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                   

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                   

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                   

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                   

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                   

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                   

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                   

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      

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                   

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                   

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      

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    

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      

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                   

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                   

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                   

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                   

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                   

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                   

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     

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

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             

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                   

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                     

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                   

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.

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                                              

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                   

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                   

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                           

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        

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                   

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                   

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                   

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                   

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             

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                   

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      

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                   

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    

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       

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                   

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                   

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:

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:

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

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