DOWAGIAC UNION SCHOOLS
MANDATORY NOTICES
Various communication methods are used to communicate annual notices, such as building signage, website updates, newsletters and email correspondence. These notices are also accessible on this platform.
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
It is the policy of the DOWAGIAC UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT, (the “public body”) that all persons are entitled to full and complete information regarding governmental decision-making, consistent with the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (the “FOIA” or the “Act”).
For purpose of these procedures and guidelines, a “public record” means: a writing prepared, owned, used, in the possession of, or retained by DOWAGIAC UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT in the performance of an official function, from the time it is created. Public record does not include computer software.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The federal law known as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or older (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records.
The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) gives parents and students who are 18 or older or emancipated minors (“eligible students”) certain rights regarding the school district’s conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and conduct of certain physical exams.
McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act
If you are homeless you have certain rights or protections under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act.
Annual Asbestos Report and Pesticide/Herbicide Notification
Under the federal mandated Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), every public school district must annually make a report to its school community on the Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM) in all school buildings
In accordance with Federal Law, the Board of Education prohibits the use, possessions, concealment, or distribution of drugs by students on school grounds, in school-approved vehicles, or at any school-related event.
The Dowagiac Board of Education recognizes that discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, height, weight, handicap or disability is not conducive to equal educational opportunities for students nor conducive to the proper operation of the schools for employees.
Vocational Education Offerings
Each year, Heritage Southwest Intermediate School District offers Careers and Technical Education programs at Southwestern Michigan College. These programs are designed to prepare our youth for a broad range of employment and training services and are offered under the guidance of qualified teachers and counselors.