500 - STUDENTS

500 - STUDENTS Jen@iowaschool… Mon, 10/02/2023 - 10:03

501 - Student Attendance

501 - Student Attendance dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:30

501.01 - Resident Students

501.01 - Resident Students

Children who are residents of the school district community will attend the school district without paying tuition.

The residence of a student means the place, abode, or dwelling of the student.  Generally, the legal dwelling of minors is the same as their parents.  A student may establish a dwelling with someone other than the parents and attend public school in the school district without paying tuition if the primary purpose for residing in the school district is not for the purpose of obtaining a free public education.  Further, students who have reached the age of majority and who are still eligible to attend an Iowa secondary school may declare their residence independent of the residence of the parents.

Each case involving the bona fide residence of a student will be decided upon its individual merits by the superintendent.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Lakota Cons. Ind. School v. Buffalo Center-Rake Comm. School, 334 N.W.2d 704 (Iowa 1983).
   
                                    Mt. Hope School Dist. v. Hendrickson, 197 N.W. 47 (Iowa 1924).
   
                                    Oshel v. Creston Comm. School Dist., DPI Admin. Doc. 570 (1981).
   
                                    33 D.P.I. Dec. Rule 80 (1984).
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4.

Cross Reference:  100                                    Legal Status of the School District
   
                                    501                                    Student Attendance

Approved     1/18/21                  
Reviewed                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:31

501.02 - Nonresident Students

501.02 - Nonresident Students

Students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school but who are not legal residents of the school district may be admitted into the school district at the discretion of the superintendent upon application and payment of tuition.  The tuition rate is the current per-pupil cost of the school district as computed by the board secretary and as authorized by the Iowa Department of Education.

Resident students whose families move from the school district after the start of a semester and who wish to complete the semester in the school district may be permitted to attend without the payment of tuition at the discretion of the superintendent and approval of the board.  Students who plan to open enroll to the nonresident district may complete the school year without approval of the superintendent or board.  These students, other than students in grades eleven and twelve, must have the recommendation of the principal.

Students in grades eleven or twelve who are no longer residents of the school district, but were residents in the preceding school year, may continue to attend school until they graduate without the payment of tuition.  These students may be required to identify an adult, who resides in the school district, identified for purposes of administration.

Nonresident students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school and who have evidence they will become legal residents of the school district prior to October 1 may be allowed to attend without the payment of tuition.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Lakota Cons. Ind. School v. Buffalo Center-Rake Comm. School, 334 N.W.2d 704 (Iowa 1983).
   
                                    Mt. Hope School Dist. v. Hendrickson, 197 N.W. 47 (Iowa 1924).
   
                                    Oshel v. Creston Comm. School Dist., DPI Admin. Doc. 570 (1981).
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.1, .2, .6, .7, .24.

Cross Reference:  501                                    Student Attendance

Approved      1/18/21                 
Reviewed                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:32

501.03 - Compulsory Attendance

501.03 - Compulsory Attendance

Parents within the school district who have children over age six and under age sixteen by September 15, in proper physical and mental condition to attend school, will have the children attend the school district at the attendance center designated by the board.  Students will attend school the number of days or hours school is in session in accordance with the school calendar.  Students of compulsory attendance age will attend school a minimum of 1080 hours.  Students not attending the minimum 1080 hours  must be exempted by this policy as listed below or, referred to the county attorney.  Exceptions to this policy include children who:

  • have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or have obtained a high school equivalency diploma;
  • are excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or judge;
  • are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
  • are unable to attend school due to legitimate medical reasons;
  • has an individualized education program that affects the child’s attendance;
  • has a plan under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act, 29 U.S.C. §794, that affects the child’s attendance;
  • are attending an approved or probationally approved private college preparatory school;
  • are attending an accredited nonpublic school; 
  • are receiving independent private instruction; or,
  • are receiving competent private instruction.

It is the responsibility of the parent of a child to provide evidence of the child's mental and physical inability to attend school or of the child's qualifications for one of the exceptions listed above.

 

Legal Reference:    Iowa Code §§ 259A; 279.10-.11; ch. 299; 299A.

Cross Reference:    501    Student Attendance
                                601.1    School Calendar
                                604.1    Competent Private Instruction

Approved      1/18/2021     
Reviewed      7/15/2024     
Revised         7/15/2024     

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:33

501.04 - Entrance - Admissions

501.04 - Entrance - Admissions

Children in the school district community will be allowed to enroll in the school district's regular education program beginning at age five.  The child must be age five on or prior to September 15 to participate in the school district's kindergarten program.  The child must be age six on or prior to September 15 to begin the first grade of the education program.

Before the student may enroll in the district's education program the board will require evidence of age and residency in the form of a birth certificate or other evidence of age.  It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine what is satisfactory evidence for proof of age.

Prior to enrollment, the child must provide the administration with their health and immunization certificate.  Failure to provide this information within the time period set by the superintendent is reason for suspension, expulsion or denying admission to the student.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 144.45(5); 282.1, .3, .6.

Cross Reference:  501                                    Student Attendance
   
                                    507.1                                Student Health and Immunization Certificates

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:35

501.05 - Attendance Center Assignment

501.05 - Attendance Center Assignment

The board will have complete discretion to determine the boundaries for each attendance center and, to assign students to the attendance centers.

Parents or guardians of siblings in the same grade level academically in grades kindergarten through grade five may request the siblings be placed in the same or different classrooms.  In order to be valid, the request must be made in writing and submitted to the school principal at the time of registration for classes, or within fourteen days after the children’s first day of attendance during the school year.  If a valid request is received by the school principal, the request must be honored.  While a parent or guardian may make a placement request that siblings be placed together or apart, the district administration retains complete discretion to select the classroom teacher(s) to which siblings are assigned.  If after the initial grading period following the placement of siblings in the same or different classrooms the school principal determines the placement is disruptive to the class; the principal may assign one or more of the siblings to different classrooms.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board annually regarding the assigned attendance center for each student.  In making the recommendation, the superintendent will consider the geographical layout of the school district, the condition and location of the school district facilities, the location of student population, possible transportation challenges, financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the superintendent or the board.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.11; 282.7-.8.

Cross Reference:  501                                    Student Attendance

Approved        1/18/21                           
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:35

501.06 - Student Transfers In

501.06 - Student Transfers In

Students who transfer into the school district must meet the immunization and age requirements set out for students who initially enroll in the school district.

The school district will request the student's cumulative records from the previous school district.  If the student cannot offer proof of grade level, the superintendent will make the grade level determination.  The superintendent may require testing or other information to determine the grade level.  Students expelled or suspended from their previous school district will only be enrolled after approval of the board.

The superintendent will determine the amount of credits to be transferred.  If the student has not previously attended an accredited school, it is within the superintendent's discretion to accept or reject credits or grades.

The board may deny admission if the student is not willing to provide the board with the necessary information.

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232g.
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 282.1, .3, .4; 299A.

Cross Reference:  501                                    Student Attendance
   
                                    505.3                                Student Honors and Awards
   
                                    507                                    Student Health and Well-Being
   
                                    604.1                                Competent Private Instruction

Approved          1/18/21                         
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:36

501.07 - Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals

501.07 - Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals

If the student's parents wish to withdraw or transfer the student from school prior to completing and graduating from the education program, they should notify the superintendent in writing as soon as possible of the decision to withdraw or transfer the student from the education program.  The student or parent should present this written notice at the office and receive instructions regarding the return of textbooks, library books, locker equipment, hot lunch tickets, etc. 

The notice should state the student's final day of attendance.  If the student is not enrolling in another school district, the school district will maintain the student's records in the same manner as the records of students who have graduated from the school district.

If the parents wish to have the student's cumulative record sent to the new school district, the parents must notify the superintendent in writing.  This notice will include the name of the school district and the person at the new school district to whom the student's cumulative records should be sent.  If the new school district requests the student's cumulative records, the school district will forward the cumulative records and notify the parents the records have been sent.  The notice will inform the parents of their right to review the records sent.

If the student is of compulsory education age and not transferring to another public school district or an accredited nonpublic school, the parents will notify the superintendent that the student is receiving competent private instruction and file the necessary competent private instruction reports.

                                   

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232g.
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 299.1-.1A; 299A.11

Cross Reference:  501                                    Student Attendance
   
                                    506                                    Student Records
   
                                    604.1                                Competent Private Instruction

Approved         1/18/21                          
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:37

501.08 - Student Attendance Records

501.08 - Student Attendance Records

As part of the school district's records, the daily attendance of each student is recorded and maintained on file with the permanent records of the board secretary.

It is the responsibility of the principals to ensure that such reports are filed with the board secretary, the custodian of school records.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

Cross Reference:  501                                    Student Attendance
   
                                    506                                    Student Records

Approved       1/18/21                            
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:38

501.09 - Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy

501.09 - Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy

The district believes that traditional, in-person school attendance leads to the greatest learning opportunities for students. Students who are present in school and engaged active learners take greater ownership over their educational outcomes. For this reason, it is the priority of the district to foster regular student attendance throughout the school year and reduce barriers to regular attendance for students in the district. 

Chronic absenteeism/absences means any absence from school for more than ten percent of the semester hours listed in the current school calendar established by the district.

Truant/truancy means a child of compulsory attendance age who is absent from school for any reason for at least twenty percent of the semester hours listed in the current school calendar established by the district. 

  • have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or has obtained a high school equivalency diploma;
  • are excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or judge;
  • are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
  • are attending a private college preparatory school accredited or probationally accredited;
  • are excused under Iowa Code §299.22; and
  • are exempt under Iowa Code §299.24.

Students are subject to disciplinary action for truancy including suspension and expulsion. It is within the discretion of the principal to determine, in light of the circumstances, whether a student may make up work missed because of truancy. Students receiving special education services will not be assigned specific consequences unless the goals and objectives of the student’s Individualized Education Program are capable of being met. 

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the designated school officials, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy. The administrative regulations will indicate the disciplinary action to be taken for truancy.

 

Legal Reference:    34 C.F.R. sec. 300
                               28 C.F.R. Pt. 35
                               Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299.
                               281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

Cross Reference:   501    Student Attendance
                               503    Student Discipline
                               504    Student Activities
                               506    Student Records

Approved       1/18/2021      
Reviewed       7/15/2024      
Revised          7/15/2024      

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:40

501.09E1 - Request for Remote Learning Form

501.09E1 - Request for Remote Learning Form

Date:  ________________

Student Name:  ____________________________                                          

 Attendance Center:  ______________________

Parent/Guardian:  ___________________________

I, _________________________ (Parent/Guardian) am requesting accommodation for my child,__________________________(Student Name) to participate in remote learning opportunities for the duration of the declared public emergency, or until I have determined my child can safely return to traditional in-person learning at his/her designated attendance center, whichever occurs first. 

I have attached to this form documentation from an Iowa Board of Medicine-licensed medical professional confirming that remote learning is medically necessary due to the vulnerable health condition of my child or of a family member residing within the same home as my child.

I understand that the district will do their utmost to accommodate my child’s learning needs, but that some learning opportunities may need to be modified in a remote environment.  The provision of special education and accommodations for students who have individualized education programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans will be determined by each respective IEP or Section 504 team.  

I understand that in order for my child to continue to participate in mandatory learning, his/her remote attendance will be taken, assessments administered, and grades will be counted toward my child’s cumulative grade average.  I understand that any devices, technology, or materials given to my child to facilitate remote learning are the property of the district and must be returned at the end of the remote learning period. 

I am requesting that remote learning opportunities begin on ______________ (date) and continue until

[_____________(date) or the declared public emergency is dismissed].

(Parent/Guardian) ____________________________________

(Date) ________________

Request approved by: __________________________________  (School official)             _____________________

(Date) ________________

Note:  This form is to be utilized by parents/guardians of a student who, during the course of a declared public emergency, believe that further attendance by the student at traditional in person school would be detrimental to the health or safety of the student or the student’s family member residing with the student.  This form is not necessary when the school building is closed to traditional in person learning and remote learning opportunities are already available to students.  It is only to be utilized during a public emergency declared by state or local officials when traditional in person learning continues to be held. 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:52

501.09R1 - Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy

501.09R1 - Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy

Daily, punctual attendance is an integral part of the learning experience.  The education that goes on in the classroom builds from day to day and absences can cause disruption in the educational progress of the absent student. Irregular attendance or tardiness by students not only limits their own studies, but also interferes with the progress of those students who are regular and prompt in attendance.  Attendance is a shared responsibility that requires cooperation and communication among students, parents and the school. 

This regulation is divided into two sections: Section I addresses legal requirements related to chronic absenteeism and truancy and Section II addresses additional academic, disciplinary and extracurricular consequences students face due to chronic absenteeism and truancy.  It is important for students to recognize that chronic absenteeism and truancy impacts all these facets of their educational experience.

SECTION I – Legal Requirements 

Chronic Absenteeism

When a student meets the threshold to be considered chronically absent, the school official will send notice by mail or e-mail to the county attorney where the district’s central office is located.  The school official will also notify the student, or if a minor, the student’s parent, guardian or legal or actual custodian via certified mail that includes information related to the student’s absences from school and the policies and disciplinary processes associated with additional absences. 

School Engagement Meeting

If a student is absent from school for at least fifteen percent of the hours in the grading period, the school official will attempt to find the cause of the absences and start and participate in a school engagement meeting. All of the following individuals must participate in the school engagement meeting:

  • The student;
  • The student’s parent, guardian or legal or actual custodian if the student is an unemancipated minor; and
  • A school official.

The purpose of the meeting is to understand the reasons for the student’s absences and attempt to remove barriers to the student’s ongoing absences; and to create and sign an absenteeism prevention plan.  

Absenteeism Prevention Plan

The absenteeism prevention plan will identify the causes of the student’s absences and the future responsibilities of each participant.  The school official will contact the student and student’s parent/guardian at least once per week for the remainder of the school year to monitor the performance of the student and the student’s parent/guardian under the plan.  If the student and student’s parent/guardian do not attend the meeting, do not enter into a plan or violate the terms of the plan, the school official will notify the county attorney.

SECTION II – Academic and Disciplinary Requirements

Students are required to be in attendance, pursuant to board policy, for  1080    hours per school year unless their absences have been excused for illness (absences of three or more consecutive days due to illness requires a doctor's note), family emergencies, funerals, doctor or dental appointment, recognized religious observances and school sponsored or approved activities.  Reasonable excuses may also include family trips or vacations.  Absences that do not fall within the categories listed above will be considered unexcused unless approved by the principal.  Parents are expected to telephone the school office to report a student's absence prior to 8:15   a.m. on the day of the absence.  

Students who are absent without a reasonable excuse may be assigned to supervised study hall, detention, early bird school, Saturday school, in-school suspension, structured WIN time, extracurricular consequences, or other appropriate disciplinary sanction up to loss of class credit.  

School work missed because of absences must be made up within two times the number of days absent, not to exceed 5 school days.  The time allowed for make-up work may be extended at the discretion of the classroom teacher and will follow the district's homework and assessment policy.

 

I.C. Iowa Code
Iowa Code  § 294.4    Teachers - Daily Register
Iowa Code  § 299       Compulsory Education

I.A.C. Iowa Administrative Code
281 I.A.C. 12.3           Administration

C.F.R. - Code of Federal Regulations
28 C.F.R. 35               Judicial - Disability - Nondiscrimination
34 C.F.R. Pt. 300       Education - Disabilities/Children/Assistance to States

Approved                          
Reviewed      7/15/2024    
Revised         7/15/2024    

susan.larson@f… Thu, 07/25/2024 - 10:11

501.10 - Truancy - Unexcused Absences

501.10 - Truancy - Unexcused Absences

Regular attendance by the students at school is essential for students to obtain the maximum opportunities from the education program.  Parents and students alike are encouraged to ensure an absence from school is a necessary absence.  Students will attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center.

Truancy is the failure to attend school for the minimum number of days established in the school calendar by the board.  Truancy is the act of being absent without a reasonable excuse.  These absences will include, but not be limited to, tardiness, shopping, hunting, concerts, preparation or participation in parties and other celebrations and employment.  Truancy will not be tolerated by the board.

Students are subject to disciplinary action for truancy including suspension and expulsion.  It is within the discretion of the principal to determine, in light of the circumstances, whether a student may make up work missed because of truancy.  Students receiving special education services will not be assigned to supervised study hall, in-school suspension unless the goals and objectives of the student's Individualized Education Program are capable of being met.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.  The administrative regulations will indicate the disciplinary action to be taken for truancy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

Cross Reference:  206.3                                Secretary [or Secretary/Treasurer]
   
                                    410.3                                Truancy Officer
   
                                    501                                    Student Attendance
   
                                    503                                    Student Discipline
   
                                    504                                    Student Activities
   
                                    506                                    Student Records

Approved        1/18/21               
Reviewed                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:54

501.10R1 - Truancy - Unexcused Absence Regulation

501.10R1 - Truancy - Unexcused Absence Regulation

Students are required to be in attendance, pursuant to board policy, for 176 days per school year unless their absences have been excused by the principal for illness (absences for three or more consecutive days due to illness require a doctor's note), family emergencies, doctor or dental appointment, recognized religious observances and school sponsored or approved activities.  Reasonable excuses may also include family trips or vacations if the student's work is finished prior to the trip or vacation.  Absences that do not fall within the categories listed above will be considered unexcused unless approved by the principal.  Parents are expected to telephone the school office to report a student's absence prior to 8:00 a.m. on the day of the absence. 

If a student accumulates 15 unexcused absences in a class, he or she may lose credit for the class.  Prior to imposing the loss of credit in one or more classes, the principal will provide the student an opportunity for an informal hearing. 

School work missed because of absences must be made up within two times the number of days absent, not to exceed 10 days.  The time allowed for make-up work may be extended at the discretion of the classroom teacher.

Students will remain in class until the hearing panel makes a decision regarding loss or restoration of credit.  Full credit is awarded to all assignments and tests submitted that meet the teacher's specifications until a decision regarding credit has been made. 

If a student loses credit, that fact is recorded in the student's record as an ("AD" [administrative drop])

A student who loses credit due to excessive absences is assigned to supervised study hall, for the period(s) in which the course(s) meets or the student may be reassigned to another class or location.  A student who, after a hearing before the board, loses credit in all courses due to unexcused absences, will not be allowed to participate in any school activities until the following semester.  However, the student is eligible to practice if all other eligibility criteria have been met.

The administration and guidance staff will make reasonable efforts to advise and counsel and may impose discipline upon any student approaching 7 unexcused absences.  Such advice, discipline and counseling includes, but is not limited to, oral or written notices to the student and his or her parents, conferences with the student and parents, written contracts, or loss of non-academic privileges such as early dismissal.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:56

501.11 - Student Release During School Hours

501.11 - Student Release During School Hours

Students will be allowed to leave the school district facilities during school hours only with prior authorization from their parents, unless the parent appears personally at the student's attendance center to arrange for the release of the student during school hours, or with the permission of the principal.

Approved reasons for release of a student during the school day will include, but not be limited to, illness, family emergencies, medical appointments, religious instruction, classes outside the student's attendance center, employment for which the student has been issued a work permit and other reasons determined appropriate by the principal.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 294.4
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

Cross Reference:  501                                    Student Attendance
   
                                    503                                    Student Discipline
   
                                    504                                    Student Activities
   
                                    506                                    Student Records

Approved                                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:59

501.12 - Pregnant Students

501.12 - Pregnant Students

The board encourages pregnant students to continue to attend the education program as long as they are physically able to do so.  The pregnant student is encouraged to notify the principal or the guidance counselor as soon as they are aware of the pregnancy in order for the district to facilitate the student’s equal access to the district’s education programs and activities.  The school may require that a pregnant student provide the principal with a written note from her doctor relative to special conditions that might exist and specific suggestions as to how long the student may continue to attend classes.  If the student is unable to attend school because of their pregnancy, the student may be excused and arrangements made to continue her studies during their absence.  The student will resume classes upon the recommendation of her physician.

 

Legal Reference:    34 C.F.R. § 106.40    
                               Iowa Code §§ 216; 279.8; 280.3.

Cross Reference:   501       Student Attendance
                               604.2    Individualized Instruction

Approved        1/18/2021     
Reviewed       7/15/2024      
Revised          7/15/2024      

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:59

501.13 - Students of Legal Age

501.13 - Students of Legal Age

Students who have attained legal age may continue the education program without payment of tuition as long as they are eligible to attend an Iowa public school and are residents of the school district.

Parents will be allowed to access and view the student's records without written permission from the student if the student is still a dependent for tax purposes.  In most cases, with the discretion of the principal or the superintendent, the student will be able to make decisions and sign documents rather than requiring parental permission or signature.

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232g
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 22; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4; 599.1; 622.10.
    
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

Cross Reference:  501                                    Student Attendance
   
                                    506                                    Student Records

Approved       1/18/21                            
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:01

501.14 - Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Sending District

501.14 - Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Sending District

The school district will participate in open enrollment as a sending district.  As a sending district, the board will allow resident students who meet the requirements to open enroll to another public school district.

Parents requesting open enrollment out of the school district for their student will notify the sending and receiving school district no later than March 1 in the school year preceding the first year desired for open enrollment. The notice is made on forms provided by the Department of Education.  The forms are available at the central administration office.

Parents of children who will begin kindergarten in the school district are exempt from the open enrollment March 1 deadline. Parents of children who will begin kindergarten and prekindergarten children enrolled in special education programs and included in the district’s basic enrollment will file in the same manner set forth above by September 1. Parents who have good cause as defined by law for failing to meet the March 1 deadline may make an open enrollment request by September 1 unless another deadline applies.

The receiving district will approve open enrollment requests according to the timelines established by law.  The parents may withdraw the open enrollment request prior to the start of the school year. The receiving district’s superintendent will notify the parents and sending school district by mail within five days of the school district’s action to approve or deny the open enrollment request.  

Subject to applicable laws, the board may approve a student's request to allow the receiving district to enter the school district for the purposes of transportation.     

An open enrollment request out of the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.  The determining factor for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the receiving school district is appropriate for the student's needs.  The area education agency director of special education serving the receiving district will determine whether the program is appropriate.  The special education student will remain in the school district until the final determination is made.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to maintain open enrollment request applications and notice forms.  It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop appropriate office procedures and administrative regulations necessary for open enrollment requests.

 

Legal Reference:    Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1.
                               281 I.A.C. 17.

Cross Reference:    501    Student Attendance
                                506    Student Records

Approved      1/18/2021    
Reviewed      7/15/2024    
Revised         7/15/2024    

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:15

501.15 - Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures As a Receiving District

501.15 - Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures As a Receiving District

The school district will participate in open enrollment as a receiving district.  As a receiving district, the board will allow nonresident students, who meet the legal requirements, to open enroll into the school district.  The board will have complete discretion to determine the attendance center of the students attending the school district under open enrollment.

The superintendent will approve all timely filed applications by June 1; incoming kindergarten applications; good cause application; or continuation of an educational program application filed by September 1.

The superintendent will notify the sending school district and parents within five days of the school district’s action to approve or deny the open enrollment request.  

Open enrollment requests into the school district will not be approved if insufficient classroom space exists.  Open enrollment requests into the school district will also not be approved for students who have been suspended or expelled by the administration or the board of the school district the student is or was attending until the student has been reinstated into the school district from which the student was suspended or expelled.  Once the student is reinstated, the student's open enrollment request will be considered in the same manner as other open enrollment requests provided the required timelines are met. The district reserves the right to deny continued open enrollment to any students who meet the definition of truant. The district will notify the truant student’s parent or guardian and district of residence of the decision to deny enrollment in the future in accordance with applicable laws. 

Open enrollment requests into the school district that, if denied, would result in students from the same nuclear family being enrolled in different school districts, will be given highest priority.  The board, in its discretion, may waive the insufficient classroom space reason for denial for students of the same nuclear family to prevent the division of a nuclear family between two school districts.  Other open enrollment requests into the school district are considered in the order received by the school district with the first open enrollment request given a higher priority than the second open enrollment request and so forth.

Students in grades nine through twelve open enrolling into the school district will be eligible for participation in interscholastic athletics, at the varsity level, in accordance with applicable law.

Parents of students whose open enrollment requests are approved by the board or superintendent are responsible for providing transportation to and from the receiving school district without reimbursement. 

A receiving district may send school vehicles into the sending district’s boundaries to transport students to and from school in the receiving district, if the total enrollment of the student’s resident district is less than two thousand students; the student’s resident district is contiguous to the receiving district; and the student’s resident district has sent school vehicles into the receiving district pursuant to Iowa Code 282.18(8)(b)(1). 

An open enrollment request into the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.  The determining factors for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the school district is appropriate for the student's needs and whether the enrollment of the special education student will cause the class size to exceed the maximum allowed.  The area education agency director of special education serving the school district will determine whether the program is appropriate.  The special education student will remain in the sending district until the final determination is made.

The policies of the school district will apply to students attending the school district under open enrollment.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop appropriate office procedures and administrative regulations necessary for open enrollment requests.

 

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1.
                                281 I.A.C. 17.            

Cross Reference:    501.6      Student Transfers In
                                501.7      Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals
                                501.14    Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Sending District
                                506         Student Records
                                507         Student Health and Well-Being
                                606.6      Insufficient Classroom Space

Approved       1/18/2021      
Reviewed       7/15/2024      
Revised          7/15/2024      

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:17

501.16 - Homeless Children and Youth

501.16 - Homeless Children and Youth

The Maquoketa Valley School District believes all students should have access to a free, appropriate public education. The district will ensure that homeless children and youth have equal access to the same free, appropriate public education as other children and youth.

The term “homeless children and youth” means individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. The term includes:

  • Children and youth who are:
    • Sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason (sometimes referred to as “doubled up”);
    • Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations;
    • Living in emergency or transitional shelters; or
    • Abandoned in hospitals.
  • Children and youth who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings;
  • Children and youth who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings; and
  • Migratory children who qualify as homeless because they are living in circumstances described above.

To help ensure that homeless children and youth have a full opportunity to enroll, attend, and succeed at school, the board shall:

  • Designate the middle school counselor as the local homeless children and youth liaison;
  • Provide training opportunities for staff so staff may help identify and meet the needs of homeless children and youth;
  • Remove barriers, including those associated with fees, fines, and absences, to the identification, enrollment, retention, attendance and/or success in school for homeless children and youth;
  • Ensure collaboration and coordination with other service providers;
  • Ensure transportation is provided in accordance with legal requirements;
  • Provide school stability in school assignment according to the child’s best interests;
  • Ensure the privacy of student records, as provided by applicable law, including information about a homeless child or youth’s living situation;
  • Engage in the dispute resolution process for decisions relating to the educational placement of homeless children and youth as provided by applicable law; and
  • Prohibit the segregation of a homeless child or youth from other students enrolled in the district.

The superintendent may develop an administrative process or procedures to implement this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 6301.
                                
        42 U.S.C. § 11302.
                               
        42 U.S.C. §§ 11431 et seq.        
                                
        281 I.A.C. 33.

 

Cross Reference:  501        Student Attendance
                                       503.3    Fines - Fees - Charges
                                       506        Student Records
                               
        507.1    Student Health and Immunization Certificates
                               
        603.3    Special Education
                               
        711.1    Student School Transportation Eligibility

Approved       1/18/21                            
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:19

502 - Student Rights and Responsibilities

502 - Student Rights and Responsibilities dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:22

502.01 - Student Appearance

502.01 - Student Appearance

The board believes inappropriate student appearance causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors.

Students are expected to adhere to standards of cleanliness and dress that are compatible with the requirements of a good learning environment.  The standards will be those generally acceptable to the community as appropriate in a school setting.

The board expects students to be clean and well-groomed and wear clothes in good repair and appropriate for the time, place and occasion.  Clothing or other apparel promoting products illegal for use by minors and clothing displaying obscene material, profanity, or reference to prohibited conduct are disallowed.  While the primary responsibility for appearance lies with the students and their parents, appearance disruptive to the education program will not be tolerated.  When, in the judgment of a principal, a student's appearance or mode of dress disrupts the educational process or constitutes a threat to health or safety, the student may be required to make modifications.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
   
                                    Bethal School District  v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
   
                                    Tinker v. Des Moines Ind. Comm. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969).
   
                                    Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
 
                                     Torvik v. Decorah Community School, 453 F.2d 779 (8th Cir. 1972).
   
                                    Turley v. Adel Community School District, 322 F.Supp. 402 (S.D. Iowa 1971).
   
                                    Sims v. Colfax Comm. School Dist., 307 F.Supp. 485 (Iowa 1970).
   
                                    Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:  500                                    Objectives for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students
   
                                    502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:22

502.02 - Care of School Property/Vandalism

502.02 - Care of School Property/Vandalism

Students will treat school district property with the care and the respect they would treat their own property.  Students found to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school district property may be required to reimburse the school district.  They may be subject to discipline under board policy and the school district rules and regulations.  They may also be referred to local law enforcement authorities.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative rules regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.4, .5; 613.16.

Cross Reference:  502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    802.1                                Maintenance Schedule

Approved      1/18/21                             
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:24

502.03 - Student Expression

502.03 - Student Expression

It is the goal of the district to protect the educational environment for all students to help ensure it is free from substantial disruption or infringement upon their rights.  Student expression should be appropriate to ensure that the students learn and meet the goals of the school activity and that the potential audience is not exposed to material that may be harmful or inappropriate for their level of maturity.

While students will generally be allowed to express their viewpoints and opinions, in certain qualifying circumstances, student speech may require administrative regulation to help ensure the safety and welfare of the school community.  The district may regulate speech that:  causes or is reasonably anticipated to cause a material and substantial disruption to the education environment; infringes upon the rights of others; is obscene or lewd; is school sponsored; and/or promotes illegal activity.  The administration, when making this judgment, will consider whether the activity in which the expression was made is school-sponsored and whether review or prohibition of the students' speech furthers an educational purpose.  The expression must be done in a reasonable time, place, and manner that is not disruptive to the orderly and efficient operation of the school district.

The superintendent may develop procedures for safely addressing qualifying types of mass protests by students, including walk-ins and walk-outs.  Walk-ins occur when students leave their learning environments during school hours and gather in a group or groups with the purpose of promoting a belief or beliefs.  Walk-outs occur when students leave their learning environments during school hours and gather in a group or groups off district property with the purpose of promoting a belief or beliefs. 

The superintendent is encouraged to obtain feedback from community stakeholders in the development of these procedures.  The goal of the procedures shall be to address student safety, maintain the educational environment and promote communication during demonstrations while remaining viewpoint neutral.

Students who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary measures.  Employees are responsible for ensuring students' expression is in keeping with this policy.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  U.S. Const. amend. I.
   
                                    Iowa Const. art. I (sec. 7)
   
                                    Morse v. Frederick, 551 U.S. 393 (2007)
   
                                    Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
   
                                    Bethel School District v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
   
                                    New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).
   
                                    Tinker v. Des Moines Ind. Comm. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969).
   
                                    Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.22

Cross Reference:  102                                    Equal Educational Opportunity
   
                                    502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    504                                    Student Activities
   
                                    603.9                                Academic Freedom
   
                                    903.5                                Distribution of Materials

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:24

502.04 - Student Complaints and Grievances

502.04 - Student Complaints and Grievances

Student complaints and grievances regarding board policy or administrative regulations and other matters should be addressed to the student's teacher or another licensed employee, other than the administration, for resolution of the complaint.  It is the goal of the board to resolve student complaints at the lowest organizational level.

If the complaint cannot be resolved by a licensed employee, the student may discuss the matter with the principal within 5 days of the employee's decision.  If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within   5       days after speaking with the principal.

If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved by the superintendent, the student may ask to have the matter placed on the board agenda of a regularly scheduled board meeting in compliance with board policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:  210.8                                Board Meeting Agenda
   
                                    213                                    Public Participation in Board Meetings
   
                                    307                                    Communication Channels
   
                                    502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    504.3                                Student Publications

Approved        1/18/21                           
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:26

502.05 - Student Lockers

502.05 - Student Lockers

Student lockers are the property of the school district.  Students will use the lockers assigned to them by the school district for storing their school materials and personal belongings necessary for attendance at school.  It is the responsibility of students to keep their assigned lockers clean and undamaged.

To ensure students are properly maintaining their assigned lockers, the principal of the building may periodically inspect all or a random selection of lockers.  Either students or another individual will be present during the inspection of lockers.  Student lockers may also be searched, at any time and without advance notice, in compliance with board policy regulating search and seizure.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.14; 808A.

Cross Reference:  502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved     1/18/21                  
Reviewed                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:27

502.06 - Weapons

502.06 - Weapons

The board believes weapons, other dangerous objects and look-a-likes in school district facilities cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.

School district facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons, dangerous objects and look-a-likes. Weapons and other dangerous objects and look-a-likes will be taken from students and others who bring them onto the school district property or onto property within the jurisdiction of the school district or from students who are within the control of the school district.

Parents of students found to possess weapons, dangerous objects or look-a-likes on school property are notified of the incident.  Possession or confiscation of weapons, dangerous objects or look-a-likes will be reported to law enforcement officials, and students will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.

Students bringing firearms to school or knowingly possessing firearms at school will be expelled for not less than one year.  The superintendent has the authority to recommend this expulsion requirement be modified for students on a case-by-case basis.  For purposes of this portion of this policy, the term "firearm" includes, but is not limited to, any weapon which is designed to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such weapon, a muffler or silencer for such a weapon, or any explosive, incendiary or poison gas, or otherwise defined by applicable law.

Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials or other individuals specifically authorized by the board are exempt from this policy. Students and individuals approved in writing by the Superintendent who are actively engaging in a school district approved firearms safety course, hunter education course or shooting sports activity are exempt from this policy. The superintendent will develop an administrative process or procedures to implement the policy and communicate with law enforcement relevant exemptions to this policy as appropriate. 

 

Legal Reference:     18 U.S.C. § 921 
                                 Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 483A.27(11), 724 
                                 281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

Cross Reference:     502    Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                 503    Student Discipline
                                 507    Student Health and Well-Being

Approved       1/18/2021     
Reviewed      7/15/2024     
Revised         7/15/2024     

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:28

502.07 - Student Substance Abuse

502.07 - Student Substance Abuse

The board believes it is imperative to promote the health and well-being of all students in the district.  The district will provide a substance use prevention program and set restrictions on substance use by students in accordance with applicable law.

The board prohibits the distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of alcohol, tobacco/nicotine products, other controlled substances, or "look alike" substances that appear to be tobacco/nicotine products, alcohol or controlled substances by students while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district. "Controlled substances" in this policy refers to the misuse of both licit and illicit drugs.

The board believes such illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials generally cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors.

Violation of this policy by students will result in disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.  Use, purchase or being in possession of tobacco/nicotine products for those under the age of twenty-one, may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.  Possession, use or being under the influence of alcohol and/or of a controlled substance may also be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.

Students who violate the terms of this policy may be required to satisfactorily complete a substance use assistance or rehabilitation program approved by the school board.  If such student fails to satisfactorily complete such a program, the student may be subject to discipline including suspension or expulsion.

The board believes the substance use prevention program will include:

  • Age-appropriate, evidence-based substance use prevention curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through twelve, which address the legal, social, and health consequences of tobacco, drug and alcohol use and which provide information about effective techniques for resisting social pressure to use tobacco, drugs or alcohol;
  • A statement to students that the use of controlled substances and the unlawful possession and use of tobacco/nicotine products and alcohol is harmful to student well-being;
  • Standards of conduct for students that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, being under the influence of or distribution of controlled substances, tobacco/nicotine products and/or alcohol by students on school premises or as part of any of its activities;
  • A clear statement that disciplinary sanctions, up to and including suspension or expulsion and referral for prosecution, will be imposed on students who violate the policy and a description of those sanctions;
  • A statement that students may be required to complete a substance use evaluation to determine whether substance use disorder treatment is recommended and, if recommended, successfully complete an appropriate rehabilitation program;
  • Information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation and re-entry programs available to students;
  • A requirement that parents and students be given a copy of the standards of conduct and the statement of disciplinary sanctions required; and,
  • Notification to parents and students that compliance with the standards of conduct is mandatory.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

Legal Reference:

34 C.F.R. Pt. 86
Iowa Code §§ 123.46; 124; 279.8, .9; 453A.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); .5(3)(e), .5(4)(e), .5(5)(e)

I.C. Iowa Code    Description
Iowa Code  § 123.46    Consumption/Intoxication in Public
Iowa Code  § 124    Controlled Substances
Iowa Code  § 279.8    Directors - General Rules - Bonds of Employees
Iowa Code  § 279.9    Directors - Powers and Duties - Controlled Substances
Iowa Code  § 453A    Tobacco, Nicotine, Vapor Products - Taxes, Regulations
I.A.C. Iowa Administrative Code    Description
281 I.A.C. 12.3    Administration
281 I.A.C. 5    Public Records - Fair Access
C.F.R. - Code of Federal Regulations    Description
34 C.F.R. Pt. 86    Education - Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention
 

 

Approved    1/18/21                       
Reviewed     2/19/2024                      
Revised      2/19/2024             

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:30

502.08 - Search and Seizure

502.08 - Search and Seizure

School district property is held in public trust by the board.  School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search students or protected student areas based on a reasonable and articulable suspicion that a school district policy, rule, regulation or law has been violated.  The search is in a manner reasonable in scope to maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students, employees and visitors to the school district facilities.  The furnishing of a locker, desk or other facility or space owned by the school and provided as a courtesy to a student, even if the student provides the lock for it, will not create a protected student area and will not give rise to an expectation of privacy with respect to the locker, desk, or other facility.

 School authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search.  Items of contraband may include, but are not limited to, nonprescription controlled substances, marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, apparatus used for controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco/nicotine, weapons, explosives, poisons and stolen property.  Such items are not to be possessed by a student while they are on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.  Possession of such items will be grounds for disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion and may be reported to local law enforcement officials.  The board believes that illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials may cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  U.S. Const. amend. IV.
   
                                    New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).
   
                                    Cason v. Cook, 810 F.2d 188 (8th Cir. 1987), cert. den., 482 U.S. 930 (1987).
   
                                    Iowa Code ch. 808A
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

Cross Reference:  502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    503                                    Student Discipline
   
                                    905.2                                Tobacco/Nicotine-Free Environment

Approved    1/18/21                               
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:31

502.08E1 - Search and Seizure Checklist

502.08E1 - Search and Seizure Checklist

I.      What factors caused you to have a reasonable and articulable suspicion that the search of this student or the student's effects or automobile would turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law, school policy, rules or regulations affecting school order?

         A.  Eyewitness account.
      1.  By whom:  ___________________________________________
      2.  Date/Time:  __________________________________________
      3.  Place:  ______________________________________________
      4.  What was seen:  ______________________________________

         B.  Information from a reliable source.
      1.  From whom:  _________________________________________
      2.  Time received:  ________________________________________
      3.  How information was received:  ___________________________
      4.  Who received the information:  ____________________________
      5.  Describe information:  ___________________________________
           ______________________________________________________

         C.  Suspicious behaviour?  Explain.
           ______________________________________________________
           ______________________________________________________
           ______________________________________________________
           ______________________________________________________

         D.  Time of search:  ___________________________________________

         E.  Location of search:  ________________________________________

         F.  Student told purpose of search:  _______________________________

         G.  Consent of student requested:  _______________________________

II.      Was the search you conducted reasonable in terms of scope and intrusiveness? 

         A.  What were you searching for?  _______________________________

         B.  Where did you search?  _____________________________________

         C.  Sex of the student:  ________________________________________

         D.  Age of the student:  ________________________________________

         E.  Exigency of the situation:  ___________________________________

         F.  What type of search was being conducted:  ______________________

         G.  Who conducted the search:  __________________________________
       Position:  _____________________  Sex:  ______________________

         H.  Witness(s):
           ______________________________________________________

III.      Explanation of Search.

         A.  Describe the time and location of the search:_____________________
           ______________________________________________________

         B.  Describe exactly what was searched:___________________________
           ______________________________________________________

         C.  What did the search yield:____________________________________

         D.  What was seized:___________________________________________

         E.  Were any materials turned over to law enforcement officials?
           ______________________________________________________

         F.  Were parents notified of the search including the reason for it and scope:
           _______________________________________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:32

502.08R1 - Search and Seizure Regulation

502.08R1 - Search and Seizure Regulation

I.      Searches, in general.

        A.      Reasonable and Articulable Suspicion:  A search of a student will be justified when there are reasonable grounds for the suspicion that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law or school district policy, rules, or regulations affecting school order.

                  Reasonable suspicion may be formed by considering factors such as the following:

             (1)      eyewitness observations by employees;

             (2)      information received from reliable sources;

             (3)      suspicious behavior by the student; or,

             (4)      the student's past history and school record although this factor alone is not sufficient to provide the basis for reasonable suspicion.

        B.       Reasonable Scope:  A search will be permissible in its scope or intrusiveness when the measures adopted are reasonably related to the objectives of the search.  Reasonableness of scope or intrusiveness may be determined based on factors such as the following:

                  (1)      the age of the student;

                  (2)      the sex of the student;

                  (3)      the nature of the infraction; and

                  (4)      the emergency requiring the search without delay.

 

II.     Types of Searches

        A.      Personal Searches

                  1.       A student's person and/or personal effects (e.g., purse, backpack, etc.) may be searched when a school official has reasonable suspicion to believe the student is in possession of illegal or contraband items or has violated school district policies, rules, regulations or the law affecting school order.

                  2.       Personally intrusive searches will require more compelling circumstances to be considered reasonable.

                            (a)    Pat-Down Search:  If a pat-down search or a search of a student's garments (such as jackets, socks, pockets, etc.) is conducted, it will be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex as the student and with another adult witness of the same sex present, when feasible.

                            (b)    A more intrusive search, short of a strip search, of the student's person, handbags, book bags, etc., is permissible in emergency situations when the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors are threatened.  Such a search may only be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex as the student, with an adult of the same sex present unless the health or safety of students will be endangered by the delay which may be caused by following these procedures.

        B.       Locker and Desk Inspections 

                  Although school lockers and desks are temporarily assigned to individual students, they remain the property of the school district at all times.  The school district has a reasonable and valid interest in ensuring the lockers and desks are properly maintained.  For this reason, lockers and desks are subject to unannounced inspections and students have no legitimate expectations of privacy in the locker or desk.  Periodic inspections of all or a random selection of lockers or desks may be conducted by school officials in the presence of the student or another individual.  Any contraband discovered during such searches will be confiscated by school officials and may be turned over to law enforcement officials.

                  The contents of a student's locker or desk (coat, backpack, purse, etc.) may be searched when a school official has reasonable and articulable suspicion that the contents contains illegal or contraband items or evidence of a violation of law or school policy or rule.  Such searches should be conducted in the presence of another adult witness when feasible.

        C.       Automobile Searches

                  Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right.  The school retains authority to conduct routine patrols of the student parking lots.  The interior of a student's automobile on the school premises may be searched if the school official has reasonable and articulable suspicion to believe that illegal, unauthorized or contraband items are contained inside.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:47

502.09 - Interviews of Students by Outside Agencies

502.09 - Interviews of Students by Outside Agencies

Generally, students may not be interviewed during the school day by persons other than parents and school district officials and employees.

Requests from law enforcement officers and from persons other than parents, school district officials, and employees to interview students are made through the principal's office.  Upon receiving a request, it is the responsibility of the principal to determine whether the request will be granted.  Generally, prior to granting a request, the principal will attempt to contact the parents to inform them of the request and to ask them to be present.

If a child abuse investigator wishes to interview a student, the principal will defer to the investigator's judgment as to whether the student should be interviewed independently from the student's parents, whether the school is the most appropriate setting for the interview, and who will be present during the interview.

Students will not be taken from school without the consent of the principal and without proper warrant.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 232; 280.17.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 102.
   
                                    441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.

Cross Reference:  402.2                                Child Abuse Reporting
   
                                    502.08                             Search and Seizure
   
                                    503                                    Student Discipline
   
                                    902.2                                News Conferences and Interviews

Approved    1/18/21                               
Reviewed                                                                                              
Revised                     

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:48

502.10 - Use of Motor Vehicles

502.10 - Use of Motor Vehicles

The board recognizes the convenience to families and students of having students drive to and park at their school attendance center.  Driving a motor vehicle to and parking it at the student's attendance center is a privilege.

Students who drive to and park at their school attendance center shall only drive to and park at their designated attendance center or at either their attendance center or a shared district’s attendance center for the purpose of attending extracurricular activities.  Students may not loiter around or be in their vehicle during the school day without permission from the principal.  Students shall leave their attendance center when there is no longer a legitimate reason for them to be at their attendance center.  Students who drive shall enter and leave the parking lot by the routes designated by the principal. 

Students who live within one mile of school, and would not otherwise be eligible for a student driving permit, may be eligible for a student driving permit, for driving to and from school and school activities and practices, as determined by school administration.

Students who wish to drive to and park at their school attendance center shall comply with the rules and regulations established by the building principal.  Failure to comply with this policy or the school district rules shall be reason for revocation of school driving and parking privileges as well as other disciplinary action including suspension and expulsion.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 321.

Cross Reference:  502       Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved     1/18/21                  
Reviewed                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:50

503 - Student Discipline

503 - Student Discipline dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:51

503.01 - Student Conduct

503.01 - Student Conduct

The board believes inappropriate student conduct causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment, interferes with the rights of others, or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, and visitors on school premises.  Appropriate classroom behavior allows teachers to communicate more effectively with students.

Students will conduct themselves in a manner fitting to their age level and maturity and with respect and consideration for the rights of others while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.  Consequences for the misconduct will be fair and developmentally appropriate in light of the circumstances.

Students who fail to abide by this policy, and the administrative regulations supporting it, may be disciplined for conduct which disrupts or interferes with the education program; conduct which disrupts the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school activity; conduct which disrupts the rights of other students to participate in or obtain their education; conduct that is violent or destructive; or conduct which interrupts the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere.  Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to, removal from the classroom, detention, suspension, probation, and expulsion.

A student who commits an assault against an employee on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-owned or school-operated chartered vehicles; or while attending or engaged in school district activities will be suspended by the principal.  Notice of the suspension is sent to the board president.  The board will review the suspension and decide whether to hold a disciplinary hearing to determine whether to impose further sanctions against the student which may include expulsion.  In making its decision, the board shall consider the best interests of the school district, which shall include what is best to protect and ensure the safety of the school employees and students from the student committing the assault.  Assault for purposes of this section of this policy is defined as, when, without justification, a student does any of the following:

∙    an act which is intended to cause pain or injury to, or which is intended to result in physical contact which will be insulting or offensive to another, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or

∙    any act which is intended to place another in fear of immediate physical contact which will be painful, injurious, insulting or offensive, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or

∙    intentionally points any firearm toward another or displays in a threatening manner any dangerous weapon toward another.

The act is not an assault when the person doing any of the above and the other person are voluntary participants in a sport, social or other activity, not in itself criminal, when the act is a reasonably foreseeable incident of such sport or activity, and does not create an unreasonable risk of serious injury or breach of the peace.

Removal from the classroom means a student is sent to the building principal's office.  It is within the discretion of the person in charge of the classroom to remove the student.

Detention means the student's presence is required during non-school hours for disciplinary purposes.  The student can be required to appear prior to the beginning of the school day, after school has been dismissed for the day, or on a non-school day.  Whether a student will serve detention, and the length of the detention, is within the discretion of the licensed employee or the building principal, disciplining the student.

Suspension means; either an in-school suspension, an out-of-school suspension, a restriction from activities or loss of eligibility.  An in-school suspension means the student will attend school but will be temporarily isolated from one or more classes while under supervision.  An in-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days.  An out-of-school suspension means the student is removed from the school environment, which includes school classes and activities.  An out-of-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days.  A restriction from school activities means a student will attend school and classes and practice but will not participate in school activities.

Probation means a student is given a conditional suspension of a penalty for a definite period of time in addition to being reprimanded.  The conditional suspension will mean the student must meet the conditions and terms for the suspension of the penalty.  Failure of the student to meet these conditions and terms will result in immediate reinstatement of the penalty.

Expulsion means an action by the board to remove a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, for a period of time set by the board.

Discipline of special education students, including suspensions and expulsions, will comply with the provisions of applicable federal and state laws.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).
   
                                    Brands v. Sheldon Community School District, 671 F. Supp. 627 (N.D. Iowa 1987).
   
                                    Sims v. Colfax Comm. School Dist., 307 F. Supp. 485 (Iowa 1970).
   
                                    Bunger v. Iowa High School Athletic Assn., 197 N.W.2d 555 (Iowa 1972).
          
                             Board of Directors of Ind. School Dist. of Waterloo v. Green, 259 Iowa 1260, 147 N.W.2d 854 (1967).
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.3, 282.4, 282.5; 708.1.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

Cross Reference:  501       Student Attendance
   
                                    502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
      
                                 504       Student Activities
      
                                 603.3   Special Education
   
                                    903.5   Distribution of Materials

Approved    1/18/21                               
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:51

503.01R1 - Student Suspension

503.01R1 - Student Suspension

Administrative Action

A.    Probation

        1.   Probation is conditional suspension of a penalty for a set period of time.  Probation may be imposed by the principal for infractions of school rules which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school.

        2.   The principal will conduct an investigation of the allegations against the student prior to imposition of probation.  The investigation will include, but not be limited to, written or oral notice to the student of the allegations against the student and an opportunity to respond.  Written notice and reasons for the probation will be sent to the parents.

B.     In-School Suspension

        1.   In-school suspension is the temporary isolation of a student from one or more classes while under administrative supervision.  In-school suspensions may be imposed by the principal for infractions of school rules, which are serious but which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school.

        2.   The principal will conduct an investigation of the allegations against the student prior to imposition of an in-school suspension.  The investigation will include, but not be limited to, written or oral notice to the student of the allegations against the student and an opportunity to respond.  In-school suspension will not be imposed for more than ten school days.  Written notice and reasons for the in-school suspension will be sent to the student's parents.

C.     Out-of-School Suspension

1.    Out-of-school suspension is the removal of a student from the school environment for periods of short duration.  Out-of-school suspension is to be used when other available school resources are unable to constructively remedy student misconduct.

2.    A student may be suspended out of school for up to ten school days by a principal for a commission of gross or repeated infractions of school rules, regulations, policy or the law, or when the presence of the student will cause interference with the maintenance of the educational environment or the operation of the school.  The principal may suspend students after conducting an investigation of the charges against the student, giving the student:

                a.         Oral or written notice of the allegations against the student, and

                b.         The opportunity to respond to those charges.

               At the principal's discretion, the student may be allowed to confront witnesses against the student or present witnesses on behalf of the student.

        3.    Notice of the out-of-school suspension will be mailed no later than the end of the school day following the suspension to the student's parents and the superintendent.  A reasonable effort is made to personally notify the student's parents and such effort is documented by the person making or attempting to make the contact.  Written notice to the parents will include the circumstances which led to the suspension and a copy of the board policy and rules pertaining to the suspension.

D.    Suspensions and Special Education Students

        1.    Students who have been identified as special education students may be referred for a review of the student's Individual Education Program (IEP).  The IEP may be revised to include a continuum of intervention strategies and programming to change the behavior.

        2.    Students who have not been identified as special education students may be referred for evaluation after the student's suspension to determine whether the student has a disability and is in need of special education.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:54

503.02 - Expulsion

503.02 - Expulsion

Only the board may remove a student from the school environment.  The removal of a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, is an expulsion from school.

Students may be expelled for violations of board policy, school rules or the law.  It is within the discretion of the board to discipline a student by using an expulsion for a single offense or for a series of offenses depending on the nature of the offense and the circumstances surrounding the offense.

It is within the discretion of the superintendent to recommend to the board the expulsion of a student for disciplinary purposes.  Only the board may take action to expel a student and to readmit the student.  The principal will keep records of expulsions in addition to the board's records.

When a student is recommended for expulsion by the board, the student is provided with:

      1.   Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion;

      2.   The names of the witnesses and an oral or written report on the facts to which each witness testifies unless the witnesses are students whose names may be released at the discretion of the superintendent;

      3.   An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide either oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student's behalf;

      4.   The right to be represented by counsel; and

      5.   The results and finding of the board in writing open to the student's inspection.

In addition to these procedures, a special education student must be provided with additional procedures.  A determination should be made of whether the student is actually guilty of the misconduct.  A staffing team should determine whether the student's behavior is caused by the student's disability and whether the conduct is the result of inappropriate placement.  Discussions and conclusions of this meeting should be recorded.

If the special education student's conduct is not caused by the disability, the student may be expelled or suspended for a long-term period following written notice to the parent and pursuant to the school district's expulsion hearing procedures.  If the misconduct is caused by the disability and a change in placement is recommended, the change must be made pursuant to the placement procedures used by the school district.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).
          
                             Wood v. Strickland, 420 U.S. 308 (1975).
          
                             Southeast Warren Comm. School District v. Dept. of Public Instruction, 285 N.W.2d 173 (Iowa 1979).
          
                             Iowa Code §§ 21.5; 282.3, .4, .5.
          
                             281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

Cross Reference:  502     Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    503     Student Discipline

Approved      1/18/21                 
Reviewed                               
Revised                                              

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:55

503.03 - Fines - Fees - Charges

503.03 - Fines - Fees - Charges

The board believes students should respect school district property and assist in its preservation for future use by others.  Students may be assessed fines, charges, or fees for the materials needed in a course, for overdue school materials, for participating in activities, or for misuse of school property.

The superintendent will inform the board of the dollar amount to be charged to students or others for fines, charges, or fees annually.  Parents of students meeting specific financial eligibility standards will be eligible for a waiver of student fees or a reduction of student fees based upon the request of the parent.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.7(20); 279.8; 280.10, .11; 282.6; 285.1; 301.1.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 18.2.

Cross Reference:  501.16                             Homeless Children & Youth
   
                                    502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    503                                    Student Discipline

Approved    1/18/21                               
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:57

503.03E1 - Standard Fee Waiver Application

503.03E1 - Standard Fee Waiver Application

Date _________________                                                                                  School year __________________

All information provided in connection with this application will be kept confidential.

Name of student:  ____________________________________________  Grade in school __________________

Name of student:  ____________________________________________  Grade in school __________________

Name of student:  ____________________________________________  Grade in school __________________

Attendance Center/School  _____________________________________________________________________

Name of parent, guardian: ______________________________________________________________________
  or legal or actual custodian

Please check type of wavier desired:
                  Full waiver  _________  Partial waiver  _________  Temporary waiver  _________ 

Please check if the student or the student's family meets the financial eligibility criteria or is involved in one of the following programs:

Full waiver

_________  Free meals offered under the Children Nutrition Program (CNP)
_________  The Family Investment Program (FIP)
_________  Transportation assistance under open enrollment
_________ 
Foster care

Partial waiver

_________  Reduced priced meals offered under the Children Nutrition Program

Temporary waiver

If none of the above apply, but you wish to apply for a temporary waiver of school fees because of serious financial problems, please state the reason for the request:

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature of parent, guardian:  __________________________________________________
  or legal or actual custodian

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:58

503.03R1 - Student Fee Waiver and Reduction Procedures

503.03R1 - Student Fee Waiver and Reduction Procedures

The board recognizes that while certain fees charged students are appropriate and authorized, certain students and their families are not financially able to pay the fees.  The school district will grant either full waivers, partial waivers or temporary waivers depending upon the circumstances and the student or student's parents' ability to meet the financial criteria.

        A.      Waivers -

                  1.   Full Waivers - a student will be granted a full waiver of fees charged by the school district if the student or student's parents meet the financial eligibility criteria for free meals under the Child Nutrition program, Family Investment Program, or transportation assistance under open enrollment.  Students in foster care are also eligible for full waivers.

2.   Partial Waivers - a student will be granted a partial waiver of fees charged by the school district if the student or the student's parents meet the financial eligibility criteria for reduced price meals offered under the Child Nutrition program.  A partial waiver is based on the same percentage as the reduced price meals.

                  3.   Temporary Waivers - a student may be eligible for a temporary waiver of fees charged by the district in the event the student's parents are facing financial difficulty.  Temporary waivers may be applied for at any time throughout the school year and will not extend beyond the end of the school year.

        B.       Application - Parents or students eligible for a fee waiver will make an application on the form provided by the school district.  Applications may be made at any time but must be renewed annually.

        C.       Confidentiality - The school district will treat the application and application process as any other student record and student confidentiality and access provisions will be followed.

        D.      Appeals - Denials of a waiver may be appealed to the Superintendent.

        E.       Fines or charges assessed for damage or loss to school property are not fees and will not be waived.

        F.       Notice - the school district will annually notify parents and students of the waiver.  The following information will be included in registration materials.

Students whose families meet the income guidelines for free and reduced price lunch, the Family Investment Program (FIP), or transportation assistance under open enrollment, or who are in foster care are eligible to have their student fees waived or partially waived.  Students whose families are experiencing a temporary financial difficulty may be eligible for a temporary waiver of student fees.  Parents or students who believe they may qualify for temporary financial hardship should contact the principal for a waiver form.  This waiver does not carry over from year to year and must be completed annually.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:04

503.04 - Good Conduct Rule

503.04 - Good Conduct Rule

Participation in school activities is a privilege.  School activities provide the benefits of promoting additional interests and abilities in the students during their school years and for their lifetimes.

Students who participate in extracurricular activities serve as ambassadors of the school district throughout the calendar year, whether away from school or at school.  Students who wish to have the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities must conduct themselves in accordance with board policy and must refrain from activities which are illegal, immoral or unhealthy.

Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures.  The principal will keep records of violations of the good conduct rule.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop rules and regulations for school activities.  Students wanting to participate in school activities must meet the requirements set out by the school district for participation in the activity.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Bunger v. Iowa High School Athletic Assn., 197 N.W.2d 555 (Iowa 1972).
   
                                    In re Jason Clark, 1 D.P.I. App. Dec. 167 (1978).
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 280.13, .13A.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 36.15(1).

Cross Reference:  502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    503                                    Student Discipline
   
                                    504                                    Student Activities

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:05

503.05 - Corporal Punishment

503.05 - Corporal Punishment

The use of corporal punishment, mechanical restraint and/or prone restraint is prohibited in all schools. Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional physical punishment of a student.  It includes the use of unreasonable or unnecessary physical force or physical contact made with the intent to harm or cause pain.  No employee is prohibited from:

             Using reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain, in order to accomplish any of the following:

                  --        To quell a disturbance or prevent an act that threatens physical harm to any person.

                  --        To obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object within a pupil's control.

                  --        For the purposes of self-defense or defense of others as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.3.

                  --        For the protection of property as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.4 or 704.5.

                  --        To remove a disruptive pupil from class or any area of school premises or from school-sponsored activities off school premises.

                  --        To protect a student from the self-infliction of harm.

                  --        To protect the safety of others.

             Using incidental, minor, or reasonable physical contact to maintain order and control.

Mechanical restraint means the use of a device as a means of restricting a student’s freedom of movement.  Mechanical restraint does not mean a device used by a trained individual for specific approved therapeutic or safety purposes for which the device was designed and, if applicable, prescribed, including restraints for medical immobilization, adaptive devices or mechanical supports used to allow greater freedom of mobility than would be possible without use of such devices or mechanical supports; and vehicle safety restraints when used as intended during the transport of a student in a moving vehicle.

Reasonable physical force should be commensurate with the circumstances of the situation.  The following factors should be considered in using reasonable physical force for the reasons stated in this policy:

        1.       The size and physical, mental, and psychological condition of the student;

        2.       The nature of the student's behavior or misconduct provoking the use of physical force;

        3.       The instrumentality used in applying the physical force;

        4.       The extent and nature of resulting injury to the student, if any;

        5.       The motivation of the school employee using physical force.

Upon request, the student's parents are given an explanation of the reasons for physical force.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Ingraham v.Wright, 430 U.S. 651 (1977).
   
                                      Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).
   
                                      Tinkham v. Kole, 252 Iowa 1303, 110 N.W.2d 258 (1961).
   
                                      Lai v. Erickson, PTPC Admin. Doc. 83-12 (1983).
   
                                      Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21.
   
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 103.

 Cross Reference:  402.3       Abuse of Students by School District Employees
   
                                        502              Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                           503              Student Discipline

Approved      1/18/21                             
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:06

503.06 - Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students

503.06 - Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students

It is the goal of the district that all students can learn and grow in a safe and peaceful environment that nurtures the student and models respect for oneself and others.  On occasion, trained district employees and others may have to use behavior management interventions, physical restraint and/or seclusion of students.  The goal of these interventions is to promote the dignity, care, safety, welfare and security of each child and the school community.  With this objective in mind, the district will prioritize the use of the least restrictive behavioral interventions appropriate for the situation.

Physical restraint means a personal restriction that immobilizes or reduces the ability of a student to move the student’s arms, legs, body, or head freely.  Physical restraint does not mean a technique used by trained school personnel, or used by a student, for the specific and approved therapeutic or safety purposes for which the technique was designed and, if applicable, prescribed.  Physical restraint does not include instructional strategies, such as physically guiding a student during an educational task, hand-shaking, hugging, or other non-disciplinary physical contact.

Seclusion means the involuntary confinement of a child in a seclusion room or area from which the child is prevented or prohibited from leaving; however, preventing a child from leaving a classroom or school building are not considered seclusion.  Seclusion does not include instances when a school employee is present within the room and providing services to the child, such as crisis intervention or instruction.

Physical restraint or seclusion is reasonable or necessary only:

  • To prevent or terminate an imminent threat of bodily injury to the student or others; or
  • To prevent serious damage to property of significant monetary value or significant non-monetary value or importance; or
  • When the student’s actions seriously disrupt the learning environment or when physical restraint or seclusion is necessary to ensure the safety of the student or others; and
  • When less restrictive alternatives to seclusion or physical restraint would not be effective, would not be feasible under the circumstances, or have failed in preventing or terminating the imminent threat or behavior; and
  • When the physical restraint or seclusion complies with all applicable laws.

Prior to using physical restraint or seclusion, employees must receive training in accordance with the law.  Any individual who is not employed by the district but whose duties could require the individual to use or be present during the use of physical restraint or seclusion on a student will be invited to participate in the same training offered to employees on this topic.

When required by law, the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee will ensure a post-occurrence debriefing meeting is held, maintain documentation and fulfill all reporting requirements for each occurrence of physical restraint or seclusion as required by law.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21.
                                     
281 I.A.C. 103.

Cross Reference:  402.3 Abuse of Students by School District Employees
                                       
502     Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                       
503     Student Discipline
                                 503.5  Corporal Punishment

Approved     1/18/21                       
Reviewed                      
Revised                           

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:08

503.06E1 - Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion Documentation Form

503.06E1 - Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion Documentation Form

Student name:

Date of occurrence:

Start time of occurrence:

End time of occurrence:

Start time of use of physical restraint or seclusion:

End time of use of physical restraint or seclusion:

Employee names and titles who observed, were involved with or implemented physical restraint and/or seclusion during occurrence (including administrators who approved extended time if applicable):

Employee’s date of last training on use of physical restraint and seclusion:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Describe student actions before, during and after occurrence:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Describe employee actions before, during and after occurrence, including the reason for any of the following, if applicable:  use of non-approved restraint, use of non-designated seclusion rooms, any restraint or seclusion that lasted longer than necessary:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Describe any less restrictive means attempted as an alternative to physical restraint and seclusion or why those means would not be effective or feasible, or have failed:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Approval from administrator to continue physical restraint or seclusion past 15 minutes:

Approval obtained from administrator to continue physical restraint or seclusion more than 30 minutes past last approval time:

Administrator approving:

Administrator approving:

Time approved:

Time approved:

Reasons for length of incident:

Reasons for length of incident:

If Administrator approval was not obtained at 15 minutes or every 30 minutes thereafter, or a student was not provided with breaks for bodily needs in incidents lasting longer than 15 minutes, explain why:

Parent/Guardian notification:  Parents/Guardians will be notified as soon as practicable once the occurrence is under control, but no more than one hour after, or the end of the school day, whichever occurs first. Space below for documenting multiple attempts to notify guardians is listed in case the guardian cannot be reached in the first attempt.

Employee attempting notification:

Parent/Guardian contacted:

Time and manner of attempted notification:

Was notification successful?

Employee attempting notification:

Parent/Guardian contacted:

Time and manner of attempted notification:

Was notification successful?

Employee attempting notification:

Parent/Guardian contacted:

Time and manner of attempted notification:

Was notification successful?

If Parent/Guardian notification requirements were not complied with, explain why:

Describe injuries sustained or property damaged by students or employees:

 

 

 

Describe future approaches to address student behavior including any consequences or disciplinary actions that may be imposed on the student:

 

 

 

 

 

This form has been reviewed and completed by the undersigned employee.  A written copy of this form has been sent to the student’s parent or guardian within three school days of the occurrence.  Unless the parent or guardian agrees to receive the report by email, fax, or hand delivery, the report must be sent by mail and postmarked by the third day following the occurrence.  Enclosed with a copy of this form is an invitation for the parents or guardians to participate in the debriefing meeting scheduled in accordance with the law.

____________________________________  ______________________________
Employee                                                                               Date of form delivered to Parent/Guardian

_______________________________
Method of Transmittal

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:11

503.06E2 - Debriefing Letter to Guardian of Student Involved in an Occurrence Where Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion was Used

503.06E2 - Debriefing Letter to Guardian of Student Involved in an Occurrence Where Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion was Used

[This letter and the enclosed report may be transmitted electronically via email or fax, picked up in person, or mailed.  If the district and the guardian do not agree on how to transmit this letter, it must be mailed via postage prepaid, first class mail to the guardian within 3 school days of the occurrence.]

Dear [Guardian],

Recently, your student [name] was involved in an occurrence at school that required the physical restraint and/or seclusion of your student as defined by 281 Iowa Administrative Code Ch. 103.  A report related to this occurrence is enclosed with this letter.

The law requires debriefing meetings be held for such occurrences in the following circumstances:

  • following the first instance of seclusion or physical restraint during a school year;
  • When any personal injury occurs as a part of the use of seclusion or physical restraint;
  • When a reasonable educator would determine a debriefing session is necessary;
  • When suggested by a student’s IEP team;
  • When agreed to by the guardian and school officials; and
  • After seven instances of seclusion or physical restraint of the student.

This letter is intended to inform you that a debriefing meeting will be held on [date within 5 days of transmission of letter, time, place] because of [reason from bulleted list above].  The following employees will be in attendance at this meeting:  [list names and titles of employees].  We are inviting you to attend this debriefing meeting to engage with us on topics related to this occurrence.

If you would like to reschedule the debriefing meeting, please contact me as soon as possible via email [email address] or telephone [telephone number], and at least one school day prior to the date and time listed for this debriefing meeting.  Your student is allowed to attend this meeting with your consent, and you are welcome to bring a representative of your choosing if you wish.  If you plan to bring a representative to this meeting, please let us know at least one school day prior to the meeting so that we have an opportunity to make arrangements.

We look forward to working with you to foster the continued health, safety and educational growth of your student.

 

___________________________________  ___________________________
[Administrator name], title                                           Date

 

Enclosure:  Report related to student occurrence

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:13

503.06E3 - Debriefing Meeting Document

503.06E3 - Debriefing Meeting Document

[The following individuals must attend the debriefing meeting: employees who administered physical restraint or seclusion; an administrator or employee not involved in the occurrence; the administrator or employee who approved continuation of the physical restraint or seclusion; other relevant personnel designated by the school; if indicated by student’s behavior in occurrence, an expert in behavioral/mental health or other discipline.  The following individuals must be invited to attend the debriefing meeting:  the parent or guardian of the student, the student with guardian’s consent.]

Student name:

Date of occurrence:

Date of debriefing meeting:

Time of debriefing meeting:

Location of debriefing meeting:

 

Names of individuals attending the debriefing meeting (must include the employees involved and at least one employee who was not involved):

Job title of employee and/or relation to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Documentation reviewed during meeting (must include at least the occurrence report; and BIP, IHP, IEP and/or safety plan if applicable):

 

 

 

 

 

Identification of patterns of behavior and proportionate response, if any, in the student and employees involved:

 

 

 

 

 

Possible alternative responses, if any, to the incident/less restrictive means, if any:

 

 

 

 

     

 

Additional resources, if any, that could facilitate those alternative responses in the future:

 

 

 

 

 

Plans for additional follow up actions, if any:

 

 

 

 

 

 

This form has been reviewed and completed by the undersigned employee.  A written copy of this form has been sent to the student’s guardian within three school days of the debriefing meeting.

____________________________________  ______________________________
Employee                                                                                Date of delivered to Parent/Guardian

______________________________
Method of Transmittal

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:15

503.06R1 - Use of Physical Restraint and Seclusion With Students

503.06R1 - Use of Physical Restraint and Seclusion With Students

The District will comply with 281 Iowa Administrative Code Ch. 103 for the use of physical restraint and seclusion with students, including, but not limited to:

  • Physical restraint and seclusion will be used only by employees who have been trained in accordance with applicable law unless a trained employee is not immediately available due to the unforeseeable nature of the occurrence.
  • As soon as practical after the situation is under control, but within one hour after either the occurrence or the end of the school day, whichever occurs first, the school will attempt to contact the student’s parent or guardian using the school’s emergency contact system.
  • The seclusion or physical restraint is used only for as long as necessary based on research and evidence to allow the student to regain control of their behavior to the point that the threat or behavior necessitating the use of the seclusion or physical restraint has ended, or when a medical condition occurs that puts the student at risk of harm.  Unless otherwise provided for in the student’s written approved IEP, BIP, IHP or safety plan, if the seclusion or physical restraint continues for more than 15 minutes:
  • The student will be provided with any necessary breaks to attend to personal and bodily needs, unless doing so would endanger the child or others.
  • An employee will obtain approval from an administrator or administrator’s designee to continue seclusion or physical restraint beyond 15 minutes.  After the initial approval, an employee must obtain additional approval every 30 minutes thereafter for the continuation of the seclusion or physical restraint.
  • The student’s parent or guardian and the school may agree to more frequent notifications than is required by law.
  • Schools and district employees must document and explain in writing the reasons why it was not possible for the employees to obtain approval, notify parents, or take action within prescribed time limits.
  • Schools and district employees who begin and then end use of nonapproved restraints will document and explain in writing the reasons why they had no other option but to use this type of behavioral intervention.
  • The area of seclusion will be a designated seclusion room that complies with the seclusion room requirements in accordance with law, unless the nature of the occurrence makes the use of the designated seclusion room impossible, clearly impractical, or clearly contrary to the safety of the student, others, or both; in that event, the school must document and explain in writing the reasons why a designated seclusion room was not used.
  • An employee must continually visually monitor the student for the duration of the seclusion or physical restraint.
  • If an employee restrains a student who uses sign language or an augmentive mode of communication as the student’s primary mode of communication, the student shall be permitted to have the student’s hands free of physical restraint, unless doing so is not feasible in view of the threat posed.
  • Seclusion or physical restraint shall not be used:  as punishment or discipline; to force compliance or to retaliate; as a substitute for appropriate educational or behavioral support; to prevent property damage except as provided in law; as a routine school safety measure; or as a convenience to staff.
  • The Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee will investigate any complaint or allegation that one or more employees violated any provisions of 281 Iowa Administrative Code Ch. 103.  If the District determines a violation has occurred, corrective action will be taken up to and including termination of the employees involved.  If the allegation or complaint involves a specific student the District will notify the parents or guardian of the involved student about the results of the investigation.  If any allegation or complaint is also defined as abuse in 281 Iowa Administrative Code 102.2, the procedures listed in chapter 102 will apply.
  • The District must comply with and implement Chapter 103 whether or not a parent consents to the use of physical restraint or seclusion.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:10

503.07 - Student Disclosure of Identity

503.07 - Student Disclosure of Identity

It is the goal of the district to provide a safe and supportive educational environment in which all students may learn.  As part of creating that safe educational environment, no employee of the district will provide false or misleading information to the parent/guardian of a student regarding that student’s gender identity or intention to transition to a gender that is different from their birth certificate or certificate issued upon adoption.  

If a student makes a request to a licensed employee to accommodate a gender identity, name, or pronoun that is different than what was assigned to the student in the student’s registration forms or records, the licensed employee is required by Iowa law to report the request to an administrator. The school administrator receiving the report is required by Iowa law to report the request to the student’s parent/guardian.  This requirement also applies to all nicknames.

To maintain compliance with Iowa law and also provide efficiency in the reporting requirements listed above, the Superintendent will provide the opportunity for parents and guardians to list in the student’s registration paperwork any and all nicknames used for students.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §

Cross Reference:          

Approved    7/17/23                   
Reviewed                   
Revised        

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:30

503.07E1 - Report of Student Disclosure of Identity

503.07E1 - Report of Student Disclosure of Identity

Dear (Parent/Guardian) _________________,

 

This letter is to inform you that your student (student’s name listed on registration) ________________ has made a request of a licensed employee to (check all that apply):

______ make an accommodation that is intended to affirm the student’s gender identity as follows:  ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

______ use a name, pronoun or gender identity that is different from the name, pronoun and/or gender identity listed on the student’s school registration forms. The name, pronoun, or gender identity requested is _________________________________________________________________________. 

If you would like to amend the student’s registration paperwork to permit the student’s requested accommodation and/or include the use of the above-referenced name/pronoun/gender identity, please complete the attached form and return it to the district administration office.

 

Sincerely,

 

____________________________________________                                      __________________
Administrator                                                                                                                                    Date

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:31

503.07E2 - Request to Update Student Identity

503.07E2 - Request to Update Student Identity

__________________________________________________                                      __________________
(Student’s current name on registration)                                                                                             (Student ID)

 

Please update my student’s names, pronouns, and/or gender identities on my student’s registration paperwork to include all of the following:

 

__________________________________________________________________________________
(Names)

__________________________________________________________________________________
(Pronouns)

__________________________________________________________________________________
(Gender identities)

 

 

__________________________________                                                                            __________________
Parent/Guardian                                                                                                                                        Date

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:33

503.08 - Discipline of Students Who Make Threats of Violence or Cause Incidents of Violence

503.08 - Discipline of Students Who Make Threats of Violence or Cause Incidents of Violence

Discipline Policy  
Discipline is designed to promote behavior that will enable students to learn and successfully participate in  their educational and social environments. The district discipline policy for students who make a threat of  violence or commit an act of violence is developed to help students understand their obligations to others in  the school setting, secure the safety of all students, staff and the community, and to correct student behavior  if a violation occurs (2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604), sec. 7, new section 279.79, subsection 1). 

Students will conduct themselves in a manner fitting their age, grade level, and maturity, and with respect  and consideration for the rights of others while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction  of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or  engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good  order, efficient management and welfare of the school district. Consequences for the misconduct will be fair and tailored to the age, grade level and maturity of the student. 

Discipline and other responses to threats or incidents of violence by a student with a disability, including  removal from a class, placement in a therapeutic classroom, suspensions, and expulsions, will comply with  the provisions of applicable federal and state laws including, but not limited to, the IDEA, Section 504 of the  Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604), sec.  7, new section 279.79, subsection 3). 

District Response to a Threat or Incident of Violence by a Student  

Reporting a Threat of Violence or Incidence of Violence 
In the case of any threat of violence or incident of violence that results in injury, property damage or assault  by a student, the teacher will report to the school principal or lead administrator within 24 hours of the  incident. The principal or lead administrator will notify the parent or guardian of the student(s) who threatened  or perpetrated an act of violence and the student(s) who the threatened or perpetrated act of violence was  made against within 24 hours after receipt of the teacher’s report and complete an investigation of the incident as soon as possible. The classroom teacher may also notify the parent or guardian of the student  who made the threat or caused the incident, and the parent or guardian of the student against whom the  threat or incident was directed (2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604), sec. 4).  

An investigation will be initiated by the principal or lead administrator upon learning of an incident of violence  or threat of violence through any credible means. If the principal or lead administrator finds that an incident of  violence or threat of violence did occur, the administrator will determine the level of threat or incident by  considering all aspects of the situation, including the student's intent and knowledge of the impact of their  actions, their developmental level and context of the incident. The resolution will focus on identifying the  cause behind the behavior and appropriate corrective action (2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604),  sec. 7, new section 279.79, subsections 1 and 4).  

A student who makes a threat of violence, causes an incident of violence that results in injury or property  damage, or who commits an assault, will be subject to escalating levels of discipline for each occurrence.  When appropriate, referrals will be made to local law enforcement. The district retains the authority to assign  the level of disciplinary measures appropriate to the severity of the threat of violence or incident of violence  (2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604), sec. 7, new section 279.79, subsection 5). 

Threat of Violence 
Threat of violence means a written, verbal, electronic or behavioral message that either explicitly or implicitly  expresses an intention to inflict emotional or physical injury, property damage, or assault. 

Incident of Violence 
Incident of violence means the intentional use of physical force or power against oneself, another person, a  group or community or property resulting in injury, property damage or assault.  

Injury 
Injury means “physical pain, illness or any impairment of physical condition.” State v. McKee, 312 N.W.2d  907, 913 (Iowa 1981). 

Property Damage 
Property damage means any destruction, damage, impairment or alteration of property to which the  individual does not have a right to take such an action. Property means real property, which includes any real  estate, building, or fixture attached to a building or structure, and personal property, which includes intangible  property (Iowa Code section 4.1(21)). 

Assault 
Assault means when, without justification, a student does any of the following: 

an act which is intended to cause pain or injury to, or which is intended to result in physical contact  which will be insulting or offensive to another, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or  any act which is intended to place another in fear of immediate physical contact which will be painful,  injurious, insulting or offensive, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or intentionally points any firearm toward another or displays in a threatening manner any dangerous weapon toward  another.  

The act is not an assault when the person doing any of the above and the other person are voluntary  participants in a sport, social or other activity, not in itself criminal, when the act is a reasonably foreseeable  incident of such sport or activity, and does not create an unreasonable risk of serious injury or breach of the  peace (Following Iowa Code section 708.1)

Escalating Responses by Grade Band:  Grades 9-12

Level 

Escalating Response

Level 1 

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.
  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.
  • Responses to an incident may include, but are not limited to, the following:
    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;
    • When appropriate and with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;
    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);
    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);
    • Detention;
    • Temporary removal from extracurricular activities;
    • Temporary removal from class;
    • In-school suspension; and/or
    • Suspension of transportation, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle.
       

Level 2 

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.
  • Review of response to prior offense, if applicable, to inform increased level of response.
  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.
  • Response to an incident may include the following:
    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;
    • When appropriate and with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;
    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);
    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);
    • Detention;
    • Temporary or permanent removal from extracurricular activities;
    • Temporary or permanent removal from class;
    • In-school suspension;
    • Out-of-school suspension;
    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle; and/or
    • Placement in an alternative learning environment, including a therapeutic classroom, when appropriate.

Level 3 

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.
  • Review of response to prior offense, if applicable, to inform increased level of response.
  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.
  • Response to an incident may include the following:
    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;
    • When appropriate and with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;
    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);
    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);
    • Detention;
    • Temporary or permanent removal from extracurricular activities;
    • Temporary or permanent removal from class;
    • In-school suspension;
    • Out-of-school suspension;
    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle;
    • Placement in an alternative learning environment, including a therapeutic classroom, when appropriate; and/or
    • Recommendation for expulsion.
       

Definitions (consistent with the Department’s Data Dictionary 2022-23)  

Detention means the student's presence is required during non-school hours for disciplinary purposes. The  student can be required to appear prior to the beginning of the school day, after school has been dismissed  for the day or on a non-school day. Whether a student will serve detention, and the length of the detention, is  within the discretion of the licensed employee or the building principal disciplining the student.  

Expulsion means an action by the board to remove a student from the school environment, which includes,  but is not limited to, classes and activities, for a period of time set by the board. 

In-school suspension means the student will attend school but will be temporarily isolated from one or more  classes while under supervision. An in-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days.  

Out-of-school suspension means the student is removed from the school environment, which includes  school classes and activities. An out-of-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days  unless due process is provided as required by federal and state law. A restriction from school activities  means a student will attend school and classes and practice but will not participate in school activities.  

Placement in an alternate learning environment means placement of a student in an environment  established apart from the regular educational program that includes rules, staff and resources designed to  accommodate student needs and to provide a comprehensive education consistent with the student learning  goals and content standards established by the school district. 

Removal from the classroom means a student is sent to the building principal's office. It is within the  discretion of the person in charge of the classroom to remove the student.

 

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code §279.79 

Approved    10/23/23                  Reviewed       10/23/23                 Revised                   

susan.larson@f… Fri, 12/06/2024 - 10:15

503.08R1 - Regulation for Threats of Violence or Cause Incidents of Violence

503.08R1 - Regulation for Threats of Violence or Cause Incidents of Violence

Effective student discipline policies serve the needs of the District in maintaining the order of the education environment while safeguarding the education interests of all students.  For this reason, it is crucial to engage many perspectives in crafting sound policies related to discipline. The board, in conjunction with teachers and administrators in the District, have assigned further meaning to concepts listed in this policy.

Incident Levels Defined

Incident levels must escalate, with Level 1 being less severe than Level 3 incidents. However, the District maintains discretion in applying the level of discipline appropriate for an incident. In making this determination, the administration will consider the following definitions of incident levels. Because no definition could encompass all possible threats or incidents, the administration has discretion in determining which level to assign the incident after looking at the nature of the incident as well as the age, grade level, and maturity of the student.

Level 1 Defined

  • Disruptive or concerning behavior
  • Student shows no sign of distress or low level of distress and disturbance
  • Possible threat made or present
  • Threat is vague and indirect
  • Information about threat or threat itself is inconsistent, implausible, or lacks detail
  • Threat lacks realism, or is repeated with variations
  • Content of threat suggests student is unlikely to carry it out
  • Seriously disruptive incident
  • Threat made or present
  • Threat is vague and indirect, but may be repeated or shared with multiple reporters

Level 2 Defined

  • Student is disturbed or advancing to dysregulation
  • Threat made or present
  • Threat is vague, but direct, or specific but indirect
  • Likely to be repeated or shared with multiple reporters
  • Information about threat or threat itself is consistent, plausible or includes increasing detail of a plan (time, place, etc.)
  • Threat is accompanied by talk or efforts to obtain weapons or other methods for harm
  • Threat is likely to be repeated with consistency (may try to convince listener they are serious)
  • Content of threat suggests student may carry it out

Level 3 Defined

  • Student is dysregulated (way off baseline) or medically disabled
  • Threat made or present
  • Threat is concrete (specific or direct)
  • Likely to be repeated or shared with multiple reporters
  • Information about threat o threat itself is consistent, plausible, or includes specific detail of a plan (time, place, etc.) often with steps already taken
  • Threat is accompanied by evidence of efforts to obtain weapons or other methods for harm
  • Threat may be repeated with consistency
  • Content of threat suggests student will carry it out (reference to weapons, means, target)
  • Student may appear detached

Timeframe for Determining Repeated Incidents

The District will consider all incidents occurring within the school year as sufficiently close in proximity between incidents to establish that a repeated incident has occurred. The rationale for establishing this timeframe is safety for students and staff. The administration will have discretion to alter this timeframe when appropriate under the circumstances, depending on the nature of the incident as well as the age, grade level and maturity of the student.

Considerations for Determining the Maturity of the Student

The District believes that gauging the maturity of a student is subject to interpretation and best left to the licensed employees who interact most closely with the student on a regular basis.  Assessing a student’s maturity level is based on individual characteristics unique to each student. Therefore, in making a determination about the maturity of a student, the administration may consult with the student’s classroom teacher and other relevant licensed staff.  The administration will consider the following factors in determining the maturity of the student:
Staff feedback
Age of the student

Considerations for Determining Whether the Off-Campus Threat of Violence or Incident of Violence Will Directly Affect the Good Order, Efficient Management and Welfare of the School District

The District recognizes that students maintain First Amendment rights to free expression both within school and outside. However, free speech protections are not absolute and do not extend to true threats of violence toward an individual or a group of individuals. In considering whether a threat or incident of violence will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district necessitating the need for investigation, the administration will consider, among other things, the following factors:

  • The specificity of the threat for time, location or individual(s) targeted
  • The reasonable likelihood of the student’s ability to carry out the threat
  • The reasonable likelihood that the threat will interfere with the operation of the educational environment

In addition to the notification requirements in policy, the administration will apprise the parents or guardians of any student who suffered violence or a threat of violence, of the rights to file complaints under any other relevant board policies including but not limited to anti-bullying/anti-harassment and Title IX.

 

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code §279.79

susan.larson@f… Fri, 12/06/2024 - 10:30

504 - Student Activities

504 - Student Activities dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:34

504.01 - Student Government

504.01 - Student Government

The student council provides for student activities, serves as a training experience for student leaders, promotes the common good, gives students a share in the management of the school, develops high ideals of personal conduct, acts as a clearinghouse for student activities, seeks to interest students in school district affairs and helps solve problems that may arise.  Members of the council are student representatives who have direct access to the administration.

The principal, in conjunction with the students and licensed employees, will set forth the guidelines for the student government's elections, operations, and other elements of the government.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:  502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    504                                    Student Activities

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:34

504.02 - Student Organizations

504.02 - Student Organizations

Secondary school student-initiated, noncurriculum-related groups and student curriculum-related groups, upon receiving permission from the principal, may use school facilities for group meetings during non-instructional time.

Non-instructional time will mean any time before the first period of the day and after the last period of the day in which any student attends class.  Meetings will not interfere with the orderly conduct of the education program or other school district operations.  It is within the discretion of the principal to determine whether the meetings will interfere with the orderly conduct of the education program or other school district operations.  Activities relating to and part of the education program will have priority over the activities of another organization.

 

Curriculum-Related Organizations

It will also be the responsibility of the principal to determine whether a student group is curriculum-related.  One or more of the following questions will be answered affirmatively if the group is curriculum-related:

                Is the subject matter of the group actually taught in a regularly offered course?

                Will the subject matter of the group soon be taught in a regularly offered course?

                Does the subject matter of the group concern the body of courses as a whole?

                Is participation in the group required for a particular course?

                Does participation in the group result in academic credit?

Secondary school curriculum-related student organizations may use the school district facilities for meetings and other purposes before and after the instructional school day.  Employees are assigned to monitor approved meetings and may interact with curriculum-related organizations.

 

Noncurriculum-Related Organizations

Student-initiated, noncurriculum-related organizations are provided access to meeting space and school district facilities.

Only students may attend and participate in meetings of noncurriculum-related groups.  Such attendance is strictly voluntary and student-initiated.  As a means of determining whether a student's attendance is voluntary, the principal may require parental consent for the student to attend the meetings.

Employees will be assigned to monitor approved meetings.  Employees will not participate in the meeting or assist in planning, criticizing, or encouraging attendance.  Only students may be involved in and attend the noncurriculum group's meetings.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Westside Community Board of Education v Mergens, 496 U.S. 226 (1990).
              
                         Bender v. Williamsport Area Community School District, 741 F.2d 538 (3d Cir. 1984), vacated and remanded on other grounds, 475 U.S. 534 (1986).
    
                                   20 U.S.C. §§ 4071-4074
   
                                   Iowa Code §§ 287; 297.9.

Cross Reference:  502     Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                        504     Student Activities

Approved    1/18/21                               
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:35

504.03 - Student Publications

504.03 - Student Publications

Students may produce official school publications as part of the curriculum under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the principal.  Official school publications include material produced in the journalism, newspaper, yearbook, or writing classes and distributed to the student body either free or for a fee.

Any expression made by students, including student expression in official school publications, is not an expression of official school policy.  The school district, the board, and the employees or officials are not liable in any civil or criminal action for any student expression made or published by students unless the employees or officials have interfered with or altered the content of the student speech or expression.  The liability, if any, is only to the extent of the interference or alteration of the speech or expression.

Official school publications are free from prior restraint by employees or officials except as provided by law.  A faculty advisor will supervise student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and to comply with the law including, but not limited to, the restrictions against unlawful speech.  The production of official school publications is guided by the law and by the ethical standards adopted by professional associations or societies of journalism.

Persons, other than students, who believe they have been aggrieved by student expression in a student-produced official school publication will follow the grievance procedure outlined in board policy 213.1.  Students who believe their freedom of expression in a student-produced official school publication has been restricted will follow the grievance procedure outlined in board policy 502.4.

The superintendent is responsible for developing a student publications code.  This code will include, but not be limited to, reasonable rules including time, place, and manner of restrictions.  The superintendent will also be responsible for distributing this policy and the student publications code to the students and their parents.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
   
                                    Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
   
                                    Iowa Code § 280.22

Cross Reference:  309                                    Communication Channels
   
                                    502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    504                                    Student Activities
   
                                    903.5                                Distribution of Material

Approved      1/18/21                             
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:36

504.03R1 - Student Publications Code

504.03R1 - Student Publications Code

A.    Official school publications defined.

An "official school publication" is material produced by students in the journalism, newspaper, yearbook, or writing classes and distributed to students either free or for a fee.

 

B.     Expression in an official school publication.

        1.       No student will express, publish or distribute in an official school publication material which is:

                  a.       obscene;

                  b.       libelous;

                  c.       slanderous; or

                  d.       encourages students to:

                            1)     commit unlawful acts;

                            2)     violate school rules;

                            3) cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient operation of the school or school activity;

                            4)     disrupt or interfere with the education program;

                            5)     interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere; or

                            6)     infringe on the rights of others.

        2.       The official school publication is produced under the supervision of a faculty advisor.

 

C.     Responsibilities of students.

        1.    Students writing or editing official school publications will assign and edit the news, editorial and feature contents of the official school publications subject to the limitations of the student publications code and the law.

        2.    Students will strive to achieve professional standards of accuracy, fairness, objectivity and thoroughness in each and every aspect of official school publications.

        3.    Students will strive to achieve professional standards of grammar, usage, punctuation and spelling for clarity and accuracy of official school publications.

 

D.    Responsibilities of faculty advisors.

        Faculty advisors will supervise student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and to comply with the law including, but not limited to, the restrictions against unlawful speech.

 

E.     Liability.

Student expression in an official school publication will not be deemed to be an expression of the school district.  The school district, the board, and the employees or officials are not liable in any civil or criminal action for any student expression made or published by students unless the employees or officials have interfered with or altered the content of the student expression.  The liability, if any, is only to the extent of interference or alteration of the speech or expression.

 

F.     Appeal procedure.

        1.    Students who believe they have been unreasonably restricted in their exercise of expression in an official student publication will seek review of the decision through the student grievance procedure, under board policy 502.4.

        2.    Persons who believe they have been aggrieved by a student-produced official student publication will file their complaint through the citizen grievance procedure, under board policy 213.1.

 

G.    Time, place and manner of restrictions on official school publications.

        1.       Official student publications may be distributed in a reasonable manner on or off school premises.

        2.       Distribution in a reasonable manner will not encourage students to:

a. commit unlawful acts;

b. violate school rules;

        c.  cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school activity;

d. disrupt or interfere with the education program;

e. interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere; or

f.  infringe on the rights of others.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:37

504.04 - Student Performances

504.04 - Student Performances

Students, as part of the education program, may participate in contests or other public and private events approved by the superintendent that will be of benefit to the student and the education program.  Performance at such events is a privilege.

Students, who perform at such events, serve as ambassadors of the school district and must conduct themselves in the same manner as required in the regular school day.  Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures. 

Students will be allowed to perform in these events only with proper permission and supervision and when the events do not disrupt the education program or other school district operations.  The events must be approved by the superintendent, unless it involves unusual travel and expense, in which case the board must approve of the performance.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy. In developing the administrative regulations, these guidelines should be followed:

    Performances by student groups below the high school level should be allowed on a very limited basis;

   All groups of students should have an opportunity to participate; and

   Extensive travel by one group of students should be discouraged.

It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether the event will benefit the education program and the participating students.  Contests or other performances by students unapproved by the superintendent are the responsibility of the parent and the student.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
                   
                   Iowa Code §§ 280.13-.14.
                   
                   281 I.A.C. 12.6.

Cross Reference:  502   Student Rights and Responsibilities
                    
                   503.4  Good Conduct Rule
                   
                   504     Student Activities
                   
                   904     Community Activities Involving Students

Approved    1/18/21                   
Reviewed                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:38

504.05 - Student Fundraising

504.05 - Student Fundraising

Students may raise funds for school-sponsored events with the permission of the principal.  Fund raising by students for events other than school-sponsored events is not allowed.  Collection boxes for school fundraising must have prior approval from the principal before being placed on school property.

All funds generated from district-sponsored student fundraising will be placed in the district’s student activity fund.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Senior Class of Pekin High School v. Tharp, 154 N.W.2d 874 (Iowa 1967).
   
                                    Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:  502                                    Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    503                                    Student Discipline
   
                                    504                                    Student Activities
   
                                    704.5                                Student Activities Fund
   
                                    905.2                                Advertising and Promotion

Approved      1/18/21                                                
Reviewed    7/18/22        
Revised   7/18/22             

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:40

504.05R1 - Student Fund Raising - Regulation

504.05R1 - Student Fund Raising - Regulation

Student fundraising can enhance a student’s educational experience but it must not be at the expense of the safety and education of the district’s students.  The following are additional regulations to assist the administration in developing procedures necessary for successful fundraising efforts.

 

Safety:

  • Students will not be asked to solicit door to door.
  • Students who do not wish to engage in fundraising efforts will be provided an alternative community service option to apply toward credit of funds raised.  The alternative option will not be unduly burdensome or onerous when compared to the fundraising activity.

Fiscal Responsibility:

  • All funds generated due to a student fund raising activity will be deposited into the district’s student activity funds, pursuant to applicable laws and board policies.
  • Funds raised for a participatory student activity will be equally applied to all students regardless of their participation in fundraising efforts.
  • All funds generated from district sponsored student fundraising efforts will be deposited in the student activity fund. 
  • All funds generated from non-district sponsored student fundraising efforts will be deposited into an agency fund designated by the board for such purpose.
  • No school district employee or other individual affiliated with the district may deposit student fund raising funds into any other account. 
  • All funds received from student fundraising are the property of the district.

Advertising/Promotion:

  • Any student fundraising activity which utilizes the district name, likeness and/or logo will be subject to board approval, and all other conditions of this policy and accompanying regulations. 

 

 

Legal References:  Iowa Code  § 279.8

Cross References:  507.09        Wellness
                                        507.09R1  Wellness - Regulation
                                        704.05         Student Activities Fund
                                        704.06         Online Fundraising Campaigns/Crowdfunding
                                        710.03         Vending Machines
                                        904.02         Advertising and Promotion

Approved      7/18/22                             
Reviewed                                                                               

Revised                    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:41

504.06 - Student Activity Program

504.06 - Student Activity Program

Participation in school activities is a privilege.  School activities provide the benefits of promoting additional interests and ability in the students during their school years and for their lifetime.

Students will have an opportunity to participate in a school activity unless the activity is not offered or the student cannot participate for disciplinary reasons.  If the activity is an intramural or interscholastic athletic activity, students of the opposite sex will have a comparable opportunity for participation.  Comparable opportunity does not guarantee boys and girls will be allowed to play on each other's teams when there are athletic activities available that will allow both boys and girls to reap the benefits of school activities, which are the promotion of additional interests and abilities in the students.

Student activity events must be approved by the superintendent unless they involve unusual travel expense, in which case the board will take action.  The events must not disrupt the education program or other school district operations.

A high school student who participates in school sponsored athletics may participate in a non-school sponsored sport during the same season.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for each school activity.  These regulations will include, but not be limited to, when physical examinations will be required, how and when parents will be informed about the risk of the activity, academic requirements, and proof of insurance on the student participating in certain activities.  Students wanting to participate in school activities must meet the requirements set out by the school district for participation in the activity.

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. §§ 1681-1683; 1685-1686.
   
                                    34 C.F.R. Pt. 106.41
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 280.13-.14.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 12.6., 36.15(7).

Cross Reference:  501                                          Student Attendance
   
                                    502                                          Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    503                                          Student Discipline
   
                                    504                                          Student Activities
   
                                    507                                          Student Health and Well-Being

Approved      1/18/21                             
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:48

505 - Student Scholastic Achievement

505 - Student Scholastic Achievement dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:51

505.01 - Student Progress Reports and Conferences

505.01 - Student Progress Reports and Conferences

Students will receive a progress report at the end of each grading period.  Students, who are doing poorly, and their parents, are notified prior to the end of the semester in order to have an opportunity to improve their grade.  The board encourages the notification of students who have made marked improvement prior to the end of the semester.

Parent-teacher conferences will be held at the elementary and middle school to keep the parents informed.  High school conferences are not individually scheduled.

Parents, teachers, or principals may request a conference for students in grades kindergarten through twelve in addition to the scheduled conference time.  Parents and students are encouraged to discuss the student's progress or other matters with the student's teacher.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .41; .280, 284.12.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), 12.3(6), .5(16).

Cross Reference:  505                                    Student Scholastic Achievement
                                       506                                    Student Records

Approved    1/18/21                               
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:50

505.02 - Student Promotion - Retention - Acceleration

505.02 - Student Promotion - Retention - Acceleration

Students will be promoted to the next grade level at the end of each school year based on the student's achievement, age, maturity, emotional stability, and social adjustment.

The district shall adhere to the following: 

  • Retention/Promotion in kindergarten – eighth grade: The retention of a student will be determined based upon the judgment of the district’s professional staff. When it becomes evident a student in grades kindergarten through eight may be retained in a grade level for an additional year, the parents will be informed prior to making the retention decision.  It is within the sole discretion of the district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
  • Retention/Promotion in ninth – twelfth grade: Students in grades nine through twelve will be informed of the required coursework necessary to be promoted each year. When it becomes evident a student in these grades will be unable to meet the minimum credit requirements for the year, the student and parents will be informed. It is within the sole discretion of the district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
  • Acceleration in kindergarten – twelfth grade: Students in grades kindergarten through twelve with exceptional talents may, with the permission of the principal and parents, take classes beyond their current grade level. Enrichment opportunities outside the school district may be allowed when they do not conflict with the school district's graduation requirements.
  • Retention or Acceleration in kindergarten – twelfth grade may also occur in additional instances as provided by law. 

For students in grades kindergarten through sixth, if a student is not reading at a proficient level, the district will notify a student’s parent or guardian of the student’s reading level, and the option for parents to request that the student be retained in the student’s current grade level for the subsequent school year. The district is prohibited from promoting a student to the next grade level if the student is not reading proficiently, and the student’s parent or guardian requests the student be retained at their current grade level for the next year. 

Any student or parent who is not satisfied with the decision of the district’s professional staff may seek recourse through policy 502.4 – Student Complaints and Grievances

 

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .41; 279.8; .68.
                                281 I.A.C. 12.5(16).

Cross Reference:    501       Student Attendance
                                505       Student Scholastic Achievement
                                603.2    Summer School Instruction 

Approved       1/18/2021     
Reviewed       7/15/2024     
Revised         7/15/2024      

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:51

505.03 - Student Honors and Awards

505.03 - Student Honors and Awards

The school district will provide a program that establishes honors and awards including, but not limited to, academic letters, scholarships and good citizenship awards for students to assist students in setting goals.  Students are made aware of honors and awards and the action necessary on the part of the student to achieve them.  Students who have not attended an accredited public or private school for their entire high school education, will not be eligible for honors and awards. 

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:  504                                    Student Activities
   
                                    505                                    Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:52

505.04 - Testing Program

505.04 - Testing Program

A comprehensive testing program is established and maintained to evaluate the education program of the school district and to assist in providing guidance or counseling services to students and their families.

No student is required, as part of any applicable program, funded by the United State Department of Education, to submit to a survey, analysis or evaluation that reveals information concerning:

          political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent or guardian:

          mental or psychological problems of the student or the student's family;

          sex behavior or attitudes;

          illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior;

          critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;

          legally recognized, privileged and analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians and ministers;

   religious practices, affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent or guardian; or

          income,(other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program);

without the prior consent of the student (if the student is an adult or emancipated minor), or in the case of an unemancipated minor, without the prior written consent of the parent.

Prior to an employee or contractor of the district providing information on a student enrolled in the district on any survey related to the social or emotional abilities, competencies or characteristics of the student; the district will provide the parent/guardian of the student detailed information related to the survey and obtain written consent of the parent/guardian of the student.  This includes the person who created the survey, the person who sponsors the survey, how the information generated by the survey is used and how information generated by the survey is stored. This requirement will not prohibit a district employee from answering questions related to a student enrolled in the district as part of developing or implementing an individualized education program for the student.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

It is the responsibility of the board to review and approve the evaluation and testing program.

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232h
                               
        Iowa Code §§ 280.3

Cross Reference:  505        Student Scholastic Achievement
                                       506        Student Records
                                       607.2    Student Health Services

Approved    1/18/21                              
Reviewed     7/17/23                                                             
Revised     7/17/23    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:53

505.05 - Graduation Requirements

505.05 - Graduation Requirements

Students must successfully complete the courses required by the board and Iowa Department of Education in order to graduate. 

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure that students complete grades one through twelve and that high school students complete 48 credits prior to graduation.  The following credits will be required for graduation:

                  English/Language Arts         8  credits

                  Science                                          6  credits

                  Mathematics                               6  credits

                  Social Studies                             6  credits

                  Physical Education                  2  semesters

                  United State Government     1  credits

                  American History                      2  credits

                  Financial Literacy                     1 credits

The required courses of study will be reviewed by the board annually.

Beginning with the class of 2022, graduation requirements for special education students will include successful completion of four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies and three years of science.

Prior to graduation, the district will advise students on how to successfully complete the free application for federal student aid.

Graduation requirements for special education students include successful completion of four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies and three years of science.

Students who complete a regular session in the Legislative Page Program of the general assembly at the state capitol will be credited ½ credit of social studies.

Students enrolled in a junior officers’ training corp will receive 1/8th physical education credit for each semester the student is enrolled in the program.  

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.7, 11, .41; 279.8; 280.3, .14.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3,(5); 12(5).

Cross Reference:  505       Student Scholastic Achievement
                                       603.3   Special Education

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed     7/18/22                                                                          
Revised      7/18/22       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:55

505.06 - Early Graduation

505.06 - Early Graduation

Generally, students will be required to complete the necessary course work and graduate from high school at the end of grade twelve.  Students may graduate prior to this time if they meet the minimum graduation requirements stated in board policy.

A student who graduates early will no longer be considered a student and will become an alumnus of the school district.  However, the student who graduates early may participate in commencement exercises.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(5); 12(5)

Cross Reference:  505                                    Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved      1/18/21                             
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:58

505.07 - Commencement

505.07 - Commencement

Students who have met the requirements for graduation will be allowed to participate in the commencement proceedings provided they abide by the proceedings organized by the school district.  It is the responsibility of the principal to solicit input from each graduating class regarding the proceedings for their commencement.

Failure of a student to participate in commencement will not be a reason for withholding the student's final progress report or diploma certifying the student's completion of high school.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.5.

Cross Reference:  505                                    Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:58

505.08 - Parent and Family Engagement Districtwide Policy

505.08 - Parent and Family Engagement Districtwide Policy

Parent and family engagement is an important component in a student’s success in school.  The board encourages parents and families to become involved in their child’s education to ensure the child’s academic success.  In order to facilitate parent and family involvement, it is the goal of the district to conduct outreach and implement programs, activities and procedures to further involve parents and families with the academic success of their students.  The board will:

(In each of the following six items, the board must describe within this policy how it will accomplish each of the items.  This mandatory policy is not complete without providing specific information for each of these six categories.)

(1) Involve parents and families in the development of the Title I plan, the process for school review of the plan and the process for improvement by: 

Parents and families will be provided information and given opportunities for feedback as it relates to the Title 1 program through indepth information and resources shared in the Title 1 Parent Handbook, parent survey completed each spring, student progress reports completed each quarter, and participation in parent-teacher conferences.

 

(2) Provide the coordination, technical assistance and other support necessary to assist and build the capacity of all participating schools in planning and implementing effective parent and family involvement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance by:

Student selection for the Title 1 program will be based on multiple factors. These factors are based on formative reading assessment scores through FAST testing as well as ISASP testing. Selection will also incorporate students F/P reading level and data trends over time.  Students will not be accepted into the Title 1 program if they are receiving an individualized education plan in the area of reading. If a student has an IEP in the area of reading, their services would fall under special education.

 

(3) To the extent feasible, coordinate and integrate parent and family engagement strategies under Title I with parent and family engagement strategies outlined in other relevant Federal, State, and local laws and programs by:

The school provides a parent compact that outlines what the parent, student, teacher, and principal will do to increase students achievement. This compact is provided to the parents of all Title 1 students and outlines the ways in which all stakeholders will work together to achieve proficiency.

 

(4)  Conduct with the involvement of parents and family members, an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness of the parent and family engagement policy in improving the academic quality of the school served including identifying: barriers to greater participation by parents in Title I activities (with particular attention to low-income parents, Limited English Proficient (LEP) parents, parents of any racial or ethnic minority, parents with disabilities and parents with limited literacy); needs of parents and family to assist their children’s learning; and strategies to support successful school and family interactions by:  

Parents of selected Title 1 students will be sent a parent letter via mail outlining their child’s participation in the Title 1 program and a returned, signed parent permission slip is required. The Title 1 teacher will attend the fall and spring parent teacher conference to update parents on the progress of the student. Quarterly updates will also be completed by the teacher and a paper copy sent home with report cards. If there is a need, the teacher and/or parents have the right to call a conference.

Input from parents on the planning, review, and improvement of the Title 1 programs will be gathered through the spring parent Title 1 parent surveys.

 

(5) Use the findings of the annual evaluation to design strategies for more effective parent and family involvement and to revise, as necessary, the parent and family involvement policies by: 

The results from the spring parent survey will be analyzed and incorporated when possible and applicable.

 and

 

(6)  Involve parents and families in Title I activities by: 

Through the spring parent survey, parents will be able to comment on the effectiveness of the Title 1 program. Additional parent resources are provided in the Title 1 parent handbook and there are opportunities for collaboration during parent teacher conferences. The handbook provides parents multiple suggestions and ideas on how to engage with their students in reading.

 

The district shall involve parents in determining how to allocate reserved Title I funds in accordance with applicable laws. 

The board will review this policy annually.  The superintendent is responsible for notifying parents and families of this policy annually or within a reasonable time after it has been amended during the school year.  The superintendent may develop an administrative process or procedures to implement this policy. 

 

 

Legal References:  20 U.S.C. §6318

Cross References:  903.2    Community Resource Persons and Volunteers\

Approved:
Reviewed:
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 12:59

505.08R1 - Parent and Family Engagement Building-Level Regulation

505.08R1 - Parent and Family Engagement Building-Level Regulation

To further the interests of student achievement, the superintendent will create necessary rules to engage parents and family members within the district in the following ways on a building-level basis:

 

  1. Policy Involvement:  The district will host an annual meeting and invite all parents to attend; and inform parents of their rights and the district’s requirements under Title I.  This meeting will also invite parents to become involved in the planning, review and improvement of a building policy and in developing the district plan.  The district will inform parents of: 
    • programs under this policy,
    • curriculum and assessment used for students,
    • the opportunity to meet with administration to participate in decisions related to their children’s education,
    • a description and explanation of curriculum used in the school forms of academic assessment used to measure student progress, and
    • achievement levels of the challenging State academic standards. 

 

  1. Accessibility:  Provide opportunities for informed participation of parents and family members in understandable formats and languages.  This includes participation by parents and family members who may have disabilities, limited English proficiency, and migratory children. Offer a flexible number of meetings during the day, evening and weekends to facilitate parent involvement.  The superintendent has discretion to allow schools to provide childcare for families of students during these meetings through Title I funds.

 

  1. High Student Academic Achievement:  Each school in the district will jointly develop with parents and family members a school-parent compact that outlines how parents, staff and students share responsibility for improving student academic achievement; and how a partnership will be built to achieve this.  The compact will describe the responsibility of the school to provide high quality curriculum and instruction, and the parents’ responsibility to support their children’s learning.  This will also address the importance of communication between schools and parents through parent teacher conferences, regular reports to parents on their children’s progress, and ensuring regular meaningful communication between family and school staff. 

 

  1. Building Capacity for Involvement: Each school within the district will include in their plan ways to achieve the following:
    • Assist parents and families to understand topics including academic standards and assessments and how to monitor student progress;
    • Provide materials and training to help parents work with students to improve achievement;
    • Educate teachers and staff in how to communicate with parents and build ties to foster academic success;
    • Coordinate and integrate other federal, state and local programs to support parents in more fully participating in students’ education;
    • Ensure information related to programs is sent to parents and families in understandable formats; and
    • Provide other reasonable support to encourage parental involvement

 

  1. Schools Operating a Schoolwide Program:  Each school operating a schoolwide program under this policy shall:
    • Involve parents on a timely and ongoing basis in the planning, review and improvement of programs, including the parent and family engagement school policy drafting and review, and the joint development of the schoolwide program. 
    • If the schoolwide program plan is not satisfactory to the parents of the participating children, parent comments will be requested and submitted with the plan to the district.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:01

506 - Student Records

506 - Student Records dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:02

506.01 - Education Records Access

506.01 - Education Records Access

The board recognizes the importance of maintaining education records and preserving their confidentiality as provided by law.  Education records are kept confidential at collection, storage, disclosure and destruction stages.  The board secretary is the custodian of education records.  Education records may be maintained in the central administration office or administrative office of the student's attendance center. 

 

Definitions

For the purposes of this policy, the defined words have the following meaning:

  • “Education Record” means those records that contain information directly related to a student and which are maintained by an education agency or institution or by a party acting for the agency or institution.
  • “Eligible Student” means a student who has reached eighteen years or attends a postsecondary institution. Parents of an eligible student are provided access to education records only with the written permission of the eligible student unless the eligible student is defined as a dependent by the Internal Revenue Code. In that case, the parents may be provided access without the written permission of the student. 

An education record may contain information on more than one student.  Parents will have the right to access the information relating to their student or to be informed of the information.  Eligible students will also have the right to access the information relating to themselves, or be informed of the information.

Parents, eligible students, and other individuals authorized in accordance with law will have a right to access the student's education records upon request without unnecessary delay and in no instance more than forty-five calendar days after the request is made.  Parents, other than parents of an eligible student, may be denied access to a student's records if the school district has a court order stating such or when the district has been advised under the appropriate laws that the parents may not access the student records.  Parents, an eligible student or an authorized representative of the parents will have the right to access the student's education records prior to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting or hearing.

Copies of education records will be provided if failure to do so would effectively prevent the parents or student from exercising the right to access the education records.  Fees for copies of the records are waived if it would prevent the parents or student from accessing the records.  A fee may not be charged to search or retrieve information from education records. 

Upon the request of parents or an eligible student, the school district will provide an explanation and interpretation of the education records and a list of the types and locations of education records collected, maintained or used by the school district.

If the parents or an eligible student believes the information in the education records is inaccurate, misleading or violates the privacy of the student, the parents or an eligible student may request that the school district amend the education records. 

Education records may be disclosed in limited circumstances without parental or eligible student's written permission.  This disclosure is made on the condition that the education record will not be disclosed to a third party without the written permission of the parents or the eligible student.  This disclosure may be:

  • To school officials within the school district and AEA personnel whom the superintendent has determined to have a legitimate educational interest, including, but not limited to, board members, employees, school attorney, auditor, health professionals, and individuals serving on official school committees;
  • To officials of another school district in which the student wishes to enroll, provided the other school district notifies the parents the education records are being sent and the parents have an opportunity to receive a copy of the records and challenge the contents of the records unless the annual notification includes a provision that records will automatically be transferred to new school districts;
  • To the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education or state and local educational authorities;
  • In connection with a student’s application for, or receipt of, financial aid;
  • To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, educational agencies or institutions for the purpose of developing, validating, or administering predictive tests, administering student aid programs, and improving instruction, if such studies are conducted in such a manner as will not permit the personal identification of students and their parents by persons other than representatives of such organizations and such information will be destroyed when no longer needed for the purpose for which it was conducted;
  • To accrediting organizations;
  • To parents of a dependent student as defined in the Internal Revenue Code;
  • To comply with a court order or judicially issued subpoena;
  • In connection with a health or safety emergency;
  • As directory information; or
  • In additional instances as provided by law.

The superintendent will keep a list of the individuals and their positions who are authorized to view a special education student's education records without the permission of the parents or the eligible student.  Individuals not listed are not allowed access without parental or an eligible student's written permission.  This list must be current and available for public inspection and updated as changes occur.

The superintendent will also keep a list of individuals, agencies and organizations which have requested or obtained access to a student's education records, the date access was given and their legitimate educational interest or purpose for which they were authorized to view the records.  The superintendent, however, does not need to keep a list of the parents, authorized educational employees, officers and agencies of the school district who have accessed the student’s education records.  This list for an education record may be accessed by the parents, the eligible student and the custodian of education records. 

Permanent education records, including a student's name, address, phone number, grades, attendance record, classes attended, grade level completed and year completed may be maintained without time limitation.  Permanent education records will be kept in a fire-safe vault or they may be maintained electronically with a secure backup file.

When personally identifiable information, other than permanent education records, is no longer needed to provide educational services to a special education student, the parents or eligible student are notified.  This notice is normally given after a student graduates or otherwise leaves the school district.  If the parents or eligible student request that the personally identifiable information be destroyed, the school district will destroy the records, except for permanent records.  Prior to the destruction of the records, the school district must inform the parents or eligible student the records may be needed by the parents or eligible student for social security benefits or other purposes.  For purposes of policy, “no longer needed to provide educational services” means that a record is no longer relevant to the provision of instruction, support, or related services and it is no longer needed for accountability and audit purposes. At a minimum, a record needed for accountability and audit purposes must be retained for five years after completion of the activity for which funds were used.

The school district will provide training or instruction to employees about parents' and eligible students' rights under this policy.  Employees will also be informed about the procedures for carrying out this policy. 

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to annually notify parents and eligible students that they have the right to:

  1. Inspect and review the student's education records;
  2. Seek amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights;
  3. Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the law authorizes disclosure without consent; and
  4. File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the law.

The notice is given in a parents' or eligible student's native language.  Should the school district collect personal information from students for the purposes of marketing or selling that information, the school district will annually notify parents of such activity.

The notice will include a statement that the parents have a right to file a complaint alleging the school district failed to comply with this policy.  Complaints are forwarded to Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, Washington, DC. 20202-8520.

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232g, 1415.
   
                                    34 C.F.R. Pt. 99, 300, .610 et seq.
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 22; 279.9B, 280.24, .25, 622.10.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(4); 41

Cross Reference:  501       Student Attendance
   
                                    505       Student Scholastic Achievement
   
                                    506       Student Records
   
                                    507       Student Health and Well-Being
   
                                    603.3    Special Education
   
                                    708       Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records
   
                                    901       Public Examination of School District Records

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:02

506.01E1 - Request of Nonparent for Examination or Copies of Student Records

506.01E1 - Request of Nonparent for Examination or Copies of Student Records

The undersigned hereby requests permission to examine the                                        Community School District's official education records of:

 

 

 

 

 

(Legal Name of Student)

(Date of Birth)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The undersigned requests copies of the following official education records of the above student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The undersigned certifies that they are (check one):

 

 

(a)

An official of another school system in which the student intends to enroll.

(  )

 

(b)

An authorized representative of the Comptroller General of the United States.

(  )

 

(c)

An authorized representative of the Secretary of

the U.S. Department of Education or U.S. Attorney General

 

(  )

 

 

 

(d)

A state or local official to whom such is specifically allowed to be reported or disclosed.

 

(  )

 

(f)

A person connected with the student's application for, or receipt of, financial aid (SPECIFY DETAILS ABOVE.)

(  )

 

 

[(g)

A representative of a juvenile justice agency with which the school district has an interagency agreement. ]

(  )

 

The undersigned agrees that the information obtained will only be redisclosed consistent with state or federal law without the written permission of the parents of the student, or the student if the student is of majority age.

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Signature)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Title)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Agency)

 

 

 

 

APPROVED:

Date:

 

 

 

 

Address:

 

 

 

Signature:

 

City:

 

 

 

Title:

 

State:

 

ZIP:

 

 

Dated:

 

Phone Number:

 

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:05

506.01E2 - Authorization for Release of Education Records

506.01E2 - Authorization for Release of Education Records

The undersigned hereby authorizes __________________________________________________

School District to release copies of the following official education records:
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________

concerning _________________________________  ___________________________________
                        (Full Legal Name of Student)                                    (Date of Birth)

__________________________________________________  from 20___ to 20 ___
  (Name of Last School Attended)                                                                   (Years of Attendance)

The reason for this request is: _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________

My relationship to the child is:_______________________________________________________

Copies of the records to be released are to be furnished to:

                   ____  the undersigned
                   ____  the student
                   ____  other (please specify)  _____________________________________________

 

__________________________________________
  (Signature)

Date: _____________________________________

Address: __________________________________

City: _____________________________________

State: ______________________ Zip:  _________

Phone Number: ____________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:16

506.01E3 - Request for Hearing on Correction of Education Records

506.01E3 - Request for Hearing on Correction of Education Records

To: _____________________________________  Address:  _____________________________________  
          Board Secretary (Custodian)

I believe certain official education records of my child,                                               , (full legal name of student),                                      (school name), are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of privacy rights of my child.

The official education records which I believe are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the privacy or other rights of my child are:

___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________

The reason I believe such records are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the privacy or other rights of my child is:

___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________

My relationship to the child is:  _________________________________________________________________

I understand that I will be notified in writing of the time and place of the hearing; that I will be notified in writing of the decision; and I have the right to appeal the decision by so notifying the hearing officer in writing within ten days after my receipt of the decision or a right to place a statement in my child's record stating I disagree with the decision and why.

 

__________________________________________

  (Signature)

Date: _____________________________________

Address: __________________________________

City: _____________________________________

State: ______________________ Zip:  _________

Phone Number: ____________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:21

506.01E4 - Request for Examination of Education Records

506.01E4 - Request for Examination of Education Records

To: _____________________________________  Address:  _____________________________________  
          Board Secretary (Custodian)

The undersigned desires to examine the following official education records.

__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________

of ___________________________________________________, _____________________  ______________
            (Full Legal Name of Student)                                                                               (Date of Birth)                         (Grade)

__________________________________________________________________________________________
             (Name of School)

My relationship to the student is:  _______________________________________________________________

(check one)

                       _____  I do
                       _____  I do not 

desire a copy of such records.  I understand that a reasonable charge may be made for the copies.

                                                                                     _____________________________________  
                                                                                                                      (Parent's Signature)

 

APPROVED:                                                Date:  ____________________________________________

                                                               Address:  _________________________________________

Signature: __________________________ City: _____________________________________________

Title: ______________________________ State:  ______________________  Zip:  ________________

Dated: _____________________________ Phone Number: ____________________________________

  

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:24

506.01E5 - Notification of Transfer of Education Records

506.01E5 - Notification of Transfer of Education Records

To: _____________________________________________  Date:  _________________________________
              Parent/Guardian

Street Address:  __________________________________________________________________________
City/State:  _______________________________________________  Zip:  _________________________

Please be notified that copies of the                                           Community School District's official education records concerning                                        , (full legal name of student) have been transferred to:

___________________________________________  _________________________________
School District Name                                                                                                          Address

upon the written statement that the student intends to enroll in said school system.

If you desire a copy of such records furnished, please check here            and return this form to the undersigned.  A reasonable charge will be made for the copies.

If you believe such records transferred are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student, you have the right to a hearing to challenge the contents of such records.

 

                                                                                  _______________________________________
                                                                                           (Name)

                                                                                  _______________________________________
                                                                                           (Title)

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:31

506.01E6 - Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of a Subpoena

506.01E6 - Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of a Subpoena

Date

 

Dear     (Parent)    :

This letter is to notify you that the                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Community School District has received a      (subpoena or court order)     requesting copies of your child's education records.  The specific records requested are                                                     .

 

The school district has until   (date on subpoena or court order)   to deliver the documents to   (requesting party on subpoena or court order).  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at   (phone #)    .

 

Sincerely,

 

(Principal or Superintendent

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:35

506.01E8 - Annual Notice

506.01E8 - Annual Notice

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.  They are:

(1)     The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the district receives a request for access.

Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect.  The principal (or appropriate school official) will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

(2)     The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading or in violation of the student's privacy rights under FERPA.

Parents or eligible students who wish to ask school district to amend a record should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed.

If the district decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

(3)     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.

One exception, which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.  A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board.  A school official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of the school who performs an institutional service of function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist, a or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee or student assistance team, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

(4)  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 name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education,
400 Maryland Ave., SW, Washington, DC, 20202-4605.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:36

506.01R1 - Use of Education Records Regulation

506.01R1 - Use of Education Records Regulation

Parents and eligible students will have a right to access a student's education records upon request without unnecessary delay and in no instance more than forty-five calendar days after the request is made. The intent of this regulation is to establish procedures for granting requests from eligible students and parents to access a student’s education records. 

Education records mean those records that contain information directly related to a student and which are maintained by an education agency or institution or by a party acting for the agency or institution. These may include, but are not necessarily limited to: dates of attendance; academic work completed; level of achievement (grades, standardized test scores); attendance data; scores on standardized intelligence, aptitude, and psychological tests; interest inventory results; health data; family background information; teacher or counselor ratings and observations; and verified reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns.

  1. Access to Records
  1. Parents, eligible students, and other individuals authorized in accordance with law will have access to the student's education records during the regular business hours of the school district. Parents and eligible students will have a right to access the student's education records upon request without unnecessary delay and in no instance more than forty-five calendar days after the request is made. An eligible student or parent, upon written request to the board secretary, shall receive an explanation and interpretation of the education records. A student, eighteen years or older, has the right to determine who, outside the school system, has access to the records.  Parents of students who are 18 years or older but still dependents for income tax purposes may access the student's records without prior permission of the student.
  2. School officials having access to student records are defined as having a legitimate educational interest. A school official is a person employed by the school district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the school district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, AEA employee, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as disciplinary or grievance committee or student assistance team, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. 

B.   Release of Information Outside the School – Information from education records may be disclosed to outside parties as outlined in board policy and otherwise provided by law.

C.  Procedures for Requesting a Record Amendment

  1. If the eligible student, parent, or legal guardian believe the information in the education records is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the privacy of the student, the parents or an eligible student may request that the school district amend the education student records. 
  2. The school district will decide whether to amend the education student records within a reasonable time after receipt of the request.
  3. If the school district determines an amendment is made to the education student record, the school district will make the amendment and inform the parents or the eligible student of the decision in writing.
  4. If the school district determines that amendment of the student's education record is not appropriate, it will inform the parents or the eligible student of their right to a hearing before the hearing officer provided by the school district. The hearing officer may be an employee of the school district, so long as the employee does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing.
  5. Upon parental request, the school district will hold a hearing regarding the content of a student’s education records which the parent believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the privacy rights of students.
  6. The hearing will be held within a reasonable time after receipt of the parent or eligible student’s request. The parent or eligible student will receive reasonable advance notice of date, time and place of the hearing.
  7. The parents or eligible student will be given a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relevant to the issues. The parent or eligible student may be represented by an individual at their choice at their own expense.
  8. The hearing officer will render a written decision within a reasonable period after the hearing.  The decision will be based upon evidence presented at the hearing and must include a summary of the evidence and the reasons for the decision.
  9. The parents may appeal the hearing officer’s decision to the superintendent within [insert number] days if the superintendent does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing.
  10. The parents may appeal the superintendent’s decision or the hearing officer’s decision if the superintendent was unable to hear the appeal, to the board within [insert number] days.  It is within the discretion of the board to hear the appeal.
  11. If the parents' and the eligible student's request to amend the education student record is further denied following the hearing, the parents or the eligible student are informed that they have a right to place an explanatory letter in the education student record commenting on the school district's decision or setting forth the reasoning for disagreeing with the school district. Additions to the student's education records will become a part of the education student record and be maintained like other education student records. If the school district discloses the education student records, the explanation by the parents will also be disclosed or the eligible student of the decision in writing.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:37

506.02 - Student Directory Information

506.02 - Student Directory Information

Directory information is information contained in the education records of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. The district may disclose "directory information" to third parties without consent if it has given public notice of the types of information which it has designated as "directory information," the parent's or eligible student's right to restrict the disclosure of such information, and the period of time within which a parent or eligible student has to notify the school in writing that he or she does not want any or all of those types of information designated as "directory information."  The district has designated the following as “directory information”: [Note: a district may, but does not have to, include all the information listed below, which is included in the United States Department of Education’s sample policy. This information should match the information contained in 506.1E8, 506.2R1, and 506.2E1].

  • Student’s name
  • Address
  • Telephone listing
  • Electronic mail address
  • Photograph
  • Date and place of birth
  • Major field of study
  • Dates of attendance
  • Grade level
  • Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
  • Weight and height of members of athletic teams
  • Degrees, honors, and awards received
  • The most recent educational agency or institution attended
  • Student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems that cannot be used to access education records without a PIN, password, etc.  (A student’s SSN, in whole or in part, cannot be used for this purpose.)  

Student is defined as an enrolled individual, PK-12 including children in school district sponsored child-care programs

Prior to developing a student directory or to giving general information to the public, parents (including parents of students open enrolled out of the school district and parents of children home schooled in the school district) will be given notice annually of the intent to develop a directory or to give out general information and have the opportunity to deny the inclusion of their child's information in the directory or in the general information about the students.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to provide notice and to determine the method of notice that will inform parents.

 

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.  A school district may limit what it considers to be directory information.  If the school district limits the information, it must also make those changes in the school district's annual notice. 

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232g.
   
                                    34 C.F.R. Pt. 99.
   
                                    Iowa Code § 22; 622.10.
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(4); 41.

Cross Reference:  504       Student Activities
   
                                    506       Student Records
   
                                    901       Public Examination of School District Records
   
                                    902.4    Live Broadcast or videotaping

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:38

506.02E1 - Authorization for Releasing Student Directory Information

506.02E1 - Authorization for Releasing Student Directory Information

The [Insert school district name] Community School District has adopted a policy designed to assure parents and students the full implementation, protection and enjoyment of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA).  A copy of the school district's policy is available for review [Insert location here (e.g. online, administrative offices, etc.)]

This law requires the school district to designate as "directory information" any personally identifiable information taken from a student's educational records prior to making such information available to the public.

The school district has designated the following information as directory information: [Note: a district may, but does not have to, include all the information listed below, which is included in the United States Department of Education’s sample policy. This information should match the information contained in 506.1E8, 506.2R1, and 506.2E1].

  • Student’s name
  • Address
  • Telephone listing
  • Electronic mail address
  • Photograph
  • Date and place of birth
  • Major field of study
  • Dates of attendance
  • Grade level
  • Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
  • Weight and height of members of athletic teams
  • Degrees, honors, and awards received
  • The most recent educational agency or institution attended
  • Student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems that cannot be used to access education records without a PIN, password, etc.  (A student’s SSN, in whole or in part, cannot be used for this purpose.)  

You have the right to refuse the designation of any or all of the categories of personally identifiable information as directory information with respect to your student provided that you notify the school district in writing not later than                , 20     of this school year.  If you desire to make such a refusal, please complete and return the slip attached to this notice.

If you have no objection to the use of student information, you do not need to take any action.

 

NOTE: If the board decides to eliminate name, address or telephone listing from their directory information, military recruiters and postsecondary institutions still have the right, under federal law, to access the three items. If the board eliminates name, address or telephone listing, the district needs to give parents a second notice allowing them to withhold this information from military recruiters or postsecondary institutions.

 

AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASING STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION

RETURN THIS FORM

____________________________________  Community School District Parental Directions to Withhold Student/Directory Information for Education Purposes, for 20     - 20      school year.

Student Name: __________________________________________  Date of Birth: _________________________________

School: ________________________________________________  Grade: _______________________________________

______________________________________________________    Date:  _______________________________________
(Signature of Parent/Legal Guardian/Custodian of Child)

 

This form must be returned to your child's school no later than                             , 20        .

Additional forms are available at your child's school.

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:40

506.02R1 - Use of Directory Information

506.02R1 - Use of Directory Information

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that the Maquoketa Valley School District, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records.  However, the Maquoketa Valley School District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures.  The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Maquoketa Valley School District to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications.  Examples include:

  • A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production;
  • The annual yearbook;
  • Honor roll or other recognition lists;
  • Graduation programs; and,
  • Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members.

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent.  Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks.  In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following information – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.

If you do not want the Maquoketa Valley School District to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by [insert date].  The Maquoketa Valley School District has designated the following information as directory information:  [Note: a district may, but does not have to, include all the information listed below, which is included in the United States Department of Education’s sample policy. This information should match the information contained in 506.1E8, 506.2, and 506.2E1].

  • Student’s name
  • Address
  • Telephone listing
  • Electronic mail address
  • Photograph
  • Date and place of birth
  • Major field of study
  • Dates of attendance
  • Grade level
  • Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
  • Weight and height of members of athletic teams
  • Degrees, honors, and awards received
  • The most recent educational agency or institution attended
  • Student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems that cannot be used to access education records without a PIN, password, etc.  (A student’s SSN, in whole or in part, cannot be used for this purpose.)  

These laws are: Section 9528 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (20 U.S.C. § 7908) and 10 U.S.C. § 503(c).

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:43

506.03 - Student Photographs

506.03 - Student Photographs

The board will permit student "portrait" photographs to be taken on school premises by a commercial photographer as a service to the students and their families.

Parents will be notified prior to the taking of pictures by a commercial photographer for student "portraits."  In no case will students be required to have their picture taken or be pressured to purchase pictures.

Students or commercial photographers may take pictures of students upon consent for such things as the yearbook or student newspaper.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative rules regarding student photographs.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:  506                                    Student Records

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:44

506.04 - Student Library Circulation Records

506.04 - Student Library Circulation Records

Student library circulation records are designed to be used internally to assist in the orderly administration of the school district libraries.  As a general rule, student library circulation records are considered confidential records and will not be released without parental consent.  Individuals who may access such records include a student's parents, the student, authorized licensed employees, authorized government officials from the U.S. Comptroller General, the Secretary of Education, the Commissioner and Director of the National Institute of Education, and the Assistant Secretary for Education and State Education Department.  Appropriate authorities in a health or safety emergency may access the student's library circulation records without the approval or the notification of the student's parents.  Parents may not access records, without the student's permission, of a student who has reached the age of majority or who is attending a post-secondary educational institution unless the student is considered a dependent for tax purposes.

It is the teacher-librarian's responsibility, as the person maintaining the student library circulation records, to approve requests for access to student library circulation records.  Students' library circulation records may be accessed during the regular business hours of the school district.  If copies of documents are requested, a fee for such copying may be charged.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the teacher or teacher-librarian, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232g
   
                                    34 C.F.R. Pt. 99
   
                                    Iowa Code §§ 22
   
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), (12).

Cross Reference:  506       Student Records

Approved         1/18/21                          
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:45

507 - Student Health and Well-Being

507 - Student Health and Well-Being dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:46

507.01 - Student Health and Immunization Certificates

507.01 - Student Health and Immunization Certificates

Students desiring to participate in athletic activities or enrolling in kindergarten or first grade in the school district will have a physical examination by a licensed physician and provide proof of such an examination to the school district.  A physical examination and proof of such an examination may be required by the administration for students in other grades enrolling for the first time in the school district.

A certificate of health stating the results of a physical examination and signed by the physician is on file at the attendance center.  Each student will submit an up-to-date certificate of health upon the request of the superintendent.  Failure to provide this information may be grounds for disciplinary action.

Students enrolling for the first time in the school district will also submit a certificate of immunization against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, rubeola, rubella, and other immunizations required by law.  The student may be admitted conditionally to the attendance center if the student has not yet completed the immunization process but is in the process of doing so.  Failure to meet the immunization requirement will be grounds for suspension, expulsion or denial of admission.  Upon recommendation of the Iowa Department of Education and Iowa Department of Public Health, students entering the district for the first time may be required to pass a TB test prior to admission.  The district may conduct TB tests of current students.

Exemptions from the immunization requirement in this policy will be allowed only for medical or religious reasons recognized under the law.  The student must provide a valid Iowa State Department of Health Certificate of Immunization Exemption to be exempt from this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 280.13.
   
                                      281 I.A.C. 33.5.
   
                                      641 I.A.C. 7.

Cross Reference:  402.2                                  Child Abuse Reporting
   
                                      501                                      Student Attendance
   
                                      507                                      Student Health and Well-Being

Approved       1/18/21                            
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:46

507.02 - Administration of Medication to Students

507.02 - Administration of Medication to Students

The board is committed to the inclusion of all students in the education program and recognizes that some students may need prescription and nonprescription medication to participate in their educational program.

 

Medication shall be administered when the student's parent or guardian (hereafter "parent") provides a signed and dated written statement requesting medication administration and the medication is in the original, labeled container, either as dispensed or in the manufacturer's container. Administration of medication may also occur consistent with board policy 804.05 – Stock Prescription Medication Supply.

When administration of the medication requires ongoing professional health judgment, an individual health plan shall be developed by. a licensed health personnel working under the auspice of the school with collaboration from the parent or guardian, individual’s health care provider or education team pursuant to 281.14.2(256).  Students who have demonstrated competence in administering their own medications may self-administer their medication. A written statement by the student's parent shall be on file requesting co-administration of medication, when competence has been demonstrated.  By law, students with asthma, airway constricting diseases, respiratory distress or students at risk of anaphylaxis who use epinephrine auto-injectors may self-administer their medication upon the written approval of the student’s parents and prescribing licensed health care professional regardless of competency.  

Persons administering medication shall include authorized practitioners, such as licensed registered nurses and physicians, and persons to whom authorized practitioners have delegated the administration of medication (who have successfully completed a medication administration course conducted by a registered nurse or pharmacist that is provided by the department of education).   The medication administration course is completed every five years with an annual procedural skills check completed with a registered nurse or a pharmacist. A record of course completion shall be maintained by the school.

A written medication administration record shall be on file including:

•     date;

•     student’s name;

•     prescriber or person authorizing administration;

•     medication;

•     medication dosage;

•     administration time;

•     administration method;

•     signature and title of the person administering medication; and

•     any unusual circumstances, actions, or omissions.

Medication shall be stored in a secured area unless an alternate provision is documented.  The development of emergency protocols for medication-related reactions is required.  Medication information shall be confidential information as provided by law

Disposal of unused, discontinued/recalled, or expired abandonedmedication shall be in compliance with federal and state law. Prior to disposal school personnel shall make a reasonable attempt to return medication by providing written notification that expired, discontinued, or unused medications needs to be picked up. If medication is not picked up by the date specified, disposal shall be in accordance with the disposal procedures for the specific category of medication.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Disposing on Behalf of Ultimate Users, 79 Fed. Reg. 53520, 53546 (Sept. 9, 2014).
                                         
Iowa Code §§124.101(1); 147.107; 152.1; 155A.4(2); 280.16; 280.23.
                                         
281 IAC §14.1
      
                                   655 IAC §6.2(152).

Cross Reference:  506                                      Student Records
   
                                     507                                      Student Health and Well-Being
   
                                     603.3                                  Special Education
                                             607.2                                  Student Health Services

Approved       1/18/21                            
Reviewed   7/17/23                                                                    
Revised    7/17/23        

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:47

507.02E1 - Authorization - Asthma or Airway Constricting Medication Self-Administration Consent Form

507.02E1 - Authorization - Asthma or Airway Constricting Medication Self-Administration Consent Form

_____________________________       ___/___/___            _________________     ___/___/___
Student's Name (Last), (First)  (Middle)      Birthday                    School                                           Date

In accordance with applicable laws, students with asthma, airway constricting diseases, respiratory distress or students at risk of anaphylaxis who use epinephrine auto-injectors may self-administer their medication upon the written approval of the student’s parents and prescribing licensed health care professional regardless of competency. The following must occur for a student to self-administer asthma or other airway constricting disease medication or for a student with a risk of anaphylaxis to self-administer an epinephrine auto-injector:

  • Parent/guardian provides signed, dated authorization for student medication self-administration.
  • Parent/guardian provides a written statement from the student’s licensed health care professional (A person licensed under chapter 148 to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery, an advanced registered nurse practitioner licensed under chapter 152 or 152E and registered with the board of nursing, or a physician assistant licensed to practice under the supervision of a physician as authorized in chapters 147 and 148C) containing the following:
    • Name and purpose of the medication,
    • Prescribed dosage, and
    • Times or special circumstances under which the prescribed medication is to be administered.
  • The medication is in the original, labeled container as dispensed or the manufacturer's labeled container containing the student name, name of the medication, directions for use, and date.
  • Authorization shall be renewed annually.  In addition, if any changes occur in the medication, dosage or time of administration, the parent is to notify school officials immediately. The authorization shall be reviewed as soon as practical.

Provided the above requirements are fulfilled, the school shall permit the self-administration of the prescribed medication by a student while in school, at school-sponsored activities, under the supervision of school personnel, and before or after normal school activities, such as while in before-school or after-school care on school-operated property. If the student abuses the self-administration policy, the ability to self-administer may be withdrawn by the school or discipline may be imposed, after notification is provided to the student’s parent.

Pursuant to state law, the school district or and its employees are to incur no liability, except for gross negligence, as a result of any injury arising from self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector by the student. The parent or guardian of the student shall sign a statement acknowledging that the school district is to incur no liability, except for gross negligence, as a result of self-administration of medication or an epinephrine  auto-injector by the student as provided by law.

 

                                                                                                                                               
Medication         Dosage             Route                                                   Time

 

                                                                                                                                               
Purpose of Medication & Administration /Instructions

 

                                                                                                            /            /          
Special Circumstances                                    Discontinue/Re-Evaluate/Follow-up Date

                                                                                                            /     /            
Prescriber’s Signature                                     Date

 

                                                                                                                                               
Prescriber’s Address                                       Emergency Phone

 

  • I request the above named student possess and self-administer asthma or other airway constricting disease medication(s) and/or an epinephrine auto-injector at school and in school activities according to the authorization and instructions.
  • I understand the school district and its employees acting reasonably and in good faith shall incur no liability for any improper use of medication or an epinephrine auto-injector or for supervising, monitoring, or interfering with a student's self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector. I acknowledge that the school district is to incur no liability, except for gross negligence, as a result of self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector by the student.
  • I agree to coordinate and work with school personnel and notify them when questions arise or relevant conditions change.
  • I agree to provide safe delivery of medication and equipment to and from school and to pick up remaining medication and equipment.
  • I agree the information is shared with school personnel in accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and any other applicable laws.
  • I agree to provide the school with back-up medication approved in this form.

 

 

                                                                                                            /            /          
Parent/Guardian Signature                                          Date

(agreed to above statement)                              

 

                                                                                                                                               
Parent/Guardian Address                                            Home Phone

 

                                                                                                                                               
                                                                                                Business Phone

                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                               
Self-Administration Authorization Additional Information

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:50

507.02E2 - Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Prescription Medication to Students

507.02E2 - Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Prescription Medication to Students

_________________________________            ___/___/___            _________________     ___/___/___
Student's Name (Last), (First),  (Middle)                 Birthday                     School                                             Date

 

School medications and special health services are administered following these guidelines:

  • Parent has provided a signed, dated authorization to administer prescription medication and/or provide special health services listed. Electronic signatures meet the requirement of written signatures.
  • The prescribed medication is in the original, labeled container as dispensed or the .
  • The prescription medication label contains the student’s name, name of the medication, the medication dosage, time(s) to administer, route to administer, and date.
  • Authorization is renewed annually and as soon as practical when the parent notifies the school that changes are necessary.

 

                                                                                                                                                             
Prescribed Medication   Dosage                         Route                           Time at School

 

Special Health Services and instructions, in indicated:

                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                               

 

            /           /          
Discontinue/Re-Evaluate/Follow-up Date for Prescribed Medication or Special Health Services listed

 

                                                                                                /           /           
Prescriber’s Signature                                                    Date

 

And credentials (when indicated for health service delivery)

 

                                                                                                                                   
Parent/Guardian Signature                     Date

 

_______________________________________             __________________________
Parent/Guardian address                                                                                    Home phone

 

                                                                                                            /            /          
Parent's Signature                                              Date

 

                                                                                                                                   
Parent's Address                                                Home Phone

 

                                                                                                                                   
Additional Information                                     Business Phone

                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                               
Authorization Form

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:53

507.02E3 - Parental Authorization and Release Form for Independent Self Carry and Administration of Prescribed Medication or Independent Delivery of Health Services by the Student

507.02E3 - Parental Authorization and Release Form for Independent Self Carry and Administration of Prescribed Medication or Independent Delivery of Health Services by the Student

_________________________________            ___/___/___            _________________     ___/___/___
Student's Name (Last), (First),  (Middle)                 Birthday                     School                                          Date

 

I request the above-named student (Parent/Guardian initial all that apply)

______ Carry and complete co-administration of prescribed medication, when competency has been demonstrated to licensed health personnel working under the auspices of the school. In accordance with applicable laws, students with asthma, airway constricting diseases, respiratory distress or students at risk of anaphylaxis who use epinephrine auto-injectors may self-administer their medication upon the written approval of the student’s parents and prescribing licensed health care professional regardless of competency.  The information provided by the parent for medication administration is confidential as provided by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and any other applicable laws.  I agree to provide safe delivery of the medication to and from school and to pick up remaining medication at the end of the school year or when medication is expired. If the students abuses the self-administration policy, the ability to self-administer may be withdrawn by the school or discipline may be imposed, after notification is provided to the student’s parent.

 

______________________________________________________________________________________
Prescribed Medication   Dosage                         Route                           Time at School

 

______ Co-administer, participate in planning, management and implementation of special health services at school and school activities after demonstration of proficiency to licensed health personnel working under the auspices of the school. The information provided by the parent for health service delivery is confidential as provide by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and any other applicable laws.  I agree to coordinate and work with school personnel and the prescriber (if indicated) when questions arise.  I agree to provide safe delivery of the student’s equipment necessary for health service delivery to and from school and to pick up remaining equipment at the end of the school year.

 

Special Health Services Delivery:

                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                               

 

Procedures for abandoned medication disposal shall be in accordance with applicable laws.

 

                                                                                                /           /           
Prescriber’s Signature                                   Date

and credentials (when indicated for health service delivery)

 

                                                                                                                                   
Parent/Guardian Signature                     Date

 

_______________________________________             __________________________
Parent/Guardian address                                                                     Home phone

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:55

507.02E4 - Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Voluntary School Stock of Over-The-Counter Medication to Students

507.02E4 - Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Voluntary School Stock of Over-The-Counter Medication to Students

_________________________________      ___/___/___            _________________  ___/___/___
Student's Name (Last), (First), (Middle)           Birthday                   School                                    Date

 

The district supplies the following nonprescription, over-the-counter medications that are listed below. Generic brands may be substituted, (select all that apply:

  • Acetaminophen administered per manufacturer label
  • Throat Lozenges administered per manufacturer label
  • Ibuprofin  administered per manufacturer label
  • Other: ____________________ administered per manufacturer label (Please Specify)
  • Other: ____________________ administered per manufacturer label (Please Specify)
  • Other: ____________________ administered per manufacturer label (Please Specify)

Voluntary school stock of nonprescription, over-the-counter medications are administered following these guidelines:

  • Parent has provided a signed, dated annual authorization to administer of the nonprescription, over-the-counter medication(s) listed according to the manufacturer instructions. Electronic signature meets the requirement of written signature.
  • The nonprescription, over-the-counter medication is in the original, labeled container and dispensed per the manufacturing label.
  • All other nonprescription, over-the-counter medication not listed will require a written parent authorization and supply for the over-the counter medication.
  • Supplements are not nonprescription, over-the-counter medications approved by the Federal Drug Administration and are NOT applicable.
  • Nonprescription, over-the-counter medications approved by the Federal Drug Administration that require emergency medical service (EMS) notification after administration are NOT applicable.
  • Persons administering nonprescription, over-the-counter medication include licensed health personnel working under the auspices of the school and individuals, whom licensed health personnel have delegated the administration of medication with valid certification who have successfully completed a medication administration course approved by the department and annual medication administration procedural skills check.
    • Districts stocking the administration of a voluntary stock of nonprescription, over-the-counter medications, collaborate with licensed health personnel to develop and adopt a protocol shared with the parent to define at a minimum:
      • when to contact the parent when a nonprescription medication, over the counter medication is administered;
      • documentation of the administration of the nonprescription, over-the-counter medication and parent contact;
      • a limit to the administration of a school’s stock nonprescription, over-the-counter medications that would require a prescriber signature for further administration of a school’s nonprescription, over-the-counter medications for the remaining school year;
      • the development of an individual health plan for ongoing medication administration or health service delivery at school.

I request that the above-named student receive the voluntary stock nonprescription, over-the-counter medications supplied by the school in accordance with the district guidelines and protocol.

 

 

__________________________________________        _________________________
Parent Signature                                                                                              Date        

 

__________________________________________        _________________________
Parent/Guardian Address                                                                                   Home Phone                                                                                                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:57

507.05 - Emergency Plans and Drills

507.05 - Emergency Plans and Drills

Students will be informed of the appropriate action to take in an emergency.  Emergency drills for fire, weather, and other disasters are conducted each school year.  Fire and tornado drills are each conducted regularly during the academic school year with a minimum of two before December 31 and two after January 1.

Each attendance center will develop and maintain a written plan containing emergency and disaster procedures.  The plan will be communicated to and reviewed with employees.  Employees will participate in emergency drills.  Licensed employees are responsible for instructing the proper techniques to be followed in the drill.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 100.31

Cross Reference:  507        Student Health and Well-Being
   
                                    711.7     School Bus Safety Instruction
   
                                    804        Safety Program

Approved      1/18/21                             
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 13:59

507.06 - Student Insurance

507.06 - Student Insurance

Students will have the opportunity to participate in the health and accident insurance plan selected by the school district.  The cost of the health and accident insurance program is borne by the student.  Participation in the insurance health and accident plan is not a contract with the school district, but rather, a contract between the insurance company and the student.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:  504                                      Student Activities
   
                                    507                                      Student Health and Well-Being

Approved      1/18/21                             
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 14:01

507.07 - Custody and Parental Rights

507.07 - Custody and Parental Rights

Disagreements between family members are not the responsibility of the school district.  The school district will not take the "side" of one family member over another in a disagreement about custody or parental rights.  Court orders that have been issued are followed by the school district.  It is the responsibility of the person requesting an action by the school district to inform and provide the school district the court order allowing such action.

This policy does not prohibit an employee from listening to a student's problems and concerns.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure employees remain neutral in a disagreement about custody and parental rights.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 232.67, .70, .73, .75; 235A; 279.8; 710.6.
   
                                      441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.

Cross Reference:  506                                      Student Records
                                       507                                      Student Health and Well-Being

Approved   1/18/21                                
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 14:02

507.08 - Student Special Health Services

507.08 - Student Special Health Services

The board recognizes that some special education students need special health services during the school day.  These students will receive special health services in conjunction with their individualized health plan. 

The superintendent, in conjunction with licensed health personnel, will establish administrative regulations for the implementation of this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Board of Education v. Rowley, 458 U.S. 176 (1982).
                                         Springdale School District #50 v. Grace, 693 F.2d 41 (8th Cir. 1982).
                                         Southeast Warren Comm. School District v. Dept. of Public Instruction, 285 N.W.2d 173 (Iowa 1979).
                                         20 U.S.C. §§ 1400 et seq.
   
                                      34 C.F.R. Pt. 300 et seq.
   
                                      Iowa Code §§ 256.11(7); 256B; 273.2, .5, .9(2)-(3); 280.8.
   
                                      281 I.A.C. 14.2

Cross Reference:  502                                      Student Rights and Responsibilities
   
                                    506                                      Student Records
   
                                    603.3                                  Special Education

Approved      1/18/21                             
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 14:03

507.08R1 - Special Health Services Regulation

507.08R1 - Special Health Services Regulation

Some students who require special education need special health services in order to participate in the educational program.  These students will receive special health services in accordance with their individualized educational program.

 

A.    Definitions

"Assignment and delegation" - occurs when licensed health personnel, in collaboration with the education team, determine the special health services to be provided and the qualifications of individuals performing the health services.  Primary consideration is given to the recommendation of the licensed health personnel.  Each designation considers the student's special health service.  The rationale for the designation is documented.  If the designation decision of the team differs from the licensed health professional, team members may file a dissenting opinion.

"Co-administration" - the eligible student's participation in the planning, management and implementation of the student's special health service and demonstration of proficiency to licensed health personnel.

"Educational program" - includes all school curricular programs and activities both on and off school grounds.

"Education team" - may include the eligible student, the student's parent, administrator, teacher, licensed health personnel, and others involved in the student's educational program.

"Health assessment" - health data collection, observation, analysis, and interpretation relating to the eligible student's educational program.

"Health instruction" - education by licensed health personnel to prepare qualified designated personnel to deliver and perform special health services contained in the eligible student's health plan.  Documentation of education and periodic updates are on file at school.

"Individual health plan" - the confidential, written, preplanned and ongoing special health service in the educational program.  It includes assessment, planning, implementation, documentation, evaluation and a plan for emergencies.  The plan is updated as needed and at least annually.  Licensed health personnel develop this written plan with the education team.

"Licensed health personnel" - includes licensed registered nurse, licensed physician, and other licensed health personnel legally authorized to provide special health services and medications.

"Prescriber" - licensed health personnel legally authorized to prescribe special health services and medications.

"Qualified designated personnel" - persons instructed, supervised and competent in implementing the eligible student's health plan.

“Special health services" - includes, but is not limited to, services for eligible students whose health status (stable or unstable) requires:

    Interpretation or intervention,

    Administration of health procedures and health care, or

  • Use of a health device to compensate for the reduction or loss of a body function.

"Supervision" - the assessment, delegation, evaluation and documentation of special health services by licensed health personnel.  Levels of supervision include situations in which licensed health personnel are:   physically present.

    available at the same site.

    available on call.

 

B.     Licensed health personnel will provide special health services under the auspices of the school.  Duties of the licensed personnel include the duty to:

  • Participate as a member of the education team.
  • Provide the health assessment.
  • Plan, implement and evaluate the written individual health plan.
  • Plan, implement and evaluate special emergency health services.
  • Serve as liaison and encourage participation and communication with health service agencies and individuals providing health care.
  • Provide health consultation, counseling and instruction with the eligible student, the student's parent and the staff in cooperation and conjunction with the prescriber.
  • Maintain a record of special health services.  The documentation includes the eligible student's name, special health service, prescriber or person authorizing, date and time, signature and title of the person providing the special health service and any unusual circumstances in the provision of such services.
  • Report unusual circumstances to the parent, school administration, and prescriber.
  • Assign and delegate to, instruct, provide technical assistance and supervise qualified designated personnel.
  • Update knowledge and skills to meet special health service needs.

 

C.     Prior to the provision of special health services the following will be on file:

  • Written statement by the prescriber detailing the specific method and schedule of the special health service, when indicated.
  • Written statement by the student's parent requesting the provision of the special health service.
  • Written report of the preplanning staffing or meeting of the education team.
  • Written individual health plan available in the health record and integrated into the IEP or IFSP.

 

D.    Licensed health personnel, in collaboration with the education team, will determine the special health services to be provided and the qualifications of individuals performing the special health services.  The documented rationale will include the following:

  • Analysis and interpretation of the special health service needs, health status stability, complexity of the service, predictability of the service outcome and risk of improperly performed service.
  • Determination that the special health service, task, procedure or function is part of the person's job description.
  • Determination of the assignment and delegation based on the student's needs.
  • Review of the designated person's competency.
  • Determination of initial and ongoing level of supervision required to ensure quality services.

 

E.     Licensed health personnel will supervise the special health services, define the level of supervision and document the supervision.

 

F.     Licensed health personnel will instruct qualified designated personnel to deliver and perform special health services contained in the eligible individual health plan.  Documentation of instruction and periodic updates are on file at school.

 

G.    Parents will provide the usual equipment, supplies and necessary maintenance for such.  The equipment is stored in a secure area.  The personnel responsible for the equipment are designated in the individual health plan.  The individual health plan will designate the role of the school, parents, and others in the provision, supply, storage and maintenance of necessary equipment.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 14:04

507.09 - Wellness Policy

507.09 - Wellness Policy

The Maquoketa Valley Board of Education is committed to the optimal development of every student. The board believes for students to have the opportunity to achieve personal, academic, developmental, and social success, there needs to be a positive, safe, and health-promoting learning environment at every level, in every setting.    

The school district provides a comprehensive learning environment for developing and practicing lifelong wellness behaviors. The entire school environment, not just the classroom, shall be aligned with healthy school district goals to positively influence a student's understanding, beliefs and habits as they relate to good nutrition and regular physical activity. In accordance with law and this belief, the board commits to the following:

The school district will identify at least one goal in each of the following areas:

  • Nutrition Education and Promotion:  Schools will provide nutrition education and engage in nutrition promotion that helps students develop lifelong healthy eating behaviors.
  • Physical Activity: Schools will provide students with age and grade appropriate opportunities to engage in physical activity that meet the Iowa Healthy Kids Act.
  • Other School Based Activities that Promote Wellness: As appropriate, schools will support students, staff, and parents’ efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle. 

The following nutritional guidelines for food available on school campuses will be adhered to:

  • Meals served through the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program will be appealing and meet, at a minimum, nutrition requirements established by state and federal law;
  • Schools providing access to healthy foods outside the reimbursable meal programs before school, during school and thirty minutes after school shall meet the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) Smart Snacks in Schools nutrition standards, at a minimum.  This includes such items as those sold through a la carte lines, vending machines, student run stores, and fundraising activities;
  • Snacks provided to students during the school day without charge (e.g., class parties) will meet standards set by the district in accordance law. The district will provide parents a list of foods and beverages that meet nutrition standards for classroom snacks and celebrations; and
  • Schools will only allow marketing and advertising of foods and beverages that meet the Smart Snacks in school nutritional standards on campus during the school day.

The superintendent or superintendent’s designee shall implement and ensure compliance with the policy by:

  • Reviewing the policy at least every three years and recommending updates as appropriate for board approval;
  • Implementing a process for permitting parents, students, representatives of the school food authority, teachers of physical education, school health professionals, the school board, administrators and the public to participate in the development, implementation, and periodic review and update of the policy;
  • Making the policy and updated assessment of the implementation available to the public (e.g., posting on the website, newsletters, etc). This information shall include the extent to which the schools are in compliance with policy and a description of the progress being made in attaining the goals of the policy; and
  • Developing administrative regulations, which shall include specific wellness goals and indicators for measurement of progress consistent with law and district policy. 

The board promotes healthy students by supporting wellness, good nutrition and regular physical activity as a part of the total learning environment. The school district supports a healthy environment where students learn and participate in positive dietary and lifestyle practices. By facilitating learning through the support and promotion of good nutrition and physical activity, schools contribute to the basic health status of students. Improved health optimizes student performance potential.

The school district provides a comprehensive learning environment for developing and practicing lifelong wellness behaviors. The entire school environment, not just the classroom, shall be aligned with healthy school district goals to positively influence a student's understanding, beliefs and habits as they relate to good nutrition and regular physical activity.

The school district supports and promotes proper dietary habits contributing to students' health status and academic performance. All foods available on school grounds during the instructional day should meet or exceed the school district nutrition standards and in compliance with state and federal law. Foods should be served with consideration toward nutritional integrity, variety, appeal, taste, safety and packaging to ensure high-quality meals.

The school district will make every effort to eliminate any social stigma attached to, and prevent the overt identification of, students who are eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Toward this end, the school district may utilize electronic identification and payment systems; provide meals at no charge to all children, regardless of income; promote the availability of meals to all students; and/or use nontraditional methods for serving meals when needed.

The school district will develop a local wellness policy committee possibly comprised of parents, students, and representatives of the school food authority, the school board, school administrators, and the public, physical education teachers, and school health professionals. The local wellness policy committee will develop a plan to implement the local wellness policy and periodically review and update the policy. The committee will designate an individual to monitor implementation and evaluation the implementation of the policy. The committee will report to the board and community regarding the content and effectiveness of this policy and recommend updates if needed.

The specific Wellness Goals for the district include:

1. Nutrition Education and Promotion

• The school district will provide nutrition education and engage in nutrition promotion   that:

a) Is offered at each grade level as part of a sequential, comprehensive, standards-based program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote and protect their health.

2. Physical Activity

• The school district will provide physical education that:

a) is for all students in grades K-12 for the entire school year unless the student is granted an exemption as outlined by Iowa Code;

b) is taught by a certified physical education teacher;

c) includes students with disabilities, students with special health-care needs may be provided in alternative educational settings; and,

d) engages students in moderate to vigorous activity during at least 50 percent of physical education class time.

• Elementary schools should provide recess for students that:

a) is at least 15 minutes a day;

b) is preferably outdoors;

c) encourages moderate to vigorous physical activity verbally and through the provision of space and equipment; and,

d) When activities, such as mandatory school-wide testing, make it necessary for students to remain indoors for long periods of time, schools should give students periodic breaks during which they are encouraged to stand and be moderately active.

• Employees should not use physical activity (e.g., running laps, pushups) or withhold opportunities for physical activity (e.g., recess, physical education) as punishment.

3. Integrating Physical Activity into Classroom Settings

• For students to receive the nationally recommended amount of daily physical activity and for students to fully embrace regular physical activity as a personal behavior, students need opportunities for physical activity beyond the physical education class. Toward that end, the school district will:

a) offer classroom health education that complements physical education by reinforcing the knowledge and self-management skills needed to maintain a physically active lifestyle and to reduce time spent on sedentary activities,

b) discourage sedentary activities, such as watching television, playing computer games, etc.

• Communication with Parents

a) encourage parents to pack healthy lunches and snacks and to refrain from including beverages and foods that do not meet the established nutrition standards for individual foods and beverages;

b) provide parents a list of foods that meet the school district’s snack standards and ideas for healthy celebrations/parties, rewards and fundraising activities,

c) include sharing information about physical activity and physical education through a web site, newsletter, other take-home materials, special events or physical education homework.

• Food Marketing in Schools

a) limit food and beverage marketing to the promotion of foods and beverages that meet the nutrition standards for meals or for foods and beverages sold individually,

b) market activities that promote healthful behaviors (and are therefore allowable) including: vending machine covers promoting water; pricing structures that promote healthy options in a la carte lines or vending machines; sales of fruit for fundraisers; and coupons for discount gym memberships.

• Staff Wellness

a) establish and maintain a staff wellness committee composed of at least one staff member, local hospital representative, dietitian or other health professional, recreation program representative, union representative and employee benefits specialist.

4. School Meals

• Meals served through the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs will:

a) be appealing and attractive to children;

b) be served in clean and pleasant settings;

c) meet, at a minimum, nutrition requirements established by state and federal law:

d) offer a variety of fruits and vegetables, legumes and whole grains;

e) serve only low-fat (1%) and fat-free milk and nutritionally equivalent non-dairy alternatives (as defined by the USDA);

• To ensure that all children have breakfast, either at home or at school, in order to meet            their nutritional needs and enhance their ability to learn, schools will:

a) arrange bus schedules and utilize methods to serve breakfasts that encourage participation, including serving breakfast in the classroom, “grab-and-go” breakfasts or breakfast during morning break or recess, to the extent possible;

b) notify parents and students of the availability of the School Breakfast Program, where available; and,

c) encourage parents to provide a healthy breakfast for their children through newsletter articles, take-home materials or other means.

• Free and Reduced-Priced Meals

a) The school district will make every effort to eliminate any social stigma attached to, and prevent the overt identification of, students who are eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Toward this end, the school district may:

1. utilize electronic identification and payment systems;

2. provide meals at no charge to all children, regardless of income; and,

3. promote the availability of meals to all students.

• Meal Times and Scheduling

a) Will try to provide students with at least 10 minutes to eat after sitting down for breakfast and 20 minutes after sitting down for lunch;

b) Will try to schedule meal periods at appropriate times, e.g., lunch should be scheduled between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; should not schedule tutoring, club or organizational meetings

or activities during mealtimes, unless students may eat during such activities;

c) Will try to schedule lunch periods to follow recess periods (in elementary schools);

d) will provide students access to hand washing or hand sanitizing before they eat meals or snacks; and,

e) should take reasonable steps to accommodate the tooth-brushing regimens of students with special oral health needs (e.g., orthodontia or high tooth decay risk).

• Qualification of Food Service Staff

a) provide continuing professional development for all nutrition professionals,

b) provide staff development programs that include appropriate certification and/or training programs for child nutrition directors, nutrition managers and cafeteria workers, according to their levels of responsibility.

• Sharing of Foods

a) The school district discourages students from sharing their foods or beverages with one another during meal or snack times, given concerns about allergies and other restrictions on some children’s diets.

• Foods Sold Outside the Meal (e.g. vending, a la carte, sales)

a) All foods and beverages sold individually outside the reimbursable meal programs (including those sold through a la carte [snack] lines, vending machines, student stores or fundraising activities) during the school day, or through programs for students after the school day will meet nutrition standards as required by state or federal law.

• Fundraising Activities

a) There are two types of fundraising – regulated and other. Regulated fundraisers are those that offer the sale of foods or beverages on school property and that are targeted primarily to PK-12 students by or through other PK-12 students, student groups, school organizations, or through oncampus school stores. Regulated fundraising activities must comply with the state nutrition

guidelines. All other fundraising activities are encouraged, but not required, to comply with the state nutrition guidelines if the activities involve foods and beverages.

• Snacks

a) Snacks served during the school day or in after-school care or enrichment programs will make a positive contribution to children’s diets and health, with an emphasis on serving fruits and vegetables as the primary snacks and water as the primary beverage. Schools will assess if and when to offer snacks based on timing of meals, children’s nutritional needs, children’s ages and other considerations. The school district will disseminate a list of healthful snack

items to teachers, after-school program personnel and parents.

• Rewards

a) The school district will not use foods or beverages, (including food served through meals) as a punishment.

• Celebrations

a) Schools should evaluate their celebrations practices that involve food during the school day.The school  district will disseminate a list of healthy party ideas to parents and teachers.

• School-Sponsored Events

a) Foods and beverages offered or sold at school-sponsored events outside the school day are encouraged to meet the nutrition standards for meals or for foods and beverages sold individually.

• Food Safety

a) All foods made available on campus comply with the state and local food safety and sanitation regulations. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans and guidelines are implemented to prevent food illness in schools.

5. Monitoring

• The superintendent or designee will ensure compliance with established school district-wide nutrition and physical activity wellness policies.

a) In each school:

1. the principal will ensure compliance with those policies in the school and will report on the school’s compliance to the superintendent or designee; and,

2. The district’s Head Cook will ensure compliance with nutrition policies within food service areas and will report on this matter to the superintendent, principal or designee.

b) In the school district:

1. the school district will report on the most recent USDA School Meals Initiative (SMI) review findings and any resulting changes. If the school district has not received a SMI review from the state agency within the past five years, the school district will request from the state agency that a SMI review be scheduled as soon as possible,

 

Policy Review

As part of that review, the school district will review the nutrition and physical activity policies and practices and the provision of an environment that supports healthy eating and physical activity. The district in conjunction with the Wellness Team will set yearly goals to try and achieve the goals outlined in this policy. The school district will revise the wellness policies at the conclusion of yearly Wellness Team meeting and develop work plans to facilitate their implementation.

 

 

Legal Reference:  42 U.S.C. §§ 1751 et seq.
 
 
                                    42 U.S.C. §§ 1771 et seq
                                      
Iowa Code §§ 256.7(29); 256.11(6).
                                      
281 I.A.C. 12.5; 58.11.

 

Cross Reference:  504.5    Student Fund Raising
                              504.6    Student Activity Program
                              710       School Food Service

Approved      1/18/21         
Reviewed                  
Revised           

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 14:05

508 - Miscellaneous Student-Related Matters

508 - Miscellaneous Student-Related Matters dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 14:09

508.01 - Class or Student Group Gifts

508.01 - Class or Student Group Gifts

The board welcomes gifts to the school district from a class or student group.  While class gifts to the school district do not require the approval of the superintendent, the board encourages students to consult with the superintendent or other licensed employees prior to selecting a gift for the school district.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 68B; 722.1, .2.

Cross Reference:  704.4                                      Gifts - Grants - Bequests

Approved     1/18/21                              
Reviewed                                                                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 14:09

508.02 - Open Night

508.02 - Open Night

In keeping with good community relations, student school activities will not be scheduled on Wednesday night beyond 6:00 p.m. whenever possible.  It is the responsibility of the principal to oversee the scheduling of school activities for compliance with this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:  900 Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

Approved     1/18/21                  
Reviewed                               
Revised                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 14:10