School Discipline

Upholding a fair and supportive learning environment is a top priority for our school network's discipline policies and procedures. We are committed to a continuum of equitable and culturally responsive instructional approaches to support both students and all members of the school community in meeting behavioral expectations while maintaining due process protections.

Key Principles

Our discipline policies aim to be fair and culturally sensitive, recognizing the diverse needs of our student body.
We prioritize instructional approaches that support students in understanding and meeting behavioral expectations, fostering a positive and inclusive school culture.
All our discipline policies and procedures align with both Federal and State laws, including Minnesota non-exclusionary discipline laws.

Special Protections for Special Education Services

While Minnesota student discipline laws apply to all K–12 students, it's essential to note that additional protections are in place for students receiving special education services. We are committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of their unique needs, is provided with a safe and inclusive educational experience.

Data Collection Mandates

To comply with state reporting and federal reporting requirements, school networks in Minnesota are obligated to collect student-level discipline data. This data not only supports compliance but also facilitates informed decision-making for continuous improvement.

At Hiawatha Academies, we believe that discipline policies should not only address misconduct but also be an integral part of our broader commitment to creating a positive and supportive learning environment for all.

Resource

<Student and Family Handbook >
<MDE Discipline Family Webpage >

Reporting

If your school administration fails to address a complaint, contact Senior Student Services Officer | [email protected]

Check & Connect

Check & Connect is a targeted intervention designed for K-12 students displaying warning signs of disengagement from school or those at risk of dropping out. At its core, the program establishes a foundation of trust between the student and a dedicated, trained Coach. This mentor serves as both an advocate and a motivator, actively challenging the student to prioritize their education. Students are referred to Check & Connect when they exhibit warning signs of disengagement, such as poor attendance, behavioral issues, and/or low grades.

Key Components

Trusting Relationship: The heart of Check & Connect lies in fostering a trusting relationship between the student and a caring, trained Coach. This relationship is pivotal in keeping education salient and empowering the student for success.
Monitoring and Intervention: The "Check" component involves systematic monitoring of student performance variables, including attendance, tardiness, behavioral referrals, and grades. The "Connect" component emphasizes personalized and timely interventions. Coaches work closely with students, providing support to solve problems, build essential skills, and enhance overall competence.
Caseload Management: Coaches maintain caseloads, working with students and families for a minimum of two years. Acting as liaisons between home and school, they strive to build constructive family-school relationships.

Check & Connect is specifically tailored for K-12 students who exhibit warning signs of disengagement from school and are at risk of dropping out. The program recognizes the diverse challenges students may face and addresses them through targeted interventions and support.

Check & Connect aims to produce positive outcomes, including:

Improvement in attendance, leading to greater persistence in school.
Accrual of credits and increased likelihood of school completion.
Enhanced academic achievement.
Improved relationships, emphasizing problem-solving skills and capacity building.