and staff and is the framework for Charter School’s positive behavior and intervention systems.  Examples include: incentive programs, mediation, restorative practices, in-school suspension, parent-student shadow days, written student reflections and campus community service.   

The Multi-tiered System of Support (MTSS) model outlines academic, behavioral and social-emotional supports for all students at different tiers. All students receive behavioral support at the Universal Level through a school-wide Positive Behavior Support System representing universal practices.  At the Additional Level, more intensive support may be provided with mentoring programs, behavior support groups, and other interventions both in the classroom or outside the classroom for students not responding to Universal supports.  If a student continues to struggle, the MTSS team will determine if there are specific individual interventions (Intensified) necessary to address the student’s needs or if a referral to the Student Success Team is required. A Student Success Team referral may take place based on the need for individualized behavioral interventions, but would also include a comprehensive review of the student’s needs academically as well as social-emotionally.  

If, through the MTSS process, the Student Success Team suspects a disability, an assessment plan is created in order to complete a comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation.  For students with an IEP who are having behavioral challenges and who are in need of additional behavioral supports and interventions which are not currently in the IEP, Charter School would convene an IEP team meeting in order to add or revise a behavior support plan or consider other behavioral supports or whether or not a functional behavior assessment is warranted.  The IEP team may also consider a re-evaluation of the student in order to determine a possible change in eligibility or to gather additional information to plan other changes to the student’s plan. 

Each school will regularly monitor discipline data to identify trends and further opportunities to support students’ social-emotional and behavioral needs. Administrators will work with grade-level teams to analyze data and provide individual interventions for students as needed, partnering with parents and counselors.

School Jurisdiction                                          

All students are held accountable to all school rules and policies while under the school’s jurisdiction, including this Discipline Policy.  The school’s jurisdiction includes: (1)  acts that are related to school activities,  as well as (2) student behavior while attending school, including but not limited to: a) while on school grounds; b) while going to or coming from school; c) during the lunch period, whether on or off the school campus; d) during, going to, or coming from a school-sponsored activity.   

Progression of Disciplinary Procedures

A restorative approach will be applied whenever possible to build connection with the school community. Restorative practices may include, but are not limited to, community circles, mediation, restorative dialogue and conferences. School Behavior data is monitored through PowerSchool, Green Dot’s student information system. PowerSchool provides teachers and administrators the ability to log positive behavior, interventions, and consequences as needed. Additionally, Green Dot’s internal data system includes customized reports that school sites use to monitor progress over time.

Classroom Behavior Expectations and Management 

Teachers are responsible for the day-to-day discipline in their classrooms with the understanding that teachers have many different roles beyond just disciplinarians.  Teachers work together with their students to meet their individual needs to find a common ground in the classroom, to ensure that learning can take place. Teachers are provided professional development on classroom management during summer professional development, and throughout the school year during weekly professional development. Professional development includes data analysis, review of school policies, alignment of grade level teams on student expectations and de-escalation strategies.  Disciplinary options available to the teachers include: warnings, restorative practices, parent-teacher communication, student conduct agreements, counseling referrals, written assignment or reflections, and discipline referral to the Principal. 

As a general rule, any teacher may assign an intervention to a student for minor classroom misconduct.  Minor inappropriate conflicts with others may be identified at the teacher’s discretion and include engaging in a verbal argument, inappropriate or disruptive banter or distracting others from the learning environment after multiple redirections of the behavior.  Parents will be notified of an intervention directly from the teacher assigning the consequence or a school administrator as needed. When a student has not responded to appropriate in-class interventions or there is a serious violation of the rules, he/she will be referred to the Principal or designee.  A serious violation includes any violation listed under the “Grounds for Suspension and Expulsion” section included below.

Restorative Practices

Restorative practices may be leveraged to respond to behaviors as needed.  Restorative dialogue, restorative circles and appropriate steps to repair harm in the school community will be used to support students in meeting behavior expectations.  Parents/guardians will be notified of the restorative steps taken so that they may reinforce behavioral expectations with their student. Green Dot will use a progressive discipline system as defined in this Student Policy Manual to intervene in student behavior. 

Restorative Reset

A restorative reset is  an opportunity for a student to receive direct support from a counselor or administrator providing the student time to reflect on his or her behavior and a possible pattern of behavior that will be more positive, as well as to maintain established policies and standards of behavior, promote learning, and protect the safety and well-being of all students.

The school will monitor behavioral data to ensure a data-driven approach to supporting student interventions and alternatives to suspension. When applicable, restorative practices will be implemented as alternatives to suspension.

Any campus community service issued pursuant to this may take place before, after or during the school day. Any campus community service issued during the school day shall not prohibit a student’s time for lunch or remove that student from instructional time.

In-School Suspension

Following progressive discipline and/or after a serious violation, in-school suspension may be issued.  An in-school suspension shall be preceded by a conference conducted by the Principal or designee with the student and that student’s parent/guardian/ and, whenever practical, the teacher, supervisor, or school employee who referred the student to the Principal or designee. 

If a student is issued an in-school suspension without this conference, both the parent/guardian and student shall be notified by the Principal or designee  of the incident that occurred and the steps taken to conduct a fair and thorough investigation by the Principal or designee  and of the student’s right to an in person conference.  Parents are notified via phone, written in-school suspension notice and in person if possible.

Certain student offenses may raise concerns as to whether safety can be maintained for students, staff and visitors if an in-school suspension is issued.  Such offenses include the following:

1. Caused, attempted to cause, threatened to cause, or participated in an act of hate violence;
2. Engaged in harassment, threats, or intimidation against a pupil or group of pupils or school district personnel;
3. Made terrorist threats against school officials or school property, or both. 

Determinations of any such safety concerns depend on the specific circumstances, and will be made by the Principal or Assistant Principal on  a case by case basis. 

A student serving an in-school suspension reports to school at the regular time in compliance with the school uniform policy, which is described in this Student Policy Manual. Any student in need of a uniform may request assistance from the main office. Uniforms will be provided free of charge upon request. Each teacher will give the student assignments that he/she must complete under the direct supervision of the Principal or designee, and are afforded the opportunity to complete work upon returning to school should it be unavailable at the time of, or during, the suspension. Teachers may conference with the student during their planning period to provide direct instructional support as needed. In addition to instructional support, students will be provided with counseling services as deemed appropriate. Social-emotional learning curriculum may be used to allow for individual reflection and to prepare the student to reintegrate into the school community. The student will not attend any classes or school-scheduled breaks (e.g., nutrition/recess, lunch). The student will eat lunch in the assigned room.  The assigned room may be a classroom, counseling center or other office space, as deemed appropriate by the school, and will be supervised at all times by an appropriately credentialed staff member. 

Out-of-School Suspension

Suspension is intended to remove the student from peers and the class environment to provide the student time to reflect on his or her behavior and to encourage a possible pattern of behavior that will be more positive, as well as to ensure the school environment is safe and free from disruption upon the student’s return.

A student may only be suspended for misconduct that is related to a school activity occurring within a school under the jurisdiction of the Principal or occurring related to any other school district.  The misconduct may occur at any time, including, but not limited to: 1) while on school grounds; 2) while going to or coming from school; 3) during the lunch period whether on or off the campus; or 4) during or while going to or coming from a school-sponsored activity.,

Whether suspension occurs in or out of school, the maximum number of consecutive days a student may be suspended is five (5) days, unless the suspension is extended pending an expulsion hearing with Green Dot’s Discipline Review Panel (“DRP”), a committee designated by the Board. Students shall not be suspended for more than a total of twenty (20) school days in a school year, unless a suspension has been extended pending an expulsion hearing. 

If the student has an IEP or 504 Plan and the suspension, whether in or out of school,  would result in the student having been suspended for more than ten (10) days cumulatively, the school must hold  a manifestation determination IEP.  

Grounds for Suspension and Expulsion

In advance of a student discipline determination, including a decision to suspend a student, Green Dot will conduct a thorough investigation collecting evidence, including statements from possible witnesses, to ensure that all relevant information is considered before assigning interventions or consequences. Suspensions shall be initiated by the Principal or designee according to the following matrix for suspension/expulsion recommendations.

Matrix for Suspension/Expulsion Recommendations

* For Categories II and III, the school may only expel a student if the school provides evidence of one or both of the following additional findings: (1) Other means of correction are not feasible or have repeatedly failed to bring about proper conduct, or 

(2) Due to the nature of the act, the student’s presence causes a continuing danger to the physical safety of the pupil or others. 

** Grades 6 through 12 inclusive.

Out-Of-School Suspension Procedures

In advance of a student discipline determination, including a decision to suspend a student, Green Dot will conduct a thorough investigation collecting evidence, including statements from possible witnesses, to ensure that all relevant information is considered before assigning interventions or consequences. Suspensions shall be initiated by the Principal or designee according to the following procedures: 

Notice to Parents/Guardians

At the time of the suspension, the Principal or designee shall make a reasonable effort to contact the parent/guardian by telephone or in person. Whenever a student is suspended, the parent/guardian shall be notified in writing of the suspension and the date of return following suspension. In the case of a youth in foster care, written notification shall be provided to the student’s education rights holder, attorney, the appropriate representative of the county child welfare agency (e.g., social worker, probation officer), and tribal social worker (if applicable). This notice shall state the specific offense(s) committed by the student as well as the date and time when the student may return to school following the suspension. The notice will also include rights and procedures for suspension appeal. If the Principal or designee wishes to ask the parent/guardian to confer regarding matters pertinent to the suspension, the notice shall request that the parent/guardian respond to the Principal or designee the next school day. There shall be no penalty to the student should the parent fail to respond to this request.  

This notification may be omitted if the Principal or designee determines that an emergency situation exists. An “emergency situation” involves a clear and present danger to the lives, safety or health of students or school personnel. If a student is suspended without this notification, both the parent/guardian and student shall be notified by the Principal or designee of the student’s right to return to school for the purpose of a conference.  Parents are notified via phone, written suspension notice and in person if possible. 

At the time of notification, subject to any omitted conference due to an emergency situation described in the preceding paragraph, the student shall be informed of the reason for the disciplinary action and the evidence against them.  The student shall be given the opportunity to present their version and evidence in their defense. This conference shall be held within two (2) school days of the date that school received knowledge of the suspendable offense, unless the student’s parent or legal guardian waives this right, expressly is unwilling to attend, or is physically unable to attend for any reason including, but not limited to, incarceration or hospitalization. No penalties may be imposed on a student for failure of the student’s parent or guardian to attend a conference with the Principal or designee. The return to school of the suspended student shall not be contingent upon attendance by the student’s parent or guardian at the conference. As a part of the notification, Green Dot will work with parents/guardians and students to facilitate the daily pick up and delivery of academic work through the school’s main office or electronically. Understanding the impact of a loss of instructional time, as explained below, students are provided assignments for completion during an out-of-school suspension and are afforded the opportunity to complete work upon return should it not be available at the time of the suspension.

Instructional Services for Suspended Students

 The school will  work directly with parents/guardians to facilitate the pick-up and delivery of academic work for each course through the school’s main office. Work may be picked up and delivered on a daily basis, but this should occur at least once per week. Home schooling or the facilitation of an instructor to the student’s home for a designated amount of time per week will be utilized for students on an as-needed basis. School administration will arrange for students to take exams, both teacher-administered and state tests, in the school’s main office under appropriate supervision as needed.

In the event that  suspension is extended pending a DRP hearing, the school will provide instructional services for the student directly, through its authorizing district, or the Los Angeles County Office of Education.

Student Discipline Review Board

Each school year, the school will create a standing committee of at least five members for its Discipline Review Board (“DRB”), which is an advisory committee to the Principal or designee (e.g. Assistant Principal) on student discipline-related issues. The DRB convenes to hold a parent conference when a student commits a serious violation of the discipline code (including but not limited to Categories I and II as identified in matrix above) or has broken the terms of that student’s particular individualized student conduct agreement.  The DRB is a site-based committee that may recommend interventions following a serious disciplinary infraction or advise a principal to recommend expulsion to the Discipline Review Panel (“DRP”). 

The DRB is comprised of:

• The Principal or designee;
• At least 3 teachers;
• A classified employee is optional, and;
• A counselor is also optional.

The DRB will not include more than 7 staff members.   The Principal or designee is the facilitator of the DRB and convenes a DRB conference when needed. All other members of the DRB participate in this DRB conference by reviewing evidence, asking pertinent questions of the Principal, students and/or family members, discussing interventions, and making a  recommendation for next steps.  It is the responsibility of the Principal or designee to have available all pertinent materials for each gathering.

The Principal or designee considers the DRB’s recommendation and makes the final disciplinary decision or expulsion recommendation.  While five (5) school days is the maximum initial suspension allowed; following the DRB conference, suspension may be extended pending the results of the DRP hearing, as the student does not return to campus while they are pending the expulsion hearing, which will be held within 30 school days unless an extension is mutually agreed upon between the student/parent/guardian/authorized representative and the Chief Education Officer or designee. 

Given that the DRB is an advisory committee to the Principal or designee, this conference may be held with the Principal, students and/or family members without the staff members listed above at the Principal’s request, and with approval of the Area Superintendent where the Principal is concerned that holding the DRB with staff members present may cause undue harm to the students involved.

Academic Dishonesty

• The DRB may also recommend to the Principal or designee whether academic dishonesty (e.g., cheating, deceit, improper use of Artificial Intelligence, and unethical behavior with regard to any student’s academic achievement) warrants assigning a student conduct agreement..

Gang Affiliation

• The DRB may also recommend to the Principal or designee whether involvement in gang activity warrants disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion.  The following guidelines should guide a recommendation and decision for appropriate interventions and consequences for students involved in gang activity: 
• where involvement in gang activity is the cause of a serious violation of the student code of conduct, expulsion should be recommended; and
• where involvement in gang activity is identified, but not an immediate threat to school/campus safety, disciplinary probation with a gang intervention plan should be recommended.

Expulsion – Dismissal from School

A student may be expelled from a Green Dot school for any of the violations listed above in the section titled: “Matrix for Suspension/Expulsion Recommendation,” upon recommendation from the Principal and pursuant to the DRB conference and after a DRP hearing. 

Upon an expulsion recommendation by the Principal or designee, the student and the student’s guardian or representative will be invited to a conference with the Principal or designee to determine if the suspension for the student should be extended pending an expulsion hearing. In such instances when the Charter School has determined a suspension period shall be extended, such extension shall be made only after a conference is held with the student or the student’s parent/guardian, unless the student and the student’s parent/guardian fail to attend the conference. 

This determination will be made by the Principal or designee and informed by the Grounds for Suspension and Expulsion described above, including the Matrix. Upon such determination, the student’s suspension will be extended pending the results of an expulsion hearing. While five (5) school days is the maximum initial suspension allowed; following the DRB conference, suspension may be extended as interim placement is secured for the student. For students with IEPs, interim placement will be discussed, determined and documented through the IEP process. 

It is a federal mandate (Federal Gun Free Schools Act of 1994) that a school expel, for a period of not less than one year (except on a case-by-case basis if modified by Green Dot’s Chief Education Officer and such modification is in writing), any student who is determined to have brought a firearm to school.  The following violations shall result in an immediate suspension and a recommendation for expulsion:

• Brandishing a knife at another person; 
• Possessing, selling, or otherwise furnishing a firearm. This subdivision does not apply to an act of possessing a firearm if the student had obtained prior written permission to possess the firearm from a certificated school employee, which is concurred in by the principal or the designee of the principal; 
• Unlawfully selling a controlled substance;
• Committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault or committing a sexual battery (as defined in 48900[n]); and
• Possession of an explosive or destructive device.

The term “knife” means (A) any dirk, dagger, or other weapon with a fixed, sharpened blade fitted primarily for stabbing; (B) a weapon with a blade fitted primarily for stabbing; (C) a weapon with a blade longer than 3½ inches; (D) a folding knife with a blade that locks into place; or (E) a razor with an unguarded blade.

The term “firearm” means (A) any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; (B) the frame or receiver of any such weapon; (C) any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or (D) any destructive device. Such term does not include an antique firearm.

The term “destructive device” means any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas, including but not limited to: (A) bomb; (B) grenade; (C) rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces; (D) missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce; (E) mine; or (F) device similar to any of the devices described in the preceding clauses.

A student may not be suspended or expelled for any misconduct unless that act is related to school activity or school attendance occurring within a school under the jurisdiction of the Principal or occurring within any other school district.  That act may occur at any time, including, but not limited to 1) while on school grounds, 2) while going to or coming from school, 3) during the lunch period whether on or off the campus, or 4) during or while going to or coming from a school-sponsored activity. Guidelines corresponding to specific disciplinary offenses are listed in the Matrix above. 

Students with Disabilities

In the case of a student who has an IEP, or a student who has a 504 Plan, the school will ensure that it

follows the correct disciplinary procedures to comply with the mandates of state and federal laws,

including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 and Section 504 of the

Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Students Experiencing Homelessness and Foster Youth

In the case of a student experiencing homelessness, discretionary expulsions require the School to

provide notice to the School’s McKinney-Vento Liaison at least 10 calendar days prior to a hearing.

Mandatory expulsion authorizes a School to provide notice to the School’s McKinney-Vento Liaison at

least 10 calendar days prior to a hearing.

If the individual with exceptional needs is a youth experiencing homelessness, and the School has

proposed a change of placement due to an act for which a decision to recommend expulsion is at the

discretion of the principal or the district superintendent of schools, McKinney-Vento Liaison shall be

invited to participate in the individualized education program team meeting that makes a manifestation determination. The invitation may be made using the most cost-effective method possible, which include, but is not limited to, electronic mail or a telephone call.

In the case of a foster youth, discretionary expulsions require a School to invite and provide written notice to the student’s education rights holder, attorney, the appropriate representation of the county child welfare agency (e.g., social worker, probation officer), and tribal social worker at least 10 calendar days prior to a hearing. Mandatory expulsion authorizes a School to invite and provide written notice to student’s education rights holder, attorney, the appropriate representation of the county child welfare agency (e.g., social worker, probation officer), and tribal social worker at least 10 calendar days prior to a hearing.

Notice to Teachers 

The Charter School shall notify teachers of each student who has engaged in or is reasonably suspected to have engaged in any of the acts listed in Education Code Section 49079 and the corresponding enumerated offenses set forth above.

Authority to Expel

Students recommended for expulsion are entitled to a hearing adjudicated by a neutral officer to determine whether the student should be expelled. The procedures herein provide for such a hearing and the notice of said hearing, as required by law. 

A student may be expelled by the neutral and impartial Discipline Review Panel (“DRP”), which acts on behalf of the Board, following a hearing before it. The DRP will consist of no more than five staff members and shall be constituted as follows. The Chief Education Officer or their designee shall assign a facilitator: an Area Superintendent, the Vice President of Education, or the Chief Schools Officer. There shall be up to four additional panel members, which may include teachers, school administrators, or central office administrators. Panel members shall not be selected from the campus bringing forth the case. 

Expulsion Procedures

Students recommended for expulsion are entitled to a DRP hearing to determine whether the student should be expelled within the thirty (30) school days after the Principal or designee determines that the student will be recommended for expulsion.  A hearing will be held even if a student does not request or attend a hearing for purposes of creating a record that the expulsion was done in accordance with Green Dot procedures.  

The DRP hearing shall be held in closed session (complying with all student confidentiality rules under FERPA) unless the student makes a written request for a public hearing at least three (3) days prior to the hearing. 

Written notice will be mailed by the Principal or designee at least seven calendar days before the DRP hearing and will include student identification information, a description of the alleged misconduct, the applicable expulsion provision as listed in the above Matrix for Suspension/Expulsion Recommendations, student rights for due process, a description of the expulsion proceedings, the right to representation by counsel or advocate, the right to question all witnesses who testify at the hearing, the right for the hearing to be held in public session, the right to inspect and obtain all copies of documentation, the right to present evidence on the student’s behalf, the date, time and location of the hearing, the right to receive language translation, the right to request a reasonable accommodation, and the right to request a postponement.  Upon mailing the written notice, the Principal or designee’s responsibility, it shall be deemed served upon the student.

Presentation of Evidence 

While technical rules of evidence do not apply to expulsion hearings, evidence may be admitted and used as proof only if it is the kind of evidence on which reasonable persons can rely in the conduct of serious affairs. A decision to expel must be supported by substantial evidence that  the student committed an expellable offense. Findings of Fact shall be based solely on the evidence at the hearing. While hearsay evidence is admissible, no decision to expel shall be based solely on hearsay. Sworn declarations may be admitted as testimony from witnesses of whom the DRP determines that disclosure of their identity or testimony at the hearing may subject them to an unreasonable risk of physical or psychological harm. 

In a hearing in which a student is alleged to have committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault or to have committed a sexual battery, a complaining witness shall be given five days’ notice before being called to testify, and shall be entitled to have up to two adult support persons, including, but not limited to, a parent, guardian, or legal counsel, present during their testimony. Before a complaining witness testifies, support persons shall be admonished that the hearing is confidential. These requirements shall not preclude the person presiding over an expulsion hearing (i.e. Area Superintendent, Vice President of Education,  Chief SchoolsOfficer, Chief Education Officer) from removing a support person whom the presiding person finds is disrupting the hearing.  Further, in a hearing in which a student is alleged to have committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault or to have committed a sexual battery, evidence of specific instances of a complaining witness’ prior sexual conduct is to be presumed inadmissible and shall not be heard absent a determination by the person conducting the hearing that extraordinary circumstances exist requiring the evidence to be heard.  Reputation or opinion evidence regarding the sexual behavior of the complaining witness is not admissible for any purpose.

If, due to a written request by the expelled student, the hearing is held at a public meeting, and the charge is committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault or committing a sexual battery, a complaining witness shall have the right to have their testimony heard in a session closed to the public. 

Findings of Fact

A record of the hearing shall be made and will be maintained by any means, including electronic recording, as long as a reasonably accurate and complete written transcription of the proceedings can be made.  

Within ten (10) school days after this hearing, the DRP facilitator will provide the student/parent/guardian/authorized representative with the Findings of Fact, which will include a description of the outcome of the hearing.  If the DRP recommends against expulsion, the student will be immediately reinstated and permitted to return to an instructional program.  If the DRP confirms the Principal’s or designee’s recommendation for expulsion, the Findings of Fact will include an expulsion order, a rehabilitation plan, and any other recommendations the DRP determines to be appropriate. The rehabilitation plan typically requires a student to maintain satisfactory attendance, enrollment in a school setting, make academic progress, and not return to the school campus from which they were expelled. Depending on the expellable offense, counseling may be recommended.  A sample Findings of Fact template is available upon request.  If a student is expelled, the school and/or Green Dot’s Education Team will assist parents in finding a new placement by providing parents/guardians with Los Angeles County Office of Education (“LACOE”) contact information for support to find an alternative placement, and Green Dot acts as a liaison to the LAUSD suspension and Expulsion Unit as needed. 

In the alternative, in a case where there is mutual agreement among the parties, a stipulated expulsion may be executed, waiving the DRB and DRP processes. Stipulated expulsions are intended for cases where the student and family believe it is in their best interest to resolve the matter without participation in this process.

Rehabilitation, Reinstatement and/or Readmission 

Students who are expelled from the Charter School shall be given a rehabilitation plan upon expulsion as developed by the DRP at the time of the expulsion order. The rehabilitation plan should include a date not later than one year from the date of expulsion when the student may reapply to the Charter School for readmission. The rehabilitation plan will outline the term of the expulsion and expectations of the pupil, including but not limited to the following:

•  enroll in an alternative school setting, 
• maintain appropriate attendance, 
• maintain satisfactory grades,
• compliance with state laws and any educational institution of enrollment, and 
• completion of counseling or other required interventions specific to the disciplinary incident 
• to refrain from entering school grounds. 

Upon request from a student’s parent or guardian, or a pupil who holds their own educational rights, the decision to reinstate a student shall be made by a three person panel selected by the Chief Education Officer or designee, as delegated by the Board, that shall be composed of: the Vice President of Education, the Chief Schools Officer, and Area Superintendent(s).  If the term of the expulsion has ended, the Chief Education Officer or designee will schedule a Reinstatement Meeting to review the Rehabilitation Plan provided upon expulsion and  determine whether the student has successfully completed the requirements.  The Finding of Facts will indicate whether the student is eligible for readmission. 

The student’s readmission is also contingent upon the capacity of the Charter School at the time the student seeks readmission.  If the charter school does not have capacity, the student may be placed on a waitlist pending future enrollment.

If the panel does not find the student is eligible for readmission and the student and/or parent/guardian disagree with the panel’s decision, the Pupil and/or the parent/guardian may appeal this Decision, in writing, to GDPS’s Chief Education Officer (“CEdO”), 1149 S. Hill St., Ste. 600, Los Angeles, CA 90015, that outlines the reason for the appeal, attaching any supporting documentation, within thirty (30) days from the date of the issuance of this Findings of Fact and Decision.  If requested, a reinstatement denial appeal meeting will be held with the CEdO and the Pupil and/or parent/guardian.  The CEdO will review the supporting documentation attached to the written appeal and hear the basis for the appeal from the student and/or parent/guardian.  A decision will be made on the appeal based on a review of the entire record in this matter, including the Findings of Fact, within ten (10) calendar days from the date of the reinstatement denial appeal meeting, unless an extension is agreed upon mutually between the CEdO, and the student and/or parent/guardian.

Appeal Right

Students/parents/guardians have the right to appeal suspensions and expulsions.  In order to appeal a suspension or expulsion, the student/parent/guardian must submit a written appeal to the Chief Education Officer or designee outlining the reason for the appeal, attaching any supporting documentation, within 30 calendar days from the date of the suspension or, in the event of an expulsion, within 30 calendar days from the date of the DRP’s issuance of its Findings of Facts.

Appeals must be submitted to:

Green Dot Public Schools 

ATTN:  Chief Education Officer

1149 S. Hill St., Ste. 600

Los Angeles, CA 90015 

If requested, a suspension/expulsion appeal meeting will be held with the Chief Education Officer or designee and the student/parent/guardian. The Chief Education Officer or designee will review the supporting documentation attached to the written appeal and hear the basis for the appeal from the student/parent/guardian/authorized representative.  A decision will be made on the appeal based on a review of all evidence and the Findings of Fact within 10 calendar days from the date of the expulsion appeal meeting unless an extension is mutually agreed upon between the student/parent/guardian/authorized representative and the Chief Education Officer or designee.  If denied, the student/parent/guardian/authorized representative may appeal this decision to the Green Dot Board of Directors within 10 calendar days of the denied appeal.  An appeal hearing will be scheduled to be heard by the Board within 30 calendar days of receipt of the appeal to the Board.

If the expulsion appeal goes to the Board, the Green Dot Discipline Appeal Committee (“DAC”) will hold a closed session meeting to hear the appeal.  The DAC is a Board Committee whose membership consists entirely of Board members.  The hearing shall be held in closed session (complying with all student confidentiality rules under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) unless the student makes a written request for a public hearing in open session at least three (3) days prior to the date of the scheduled hearing. The DAC’s duly authorized jurisdiction includes student expulsion hearings. 

The DAC will review all relevant materials including, but not exclusive to: 

• All documents submitted during the DRP hearing by the student and the school, 
• The Findings of Fact and Expulsion Order,
• Appeal letter(s) to the Chief Education Officer and Response, and
• Letter from parent requesting an appeal to the Board.  

The scope of the Board’s review shall be limited to: 

1. Whether the DRP acted without or in excess of its jurisdiction;
2. Whether there was a fair hearing;
3. Whether there was a prejudicial abuse of discretion in the hearing; and
4. Whether there is relevant and material evidence, which, in the exercise of reasonable diligence, could not have been produced or was improperly excluded at the hearing.

Post-Board Appeal Process

The DAC will issue a decision within 10 calendar days from the date of the expulsion appeal DAC meeting unless an extension is mutually agreed upon between the student/parent/guardian/authorized representative and the DAC.  If the DAC upholds the appeal such that the expulsion is overturned, the student will be immediately reinstated and permitted to return to an instructional program.  If the DAC confirms the recommendation for expulsion, the decision will include the DRP’s and/or Chief Education Officer or designee’s expulsion order, a rehabilitation plan, and any other recommendations the DAC determines to be appropriate. With any decision upholding an expulsion, the DAC shall provide students/parents/guardians/authorized representatives with support from Green Dot to find alternative placement.

Rev. 06/2026

The school shall provide due process for all students, including adequate and timely notice to parents/guardians and students of the grounds for all suspension and expulsion recommendations and decisions and their due process rights regarding suspension and expulsion, including rights of appeal. A student or the student’s parents/guardians may appeal those disciplinary actions imposed upon a student for school related offenses.

• Appeals must be made first in writing at the school level, and should be directed to the Principal within ten (10) school days.  The Principal or Principal’s designee will attempt to resolve the appeal with a written response within ten (10) school days.
• After appeal at the school level, if further appeal is desired, the appeal should be made to the Green Dot Public Schools Home Office and should be directed to the Area Superintendent for resolution with a written response within fifteen (15) school days.
• After appeal at the Green Dot Public School administrative level, if further review is desired, the appeal may be forwarded to the Chief Education Officer or their designee for resolution with a written response within twenty (20) school days.

If any appeal is denied, the parent may place a written rebuttal to the action in the student’s file.

Rev. 06/2018

Items Prohibited on Campus

Certain items are not allowed at Green Dot because they interfere with, and/or distract from, instruction and the learning environment.  If brought to campus, they will be confiscated.  All confiscated items will be kept until the end of the school day and returned to the student, when appropriate, at the end of the school day.  Absent an approved academic purpose, these items include, but are not limited to:                                                                                                               

• laser pointers;
• permanent markers;
• electronic games;
• still or video cameras;
• balloons;
• toy weapons;
• lighters;
• stink bombs;
• gang paraphernalia; 
• explicit material;
• tear gas (e.g., pepper spray)
• ammunition; and
• any item listed in the “Matrix for Suspension/Expulsion Recommendations” (see Green Dot Policy C. 3.0, Discipline).

Recording Technology

Audio, video, and livestream recording of any kind on school campuses or within the Home Office is prohibited without prior administrative approval and consent from all parties.  Wearable technology, including smart glasses and smart watches, may not be used for recording audio, video, photography, transcription, live-streaming, or any similar functions. 

Lost, Stolen, Or Damaged Items

Green Dot is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal items.  Students are responsible for any personal items they bring to school and must watch their belongings carefully.  

Skateboards and Bicycles

During school hours, students must store skateboards and bicycles in a storage area designated by the school.  Students may not ride their skateboards or bicycles during the school day or on school grounds.  Students who do not adhere to these conditions will have their skateboards or bicycles confiscated and returned to the student, when appropriate, at the end of the school day. 

Lost and Found

Items that have been found at school should be returned to the office.  Students who have lost an item at school may come to the office before school, during break, or afterschool to check the Lost and Found.  Items in the Lost and Found will be discarded on a regular basis.

Rev. 06/2026

5.1 Policy: Cellular Telephone

Cell phones (including smartphones, walkie-talkies, pagers, or any electronic signaling device) must remain turned off and out of sight (i.e., in a student’s backpack and not in pants/shorts pockets) during school hours at the school site or while under the school’s supervision and control, but may be used before and after school. Schools may require that cellular phones or electronic signaling devices on campus remain “off” and stored in a cell phone pouch or holding station during school hours or during on site school activities. Any cell phone requirements or restrictions may also apply to the school’s after-school programming. If a student violates such policy: 

• First Occurrence: Device will be returned to the student at the end of the school day.
• Repeated Occurrences: Device will be returned to the student at the end of the school day.  Parents will be called and notified, and/or school-level consequences assigned.

However, a student shall not be considered in violation of the above policy under any of the following circumstances:

• in the case of an emergency, or in response to a perceived threat of danger; or
• when the school’s teacher or administrator grants permission to the student to possess or use a cell phone, subject to any reasonable limitation imposed by that teacher or administrator; or
• when a licensed physician and surgeon determines that the possession or use of a cell phone is necessary for the health or well-being of the student; or
• when the possession or use of a cell phone is required in a student’s individualized education program.

Rev. 06/2026

Green Dot’s uniform requirements are maintained and enforced to provide students with a safe and collegial environment aligned to Green Dot’s mission.  Although each Green Dot school may modify school colors as needed for school safety, students must adhere to the requirements below at all times.

A student has the right to dress in a manner consistent with the student’s gender identity, subject to any dress code adopted on a school site.  

Belts.  Belts must be only tan, brown, or black, a standard width, and properly worn at waist level.  Belts may be webbed, braided or leather.  Belts and belt buckles must not have logos, studs, chains, writings, or initials.

Footwear.  Only closed-toes dress shoes or tennis shoes.  No slippers or sandals.

Headwear.  No hats, bandanas, sweatbands, or visors are allowed.  Students may wear ribbons, rubber bands, barrettes, or headbands.

Jackets/Coats/Sweatshirts.  Must be all black without writing, initials, emblems, or logos of any kind.  Logos bearing the school name are available for free for all students upon request in the school office.  Students may not wear hoods in class. 

Pants/Shorts.  Only trouser-style khaki or black pants/shorts and unripped black jeans.  Sweatpants are not allowed.  Trousers or unripped black jeans must be at least ankle length but not touching the ground.  It is not permissible to cut the leg seam.  Shorts must reach the top of the knee in length.  Pants/shorts must be worn at waist level and not at the hip.

Shirts.  Only collared shirts, preferably polo-style are to be worn.  The only approved logo or name is the school name.  Logos bearing the school name are available for free for all students upon request in the school office.   

Skirts/Skorts.  Skirts/skorts must be khaki style, beige or black,  an appropriately fitted size, and fall just above the student’s kneecaps.

Tights/Leggings.  Only solid white, beige, or black  may be worn under skirts of the appropriate length.

Sweaters.  Only V-neck pullover, crew-neck pullover, or cardigan in solid black.  All sweaters must be worn over a uniform shirt.

Uniform Violation

Violations of the above Uniform Requirements must not result in suspension.  Green Dot recommends that its schools follow these steps as needed:

1. Meet with the student to understand the challenges and provide a loaner uniform, if available; 
2. Communicate with parents; then 
3. Follow up with student for additional support as needed and provide a restorative intervention

Rev. 06/2023

Extra-Curricular Involvement

C 23.0 Athletic Eligibility

Green Dot maintains membership in the California Interscholastic Federation (“CIF”) and requires that interscholastic athletic activities be conducted in accordance with CIF’s bylaws and rules.  A copy of the local CIF league rules may be found at www.cifstate.org.  In addition, CIF’s minimum standards, to maintain athletic eligibility, Green Dot students must:

• earn a minimum 2.5 GPA in the previous grading period (students who fall between a 2.0 GPA and a 2.5 GPA in the previous grading period maintain athletic eligibility but are placed on probation for the following grading period);
• not receive a grade of “F” in any subject;
• adhere to all Green Dot safety rules, policies, and instructions, as well as satisfactory sportsmanship and citizenship in the regular school environment;
• adhere to all current CIF rules and regulations;
• pass a physical examination given and certified by a medical doctor;
• carry sufficient insurance for injuries to participants arising while engaged in or preparing for interscholastic athletics sponsored by Green Dot;
• sign and return an acknowledgement of receipt and review of the Sudden Cardiac Arrest symptoms information sheet posted on the CDE’s website; and
• sign and return an Acknowledgement of Opioid Factsheet for Patients.

All student transfers, including intra-Ánimo transfers (i.e., transfer between Green Dot schools), must follow CIF’s transfer regulations that may include one year of non-participation for any student who transfers after the ninth grade year without a change of address.

Foster youth whose residence changes pursuant to a court order or decision of a child welfare worker and homeless youth shall be immediately deemed to meet all residency requirements for participation in interscholastic sports or other extracurricular activities.

Rev. 06/2022

C 24.0 Social Organizations

Green Dot believes that encouraging students to organize according to a wide variety of interests is part of accomplishing its mission statement. No student organization shall be denied based solely on its topic or subject. However, no student organization shall be formed that, through its bylaws or practices, excludes or harms any member of the student body on the basis of the characteristics listed in Education Code Section 220  (actual or perceived disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, immigration status, or any other characteristic that is contained in the definition of hate crimes set forth in Section 422.55 of the Penal Code or association with an individual who has any of the aforementioned characteristics) and Education Code Section 221.5, or that in philosophy or practice does not comply with the mission, expectations, and rules of Green Dot or the school.

Rev. 06/2018

C 25.0 Student Expression and Media

All students are entitled to enjoy the rights protected by the Federal and State constitution and laws for persons of their age and maturity in a school setting.  Students should exercise these rights reasonably and avoid disrupting school activities or violating the rights of others. For example, protected freedom of expression does not include acts or threats of violence, harassment or hate speech. Students who violate the rights of others or violate school policies or rules may be subject to disciplinary measures, as the circumstances warrant.

Freedom of expression shall include the right to present a point of view; the right to dissent; and the right to silence and privacy.  Student freedom of expression shall be limited only as allowed by law in order to maintain an orderly school environment and to protect the rights, health, and safety of all members of the school community.

Student Opinion

Green Dot Public Schools welcomes the view of student on matters relative to curriculum, class schedules, extra-curricular activities, and all other matters pertaining to the school community.  Students are encouraged to express their view first to appropriate faculty or staff and then to school administration.

Student Media Organizations

Green Dot Public Schools commits to freedom of expression for student forums.  The school newspapers, yearbook and literary magazines are encouraged to operate in a positive climate in which students demonstrate a high level of responsibility and enjoy the trust and respect of their community.  The instruction and training which students receive under the guidance of professional sponsors are expected to ensure that issues of student interest, including topics about which there may be controversy or dissent, be handled with regard for sensitivity and professional ethics.  Furthermore, the additional education which student writers, editors, and broadcasters gain through experience of making decisions about the content of student publications is expected to allow students to practice their training commensurate with accepted professional standards.

Pursuant to state law, students shall have the right to exercise freedom of speech and of the press including, but not limited to, the use of bulletin boards, the distribution of printed materials or petitions, the wearing of buttons, badges, and other insignia, and the right of expression in official publications, whether or not the publications or other means of expression are supported financially by the school or by use of school facilities, except that expression shall be prohibited which is obscene, libelous, or slanderous. Also prohibited shall be material that so incites pupils as to create a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts on school premises or the violation of lawful school regulations, or the substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school.

Student editors of official school publications shall be responsible for assigning and editing the news, editorial, and feature content of their publications subject to the limitations of this section. However, it shall be the responsibility of a journalism adviser(s) of student publications to supervise the production of the student staff, to maintain professional standards of English and journalism, and to maintain the provisions of this section.  Leaflets, pictorial, and other printed matter to be distributed shall be submitted to the Green Dot principal or designee at least one (1) school day prior to distribution. Distribution, free or for a fee, may take place any time except during instructional time and providing there is no substantial disruption in the school programs (as determined by the Green Dot principal.) The manner of distribution shall be such that coercion is not used to induce students to accept the printed matter or to sign petitions.  The solicitation of signatures must not take place in instructional classes or school offices, nor be substantially disruptive to the school program (as determined by the Green Dot principal.)

There shall be no prior restraint of material prepared for official school publications except insofar as it violates this section. School officials shall have the burden of showing justification without undue delay prior to a limitation of pupil expression under this section.

Bulletin Boards

At least one bulletin board shall be provided in the school for use by approved student organizations.  Bulletin boards designated for students may be used to for school activities or matters of interest to students.  All posted materials must conform to the general limitation stated in this policy and to the following requirements.

1. All student-posted notices or communications shall be subject to reasonable size limitations, shall be dated, and must be removed after the posting expiration date to assure full access to bulletin boards for all students.
2. All materials are to be stamped with the inclusive dates of posting.
3. If student materials violate the general limitations stated in this policy, they may be removed from bulletin boards and disciplinary action may be taken.

Circulation of Petitions

Subject to the procedures and general limitations stated in this policy, students may collect signatures or petitions concerning either school or non-school matters or issues.  Students must seek approval from the Administration in advance of the proposed activity to determine time, place, and manner of conducting the activity. The Administration will respond to a petition request within a reasonable time under the circumstances and approve unless there is a substantial likelihood or past history of disruption.

1. The school administration may designate certain times for the conduct of activities under this provision, such as before school begins, after dismissal or during lunch periods, to prevent interference with school programming.
2. The school administration may designate certain places for the conduct of such activities to assure the normal flow of traffic within the school or on the school premises.
3. The school administration may determine the manner of conducting such activities to prevent undue level of noise, or to prevent the use of coercion or unreasonable interference with any individual or group of individuals.

Buttons, Badges, and Other Insignia of Symbolic Expression

Students shall be permitted to wear buttons, badges, armbands, and other insignia as a form of expression, subject to the prohibitions enumerated in this policy.

Organized Demonstrations

Students have the right to lawful organized on-campus demonstrations, subject to the provisions of this policy and applicable law.  Demonstrations that incite pupils to create a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts on school premises or the violation of lawful school regulations, or demonstrations that substantially disrupt of the orderly operation of the school are prohibited.

No organized demonstrations by school groups may take place during school hours off the school campus unless sanctioned by school authorities and supervised by a designated school authority. No individual student may demonstrate in the name of the school or as an official school group at any time unless authorized by the school to participate in the activity.

This policy does not prohibit or prevent the Green Dot Governing Board from adopting otherwise valid rules and regulations relating to oral communications by pupils upon the premises of each MPS school.

No Green Dot employee shall be dismissed, suspended, disciplined, reassigned, transferred, or otherwise retaliated against solely for acting to protect a pupil engaged in the conduct authorized under this policy, or refusing to infringe upon conduct that is authorized under this policy, the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, or Section 2 of Article I of the California Constitution.

Rev. 06/2017

(injected humour and the like).

Outside Organizations

C 26.0 Advertising, Selling, and Soliciting at Schools

Green Dot Public Schools has adopted the following policy limiting advertising, selling, and soliciting for any cause, charity or benefit not sponsored by a Green Dot group or organization.

1. Students may not sell tickets or any items, including but not limited to food items, or solicit contributions in school unless the sale or solicitation is through a Green Dot-approved fundraiser.
2. The distribution of commercial handbills, cards, or other handouts in or around the school building is prohibited.
3. The school’s name is not to be used in any testimonial or advertisement in support of a commercial product or enterprise.
4. Broadcasting by a commercial firm of any sports event or recording for later broadcast of any musical event must be approved by the Principal.

Groups, companies, individuals and/or staff and associations interested in the solicitation and recruitment of Green Dot students for trips, tours, ski and camping expeditions, and other similar activities shall not solicit and recruit such students at any time on school premises.  Compliance with this prohibition makes it necessary to prohibit the practices hereinafter enumerated:

• The written or oral identification of the activity as being a “Green Dot trip,” including the identification of employees with such activity
• The publication of news articles or the publication of paid advertisements describing the activity in student newspapers
• The solicitation of students or the promotion of the activity during school hours and on school premises
• The promotion of the activity or the solicitation of students for such activities at any time on the school grounds
• The promotion of the activity or the solicitation of students by using school mailing lists or school records

Rev. 06/2023

C 27.0 Gifts, Donations, Grants, Bequests

Policy:  Gifts, Donations, Grants, and Bequests

Green Dot and its schools may accept any gift, donation, grant, or bequest of money, property, or service from any individual, private agency or organization, or other public agency that desires to support Green Dot. While greatly appreciating suitable donations, Green Dot shall reject any gift that may directly or indirectly impair its authority to make decisions in the best interest of students or its ability or commitment to provide equitable educational opportunities.

Before accepting any gift, donation, grant, or bequest, Green Dot administration shall carefully consider any conditions or restrictions imposed by the donor to ensure their consistency with the Green Dot’s vision, philosophy, mission, and operations. If Green Dot believes it will be unable to fully satisfy the donor’s conditions, the gift shall not be accepted.

Any gift of books and instructional materials shall be accepted only if they meet regular Green Dot criteria for selection of instructional materials.

All gifts, donations, grants, and bequests, including those directed toward a particular classroom or subject of instruction, shall become Green Dot property. Donors are encouraged to donate all gifts to Green Dot rather than to a particular school. At the Chief Academic Officer or designee’s discretion, a gift may be used at a particular school.

All gifts, donations, grants, and bequests made to particular employees, by virtue of their position and employment with Green Dot, shall become Green Dot property.

Rev. 06/2023

C 28.0 Research Requests

Green Dot recognizes the value of academic research to improve educational programs and practices that are aligned with Green Dot’s mission and is likely to benefit Green Dot without disrupting the school program.  The Chief Academic Officer or designee must give prior authorization for research projects within Green Dot or at any Green Dot schools.  Researchers shall respect the privacy rights of students, including their right to refrain from participation in research projects in accordance with law and Green Dot policy.  The Chief Academic Officer or designee shall ensure that parents/guardians receive prior notification of any surveys or evaluations that collect personal student information and that consent is obtained in accordance with law.

Persons or groups wishing to use Green Dot staff, students, or property in connection with an academic research project shall submit to the Chief Academic Officer or designee a written proposal which includes, but is not limited to:

1. name of researcher(s) and academic credentials;
2. purpose, scope, and duration of the project;
3. method of study or investigation to be used;
4. approval from the institution’s internal review board;
5. extent of participation expected of students and staff;
6. a certification that the researcher(s) will use not use the Green Dot name or brand in any publication of findings without prior approval from Green Dot;
7. use to which project results will be put; and
8. benefits to the school(s) or Green Dot.

The Chief Academic Officer or designee shall evaluate the proposal based upon, but is not bound solely by, the following factors:

1. shows potential for improving instructional programs and strategies;
2. addresses a relevant educational problem, concern or issue; and
3. is designed to minimize interruptions and demands upon the time of students and staff.

Should the Chief Academic Officer or designee grant permission for the research project, the researcher(s) shall adhere to the Green Dot Policies for volunteers, including, but not limited to, policies regarding Criminal Background Checks and Tuberculosis Testing, where applicable.

Rev. 06/2023

C. 29.0 Collecting and Retaining Student Information

The Principal or designee shall maintain in writing Green Dot’s policies and procedures for gathering and handling sensitive student information, and appropriate personnel shall receive training regarding those policies and procedures. If Green Dot possesses information that could indicate immigration status, citizenship status, or national origin information, the Green Dot shall not use the acquired information to discriminate against any students or families or bar children from enrolling in or attending school. If parents or guardians choose not to provide information that could indicate their or their children’s immigration status, citizenship status, or national origin information, Green Dot shall not use such actions as a basis to discriminate against any students or families or bar children from enrolling or attending school. Green Dot shall not allow school resources or data to be used to create a registry based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, or national origin.

Rev. 06/2023

C. 30.0 Inquiries Regarding Immigration Status, Citizenship Status, and National Origin Information

Green Dot personnel shall not inquire specifically about a student’s citizenship or immigration status or the citizenship or immigration status of a student’s parents or guardians; nor shall personnel seek or require, to the exclusion of other permissible documentation or information, documentation or information that may indicate a student’s immigration status, such as a green card, voter registration, a passport, or citizenship papers. Where any law contemplates submission of national origin related information to satisfy the requirements of a special program, Green Dot personnel shall solicit that documentation or information separately from the school enrollment process. Where permitted by law, the Principal or designee shall enumerate alternative means to establish residency, age, or other eligibility criteria for enrollment or programs, and those alternative means shall include among them documentation or information that are available to persons regardless of immigration status, citizenship status, or national origin, and that do not reveal information related to citizenship or immigration status. Where residency, age, and other eligibility criteria for purposes of enrollment or any program may be established by alternative documents or information permitted by law or this policy, Green Dot’s procedures and forms shall describe to the applicant, and accommodate, all alternatives specified in law and all alternatives authorized under this policy.

Rev. 06/2023

C. 31.0 Inquiries About Social Security Numbers or Cards

Green Dot shall not solicit or collect entire Social Security numbers or cards. Green Dot shall solicit and collect the last four digits of an adult household member’s Social Security number only if required to establish eligibility for federal benefit programs. When collecting the last four digits of an adult household member’s Social Security number to establish eligibility for a federal benefit program, Green Dot shall explain the limited purpose for which this information is collected, and clarify that a failure to provide this information will not bar the student from enrolling in or attending the school. Green Dot shall treat all students equitably in the receipt of all school services, including, but, not limited to, the gathering of student and family information for the free and reduced lunch program, transportation and educational instruction.

Rev. 06/2023

C. 32.0 Information Sharing

Green Dot shall avoid the disclosure of information that might indicate a student’s or family’s citizenship or immigration status if the disclosure is not authorized by FERPA.  Green Dot personnel shall take the following action steps upon receiving an information request related to a student’s or family’s immigration or citizenship status:

• Notify a designated Green Dot official about the information request.
• Provide students and families with appropriate notice and a description of the immigration officer’s request.
• Document any verbal or written request for information by immigration authorities.
• Unless prohibited, provide students and parents/guardians with any documents issued by the immigration-enforcement officer.

Except for investigations of child abuse, child neglect, or child dependency, or when the subpoena served on the local educational agency prohibits disclosure, Green Dot shall provide parental or guardian notification of any court orders, warrants, or subpoenas before responding to such requests.  Green Dot shall require written parental or guardian consent for release of student information, unless the information is relevant for a legitimate educational interest or includes directory information only.  Neither exception permits disclosing information to immigration authorities for immigration-enforcement purposes; no student information shall be disclosed to immigration authorities for immigration enforcement purposes without a court order or judicial subpoena.

Green Dot’s request for written or parental or guardian consent for release of student information must include the following information:

• the signature and date of the parent, guardian, or eligible student providing consent;
• a description of the records to be disclosed;
• the reason for release of information;
• the parties or class of parties receiving the information; and
• if requested by the parents, guardians or eligible student, a copy of the records to be released.

Green Dot shall permanently keep the consent notice with the record file. The parent, guardian, or eligible student is not required to sign the consent form. If the parent, guardian or eligible student refuses to provide written consent for the release of student information that this not otherwise subject to release, Green Dot shall not release the information.

Rev. 06/2023

C. 33.0 Annual Information Notice to Parents and Guardians

C. 34.0 Monitoring and Receiving Visitors onto Campus

No outsider—which would include immigration-enforcement officers—shall enter or remain on school grounds of Green Dot during school hours without having registered with the principal or designee. If there are no exigent circumstances necessitating immediate action, and if the immigration officer does not possess a judicial warrant or court order that provides a basis for the visit, the officer must provide the following information to the principal or designee:

• Name, address, occupation;
• Age, if less than 21;
• Purpose in entering school grounds;
• Proof of identity; and
• Any other information as required by law.

Green Dot shall adopt measures for responding to outsiders that avoids classroom interruptions, and preserves the peaceful conduct of the school’s activities, consistent with local circumstances and practices.  Green Dot shall post signs at the entrance of its school grounds to notify outsiders of the hours and requirements for registration.  Green Dot personnel shall report entry by immigration-enforcement officers to any on-site school police or other appropriate administrator as would be required for any unexpected or unscheduled outside visitor coming on campus.

Rev. 06/2023

C. 35.0 Responding to On-Campus Immigration Enforcement

As early as possible, Green Dot personnel shall notify the Chief Executive Officer of any request by an immigration-enforcement officer for school or student access, or any requests for review of school documents (including for the services of lawful subpoenas, petitions, complaints, warrants, etc.).  In addition to notifying the Chief Executive Officer, Green Dot personnel shall take the following action steps in response to an officer present on the school campus specifically for immigration-enforcement purposes:

1. Advise the officer that before proceeding with his or her request, and absent exigent circumstances, school personnel must first receive notification and direction from the Chief Executive Officer.
2. Ask to see, and make a copy of or note, the officer’s credentials (name and badge number). Also ask for and copy or note the phone number of the officer’s supervisor.
3. Ask the officer for their reason for being on school grounds and document it.
4. Ask the officer to produce any documentation that authorizes school access.
5. Make a copy of all documents provided by the officer. Retain one copy of the documents for school records.
6. If the officer declares that exigent circumstances exist and demands immediate access to the campus, Green Dot personnel should comply with the officer’s orders and immediately contact the Chief Executive Officer.
7. If the officer does not declare that exigent circumstances exist, respond according to the requirements of the officer’s documentation. If the immigration-enforcement officer has:
   • an ICE (Immigrations and Customs Enforcement) administrative warrant, Green Dot personnel shall inform the agent that he or she cannot consent to any request without first consulting with the Chief Executive Officer or Green Dot’s legal counsel.
   • a federal judicial warrant, prompt compliance with such a warrant is usually legally required. If feasible, consult with the Chief Executive Officer or Green Dot’s legal counsel before providing the agent access to the person or materials specified in the warrant.
   • a subpoena for production of documents or other evidence, immediate compliance is not required. Therefore, Green Dot personnel shall inform Green Dot’s legal counsel or other designated official of the subpoena, and await further instructions on how to proceed.
8. While Green Dot personnel should not consent to access by an immigration-enforcement officer, except as described above, they should not attempt to physically impede the officer, even if the officer appears to be exceeding the authorization given under a warrant or other document. If an officer enters the premises without consent, Green Dot personnel shall document his or her actions while on campus.
9. After the encounter with the officer, Green Dot personnel shall promptly take written notes of all interactions with the officer. The notes shall include the following items:
   • List or copy of the officer’s credentials and contact information;
   • Identity of all school personnel who communicated with the officer;
   • Details of the officer’s request;
   • Whether the officer presented a warrant or subpoena to accompany their request, what was requested in the warrant/subpoena, and whether the warrant/subpoena was signed by a judge;
   • Green Dot personnel’s response to the officer’s request;
   • Any further action taken by the agent; and
   • Photo or copy of any documents presented by the agent.
10. Green Dot personnel shall provide a copy of those notes, and associated documents collected from the officer, to the Chief Executive Officer or Green Dot’s legal counsel.
11. In turn, the Chief Executive Officer or Green Dot’s legal counsel shall submit a timely report to the Green Dot’s governing board regarding the officer’s requests and actions and the Green Dot’s response(s).
12. E-mail the Bureau of Children’s Justice in the California Department of Justice, at BCJ@doj.ca.gov, regarding any attempt by a law-enforcement officer to access a school site or a student for immigration-enforcement purposes.

Rev. 06/2023

C. 36.0 Parental Notification of Immigration-Enforcement Actions

Green Dot personnel must receive consent from the student’s parent or guardian before a student can be interviewed or searched by any officer seeking to enforce the civil immigration laws at the school, unless the officer presents a valid, effective warrant signed by a judge, or presents a valid, effective court order.  Green Dot personnel shall immediately notify the student’s parents or guardians if a law-enforcement officer requests or gains access to a student for immigration-enforcement purposes, unless such access was in compliance with a judicial warrant or subpoena that restricts the disclosure of the information to the parent or guardian.

Rev. 06/2023

C.37.0 Responding to the Detention or Deportation of a Student’s Family Member

Green Dot shall encourage that families and students have and know their emergency phone numbers and know where to find important documentation, including birth certificates, passports, Social Security cards, doctors’ contact information, medication lists, lists of allergies, etc., which will allow them to be prepared in the event that a family member is detained or deported.  Green Dot shall permit students and families to update students’ emergency contact information as needed throughout the school year, and provide alternative contacts if no parent or guardian is available.

• Green Dot shall ensure that families may include the information of an identified trusted adult guardian as a secondary emergency contact in case a student’s parent or guardian is detained.
• Green Dot shall communicate to families that information provided within the emergency cards will only be used in response to specified emergency situations, and not for any other purpose.

In the event a student’s parent/guardian has been detained or deported by federal immigration authorities, Green Dot shall use the student’s emergency card contact information and release the student to the person(s) designated as emergency contacts. Alternatively, Green Dot shall release the student into the custody of any individual who presents a Caregiver’s Authorization Affidavit on behalf of the student.  Green Dot shall only contact Child Protective Services if Green Dot personnel are unsuccessful in arranging for the timely care of the child through the emergency contact information that the school has, a Caregiver’s Authorization Affidavit, or other information or instructions conveyed by the parent or guardian.

Rev. 06/2023

C. 38.0 Responding to Hate Crimes and Bullying

Green Dot shall adopt and publicize policies that prohibit discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying on the basis of a student’s actual or perceived nationality, ethnicity, or immigration status. Those policies must be translated in the student’s primary language if at least 15 percent of the students enrolled in the school speak a single primary language other than English.  Green Dot shall notify parents and guardians of their children’s right to a free public education, regardless of immigration status or religious beliefs.

• This information shall include information related to the “Know Your Rights” immigration enforcement established by the Attorney General.
• Green Dot shall inform students who are victims of hate crimes of their right to report such crimes. Processing Complaints of Harassment and Bullying

Green Dot shall adopt a process for receiving complaints of and investigating complaints of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying based on any of the following actual or perceived characteristics:  The complaint process must include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

• A requirement that, if school personnel witness an act of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying, they shall take immediate steps to intervene when safe to do so;
• A timeline to investigate and resolve complaints of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying that shall be followed by all schools under the jurisdiction of the local educational agency; and
• An appeal process afforded to the complainant should he or she disagree with the resolution of a complaint.
• Green Dot shall ensure that complaint procedures contain confidentiality safeguards for immigration status information.
• Green Dot shall prohibit retaliation against a person who submits a complaint of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

Training Students, Teachers, and Staff on Anti-Bullying and Anti-Harassment Policy

Green Dot shall educate students about the negative impact of bullying other students based on their actual or perceived immigration status or their religious beliefs or customs.  Green Dot shall also train teachers, staff, and personnel to ensure that they are aware of their legal duty to take reasonable steps to eliminate a hostile environment and respond to any incidents of harassment based on the actual or perceived characteristics noted above.  Such training should, at minimum, provide agency personnel with the skills to do the following:

• Discuss the varying immigration experiences among members of the student body and school community;
• Discuss bullying-prevention strategies with students, and teach students to recognize the behavior and characteristics of bullying perpetrators and victims;
• Identify the signs of bullying or harassing behavior;
• Take immediate corrective action when bullying is observed; and
• Report incidents to the appropriate authorities, including law enforcement in instances of criminal behavior.

Rev. 06/2023

C. 39.0 Transgender and Gender-Nonconforming Student Rights

To ensure that transgender and gender-nonconforming students are afforded the same rights, benefits, and protections provided to all students, the school shall address each situation on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with the following guidelines:

• Right to privacy: A student’s transgender or gender-nonconforming status is the student’s private information and the school shall only disclose the information to others with the student’s prior written consent, except when the disclosure is otherwise required by law or when the school has compelling evidence that disclosure is necessary to preserve the student’s physical or mental well-being.
• Gender Identity: The school shall accept the student’s assertion of gender identity and begin to treat the student consistent with that gender identity unless school personnel present a credible and supportable basis for believing that the student’s assertion is for an improper purpose.
• Addressing a Student’s Transition Needs: Upon request or consent by a student, the Principal or designee shall arrange a meeting with the student and, if appropriate, the student’s parents/guardians to identify and develop strategies for ensuring that the student’s access to educational programs and activities is maintained. The meeting shall discuss the transgender or gender-nonconforming student’s rights and how those rights may affect and be affected by the rights of other students and shall address specific subjects related to the student’s access to facilities and to academic or educational support programs, services, or activities, including, but not limited to, sports and other competitive endeavors. In addition, the Principal or designee shall identify specific school site employee(s) to whom the student may report any problem related to the student’s status as a transgender or gender-nonconforming individual, so that prompt action can be taken to address it. Alternatively, if appropriate and desired by the student, the school may form a support team for the student that will meet periodically to assess whether the arrangements for the student are meeting the student’s educational needs and providing equal access to programs and activities, educate appropriate staff about the student’s transition, and serve as a resource to the student to better protect the student from gender-based discrimination.
• Names and Pronouns: As noted in Section A.9, Changes to Legal Name or Gender in Mandatory Student Records, at the written request of a student, school personnel shall address the student by a name and the pronoun(s) consistent with the student’s gender identity, without the necessity of a court order or a change to the student’s official records. However, inadvertent slips or honest mistakes by personnel in the use of the student’s name and/or consistent pronouns will, in general, not constitute a violation of this policy.
• Uniforms/Dress Code: A student has the right to dress in a manner consistent with the student’s gender identity, subject to any dress code adopted on a school site.
• Accessibility to Sex-Segregated Facilities, Programs, and Activities:

Consistent with its Nondiscrimination Policy and California Education Code Section 221.5, when Green Dot maintains sex-segregated facilities (e.g., restrooms, locker rooms), or offers sex-segregated programs and activities (e.g., physical education classes, athletics), students shall be permitted to access facilities and participate in programs and activities consistent with their gender identity.  To address any student’s privacy, safety, or stigmatizing concerns in using sex-segregated facilities, upon the student’s request, Green Dot shall offer available options such as a gender-neutral or single-use restroom or changing area, a bathroom stall with a door, an area in the facility separated by a privacy partition or curtain, or use of the facility before or after the other students. Green Dot shall not require a student to utilize these options because the student is transgender or nonbinary, as the student can determine in which facilities they feel safest and most comfortable.  In addition, a student shall be permitted to participate in accordance with the student’s gender identity in other circumstances where students are separated by gender, such as for class discussions, yearbook pictures, and field trips.  A student’s right to participate in a sex-segregated activity in accordance with the student’s gender identity shall not render invalid or inapplicable any other eligibility rule established for participation in the activity.

Rev. 06/2021