Below is the list of sites linked at the Lilly Lake Handbook site: https://lilylake.stillwaterschools.org/our-school/handbooks
This was pulled on 08-08-2025. My guess would be this handbook will be updated overtime so please take note of the date. Thank you.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review 418 Policy: Drug Free Workplace Drug Free School.
Stillwater Public Schools are committed to maintaining an alcohol/drug/tobacco-free environment. A student shall not: use a beverage containing alcohol (including attending school while under the influence); use tobacco, tobacco-related devices, or electronic cigarettes; or use or consume, have in possession, buy, sell or give away marijuana or any substance defined by law as a drug. Electronic cigarette means any oral device that provides a vapor of liquid nicotine, THC, or any other similar substance, and the use or inhalation of which simulates smoking. Students in violation of this rule will be immediately suspended, will be expected to meet and develop a remediation plan with the chemical health coordinator and may be recommended for expulsion. Students in violation of this rule will also be referred to law enforcement for additional charges. All tobacco products visible to or located by staff will be confiscated and destroyed.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 503: Student Attendance.
Regular school attendance is directly related to success in academic work, benefits students socially, provides opportunities for important communications between teachers and students, and establishes regular habits of dependability.
Use PowerSchool (preferred method) to notify the school of absences. Please include the reason for the absence in the comments section.
Need help? Contact the Family Support Help Desk at 651-351-8404 or familyhelp@stillwaterschools.org
To be considered an excused absence, the student’s parent or legal guardian may be asked to verify, in writing, the reason for the student’s absence from school. A note from a physician or a licensed mental health professional stating that the student cannot attend school is a valid excuse.
The following reasons are sufficient to constitute excused absences:
- Parent verified illness: Up to three consecutive days or eight total per year
- Doctor verified illness: Up to three consecutive days or eight total per year
- Family emergencies or serious illness in the family: Up to three days per year
- Death or funeral in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative: Up to four days per year - [Policy 503, pg. 3]
- Family vacation with advanced notice: Up to five days per year
- A student’s condition that required ongoing treatment for any health related issue: Physical or mental health with a note from provider.
- Medical, dental, or orthodontic treatment or counseling appointment
- Court appearances occasioned by family or personal action
- Religious instruction or holiday with advanced notice
- Physical emergency conditions such as fire, flood, storm, etc.
- Serving a suspension
- Active duty in any military branch of the United States
- School bus arrived late
All absences and tardies are unexcused by default. Students and families have 48 hours from the time a student returns to school to contact the school or produce a letter, note, or any documentation verifying a valid excuse reason in order to convert an unexcused code to an excused code. In cases of recurring unexcused absences, administration may also request the county attorney to file a petition with the juvenile court, pursuant to Minnesota statutes. Students attending Stillwater Area Public Schools who attain seven or more unexcused absences are considered a habitual truant and may be referred to the county attorney’s office.
Students are expected to be in their assigned area at designated times. Failure to do so constitutes tardiness. Students who accumulate multiple unexcused [Policy 503, page 4] tardies will be subject to the discipline rules found within their school handbook.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 404: Criminal Background Checks.
Stillwater Area Public Schools conducts criminal history background checks for all applicants 18 years of older who receive an offer of employment with the school district. The school district also seeks criminal history background checks for all volunteers and individuals 18 years or older (except enrolled student volunteers under the age of 18) who are offered the opportunity to provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services to the school district, regardless of whether compensation is paid. These positions include, but are not limited to: All athletic coaches, extracurricular academic coaches, assistants, and advisors. The school district may elect to seek criminal history background checks for other volunteers, independent contractors, and student employees.
Background checks are FREE for volunteers. Employees are charged $15.
The background check process can take up to two weeks to complete, so registering early is important to be ready for volunteer opportunities and avoid delays in hiring. Background checks are simple to complete.
School board policy requires that background checks for volunteers be renewed every four years. Contact a school secretary to check when a background check may expire. Volunteers are also asked to sign a release form.
- Social security number: Submit information for a social security background check online or by completing and submitting a paper application. It takes approximately one week to process a social security number.
- Online: Complete an online form to request a secure link. The person-specific link is e-mailed through a secure website to submit a social security number and other information necessary to complete the background check. Employees can also pay the $15 fee for a background check online.
- Paper application: Please visit the Central Services Building or a school office to receive a copy of the application.
- Fingerprinting: Complete a background check by providing fingerprints instead of a social security number.
- To setup an appointment to be fingerprinted, please contact the district receptionist at 651-351-8340. The $15 payment for employees is collected at the appointment. It takes approximately one month to process fingerprints.
VOLUNTEERS: Once a background check has been completed, sign-up for volunteer opportunities as schedules allow. Visit a school office or classroom teacher to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 903: Visitors to School district Buildings and Sites.
Parents and community members are welcomed into Stillwater schools. Upon entering a school, all visitors are asked to present a valid, state-issued ID, which is scanned into the visitor management system. The system scans the visitor's name, date of birth, and photo for comparison with a national database of registered sex offenders. Once entry is approved, a badge is printed that identifies the visitor, the date, and the purpose of their visit.
Students who do not attend the school are not allowed to attend classes with friends, family, or siblings. Tours of schools can be scheduled with the principal or building secretary.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 514: Bullying Prohibition
Stillwater Area Public Schools is committed to providing a safe and respectful learning environment for all students. Acts of bullying, in any form, by either an individual student or a group of students, are prohibited on school district property, at school-related functions or activities, on school transportation, and by misuse of technology.
Concerns about a bullying incident? Complete the Bullying Report and Incident Form to report it to an administrator
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 414: Mandatory Reporting of Child Neglect or Physical or Sexual Abuse.
The Minnesota Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Law requires school personnel to report if they know or have reason to believe a child is being or has been, abused in the past three years. Failure to report child abuse is a misdemeanor and punishable by law. A report of child abuse made in good faith provides one with immunity from legal action. Child abuse may include physical abuse including mental injury, sexual abuse, neglect or threatened injury.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 521: Student Disability Nondiscrimination.
Stillwater Area Public Schools defers to Minnesota State Statutes and Federal law related to services for children with disabilities. Visit the links below for more information.
The parental rights notice (also called procedural safeguards) provides an overview of parental special education rights. The notice addresses key rights such as providing informed consent and procedures for disagreeing with the district. View the Minnesota Department of Education website to access the procedural safeguards.
Federal Law:
- The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a law that makes available a free appropriate public education to eligible children with disabilities throughout the nation and ensures special education and related services to those children.
Parental rights under Minnesota State Statutes include:
- The parental right to be included in determining the appropriate and necessary services for students with disabilities is governed by section 125A.08.
- The parental right to notice and involvement regarding online reporting of data related to children with disabilities is governed by section 125A.083.
- Parental rights regarding notice, participation and due process related to special education alternative dispute resolution procedures are governed by section 125A.091.
- The parental right to notice of a school district seeking reimbursement from medical assistance or MinnesotaCare for services rendered to a student with a disability is governed by section 125A.21, Subd. 2.
- Parental rights related to services provided to students eligible for Part C services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the right to receive written materials regarding the implementation of Part C services are governed by sections 125A.42 and 125A.48. The parental right to use mediation to resolve disputes under section 125A.43 is governed by section 125A.42
The District defers to Minnesota State Statutes related to compulsory instruction, which covers a variety of parental rights including the right to withdraw a child from school; to receive notice related to transfer of disciplinary records; to excuse a child from school for illnesses, appointments of religious events; and the right of noncustodial parents to access school records and conferences, among other rights.
See Minnesota state statutes section 120A.22 for full details.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 103: Complaints - Students, Employees, Parents, Other People.
As a district committed to individualized attention and personal relationships, offering a high-quality customer service experience is an essential part of Stillwater Area Public Schools' mission.
Recognizing that at times the District may not meet all expectations, feedback is welcomed and families are encouraged to let staff know of concerns.
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Share concerns with the person most directly involved (i.e. classroom teacher, coach/activity advisor, etc.). Many times a concern is a result of misinformation or a misunderstanding and can be solved at the classroom or building level.
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If after that meeting there is still an issue, bring concerns to the building principal or appropriate supervisor.
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If an issue remains, direct concerns to the superintendent or administrative designee.
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If there is still an issue after speaking with the superintendent/designee, a concern can be submitted in writing to the school board during an open forum.
The District is committed to continuous improvement, and is always seeking to enhance the experience for students, families, staff, and community members. Comments can be sent to comments@stillwaterschools.org.
To keep schools safe for students, if someone overhears something concerning, notices strange behaviors, or sees an alarming post on social media - speak up. Please encourage children to share any concerns they may have with a school staff member, the local police or any adult.
Look for the “See Something, Say Something” button on the StillwaterSchools.org homepage that allows for anonymous reporting of any concerns.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 806: Crisis Management
Stillwater schools take school safety very seriously. Spending considerable time and energy each year working with local law enforcement to review school emergency plans, train staff, practice safety drills with students, and increase security in buildings, the district also works with Washington County Public Health and Safety and the Sheriff's Office to conduct safety audits of facilities, train staff, and address mental health concerns in the school community.
Please review the Emergency Management website to learn about Standard Response Protocols, safety drills, building security, and more.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 506.
The policy provides examples of areas of unacceptable behavior subject to disciplinary action, as well as outlines the disciplinary actions that may be taken.
See the Unexpected Behaviors Matrix (Administrative Procedures) for details about our responses to behavior.
The purpose of this policy is to help all members of the school community work collaboratively to create a safe, supportive and equitable school climate through the use of positive discipline practices. Effective positive discipline results from an equitable, supportive environment that stresses student self-direction, decision-making and responsibility.
All students have a right to learn and develop in a setting which promotes respect of self, others and property.
Effective positive discipline can only result from an environment which provides options and stresses student self-direction, decision-making, and responsibility.
The consequences for misbehavior are designed to be fair, firm, and consistent for all students in the district. The consequences apply to all students, preschool through grade 12+, regardless of whether the misbehavior took place in school, on district property, in a district vehicle, at a school or district activity, at a school bus stop, or on a pathway to or from school. Consequences also apply to misbehaviors carried out through the use of electronic communication.
A parent does have the ability to appeal a discipline decision under Minnesota Statutes, section 121A.49 and can do so by submitting the Discipline Complaint Form.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 904: Distribution of Materials on SD Property by Non-School Person.
Stillwater Area Public Schools recognizes the role of non-profit organizations that serve youth and families within the community. The district provides opportunities for qualifying local, nonprofit organizations, and in limited situations for-profit organizations as set forth in policy, to share their program information with students. All approved materials are to be distributed electronically to families via Peachjar.com.
1. The opportunities for distribution of materials are only available to:
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Local, non-profit organizations with an official 501(c)3 or similar non-profit status that are offering activities/events/classes/resources, within district boundaries, which contribute to the positive academic, social or physical development of students;
- For-profit organizations only when the district determines that the materials meet the criteria applicable to non-profit organizations in 1(a), and the event or activity is not a method to create a captive audience for proprietary interests.
2. All materials must be submitted electronically for approval through the Peachjar system. No paper flyers are distributed to students or schools, with the exception of school- or district-generated materials, as well as pre-printed flyers from the Boy Scouts and other Title 36 youth groups.*
3. The district reserves the right to deny permission for the posting of materials that do not meet the criteria outlined in No. 1, directly compete with district program or services, and/or are not suitable for the school environment due to content that is vulgar, obscene, discriminatory or harassing; constitutes hate speech; is contrary to the health/safety of students; promotes illegal activity; violates district policies, rules or regulations; promotes or is hostile to any religion (however, materials from a religious organization are not denied if the materials comply with all other criteria in these guidelines and do not proselytize or promote a religion); or will create a material and substantial disruption.
4. Materials are distributed on a weekly basis. Materials must be submitted for approval by 5 p.m. on Tuesdays to be included in Wednesday e-mail delivery.
Distribution requests
For materials be considered for approval, submit a request through the steps below. A notification of the status of the request is sent, and once approved, materials are emailed to parents and posted online. Paper flyers are not distributed with the exception of the Boy Scouts and other Title 36 youth groups.* Those organizations must drop off their preprinted flyers to the Central Services Building for approval and distribution.
- Visit www.peachjar.com
- Go to the "Community Organizations" tab at the top, and select the "How It Works" button.
- Read the steps and click on the "Get Started Now" button, which guides the registration process.
- Upload event information for consideration.
All materials uploaded to Peachjar are automatically submitted to the Communications Office. The Community Engagement Manager or designee reviews materials and approves or denies based on the criteria above.
* The Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act, 20 USC 7905, provides essentially that any school receiving federal support is required to provide Scouting and any Title 36 youth organization the same access to school facilities as any other patriotic organization.
NOTE: If an organization offers free services to students and families, they are able to post district-approved flyers for free. Organizations must call Peachjar at 858-997-2117x130 to create a free account. If families are charged for activities, Peachjar charges a fee for the distribution service.
Learning continues even on days when winter weather makes travel difficult. Each year, the district will have two official “Snow Days” in which there is no school in-person or online. After that, any weather-related cancellation results in an E-Learning Day.
E-Learning Days ensures students continue learning on inclement weather days, and reduces the chance that schools must make up days at the end of the school year due to cancellations.
Families are notified of an E-Learning Day by 6 a.m. The district makes every effort to provide notifications on the night prior to an E-Learning Day.
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Families receives notification of an E-Learning Day as part of typical announcements regarding inclement weather days
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Learning activities are posted in Schoology for grades 6-12
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Choice board activities are sent out to preK-5 students by teachers
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Teachers are available during E-Learning Days to provide support for student learning
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Accommodations are made for students with special needs
When school buildings are closed for either a Snow Day or E-Learning Day, the following activities are also canceled unless otherwise communicated:
- All before- and after-school programs
- School events: Fiield trips, open houses, conferences, etc.
- Adventure Club
- Community Education after-school youth classes and programs
- Pony Activity Center (PAC)
- High School athletics practices and activities
- Games and competitions are decided on an individual basis. Please check with the coach.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 524: Internet and Technology Acceptable Use and Safety Policy.
The School Board believes that users should have an opportunity to access the Internet to facilitate learning, and for educational and personal growth in the use of technology, resource sharing, information gathering, and communication skills. The use of the District technology system and access to use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right.
Access to District technology systems and to the Internet enables students to explore thousands of libraries, databases, bulletin boards, and other global resources while exchanging messages with people around the world. The District expects that staff blends thoughtful use of the school District technology system and the Internet throughout the curriculum and educates students about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms, as well as bullying awareness and response.
The value of access to information and interaction on the Internet far outweighs the risk that users may procure material that is inconsistent with the educational goals of the District. Students are expected to use Internet access through the District technology systems to further educational and personal goals consistent with the mission and policies of the District. Uses which might be acceptable on a user’s private personal account on another system may not be acceptable on this limited purpose network.
The Acceptable Use Policy sets forth guidelines for student access and use of district electronic technologies.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Student Enrollment Options
Alternate Enrollment
Families in the community value choice and Stillwater Schools provides a variety of learning environments to meet students’ individual needs. All students in District 834 are eligible to attend school outside of their assigned attendance area providing space is available at the school of their choice and application processes are followed. Requests are filled based on priorities outlined on the Administrative Procedures. Transportation is not provided for students choosing to enroll outside of their attendance area.
Open Enrollment
Stillwater Schools welcomes non-resident students through Minnesota’s Open Enrollment Program, which allows any Minnesota student to apply to enroll in any public school in the state tuition-free. All non-resident student applications are considered, providing that space is available at the school of choice, and students are not dependent on district transportation and application processes are followed. Requests are filled based on priorities outlined on the Administrative Procedures.
Call the Enrollment Office at 651-351-8412 for more information about enrollment options.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 102: Equal Educational Opportunity
All students, regardless of gender, personal characteristics, backgrounds, or physical challenges, shall have the opportunity to study all content areas and be supported in their learning.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 402: Disability Nondiscrimination
The district provides equal opportunity in education and employment for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis or race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, status with regards to public assistance, membership or activity on a local commission, disability or age.
- Allergy Aware
- Animals in the Classroom
- Indoor Air Quality and Asbestos Abatement
- Lead in Drinking Water
- Pesticide Use
- Radon Measurement
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 807: Health and Safety.
Allergy Aware
Exposure to some fragrances and scents may cause some individuals to experience asthma or allergic reactions, including upper respiratory irritation, headaches, and other symptoms. Please use personal products that are fragrance free/low odor. Many people have allergies, such as peanuts/wheat/latex. Please be respectful of their needs. No latex balloons are allowed on school grounds.
Animals in the Classroom
To decrease student and staff exposure to potentially harmful animal allergens, the procedures for bringing animals to school are:
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Teachers notify the principal, custodian, and students of the type of animal and location. All animals are properly vaccinated.
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The location of the habitat for the animal includes consideration of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning components.
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The teacher is always present when animals are handled by a student.
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All staff and students wash their hands before and after handling animals, cage debris, or animal supplies.
Indoor Air Quality and Asbestos Abatement
Stillwater Area Public Schools has implemented and maintains a complete Health and Safety Program to protect students and employees. The district continues its efforts to monitor asbestos in buildings and to respond in a cautious and proactive manner. Periodic surveillance of all asbestos-containing materials takes place semi-annually to ensure they remain in good condition. A complete re-inspection of buildings takes place every three years, and is scheduled for Dec. 2027.
As an added precaution, planned abatement projects occur on breaks or during the summer when students are not present in the building when possible. Questions about the asbestos management plan or asbestos removal should be directed to the Manager of Facilities and Site Operations at 651-351-8374.
The district also has an Indoor Air Quality Management Plan that addresses any indoor air quality concerns that may be reported. To report these concerns, please contact a principal. Annual building inspections are performed to prevent problems from occurring. Questions regarding the IAQ Management Plan should be addressed to the Manager of Facilities and Site Operations, 651-351-8374.
Lead in Drinking Water
The district takes the safety of students and staff very seriously. Please visit the information regarding water safety in the Environmental Health & Safety section of the website here.
Pesticide Use
Pesticides and non-chemical treatments may be used in a combination in and around school buildings for the control of weeds, as well as insects and rodents. To limit potential pesticide exposure, the district uses a trained and licensed pest control service, and staff follows safety regulations to ensure pesticides are used properly.
General Schedule: Pesticide applications, if required, take place the last full week of every month. Restricted entry signs are posted on school grounds after application by our licensed contractor.
Application of herbicides for weed control: Aug. 18-29, 2025, May 18-29, 2026, and July 25-31, 2026.
If you would like to be notified of pesticide application outside of the general schedule, please call the Manager of Facilities and Site Operations, 651-351-8374.
Radon Measurement
Stillwater Area Public Schools takes safety very seriously and works diligently to ensure safe and healthy learning environments are provided for all students. While radon testing is not required for schools in Minnesota, Stillwater Schools has tested schools and have posted results online.
Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state, federal, and local funds at no charge to a student. This includes access to a district-provided Chromebook that can be used for research, writing and homework purposes. A list of recommended school supplies can be found here. Students may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including but not limited to:
- Admission fees or charges for extracurricular activities, where attendance is optional and where the admission fees or charges a student must pay to attend or participate in an extracurricular activity are the same for all students, regardless of whether the student is enrolled in a public or a home school.
- Cost for materials for a class project that exceeds minimum requirements and is kept by the student.
- Security deposits for the return of materials, supplies, or equipment.
- Items of personal use or products that a student has an option to purchase such as student publications, class rings, annuals, and graduation announcements.
- Field trips considered supplementary to the district’s educational program.
- Admission fees or costs to attend or participate in optional extracurricular activities and programs.
- Voluntarily purchased student health and accident insurance.
- Use of musical instruments owned or rented by the school district.
- A school district-sponsored driver or motorcycle education training course.
- Transportation to and from school for students living within two miles of school.
- Transportation of students to and from optional extracurricular activities or post-secondary instruction conducted at locations other than school.
Students will be charged for textbooks, workbooks, and library books that are lost or destroyed. The school district may waive a required fee or deposit if the student and parent/guardian are unable to pay.
Families may be eligible for educational benefits to help cover the cost of school related expenses.
Fill out an Educational Benefits Application to find eligibility for assistance with school-related activities. Applications are processed beginning in August. Learn more and apply.
- Sports and activities: Reduced fees to participate on school teams or clubs
- Instruments, equipment and other supplies: Free or reduced costs to rent musical instruments, purchase equipment, or supplies needed for activities or sports
- Field Trips: Free or reduced costs to attend field trips with classes
- College Application & Testing Fees: Discount on fees associated with applying for college and for participating in academic testing such as SAT, ACT and Advanced Placement
- Utility help: Some companies offer reduced fees on utilities, such as electricity and internet
Children in households participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), and foster children can receive educational benefits without reporting household income. Also, children can get educational benefits if their household income is within the maximum income shown for their household size on the instructions. Approval for educational benefits is good for the school year
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 522: Title IX - Sex Non-Discrimination.
Notice of Nondiscrimination Policy
Stillwater Area Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX, including in employment.
District Obligation
The district has an obligation to respond to and investigate complaints of harassment (Policy 413) and/or Title IX violations of discrimination or harassment based on sex (Policy 522).
File a Complaint
If you would like to file a complaint because you have experienced harassment or discrimination based on sex, or have been a witness to either of these policy violations, please follow the reporting procedures outlined in our policies. You can submit your complaint to the district's Title IX Coordinator, who will ensure that your case is thoroughly investigated and addressed in accordance with federal and district guidelines. Your report can be made in writing via the form below, via email or handwritten and delivered. It can also be made verbally in person or via phone.
The district will take reasonable steps to protect the privacy of the parties and witnesses during the process to the extent it does not interfere with the ability to gather or present evidence.
The district and Title IX strictly prohibit retaliation against anyone involved in reporting, witnessing or investigating a complaint.
Title IX Coordinator and District Human Rights Officer:
Kristine Carlston
carlstonk@stillwaterschools.org
651-351-8311
Stillwater Area Public Schools is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful learning environment. Hazing in any form is strictly prohibited—this includes any behavior that puts a student at risk or coerces them into dangerous, harmful, or humiliating activities, especially for group initiation or affiliation.
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Hazing is not allowed by students, staff, or volunteers on or off school grounds.
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Retaliation against someone who reports hazing is also prohibited.
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Students who violate this rule will be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to the school district’s “Student Discipline” policy.
Students are encouraged to report incidents immediately to a school official. Reports will be handled confidentially and in accordance with district policy and legal requirements.
This list provides information about legal assistance, advocacy services, and lawyer referral services. This list is made available to parents/guardians in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act (PFDA). 34 C.F.R. § 300.507(b) and Minn. Stat. § 121A.47. subd. 2(f)(1).
Minnesota Department of Education Student Discipline - Legal Assistance Resource List
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 903: Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites.
Through conferences, online progress reports and report cards, and personal connections with classroom teachers, each school works to keep families updated on student progress. Students also take an active role in communicating with parents about their progress.
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Conferences: Teachers will reach out to you at least once each semester during the school year to give an update on your child’s progress. At the elementary level, teachers will personally connect with each family to have a conversation about their student’s academic and social/emotional development. At the secondary level, teachers may provide an email update for students who are doing well or may request a meeting if they have any concerns. Families who wish to have further conversation can request a meeting in-person or online.
Report Cards: Report cards are provided two times per year in the winter and spring.
Communication Tools:
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PowerSchool: View report cards, see class assignments, communicate with teachers and more.
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Schoology: See homework assignments and up-to-date grades for students in grades 6-12.
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SeeSaw (access through Clever): Communicate with elementary teachers and see learning artifacts from school.
How to be More Involved:
There are many ways to be involved in a child’s learning. Stop by the office or talk to a student's teacher to learn more about:
- Attending back-to school events, curriculum nights and special events.
- Working with a child at home by reading and doing homework together.
- Getting to know a child’s teacher and visiting with the school principal and support staff.
- Volunteering in the classroom or during special events. A variety of one-time and recurring opportunities exist. Background checks are required. Visitors and volunteers must also produce a valid, state-issued ID and utilize the district's visitor management system.
If a parent requests it, the school district will provide information regarding the professional qualifications of his/her child’s classroom teachers, including, at a minimum, the following:
- whether the teacher has met state qualifications and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction;
- whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional licensing status through which state qualification or licensing criteria have been waived;
- whether the student is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.
In addition, the school district will provide parents with information as to the level of achievement of their child in each of the state academic assessments. The school district will provide notice to parents if their child has been assigned to, or taught for four or more consecutive weeks by, a teacher who does not meet applicable State certification or licensure requirements at the grade level and subject area in which the teacher has been assigned is not highly qualified.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review District Policy 524.5: Personal Electronic Communication Devices.
Students should leave cell phones and personal electronic devices at home. If a student must bring a device to school, it must be turned off and securely stored during the entire school day.
- Devices are collected prior to the first bell each morning.
- Students must power off their phones and electronic devices when the school day begins.
- Devices are placed in a locked storage box where they remain for the full day.
- Students who arrive after the first bell (e.g., for PSEO or due to an appointment) must turn in their device at the Main Office or Pony Center.
- Students leaving school before dismissal will be allowed to retrieve their device.
- At the end of the school day, students can collect their devices from the storage area.
- Students may not retrieve a device on behalf of another student.
If a student has a device during the school day and did not follow check-in procedures:
- A staff member will confiscate the device.
- It will be secured in the Main Office or Pony Center.
- A parent or guardian must come to the school to pick it up.
- The incident will be documented.
- 1st & 2nd Offense: Device is confiscated and held in the Principal’s Office. Parent/guardian pickup is required.
- 3rd Offense: A mandatory conference will be held with the student, parent/guardian, and administration and a phone plan will be developed.
- 4th Time and more: May be treated as insubordination as defined in the Discipline/Code of Conduct (learn more)
Documented use in an IEP, 504 Plan, or health plan, with approval of the Special Education or Health Services team.
Students who choose to bring a device to school do so at their own risk. The school is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 531: Pledge of Allegiance.
Students will recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America daily in elementary schools and once a week at secondary schools. Any person who does not wish to participate in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance for any personal reason may elect not to do so. Students must respect another person’s right to make that choice. Students will also receive instruction in the proper etiquette toward, correct display of, and respect for the flag.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 413: Harassment and Violence.
The policy of the school district is to maintain a learning and working environment free from harassment and violence on the basis of Protected Class. The school district prohibits any form of harassment or violence on the basis of Protected Class.
A violation of this policy occurs when any student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel harasses a student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel or group of students, teachers, administrators, or other school district personnel through conduct or communication based on a person’s Protected Class, as defined by this policy.
A violation of this policy occurs when any student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel inflicts, threatens to inflict, or attempts to inflict violence upon any student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel or group of students, teachers, administrators, or other school district personnel based on a person’s Protected Class.
District official will investigates all complaints of harassment and violence, and will take appropriate action should a violation of this policy occur.
Notice of violent behavior by students
The school district will give notice to teachers and other appropriate school district staff before students with a history of violent behavior are placed in their classrooms. Prior to giving this notice, district officials will inform the student’s parent or guardian that the notice will be given. The student’s parents/guardians have the right to review and challenge their child’s records, including the data documenting the history of violent behavior.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 609: Religion In The Schools.
It is the policy of I.S.D. 834 to support a climate of academic freedom in which ideas, including those associated with religion, can be discussed in an objective way, for their educational value, with emphasis on their impact on history, literature, art, music, science, ethics and social institutions.
Teaching about religion and beliefs of conscience is a legitimate and appropriate part of a complete academic education at the elementary and secondary levels. However students/parents may choose to not participate for religious reasons, and engage in alternate instruction, without consequence, as per Minnesota Statute 120B.20.
Parents with questions should contact their building administration.
Throughout a school year, there may be times when changes must be made to the regular schedule to keep students safe. These adjustments could include a delay, closure, or early release.
School could be canceled or schedules altered if:
- A building is deemed unsafe (ex. gas leak)
- Buses won’t start or run dependably
- Local road conditions in neighborhoods are dangerous or impassable
- Bus riders face dangerous conditions while waiting for the bus
Families always have the choice to keep their children home if they feel conditions are unsafe. Be sure to contact the school to notify them of the child's absence should that happen.
Should a decision be made that impacts the school day, families receive an automated phone message, email, and text (if opted in) from the district as early as possible. Information is posted on district and school websites and on the district’s social media feed.
Announcements can also be found on any of the local television stations, including WCCO Channel 4, KSTP Channel 5, FOX Channel 9, and KARE 11.
Each year, the district has two official “Snow Days” in which there is no school in-person or online. After that, any weather-related cancellation results in an E-Learning Day.
Discuss with students what to do in the event that school is dismissed early and no one is home when they arrive.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review:
- Policy 502: Search of Student Lockers, Desks, Personal Possessions, and Student’s Person
- Policy 711: Video Surveillance
- Policy 712: Video Surveillance Other Than on Busses
Schools may use specially trained dogs to detect and alert officials to the presence of prohibited items and illicit substances in lockers. Students are not to share lockers. Searches may occur in school and on school property including but not limited to the parking lot.
School lockers are the property of District 834 and are loaned to students for their use. School authorities have the legal right to access lockers and search them at any time, for any reason and without notice. Students are to use only the locker assigned to them. Students are not to share their combination or locker with another student and are responsible for their own possessions. The school will not assume responsibility for lost or stolen articles. To decrease the likelihood of locker theft, students are asked to keep their locker locked at all times, spin the dial after closing the door, and make sure the entire door is closed. Valuable items should not be left in the locker. Students are liable for damage to their lockers. If the locker is defaced or damaged in any way, the student may be assessed costs for restoration or repair. Anyone found defacing, damaging or vandalizing a locker or any other school property will face disciplinary consequences and/or referral to the legal system.
CAUTION: Written statements on lockers may be deemed as harassment or violation of school rules or law. The student’s personal possessions within a school locker may be searched only when administration have reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover evidence of a violation of a law or school rules. Whenever feasible, the student may be present when her/his property or school property which she/her uses is being searched. A general search of school properties, including but not limited to lockers or desks may occur at any time, and items belonging to the school may be seized. Schools may use specially trained dogs to detect and alert officials to the presence of prohibited items and illicit substances in lockers, common areas and/or school parking areas. If a dog alerts to an item in a locker or vehicle it may be searched.
If the school administration has a reason to believe an illegal act or violation of school rules has been committed, or is about to be committed, they are authorized to search the student and her/ his personal property or any district property used by the student, and seize any item the possession of which is specifically prohibited by law, district policies, or school rules.
Any action that is intended to deactivate, damage, or destroy any security system of the school district is strictly prohibited. Such action includes, but is not limited to, the disabling of tampering with a security camera in a school building or on school grounds or tampering with an automatic locking door apparatus.
The district authorizes the use of video/electronic surveillance systems to monitor activity on school property and buses as a means to protect the health and safety of students, staff and visitors.
To keep schools safe for students, if someone overhears something concerning, notices strange behaviors, or sees an alarming post on social media - speak up. All students, parents and staff can feel comfortable coming forward if they believe someone is troubled or acting in a way that seems unsafe or unhealthy. Please encourage children to share any concerns they may have with a school staff member, the local police, or any adult.
Look for the See Something, Say Something button button on the StillwaterSchools.org homepage that allows for anonymous reporting of any concerns.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 606: Selection/Review of Instructional Resources.
Procedures for Selection/Use/Retention:
The licensed teacher has the right to select resources that they believe increase effectiveness in meeting curriculum objectives. The licensed teacher recognizes the responsibility to use good judgment in the selection/use/retention of resources. The teacher who is in doubt concerning the advisability of using certain resources, which may be controversial in the classroom, consults with the building principal or designee and determine a next course of action. This may include parental notification so that the parents or guardians may have the opportunity to review the material and arrange for alternative instruction.
Instructional Resources Review and Request for Alternative Instruction:
Parents, guardians or adult students, 18 years of age or older, can review the content of instructional resources used in the classroom. Arrangements to review resources can be made with school personnel at any time. School personnel notifies parents regarding the use of instructional resources known to be controversial.
The wellness policy helps create smarter, happier kids, and a healthier community. The school district is working together with parents, teachers, health care providers, dietitians and the community to strengthen kids’ minds and bodies. The revised policy is all about getting kids moving; serving nutritious meals, snacks and concessions; creating safer environments for kids with allergies, medical conditions and other dietary restrictions; and making it easier for kids to be active and healthy beyond the school day.
- Emergency Contact Information
- Immunizations
- Health Conditions, Illness/Injury at School and When a Student Should Stay Home
- Homebound Instruction
- Medications
- Minnesota Health Care Programs
- Suicide Prevention Information
At the beginning of the school year parents/guardians are asked to update their child’s emergency information in PowerSchool. It is necessary that we have parent phone numbers as well as phone numbers for two additional family members or friends who can be contacted in case children have a medical emergency or needs to be picked up from school.
Families are also asked to share any information about special health conditions or medications that emergency care providers would need to be aware of in the event of an emergency.
Please notify the school immediately of any changes to a child’s emergency or contact information during the school year.
Immunizations
Minnesota Statute 121A.15 requires every student enrolled in school to be immunized against certain diseases or file a legal medical or non-medical exemption. This law includes students enrolled in public and non-public PreK-12 programs, as well as childcare, preschool, alternative programs and home school programs.
Students are not able to attend school if their immunizations are not in compliance in one of the following ways:
- Immunization Record, provided by your child's doctor, can be used to document vaccinations and/or to claim an exemption from the requirements for medical or non-medical exemptions. Schools accept other versions of immunization records as long as all required immunizations are listed.
- Medical exemptions must be signed by a health care provider.
- Non-medical exemptions must be signed by a parent/guardian and notarized.
For more information, visit the immunization webpage.
Health Conditions
It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to notify the appropriate school staff of any medical condition that may impact the health or safety of their child during the school day or in school activities.
Illness/Injury at School
When a student becomes ill or injured at school, they are evaluated by health office staff. The parent/guardian or designated emergency contact will be notified if the student needs to go home or if parent/guardian consultation is required. If emergency care is needed, 911 will be called.
When a Student Should Stay Home
Students should stay home if they have:
- Fever of 100 degrees F within the last 24 hours, without the use of fever reducing medication such as "Tylenol" or ibuprofen-type medicines.
- Diarrhea or vomiting within the last 24 hours.
- Uncontrolled cough.
- Mucus/sputum that is green or yellow and cannot be contained.
- Strep: Students may return to school 12 hours after start of antibiotic.
- Chicken pox: Students may return when pox are crusted over.
- An open wound that cannot be covered.
Homebound instruction may be provided for a student who is absent from school for three or more weeks due to illness or injury. A teacher may be arranged to provide instruction for a child at home so they are able to stay current with school work.
Medications
The following must be provided before a medication, either prescription or over-the-counter, may be administered to a student at school: a written authorization from a parent/guardian, and a signed order from the licensed prescriber stating the name and dose of medication, times and duration for administration. Medications must be sent in the original container or pharmacy-labeled container.
If a student is to self-administer a medication, parents must submit the appropriate form from our website. Students may carry asthma medication and an EpiPen at school. Secondary students may self-administer and self-carry non-prescription, over the counter, pain relieving medication at school provided that they have written parent permission, the medication is in its original container, and the medication does not contain ephedrine or pseudoephedrine.
Minnesota Health Care Programs
Minnesota Health Care Programs have free and low-cost health insurance for children and families who qualify. Income is one factor for qualifying. Other rules and limits apply. For more information, call your county office or visit the MN Department of Health website.
To get a MNsure application for health coverage and help paying costs (DHS-6696):
- Print one from the Internet
- Call (877) KIDS-NOW toll free
- Call Washington County at 651-430-6459
Suicide Prevention Information
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - Call or Text 988
The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.
- Crisis Text Line - Text MN to 741741
Free 24/7 support from a volunteer crisis counselor.
- Washington County Crisis Response Unit (CRU) - Call 651-275-7400 or email CrisisResponse@co.washington.mn.us
Mobile crisis mental health services that are 24/7/365, face-to-face, intensive, short-term help for adults and children experiencing a crisis.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 515: Data Privacy Protection and Privacy of Pupil Specific Data Policy
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive federal funds.
FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their child’s education records. When a student reaches the age of 18 or attends a post-secondary school or college, the parent’s rights transfer to the student and the student is then an “eligible student” under the law.
This policy provides guidance related to the following areas:
Directory Information
FERPA requires the school district, with certain exceptions, to obtain written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from a child’s educational records. However, the school may disclose some student information without written consent when the information is designated “Directory Information” unless they have advised the district to the contrary in accordance with district procedures.
Directory Information can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s/guardian’s prior written consent, regardless of the reason for or source of the requested data.
Parents/guardians may refuse to have directory information made public by completing the Directory Information Opt-Out Form (available in PowerSchool) each year.
- Families may choose to opt out of the release of directory information (often shared in yearbooks, special events and sports programs, honor rolls, publications, newsletters, etc.) by selecting "NO" on the form indicating they do not agree to the terms of the policy.
Under FERPA, parents and eligible students have right to inspect and review the student’s education records maintained by the school. Families may also request that a school correct records believed to be inaccurate or misleading.
Complaints concerning alleged failures by the school district to comply with the requirements of FERPA can be filed with the U.S. Department of Education at the following address:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC
20202-4605
Special Education Records
Student special education files are kept and maintained in the school that the student attends. Current individualized education plans (IEPs) and required special education forms are also kept on the District SpEd Forms System (electronic files). Access to individual student data on the SpEd Forms System is reserved for special education staff working with the student and administration. Parents/guardians should contact the student’s special education case manager or building principal to access or request a release of information related to the files.
Minnesota Statutes require that school districts retain special education records for five years after graduation. It is recommended that students and/or their parents keep copies of the last two individual educational plans (IEPs) and the most recent three-year assessment. Request for copies or release of information to other agencies can be made with written authorization by the student, if age 18 or older, or the parent/legal guardian.
Direct questions to Student Support Services at 651-351-8309.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 520: Student Surveys.
Occasionally, the school district utilizes surveys to obtain student opinions and information about students.
Some surveys may collect identifiable student information. Other surveys are anonymous and no attempt is made to identify a student participant. There is not a requirement that the student participates in a survey - nor any penalty for a student who opts out of a survey.
Parents/guardians are asked at the beginning of each year to give consent for their children to participate in surveys. Notice to parents is not required for the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing educational products or services.
Planned surveys include the following:
- Student Sense of Belonging Survey: Administered to students in grades K-12 annually. Students respond to 7 age-appropriate, research-based statements designed to gauge their connection to school.
- Minnesota Student Survey: Administered to students in grades 5, 8, 9 and 11 every three years, the next administration of this survey takes place in 2028. Families of students are notified in advance. The anonymous survey asks students how things are going at school, with their peers, and about health-related thoughts and behaviors.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 618: Assessment of Student Achievement.
Stillwater Area Public Schools has a system of assessment in place to help understand how students are learning. Assessment types include universal screenings, diagnostic assessments, progress monitoring assessments, formative assessments, and summative assessments. Visit the assessment website for more testing information.
Each level of assessments serve an important purpose in the overall plan of identifying students in need of intervention or enrichment, to identify individual student’s instructional needs, for state and federal reporting.
Assessments are aligned with the Minnesota K-12 Academic Standards. These standards define expectations for students across the state in grades K-12. State standards are in place for English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education.
Refusing State Testing
Parents or guardians have the option to refuse to have their students take statewide Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA testing). Please submit the opt-out form to the student’s school no later than Jan. 15 of the academic school year. See the Parent/Guardian Guide and Refusal for Student Participation in Statewide Testing for more information.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review Policy 709: Transportation.
Transportation Eligibility
Elementary students (kindergarten through grade five) living half of a mile or further from school are eligible for bus service, as are middle school and high school students (grades 6-12) living two miles or more from school, with an exemption for hazardous roads.
Please visit the Transportation webpage for specific information about rider expectations, route criteria and more.
The information on this page is a brief summary. For additional guidance, please review 501 Policy: School Weapons Policy.
No person will possess, use, or distribute a weapon when in a school location except as provided in school district policy. A “weapon” means any object, device, or instrument designed as a weapon or through its use is capable of threatening or producing bodily harm or which may be used to inflict self-injury including, but not limited to, any firearm, whether loaded or unloaded; airguns; pellet guns; BB guns; all knives; blades; clubs; metal knuckles; numchucks; throwing stars; explosives; fireworks; mace and other propellants; stunguns; ammunition; poisons; chains; arrows; and objects that have been modified to serve as a weapon. A weapon also includes look-alike weapons.
Appropriate discipline and action will be taken against any person who violates this policy. The school district does not allow the possession, use, or distribution of weapons by students. Discipline of students will include, at a minimum: immediate out-of-school suspension; confiscation of the weapon; immediate notification of police; parent or guardian notification; and recommendation to the superintendent of dismissal for a period of time not to exceed one year.
The building principal shall, as soon as practicable, refer to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system, as appropriate, a student who brings a firearm to school unlawfully.
A student who brings a firearm to school will be expelled for at least one year, subject to school district discretion on a case-by-case basis.
Active kids are better students and what kids eat affects how they learn. But did you know that kids today are expected to live FIVE YEARS LESS than their parents because of unhealthy lifestyles?
That’s why Stillwater schools is working with the community to strengthen the minds and bodies of kids. Committing to help students become smarter, happier, and live longer lives.
The Wellness Policy focuses on doing what is best for kids. It's all about:
- Getting kids moving during the day
- Providing nutritious meals, snacks and concessions
- Creating safer environments for kids with severe food allergies, medical conditions or other dietary restrictions
- Making it easier to be active and healthy beyond the school day
- Helping to create smarter, happier kids and healthier communities
What's In
- Celebrating birthdays in fun and memorable ways that make kids feel valued and loved
- Making special events in the classroom safe and enjoyable for all with creative celebrations that don’t include food
- Rewarding students for academic performance or good behavior with special privileges or activities
- Working with Nutrition Services to provide healthy and safe options for food-based learning experiences in the classroom
- Providing more nutritious options - like yogurt parfaits, fruits and veggies, juices - at concession stands
- Promoting healthier lifestyles while fundraising - with things like Fun Walk/Runs or dances
What's Out
- Celebrating with cupcakes, candy and excess sugar that makes it harder for kids to concentrate and learn
- Dealing with food allergies, dietary requirements and medical conditions that prevent some kids from participating
- Handing out candy and sugary treats that make it harder for kids to focus in class
- Bringing food from home for classroom projects that may contain allergens or food-borne illnesses
- Offering only sugary drinks, candy and cookies at sporting events and other activities
- Selling candy bars, doughnuts, cookie dough and other unhealthy foods to raise money
Birthdays
Birthdays are an important opportunity to recognize and celebrate students. It’s also an opportunity to help them develop healthy lifestyles that ensure they have many more happy birthdays!
Stillwater schools wants students to feel valued and loved on their special day, and can be done in many fun and memorable ways that do not involve sugary treats. Teachers at each school are working to determine how best to celebrate in their classroom. Here are a few creative suggestions:
- Make a crown, badge or sign for the birthday child.
- Turn on some music and dance!
- Let the child be the teacher’s assistant for the day.
- Provide special time with a principal, parent or other adult, such as eating lunch together.
- Have the child bring in something for show and tell.
- Let the child pick an active game for gym class or recess.
- Let the child choose a book and read it aloud to the class.Have the class work out to a fun exercise video.
- Play Simon Says or other favorite game.
Classroom Celebrations
Food is an important way for many cultures to celebrate special events, but did you know the typical classroom party includes as many as 500 extra calories? A few ideas of ways to celebrate without food includes:
Halloween
- Instead of candy hand out stickers, tattoos, plastic spiders and other small toys.
- Have a parade or costume contest.
- Do the Monster Mash or provide additional play time throughout the day.
- Decorate pumpkins.
Thanksgiving
- Do a class service project (collect food for Valley Outreach).
- Create a garland of gratitude using paper leaves with handwritten notes.
- Make clay turkey candle holders.
Winter
- Decorate the classroom with snowflakes and snowmen.
- Make snow globes out of baby food jars.
- Go sledding or ice skating.
Valentine’s Day
- Create a Valentine card holder.
- Have students write positive comments about classmates and pass them out.
- Make greeting cards to give to nursing home residents.
End of School
- Field day
- School assembly
- Class field trip
Students should arrive at school no earlier than 7:35 a.m. PreK, kindergarten, first, and second graders enter the building using door 2W. Third, fourth, and fifth graders enter the building using the main front doors 1W.
When using the carpool, the expectation is that the driver always stays in the vehicle. For those that would like to walk their child to the doors, they are asked to park in the parking lot to keep the carpool line moving.
It is assumed that students have consistent plans for dismissal. If arrangements out of the ordinary are made, a note must be sent to the teacher. If necessary, parents/guardians may call the office and ask that a message be relayed to the teacher.
Knowing that school starts at 7:45 a.m. and does not end until 2:15 p.m., those that need to meet with a teacher should call or email to schedule an appointment to make the most out of every day!
Use PowerSchool (preferred method) to notify the school of absences or late arrivals. Please include the reason for the absence in the comments section. You may also call the Lily Lake Elementary 24-hour attendance line at 651-351-6810.
Bicycle safety is stressed at school, but is the responsibility of the parent. When allowing children to ride a bike to school, please consider the risks of theft and safety, especially crossing busy roads. Bicycle racks are available, but children must bring locks to secure their bicycles.
Students are asked to walk their bikes on school property. Skateboards, roller blades, and scooters may not be used on school property. If children use these as a mode of transportation to school, they must be brought to the office to be stored until dismissal.
Buses drop off and pick up students on the south side of the building. Families can utilize the district transportation department's app to track their child's bus.
For questions about busing, contact the district transportation office at schoolbus@stillwaterschools.org or 651-351-8377.
Parents may submit a Parent Input form regarding their child's classroom assignment for the next school year. Efforts are made to accommodate students’ needs, however class size and other factors are also considered.
All Parent Input forms must be turned in to the office, as emails or other forms of communication are not accepted. Specific teacher requests are not accepted.
Weekly School E-newsletter
Every Friday, families receive a weekly e-newsletter from the school that includes announcements, coming events, programs, and other school-related information. Please make sure email addresses are current. If internet access is a barrier, call the office to receive a paper copy.
Classroom E-newsletters
Every Sunday, families receive an e-newsletter from their classroom teacher or grade level team. This contains important information on classroom learning, photos and upcoming events. If internet access is a barrier, call the office to receive a paper copy.
Friday Folders and Peachjar Flyers
Each Friday, a red Pony folder is sent home with important paper information from classroom teachers, the school PTA, or the school office.
Parents also automatically receive notices about events, activities, and programs offered to students by local non-profit organizations such as Valley Athletic Association, Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts, and more. These e-flyers are sent by email from Peachjar, an electronic flyer distribution system directed by the school district.
At the beginning of the school year parents/guardians are asked to update their child’s emergency information in PowerSchool. It is necessary that we have parent phone numbers as well as phone numbers for two additional family members or friends who can be contacted in case children have a medical emergency or needs to be picked up from school.
Families are also asked to share any information about special health conditions or medications that emergency care providers would need to be aware of in the event of an emergency.
Please notify the school immediately of any changes to a child’s emergency or contact information during the school year.
Students in all grades may participate in recreational and sports programs sponsored by Stillwater Community Education. Various athletic, academic and creative activities are available throughout the school year for all ages.
The assignment of homework is encouraged only when it can be seen to be beneficial to the student. Homework often grows out of a student’s interests or needs. Consideration must be given to child development, home responsibility and outside activities.
Sometimes the work students call “homework” is assigned work that has not been completed during the school hours. Should parents have serious questions about homework, it might be beneficial to request a conference with the teacher. Generally, all students can benefit from daily reading, math application, and computation at home.
In the case that parents need to contact their children while they are at school, call the main office. Staff then delivers messages to students.
Students go outside daily following their lunch period and perhaps for a 10 to 15 minute recess during the day. They do not go out during hard rains or when the wind-chill is below zero.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a guide for reporting daily air quality and uses colors and numbers to show how clean or polluted the air is with ground-level ozone and particle pollution. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and greater the health concern.
Outdoor activity is limited to 20 minutes with an AQI of 101-150, and students do not go outside with an AQI of 151 or above.
Please see that they are dressed appropriately for the weather.
Lily Lake Elementary has a very active Parent Organization (PTO), welcoming all parents to become involved in the Lily Lake PTO to hear about current issues facing the school, offer input, help raise money for projects, organize activities, etc.
Parents can become as involved as what fits their schedule. Virtual meetings are held on the first Monday of each month starting at 6 p.m. and meeting dates and times can be found on the Lily Lake calendar.
Report cards are available after the second and fourth quarters. A report card is not issued at the end of the first and third quarters as at least once a semester, teachers reach out to give student updates. At the elementary level, teachers personally connect with each family to have a conversation about their student's academic and social/emotional development. Families who wish to have further conversations can request an in-person or online meeting with teachers.
All elementary teachers incorporate the Responsive Classroom philosophy in order to build community and develop positive relationships. RC provides engaging academics, positive community, effective classroom management and developmental awareness.
The focus is on learning CARES - Cooperation, Assertion, Responsibility, Empathy and Self-control - which are key social skills children need to learn and practice if they are to succeed socially and academically.
Individual student photos are taken each year. Packages are available for sale with payment required at the time pictures are taken. Watch for further information in school newsletters.
Fifth grade students serve as school safety patrols with three major responsibilities:
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To assist kindergarten students prepare for and load the bus
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To assist carpool students after school
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To assist students in the bus lines
Eating during the school day is limited to breakfast and lunch time and at a snack time as designated by the teacher. Students may bring water bottles to drink from throughout the day, and can bring in a healthy, personal snack to enjoy when their teacher has a scheduled time.
To make special events in the classroom safe and enjoyable for all, celebrations do not include food. Please do not send food treats - such as cupcakes or candy - to school for birthdays, Halloween, Valentine’s Day, or other special occasions. See the Wellness Policy for more details.
Students and parents may choose to bring in non-food items, however, this is not a requirement.
All students in grades K-5 follow a six-day rotation for music, physical education, and science. Music and physical education both meet two times during the six day rotation, with science meeting once.
Parents may call the student advocate or psychologist regarding any academic, social, behavioral or psychological concerns. They are an excellent resource regarding child development.
Students/parents are charged the replacement value for any classroom books, library books, or workbooks that are lost or damaged.
Please instruct students about safety issues involved in walking to school. It is important that children know the safest route, cross only at designated crossings, respect other peoples’ property and observe the directions of crossing guards. Children are to walk behind the crossing guards and not run ahead.
Fifth grade students serve as school safety patrols with three major responsibilities:
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To assist kindergarten students prepare for and load the bus
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To assist carpool students after school
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To assist students in the bus lines
Croixwood Walkers: In the morning, walkers should be at the Croixwood Blvd light by 7:25 a.m. Adult crossing guards and patrols cross all students that arrive from the side with the office building at 7:30 a.m. Those coming from the Cottages side should wait on that side until adult crossing guards and patrols walk students up the path to school.
In the afternoon, walkers meet the adult crossing guard and patrols by the outside doors located next to classrooms #150 and #151. The adult crossing guard and patrols lead all students out of the building at 2:15 p.m., down the path, and to the Croixwood lights.
Pine Walkers: In the morning, walkers on the west side of County Road 5 should wait on the sidewalk by the crosswalk and flashing lights. Adult crossing guards and patrols cross all students at 7:30 a.m. and proceed to the next crosswalk on Pine Street. Walkers crossing Pine Street to West Street should wait by the crosswalk for the adult crossing guard and patrols.
In the afternoon, walkers meet the adult crossing guard and patrols in the back hallway by the health office. The adult crossing guard and patrols lead all students out of the building at 2:15 p.m., down to West Street and across Pine Street and County Road 5.
Benson Walkers: In the morning, patrols are continually crossing students on the corner of Highland Road to Benson Blvd, as well as Benson Blvd to Gilbert Court between 7:25 to 7:35 a.m.
In the afternoon, the patrols leave school at 2:15 p.m. to continually cross students from Gilbert Court to Benson Blvd, as well as Benson Blvd to Highland Road from 2:15– 2:25 p.m.
* There is not adult or patrol supervision before the crosswalk times. Please inform a teacher if a students is not going home the usual way. This is a required safety measure.