Individuals with disabilities who need an accommodation or modification to participate in a district program, service, activity, or meeting should contact the school or district office as soon as possible so the district can make appropriate arrangements. Advance notice is requested, when possible, to allow sufficient time to arrange accommodations; however, the district will consider accommodation requests made at any time and will provide reasonable accommodations as required by law.

This notice informs you that there is asbestos in some of our schools. Though present in some building materials, it does not represent a health hazard to people. In 2021, an asbestos reinspection was made at our schools. Asbestos-containing building materials were found to be in good condition. A plan is in place to ensure that the remaining asbestos will not represent a future health hazard. This plan includes periodic inspections and frequent observational surveys.

You may wonder why all of the asbestos is not removed. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), asbestos only presents a health hazard when fibers become airborne and are inhaled. The mere presence of asbestos in materials does not represent a health hazard. Therefore, the EPA recommends that asbestos only be removed during renovation activities.

The majority of asbestos-containing materials in our schools are located in or around mechanical areas that are not accessed by the public. Floor tile and the glue that holds the tile may also contain very small amounts of asbestos. When asbestos removal projects are undertaken, we take the essential precautions to test and abate as required by the EPA.

Our asbestos management plan identifies locations of the materials assumed to contain asbestos and calls for the removal of any asbestos containing materials that either present a risk or are present in an area being renovated. The plan also indicates the schedule of inspections and response actions. 

The compulsory attendance law of the State of Washington requires that any child, under RCW 28A.225, must attend school full time when school is in session, unless the child is enrolled in an accredited private school, an educational center, and/or is receiving home-based education. District Policy and Procedure No. 3122 defines excused absences, unexcused absences, and truancies, and can be obtained on the district website at Policies and Procedures.

Copies of the policy/procedures/forms may also be obtained by contacting the District Office at (509) 766-2650, or in person at 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837.

Based on RCW 28A.225.030, a petition must be filed with the Juvenile Court if a student has seven (7) unexcused absences from in­ person learning in a month or fifteen (15) unexcused absences from in-person learning in a year, or if a student's unexcused absences cannot be reduced over a period of time. Our MLSD Safety and Well-Being team can answer your attendance questions. Our Safety and Well-Being team’s contact information can be found here or by contacting the Learning Services Center at (509) 766-2650.

The district’s comprehensive nutrition program is consistent with state and federal requirements for those districts participating in the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. Our district nutrition policy was made following our goal of helping to combat childhood obesity and improving the health and wellness of our students. If your child has a food allergy, it must be listed on the child’s school health form, and a note must be sent to the district nurse. A physician’s note or signature is required for diet modifications.  

School breakfast and lunch are free to all Moses Lake School District students. Meals are served daily, including early release days. The Nutrition Services Department would like to remind all parents to complete an "Income Survey" and a "Consent to Share" form to be eligible for other academic benefits. See your school secretary for the listed benefits. Meal income surveys can be found on the MLSD website under the food service department tab, at your student's school office, or the Nutrition Office. Make sure to return them to the nutrition office to be processed.  You will receive a letter of approval by mail. A "Consent to Share" form must be completed before students can receive discounts on High School activities.

Moses Lake School District conducts specific activities for the purpose of locating, evaluating, and identifying students ages birth to twenty-two (22) who are suspected of having a disability and who reside within the district’s boundaries. If your family is living in a temporary or transitional situation, you may contact the district where you are staying to attend a screening.

Moses Lake School District provides many programs for the children of our schools at no cost to you. The schools offer services including, but not limited to speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, special education programs, and special education early learning classes to children three years and older. Developmental screenings and/or comprehensive assessments for children who are suspected of having a disability which could adversely affect their educational development are available at no cost to you. These services are available for persons between the ages of birth and twenty-one (22) years of age. Children ages birth through two years (2) of age can schedule screenings with the North Central Educational Services District (NCESD) Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (https://www.ncesd.org/esit/). For children ages three (3) through twenty-two (22)), appointments or further information can be obtained by contacting your neighborhood school or Student Support Services at (509) 766-2670.

If you believe the law that applies to federal programs like Title I has been violated, you have the right to file a complaint. First, contact your child’s school. If you can’t reach a solution, you can file a Citizen Complaint through the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction through their five-step process linked below:

Citizen Complaint

Are you interested in knowing how your child’s school did on state assessments? How do different groups of students perform compared to other schools? You can learn more about it by visiting the Moses Lake Report Card.

The Report Card contains information about test results and other statistics about the school. The web address above takes you to the Moses Lake School District report card. To view schools within Moses Lake, use the drop-down menu below the district drop-down menu and select a school within the Moses Lake School District. 

If you need help using a district computer or navigating the report card, please contact Yvonne Walker by phone at 509-766-2650 or by email at ywalker@mlsd161.org to schedule a time or ask questions.

Students will not possess, use, deliver, distribute, sell, offer to sell, or arrange to sell or be under the influence of, or show evidence of having used or abused any controlled, illegal, addictive, or harmful substance or counterfeit substance (identified in RCW 69.50.204) or any illicit drugs or alcohol as those terms are used in federal anti-drug and alcohol laws, including 20 U.S.C3171,3221, etc., nor will they be in possession of drug paraphernalia as defined by RCW 69.50.102:

1. On school grounds during, immediately before, or immediately after school hours (including district transportation).
2. On school grounds or district transportation at any other time when the school, school grounds or district transportation are being used for any school activity, function, or event.
3. Off the school grounds at a school function or event.
4. On or off school property when the possession, use, transmission, distribution or sale of said items(s) has a material and substantial adverse impact on any or all aspects of the educational process.

Potential corrective action:

• Any student, while on school property or while attending a school-sponsored activity, who sells or distributes alcohol, drugs or any substance under the guise of being an alcohol, a drug or controlled substance to any other person shall be reported to a law enforcement agency and may be placed on in-school, short term suspension, or long term suspension.
• Any student (grade 5-12) while on school property or while attending a school-sponsored activity, who possesses, uses, consumes or exhibits the effects of having consumed or used alcohol, drugs, narcotics or other mood-altering substances not consumed or taken at the direction of a physician, may be recommended for a suspension of up to ten (10) consecutive school days after the district considers the other forms of discipline.
• Failure to comply with and adhere to all the requirements of programs and/other services may result in a recommended suspension of up to ten (10) consecutive school days.

• Resident and Non-resident Transfers
  • District Policy and Procedure No. 3131 provides information regarding resident transfers. Individuals who reside within the boundaries of the Moses Lake School District and wish to transfer from their “home” school to another school within the district must complete an “In-District Transfer Request.” Requests for transfers are not guaranteed. Forms can be found at: In-District Transfer or from the Learning Services, 1620 S. Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837 (509) 766-2650.
  • District Policy and Procedure No. 3131 provides information regarding non-resident transfers. Upon receipt of a request to transfer into the district, the district will verify that a release from the resident district has been obtained and that the non-resident student applicant qualifies for transfer. Requests for transfers are not guaranteed.
  • Choice forms can be found at: Choice Transfer or from the Learning Services, 1620 S. Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837 (509) 766-2650.
• Running Start
  • Students enrolled in a high school program may participate in Running Start, a college credit program that is an outgrowth of the Choice legislation of 1990. This program allows students to earn credits for high school graduation and toward a college degree simultaneously. 
  • Students and parents interested in learning more can go to Running Start. If you do not have access to the website or have additional questions, please contact the MLHS Counseling Office at (509) 766-2666 x40130.
• Advanced Placement Courses (AP)
  • Advanced Placement courses allow high school students to earn college credit by taking classes in the high school setting and earning specific scores on nationally recognized Advanced Placement exams offered through the College Board. Currently, Advanced Placement Courses are offered at Moses Lake High School. A high school counselor can assist students in registering for Advanced Placement courses.

Anyone who believes that Moses Lake School District has violated state or federal nondiscrimination laws may file a written complaint with the Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator or a district or school administrator.

Complaints may be submitted by mail, email, fax, or hand delivery. A complaint should describe the specific acts, conditions, or circumstances alleged to violate nondiscrimination laws. Upon receiving a complaint, the district will provide the complainant with a copy of the district's discrimination complaint procedure and will conduct a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation.

The district will generally complete its investigation and provide a written response within 30 calendar days of receiving the complaint. The complainant may appeal the district's decision to the Board of Directors or its designated decision-maker. If the complainant disagrees with the Board's appeal decision, the complainant may file a complaint with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), subject to applicable timelines.

For complete information regarding the complaint, appeal, OSPI, and mediation processes, please see MLSD Policy and Procedure 3210 – Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action, available at:

MLSD Board Policies

The district will provide language assistance when necessary to ensure that individuals with limited English proficiency can understand and participate in the complaint process.

The district prohibits retaliation against any person who files a discrimination complaint or participates in an investigation.

It is a violation of district policy and a criminal offense under RCW 9.41.280 for any person to carry a firearm or dangerous weapon on school premises, school-provided transportation, or non-school facilities when being used for school activities.

All students are entitled to an educational environment that is safe and free of discrimination, regardless of their gender expression or gender identity. Harassing or treating students differently because of their gender is not allowed.

All students have the right to:

• Use and be addressed by their requested name and pronouns, with or without a legal name change.
• Students must change their gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records, including, but not limited to, school identification cards, classroom seating charts, athletic rosters, yearbook entries, diplomas, and directory information.
• Identify with, express, and be recognized by staff and student information systems as a gender other than male or female;
• Access and use the restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity;
• Participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips following their gender identity;
• Keep health and education information confidential and private, including information about their legal name, sex assigned at birth, or transgender, cisgender, or nonbinary status;
• Wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and do not have a dress code applied differently based on their gender or perceived gender.

Moses Lake School District’s Gender-Inclusive Schools Policy (3211) and Procedures (3211P) are viewed on the district website at Policies and Procedures.

Copies of the policy/procedures/forms may also be obtained by contacting the District Office at (509) 766-2650 or in person at 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837.

Gender Inclusive Coordinator
Scott West, Executive Director of Safety & Well-Being
1620 S Pioneer Way; Moses Lake, WA 98837
Phone: (509) 766-2650
Email: swest@mlsd161.org

In Washington State, high school students must complete a graduation pathway for both English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics to earn their high school diploma. These pathways are designed to ensure that students have demonstrated proficiency in core academic subjects.

English Language Arts (ELA) Graduation Pathway:

To meet the ELA graduation requirement, students must show they have the necessary reading, writing, and communication skills. There are several ways to demonstrate this proficiency:

1. Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA): Achieving a score of 2548 or higher on the English Language Arts portion of the state’s Smarter Balanced Assessment is one of the most common methods.
2. Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Exams: To satisfy the requirement, a score of 3 or higher on an AP exam or 4 or higher on an IB exam in ELA can be used.
3. Dual Credit Courses: If a student takes a dual credit course (e.g., Running Start, College in the High School) that satisfies the requirement, they can use the grade received in that course.
4. SAT/ACT Scores: Achieving a specified score on the SAT or ACT (e.g., a 430 SAT ELA score or an 18 ACT English score) can also satisfy this pathway.
5. High School Transition Courses: A student can show career and college readiness by earning high school credit in a transition course for English language arts. These courses, offered in high school, ensure college-level placement at participating colleges upon successful completion. They must also meet the core or elective graduation requirements of the State Board of Education.

6. Performance-Based Learning Experiences: Students must complete a performance-based learning experience that demonstrates their knowledge and skills in a real-world context, showing they meet or exceed state standards in English language arts. This experience can take various forms, such as a project, work experience, community service, or cultural activity, and may result in different valuable products, like a presentation or portfolio. The experience must align with the graduation proficiency targets and rubrics that the State Board of Education sets.

7. Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery: A student may demonstrate career and college readiness by meeting standards in the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery by scoring at least the minimum established by the military for eligibility to serve in a branch of the armed services at the time the student takes the assessment. The state board of education will post eligibility scores on its website at least annually by September 1st.

8. Career and Technical Courses: A student may demonstrate career and college readiness by completing a sequence of career and technical education courses that are relevant to a student’s postsecondary pathway that meet either the curriculum requirements of core plus programs for aerospace, maritime, health care, information technology, or construction and manufacturing; or that meet the minimum criteria identified in WAC 180-51-230(h) and RCW 28A.700.030.

Mathematics Graduation Pathway:

For mathematics, students must demonstrate proficiency in mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills. Similar to ELA, there are multiple ways to meet the graduation requirement:

1. Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA): Achieving a score of 2595 or higher on the Mathematics portion of the SBA can fulfill the requirement.
2. AP or IB Exams: A score of 3 or higher on an AP math exam or 4 or higher on an IB math exam can be used as an alternative pathway.
3. Dual Credit Courses: Taking and passing a dual credit math course also meets this requirement.
4. SAT/ACT Scores: The graduation pathway can be satisfied by a qualifying score on the SAT (e.g., a math score of 430) or the ACT (e.g., a math score of 22).
5. High School Transition Courses: A student can show career and college readiness by earning high school credit in a transition course for mathematics. These courses, offered in high school, ensure college-level placement at participating colleges upon successful completion. They must also meet the core or elective graduation requirements of the State Board of Education.

6. Performance-Based Learning Experiences: Students must complete a performance-based learning experience that demonstrates their knowledge and skills in a real-world context, showing they meet or exceed state standards in mathematics. This experience can take various forms, such as a project, work experience, community service, or cultural activity, and may result in different valuable products, like a presentation or portfolio. The experience must align with the graduation proficiency targets and rubrics that the State Board of Education sets.

7. Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery: A student may demonstrate career and college readiness by meeting standards in the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery by scoring at least the minimum established by the military for eligibility to serve in a branch of the armed services at the time the student takes the assessment. The state board of education will post eligibility scores on its website at least annually by September 1st.

8. Career and Technical Courses: A student may demonstrate career and college readiness by completing a sequence of career and technical education courses that are relevant to a student’s postsecondary pathway that meet either the curriculum requirements of core plus programs for aerospace, maritime, health care, information technology, or construction and manufacturing; or that meet the minimum criteria identified in WAC 180-51-230(h) and RCW 28A.700.030.

Combination of Options

A student may demonstrate career and college readiness by meeting any combination of at least one English language arts option and at least one mathematics option described above.

Students must choose one of these pathways for both ELA and Math to ensure they meet the state’s graduation requirements. These options provide flexibility, allowing students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in various ways based on their strengths and educational experiences.

Before attending school, any student with a life-threatening health condition must provide a medication or treatment order from a licensed health care provider that addresses the condition. A life-threatening health condition is one that may place the student in danger of death during the school day if appropriate medication, treatment, nursing services, and a nursing care plan are not in place.

After the medication or treatment order is received, the school nurse will develop an individualized nursing care plan in collaboration with the student's parent or guardian and licensed health care provider, as appropriate.

If your child has a life-threatening health condition that may require medical services during the school day, please notify your school's nurse or school administrator as soon as possible. The necessary forms will be provided, and the school nurse will work with you to develop the required health care plan.

In accordance with Washington law, students with life-threatening health conditions may not attend school until the required medication or treatment order and nursing care plan are in place.

Examples of life-threatening health conditions include, but are not limited to, diabetes, severe food or insect sting allergies, severe asthma, seizure disorders, and certain heart conditions.

For additional information or assistance, please contact your school's nurse or the Student Special Services Department.

Moses Lake School District welcomes referrals from parents, school staff, students, teachers and community members for highly capable identification. Each year students new to the district and students currently enrolled may be referred for evaluation. The process for identification is facilitated by specialists and consists of multiple aspects including formal assessments, teacher input and guardian input.

As a community member, if you know of a student you consider to be highly capable, you are welcome to complete referral paperwork, which can be found on our website at mlsd.org. The evaluation process occurs in our district at least once annually. Moses Lake School District strives for equitable identification across all populations. If you or someone you know would benefit from receiving this information in language other than English or if you would like to request a paper copy of the referral form please contact our District Office at (509) 766-2650.

In compliance with state law, parents providing home-based instruction to their children over eight (8) must file a Declaration of Intent with their local school district by September 15, or within two weeks of the beginning of any public school quarter or semester. Parents in our district may access this form on the website at Intent to Homeschool, or from the Learning Services Center, 1620 S. Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837 (509) 766-2650.

The Moses Lake School District, on occasion, has a need to use chemical sprays when other pest controls are ineffective to prevent the costs and hazards associated with insects, rodents, or noxious weeds. When chemicals are used during school sessions, the treated areas are clearly marked, and notification is posted in each school office.

Though spray applications are primarily conducted when school is not in session and the area being sprayed is posted, some might want prior notification of applications at their school. If you would like to be placed on a list to receive prior notification of application at your school, please contact the Maintenance Department at (509) 766-2683 or via email to genmaint@mlsd161.org. The list will be kept from September through August. To remain on the list, you will need to renew your request on an annual basis.

Students who become homeless may receive assistance to remain at their school as well as other assistance, including coordination of free and reduced meal status, assistance with arranging transportation services, community resource referrals (shelters, medical services, etc.), community connections (free meals, food banks, clothing banks, etc.), scholarship opportunities, FAFSA verification for college-bound McKinney-Vento students, school materials, and personal care items. If you become aware of students who may qualify, please contact Adam Sawyer, Homeless Liaison, at (509) 766-2650 or asawyer@mlsd161.org.

Moses Lake School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, color, religion, creed, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, homelessness, immigration or citizenship status, disability, neurodivergence, the use of a trained dog guide or service animal, age, and honorably discharged veteran or military status and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.  This holds for all students interested in participating in educational programs and/or extracurricular school activities.  Board Policy 3210 and associated procedures outline the steps to secure an equitable solution to a justifiable complaint. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination:

Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator
Michelle Musso, Executive Director of Employee Services
1620 S Pioneer Way; Moses Lake, WA 98837 
Phone: (509) 793-7725
Email: mmusso@mlsd161.org 

Section 504 Coordinator, ADA Coordinator
Samantha Burgess, Director of Special Services
1620 S Pioneer Way; Moses Lake, WA 98837
Phone: (509) 766-2670
Email: sburgess@mlsd161.org 

Title IX/Chapter 28A.640 Officer

Michelle Musso, Executive Director of Employee Services
1620 S Pioneer Way
Moses Lake, WA 98837
Phone: (509) 793-7725
Email: mmusso@mlsd161.org

Gender Inclusive Coordinator

Scott West, Executive Director of Safety and Well-Being
1620 S Pioneer Way; Moses Lake, WA 98837
Phone: (509) 766-2650
Email: swest@mlsd161.org 

You can report discrimination and discriminatory harassment to any school staff member or the Civil Rights Coordinator, listed above. You also have the right to file a complaint (see Complaint Options on the next page). The district's nondiscrimination policy and procedure (No. 3210) can be viewed on the district website at Policies and Procedures.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records.

• The right to inspect and review the student's education records.
• The right to request the amendment of a portion of the student's education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading.
• The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent (see "Student Records and Directory Information").
• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
• The right to a description of who is considered to be a school official and what is considered to be a legitimate educational interest so that information may be shared with that person.
• The right to information about who to contact to seek access or amendment of education records.

The board recognizes that parent and family engagement helps students participating in Title I programs achieve academic standards. To promote parent and family engagement, the board adopts policy 4130, which describes how the district will involve parents and family members of Title I students in developing and implementing the district’s Title I programs.

For the full policy, please visit: Policies and Procedures

It is under the “4000 Community Relations” drop-down and is policy 4130.

Our schools welcome family involvement. Please get in touch with your school’s principal for more specific information on how to become involved with Title I.

Parents and guardians are entitled to inspect all instructional materials, including supplementary materials and teacher manuals, used with any survey, analysis, or evaluation in a program or project supported by federal funds.

No student will be required as part of any project or program supported by federal funds to submit to a survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information concerning political affiliations; potentially embarrassing mental or psychological problems; sexual behavior and attitudes; illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior; critical appraisals of close family members; privileged or similar relationships; or income, other than information necessary to establish eligibility for a program; without the prior consent of an adult or emancipated students, or written permission of parent/guardian.

The 2010 Legislature passed Substitute House Bill 2801, a Washington State law that prohibits harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) in our schools.

RCW 28A.300.285 defines harassment, intimidation or bullying as any intentional written message or image—including those that are electronically transmitted—verbal, or physical act, including but not limited to one shown to be motivated by race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, including gender expression or identity, mental or physical disability or other distinguishing characteristics when an act:

• Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property.
• Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education.
• It is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment.
• Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

Any student who believes they have been a target of unresolved, severe, or persistent harassment, intimidation or bullying, or any other person in the school community who observes or receives notice that a student has or may have been the target of unresolved, severe, or persistent harassment, intimidation or bullying may report incidents verbally or in writing to any staff member. An Incident Reporting form may be filled out as well which is located on the district website. Copies of the policy/procedures/forms may also be obtained by contacting the District Office at (509) 766-2650, or in person at 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837.

Addressing Bullying

• Step 1: Filing an Incident Reporting Form or reporting to a school staff member verbally or in writing.
• Step 2: Receiving the Incident Report - All staff are responsible for receiving oral and written reports. Whenever possible staff who initially receive an oral or written report of harassment, intimidation or bullying shall attempt to resolve the incident immediately. If the incident is resolved to the satisfaction of the parties involved, or if the incident does not meet the definition of harassment, intimidation or bullying, no further action may be necessary.
• Step 3: Investigations of Unresolved, Severe, or Persistent Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying shall include, but not limited to: 1) Interview with the complainant; 2) Interview with the alleged aggressor; 3) A review of any previous complaints involving either the complainant or the alleged aggressor, and, 4) Interviews with other students or staff members who may have knowledge of the alleged incident. 
• Step 4: Corrective Measures for the Aggressor - After completion of the investigation, the school or district designee will institute any corrective measures necessary. 
• Step 5: Targeted Student’s Right to Appeal
• Step 6: Discipline/Corrective Action
• Step 7: Support for the Targeted Student

Because of the legal requirement regarding confidentiality of student records, the principal or designee may not be able to report specific information to the targeted student’s parent/guardian about any disciplinary action taken. If the incident cannot be resolved at the building level, the principal or designee shall request assistance from the district. If in an investigation a principal or principal’s designee found that a student knowingly made a false allegation of harassment, intimidation or bullying, that student may be subject to corrective measures, including discipline.

Complaints regarding harassment, intimidation or bullying are addressed through District Policy and Procedure No. 3207 which can be viewed on the district website. Copies of the policy/procedures/forms may also be obtained by contacting the District Office at (509) 766-2650, or in person at 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837.

Further information can be obtained from the HIB Compliance Officer:

Scott West, Executive Director of Safety & Wellbeing

1620 S Pioneer Way; Moses Lake, WA 98837

Phone: (509) 766-2650

Email: swest@mlsd161.org 

The public has the right to request records in compliance with RCW 28A.320.160. Requests for disclosure of public records can be submitted on the district website at mlsd161.org. For more information, contact the Public Records Officer, Ryan Shannon, at 509.766.2650 or profficer@mlsd161.org.

Traditionally, various celebrations at school have been accompanied by treats provided by families . With food allergies so numerous in our district, we must be careful to determine that foods are safe for all students. Specific procedures must be followed when food and beverages are brought on campus for group consumption, including the following:

• All food and/or beverages intended for group consumption during the school day will be screened by school personnel in the school office before distribution in the classroom.
• Food designated for group consumption by students during the school day shall be free of nuts and/or nut products, and shall not be manufactured in a plant that processes nuts.
• All food brought into the school for group consumption by students during the school day will be commercially prepared and clearly labeled with ingredients. Please read labels carefully before bringing to school.
• Food and/or beverages intended for group consumption during school (including classroom parties, rewards/incentives) should meet required nutrition standards. All parties must include a healthy alternative (i.e. pretzels, yogurt, applesauce, popcorn, etc.).

Please be assured the district is not against celebrations. The priority is to ensure our students remain safe at school. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Parents are invited to call their school principal in order to participate on the school improvement team. School improvement teams, sometimes called site councils, guide the work of improving learning at the school.

Moses Lake School District prohibits sexual harassment and is committed to providing students, employees, volunteers, and families with a safe educational and work environment free from sexual harassment and discrimination.

Sexual harassment is prohibited in all district programs and activities, whether occurring on school property, on school transportation, or during school-sponsored activities or events.

Sexual harassment may include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical contact, or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature. Examples may include:

• Pressuring someone for sexual favors or sexual activity;
• Unwelcome sexual touching or other sexually motivated physical contact;
• Sexual jokes, comments, rumors, or gestures;
• Sending or displaying sexually explicit texts, emails, images, or other materials;
• Sexual conduct or communication that affects an educational or employment decision or creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive educational or work environment; and
• Sexual violence, including sexual assault.

Sexual harassment may occur between students, between employees, between students and employees, or between any other individuals participating in district programs or activities.

How to Report Sexual Harassment

Anyone may report sexual harassment to any school or district employee or directly to the district's Title IX Coordinator. Employees and volunteers who receive information about possible sexual harassment must respond and report the information in accordance with district policy and applicable law.

Reports may be made verbally or in writing. The district will respond to reports and complaints in accordance with applicable federal and Washington state law and district policy.

Title IX Coordinator

Michelle Musso, Executive Director of Employee Services
1620 S Pioneer Way
Moses Lake, WA 98837
Phone: (509) 793-7725
Email: mmusso@mlsd161.org

District Policies and Procedures

The district's sexual harassment policies and complaint procedures are available on the district website at:

MLSD Board Policies

For complete information about reporting, investigations, supportive measures, complaint procedures, appeals, remedies, and protections against retaliation, please review the applicable district policies and procedures, including Policy and Procedure 3205 and applicable employee sexual harassment policies and procedures.

Copies of the policies, procedures, and complaint forms are also available by contacting the District Office at (509) 766-2650 or visiting the district office at 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837.

The district will provide language assistance when necessary to ensure that individuals with limited English proficiency can understand and participate in the complaint process.

The district prohibits retaliation against any person who reports sexual harassment, files a complaint, participates in an investigation, or otherwise exercises rights protected by law.

Other Complaint Options

Individuals may also contact the following agencies regarding complaints of discrimination or sexual harassment:

U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
OCR investigates complaints involving discrimination prohibited by federal civil rights laws, including Title IX.
Phone: 206-607-1600
TDD: 1-800-877-8339
Email: OCR.Seattle@ed.gov
OCR Website

Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC)
WSHRC enforces the Washington Law Against Discrimination, including protections applicable to employment and places of public accommodation.
Phone: 1-800-233-3247
TTY: 1-800-300-7525
State Website

This notice is provided annually to students, parents and guardians, employees, and volunteers and is available through district and school publications and websites.

Information regarding special education services, including referral procedures, policies, procedural safeguards, evaluations, and related plans and reports, is available to parents and members of the public through the Student Special Services Department at (509) 766-2670.

District Policy and Procedure No. 2161 addresses education of students with disabilities as it pertains to the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Questions pertaining to IDEA or Section 504 should be directed to the Student Special Services Department at (509) 766-2670.

District Policy and Procedure No. 3241 explains the district's general policy regarding student conduct, general expectations, and examples of unacceptable conduct. Procedure No. 3241 also describes the disciplinary actions that Moses Lake Public Schools may impose if a student violates district policy. Disciplinary action may include restorative practices, suspension, expulsion, or emergency action. It may also include a recommendation for counseling, mediation, or other options. The rights of students regarding notice of intended disciplinary action are included in this policy. A student's rights, rights of appeal, and the appeal process are also outlined in this policy. Policies can be viewed on the District website at Policies and Procedures.

Copies of the policy/procedures/forms may also be obtained by contacting the District Office at (509) 766-2650, or in person at 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837.

Pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, it is the policy of Moses Lake School District to annually notify parents, guardians or adult-age students (18 years of age or older) that they have the right of access to student records, to request corrections of or amendments to such records, and to appeal any refusal of a request to change or amend such records. Student records will not be released without the consent of the student's parent/guardian or that of the adult-age student, except as provided by law or district policy. Specifically, directory information, as defined in District Procedure 3231P, and records requested by schools to which a student is transferring will be released by the district without written consent. An example of a non-profit entity that requests such directory information is the United States Military.

Photographs may occasionally be taken of students for use in the news media or school district publications. If you do not want any information released to any and all such non-profit organizations, or if you do not wish to have your child appear in a photograph, videotape, film, slide, or on the district website, please notify your child's school in writing. This written request can be placed on file at any time during the school year.

Inquiries regarding compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act may be directed to: Ryan Shannon at 509.766.2650 or rshannon@mlsd161.org

The district ensures that teachers meet applicable Washington state certification, licensure, and assignment requirements. When a teacher is assigned outside their endorsement area, the assignment is made in accordance with state requirements and, when required, is approved by the Board of Directors. The district works with teachers to ensure they have the appropriate qualifications and support to provide instruction in their assigned subject area.

Parents and legal guardians of students participating in Title I, Part A programs may request information about the professional qualifications of their child’s classroom teachers and paraeducators. Requests may be made by contacting Human Resources at (509) 766-2650 or hr@mlsd161.org.

Title I, Part A is part of the Every Student Succeeds Act. Its goal is to ensure that all children have a fair, equal and significant opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and reach proficiency on challenging state academic standards.

Our Title I schools qualify for federal grant money which we use for things like additional staffing, parent involvement, staff development, or extended school day opportunities to help us meet that goal. This update is intended to provide you with important information about this law and your child’s education.

Please contact the principal if you would like more information about Title I activities or parent participation at your child’s school.

Title I Teacher/Para Qualifications

The district ensures that teachers and paraeducators participating in Title I, Part A programs or activities meet applicable federal and Washington state qualification requirements.

Parents and legal guardians of students attending a school receiving Title I, Part A funds may request, and the district will provide in a timely manner, information regarding the professional qualifications of their child's classroom teachers and paraeducators. Requests may be made by contacting Human Resources at (509) 766-2650 or hr@mlsd161.org.

Title I School-Parent Compact

The School-Parent Compact represents an agreement of shared responsibility between school, parent/family, and student to support student success. The compact outlines how:

1. Parent/School/Student will build and develop school-home partnerships.
2. The school will provide high-quality curriculum and instruction in a supportive and effective learning environment.
3. Parents will support student learning at home and in school.
4. Teachers and parents communicate on an on-going basis

The purpose of the Washington School Report Card is to share information about all K-12 schools in our state. It is important for parents, families, and community members to have information to engage with your schools at the local level. Please visit the following website to access the Report Card, which provides statistics about our local schools, all other public schools and districts in our state, and the state as a whole. To find information about Moses Lake School District on the Report Card, visit the website and follow the instructions listed below: visit the OSPI website.

• Type Moses Lake School District in the search box.
• A list of all Moses Lake schools, as well as "Moses Lake School District," will appear.
• Click on the school of your choice.
• Click "Go."

Once you are taken to the site, you will have options to explore a variety of information as well as change the school you are viewing.

The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO) is an independent state agency that helps to reduce educational opportunity gaps by supporting families, students, educators, and other stakeholders in communities across WA in understanding the K-12 school system and resolving concerns collaboratively. OEO services are free and confidential. Anyone can contact OEO with a question or concern about the school. OEO listens, shares information and referrals, and works informally with families, communities, and schools to address concerns so every student can fully participate and thrive in our state’s public schools. OEO provides support in multiple languages and has telephone interpretation available. 

Website: Washington OEO

Email: oeoinfo@gov.wa.gov

Phone: 1-866-297-2597 (interpretation available). 

Flyer in English & Spanish: Informational flyer in English & Spanish

Flyer in English & Ukrainian: Informational flyer in English & Ukrainian