Policy No. 2030

Instruction

SERVICE ANIMALS IN SCHOOLS

The Longview School District Board of Directors acknowledges its responsibility to permit students and/or adults with disabilities to be accompanied by a “service animal” as required by federal laws and Washington State’s law against discrimination. This policy governs the presence of service animals in the schools, on school property, including school buses and at school activities.

A “service animal” means an animal that is trained for the purpose of assisting or accommodating a disabled person’s sensory, mental or physical disability.

The parent/guardian of a student who believes the student needs to bring a service animal to school or an employee who wishes to bring a service animal to school, must submit a written request to the building principal. The building principal, in consultation with the Section 504 coordinator or director of special services, as appropriate, will determine whether or not to permit the service animal in school.  If it is determined that the service animal should be permitted in school the Section 504 coordinator or director of special services will work with the Human Resources department to properly document the request as an ADA Accommodation.

Cross Reference:

Legal References: American Disabilities Act (ADA), Revised Title II Regulations, §35 Service animals

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Adoption Date: August 28, 2017