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.  However, 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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
102      School District Instructional Organization
501      Student Attendance

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 shall be 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, 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 the third Friday in September may be allowed to attend without the payment of tuition.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
501      Student Attendance

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 school is in session in accordance with the school calendar.  Students of compulsory attendance age will attend school a minimum of [168 days or 1040 hours].  Students not attending the minimum days 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 attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
• 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.

The principal will investigate the cause for a student's truancy.  If the principal is unable to secure the truant student's attendance, the principal should discuss the next step with the school board.  If after school board action, the student is still truant, principal will refer the matter over to the county attorney.

The school will participate in mediation if requested by the county attorney.  The superintendent will represent the school district in mediation.  The school district will monitor the student's compliance with the mediation agreement and will report violations of the mediation agreement to the county attorney.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 pre-pre-kindergarten program.  The child must be age six on or prior to September 15 to begin the first grade of the education program.

The board shall require evidence of age and residency in the form of a birth certificate or other evidence before the student may enroll in the school district's education program.  It shall be 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 shall be reason for suspension, expulsion or denying admission to the student.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016
Revised:     January 2015

 

The Board shall determine the boundaries for each attendance center. District Administration shall determine assignment of students to an attendance center based on any boundaries determined by the Board.

Efforts shall be made to maintain elementary (K-4) class sizes of 23 or fewer students. Placement of elementary students may be made based on class size, program needs of students, and other factors on a case-by-case basis. However, every effort shall be made to keep siblings together that would attend in the same building.

In compliance with HF 598, parents or guardians may request that twin siblings (or other levels of multiples) be placed in the same classroom or different classrooms. This request shall be honored unless the principal determines that the placement would create a classroom disruption. After the first grading period of the school year, the principal and the students’ teachers may determine that the placement was disruptive and the students can be placed in different classes.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
501      Student Attendance

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  December 2019
Revised:     January 2020

 

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 shall 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 shall 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.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Regular attendance by students 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 shall attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center.

Student absences approved by the principal shall be excused absences.  Excused absences shall count as days in attendance for purposes of the truancy law.  These absences include, but are not limited to, illness, family emergencies, recognized religious observances, appointments that cannot be scheduled outside the school day and school-sponsored or approved activities.

Students whose absences are approved shall make up the work missed and receive full credit for the missed school work.  It shall be the responsibility of the student to initiate a procedure with the student's teacher to complete the work missed.

Students who wish to participate in school-sponsored activities must attend school in the afternoon of the day of the activity unless permission has been given by the principal for the student to be absent.

It shall be the responsibility of the parent to notify the student's attendance center as soon as the parent knows the student will not be attending school on that day.  The principal may request evidence or written verification of the student's reason for absence.

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

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 shall 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 shall include, but not be limited to, tardiness or shopping.  Truancy will not be tolerated by the board.

Students are subject to disciplinary action for truancy including suspension and expulsion.  It shall be 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 in-school suspension unless the goals and objectives of the student's Individualized Education Program are capable of being met.

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

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Students may be allowed to leave the school district facilities when they are not scheduled to be in class.  Students who violate school rules may have this privilege suspended.

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

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

The board encourages pregnant students to continue to attend the education program as long as they are physically able.  The pregnant student may notify the principal or the guidance counselor as soon as she is aware of the pregnancy.  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 her pregnancy, the student may be excused and arrangements made to continue her studies during her absence.  The student shall resume classes upon the recommendation of her physician.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
501      Student Attendance
604.2   Individualized Instruction

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

The board encourages married students to continue attending the education program in order to graduate.

Married students may attend without paying tuition as long as they are eligible to attend an Iowa public school and are a resident of the school district.

If requested, a married student with family responsibilities may have classes scheduled in blocks so as much time as possible can be spent fulfilling family responsibilities.  Husbands and wives will not necessarily be scheduled in the same class sections.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
501      Student Attendance

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
501      Student Attendance
506      Student Records

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 pre-pre-kindergarten in the school district are exempt from the open enrollment March 1 deadline.  Parents of children who will begin pre-pre-kindergarten 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. 

The board may approve a student's request to allow the receiving district, up to two miles, 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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
501      Student Attendance
506      Student Records

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 pre-pre-kindergarten applications; good cause application; or continuation of an educational program application filed by the third Thursday of the following September.

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.  The superintendent will also forward a copy of the school district’s action with a copy of the open enrollment request to the Iowa Department of Education.

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.

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.

Generally, students in grades nine through twelve open enrolling into the school district will not be eligible for participation in interscholastic athletics, at the varsity level, during the first ninety school days of open enrollment into the school district.

Parents are responsible for providing transportation to and from the receiving school district without reimbursement unless the parents qualify for transportation assistance.  Upon a parent's request, the board may approve transportation into the sending district.  (The transportation is limited to within two miles of the district boundary/current bus route.)  The board's approval is subject to the sending district's approval.

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.

 

 

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
606.8   Insufficient Classroom Space

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

The board will make reasonable efforts to identify homeless children and youth of school age within the district, encourage their enrollment and eliminate existing barriers to their receiving an education which may exist in district policies or practices.  The designated coordinator for identification of homeless children and for tracking and monitoring programs and activities for these children is the homeless liaison.

 

 

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:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

The board believes appropriate student appearance will not cause a material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present 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 shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Students shall treat school district property with care and respect.  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 shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative rules regarding this policy.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
802.1   Maintenance Schedule

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Riding a bicycle or a motorized bike to school and parking it at the student's attendance center is a privilege.  Students who fail to follow the regulations set by the building principal will be subject to withdrawal of the privilege to ride a bicycle to the attendance center and may also be subject to other disciplinary action.

It shall be the responsibility of the principal to develop and enforce administrative rules for students riding bicycles to and parking them at the attendance center.

 

 

Cross Reference:          502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 must have completed 8^th grade.

Students who drive to and park at their school attendance center shall only drive to and park at their designated attendance center.  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 High School Principal. 

Students who live within one mile of school are not allowed a school permit. School permits shall be administered by the High School Principal.

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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016
Revised:     July 2019

    

Student expression, other than student expression in student-produced official school publications, made on the school district premises or under the jurisdiction of the school district or as part of a school-sponsored activity may be attributed to the school district; therefore, student expression must be responsible.  Student expression must be appropriate to assure 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.

Students will be allowed to express their viewpoints and opinions as long as the expression is responsible.  The expression shall not, in the judgment of the administration, encourage the breaking of laws, defame others, be obscene or indecent, or cause a material and substantial disruption to the educational program.  The administration, when making this judgment, shall 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.  Further, 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.

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

 

 

Cross Reference:         
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
504      Student Activities
603.9   Academic Freedom
904.5   Distribution of Materials

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 three school days of the employee's decision.  If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within three school 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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
214.1   Board Meeting Agenda
215      Public Participation in Board Meetings
309      Communication Channels
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
504.3   Student Publications

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 may 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 or dangerous objects will be reported to law enforcement officials, and students may 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.

Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials are exempt from this policy.  The principal may allow authorized persons to display weapons, other dangerous objects or look-a-likes for educational purposes.  Such a display will also be exempt from this policy.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

The board prohibits the distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol, tobacco, other controlled substances, or "look alike" substances that appear to be tobacco, beer, wine, 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 buses; 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.

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 may result in disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.  Use, purchase or being in possession of cigarettes, tobacco or tobacco products for those under the age of eighteen, may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.  Possession, use or being under the influence of beer, wine, 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 abuse 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 abuse prevention program shall include:

• Age-appropriate, developmentally-based drug and alcohol curriculum for students in grades pre-pre-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 peer pressure to use tobacco, drugs or alcohol;
• A statement to students that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful;
• Standards of conduct for students that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, being under the influence of or distribution of illicit drugs and 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 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 shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 shall be 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, shall not create a protected student area and shall 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, 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 buses; 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 shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
503      Student Discipline

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 shall be made through the principal's office.  Upon receiving a request, it shall be the responsibility of the principal to determine whether the request will be granted.  Generally, prior to granting a request, the principal shall 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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
402.2   Child Abuse Reporting
502.10 Search and Seizure
503      Student Discipline
902.4   Students and the News Media

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

High school students may have a formal process for involvement in the decisions affecting the school district.  In making the appointments, the superintendent shall strive to represent the many facets of the student population.

Recommendations from the committee to the superintendent or to the board shall be advisory in nature.  Recommendations representing a major change from the current education program and school district operations shall be brought to the board through a recommendation by the superintendent.  Recommendations representing little change in the education program or school district operations may be approved by the superintendent.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
209      Committees of the Board of Directors
215      Public Participation in Board Meetings

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Harassment of students by other students will not be tolerated in the school district.  This policy is in effect while students are on school grounds, school district property, or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-owned and/or school-operated vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.

Harassment prohibited by the school district includes, but is not limited to, harassment, including bullying, on the basis of race, sex, creed, color, national origin, religion, marital status or disability.  Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy after an investigation will be disciplined, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.

Sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's performance or creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile learning environment.

Sexual harassment as set out above, may include, but is not limited to the following:

• verbal or written harassment or abuse;
• pressure for sexual activity;
• repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications;
• unwelcome touching;
• suggesting or demanding sexual involvement, accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, achievements, etc.

Harassment on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, marital status or disability means conduct of a verbal or physical nature that is designed to unreasonably embarrass, distress, agitate, disturb or trouble students when             such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's performance or creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile learning environment.

Harassment as set forth above may include, but is not limited to the following:

• verbal, physical or written harassment, bullying or abuse;
• repeated remarks of a demeaning nature;
• implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, achievements, etc.;
• demeaning jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student.

The district will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of harassment.  The building principal will be responsible for handling all complaints by students alleging harassment.

Retaliation against a student because the student has filed a harassment complaint or assisted or participated in a harassment investigation or proceeding is also prohibited, however, the superintendent has the right to discipline students who knowingly file false harassment complaints.  A student who is found to have retaliated against another in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.

It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the investigator and principals, to develop administrative rules regarding this policy.  The superintendent will also be responsible for organizing training programs for students and employees.  The training will include how to recognize harassment and what to do in case a student is harassed.  It will also include effective harassment prevention strategies.  The superintendent will also develop a process for evaluating the effectiveness of the policy by reducing harassment in the school district.  The superintendent shall report to the board on the progress of reducing harassment in the school district.

 

 

Cross References:       
403.6   Harassment
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
503      Student Discipline
506      Student Records

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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; while attending or engaged in school district activities will be suspended by the administrator.  Notice of the suspension is sent to the board president.  The board will review the suspension to determine whether to impose further sanctions against the student which may include expulsion.  Assault for purposes of this section of this policy is defined as:

• 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 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.

Following the suspension of a special education student, an informal evaluation of the student's placement will take place.  The Individual Education Program (IEP) is evaluated to determine whether it needs to be changed or modified in response to the behavior that led to the suspension.

If a special education student's suspensions, either in or out of school, equal ten days on a cumulative basis, a staffing team will meet to determine whether the IEP is appropriate.

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

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 shall be 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 shall be 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 shall keep records of expulsions in addition to the board's records.

When a student is recommended for expulsion by the board, the student shall be 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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
503      Student Discipline

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 central office secretary 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.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Participation in school activities are 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 shall keep records of violations of the good conduct rule.

It shall be 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.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional physical punishment of a student and is prohibited.  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.

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 shall be given an explanation of the reasons for physical force.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

The board believes in having a cooperative and collaborative working relationship with the local law enforcement and juvenile justice agencies.  The goal of this relationship is to help reduce juvenile crime and foster a safer, more structured educational environment.

The District may report to local law enforcement:

1. The use or possession of any alcoholic beverage or controlled substance on school premises, if such use is violative of school policy or state law.
2. The use or possession of any dangerous weapon on school premises.
3. The names of students, between grades 7-12, not attending the minimum days required for compulsory attendance after satisfactory investigation is conducted by school officials to ascertain the cause of the truancy.

The District, pursuant to an interagency agreement with the juvenile justice system, including the juvenile court, the department of human services, and local law enforcement authorities, may share information contained within a student’s permanent record.  The disclosure of this information must be directly related to the juvenile justice system’s ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records are being released.

School officials can report crimes committed by students receiving services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and transmit their disciplinary records to appropriate juvenile justice agency to the same extent they do for crimes by students not receiving IDEA services shall transmit copies of the child’s special education and disciplinary records to the authorities.  This disclosure shall be directly related to the juvenile justice system’s ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records are being released.  If disclosure of the records is made after adjudication, parental consent must be obtained prior to the disclosure.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
501.1 Truancy-Unexcused Absences
502.8 Weapons
502.9 Smoking-Drinking-Drugs
506.1 Student Records Access

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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, shall set forth the guidelines for the student government's elections, operations, and other elements of the government.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
504      Student Activities

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Secondary and/or student-initiated curriculum-related organizations and secondary and/or student-initiated non-curriculum-related organizations are encouraged.

Curriculum-Related Organizations

It shall be the responsibility of the building 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 and/or student-initiated curriculum-related student organizations, upon receiving permission from the Principal, may use District facilities for meetings and other purposes 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. The Principal has the discretion to determine whether the meetings will interfere with the orderly conduct of the education program or other District operations. Activities relating to any part of the education program will have priority over the activities of another organization.

Employees are assigned to monitor approved meetings and may interact with curriculum-related organizations.

Non-Curriculum-Related Organizations

Secondary and/or student-initiated non-curriculum-related organizations are provided access to meeting space and District facilities. Only students may attend and participate in meetings of non-curriculum-related organizations. 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.

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

 

Cross Reference:         
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
504      Student Activities

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  January 2020
Revised:  January 2020
 

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 shall 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 shall be 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, shall follow the grievance procedure outlined in board policy 214.1.  Students who believe their freedom of expression in a student-produced official school publication has been restricted shall follow the grievance procedure outlined in board policy 502.6.

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

 

 

Cross Reference:         
309      Communication Channels
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
504      Student Activities

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

School-sponsored social events shall be approved by the principal and placed on the school calendar prior to public announcement.  They shall be under the control and supervision of employees.  The hours and activities of the event shall be reasonable and in keeping with board policy.

School-sponsored social events are open to the students enrolled in the school district.  Others, such as alumni or nonschool students, may attend as the date or escort of students enrolled in the school district or with the permission of the licensed employees supervising the event.

Students' behavior shall be in keeping with the behavior required during regular school hours.

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

 

 

Cross Reference:         
404      Employee Conduct and Appearance
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
503      Student Discipline

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 shall be 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 shall be 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 shall be the responsibility of the parent and the student.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the board, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Coordination of education programs with local businesses can benefit the school district community.  When mutually acceptable arrangements can be made between a local business and the board, secondary students may work for a local business to obtain school credit.

Such programs must be compatible with the education program and have the approval of the board.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to pursue such arrangements with local businesses.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
603      Instructional Curriculum

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 with approval of the high school principal.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for each school activity.  These regulations shall 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.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Students shall take a predetermined number and type of courses to graduate.  Where students have a choice in course offerings, the school district will try to allow students to take the course of their choice.  Courses with limited space will be allocated to those who first apply for the course or need it for graduation.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the course offerings for each year for the grade levels. 

 

 

Cross Reference:         
505      Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Students shall receive a progress report each of each grading period.  Students, who are doing poorly, and their parents, shall be notified prior to the end of each grading period 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 each grading period.

Parent-teacher conferences will be held prior to the end of each grading period to keep the parents informed.  The conferences at the middle or high school are not individually scheduled.

Parents, teachers, or principals may request a conference for students in grades pre-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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
505      Student Scholastic Achievement
506      Student Records

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 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 course work 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.

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

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

The school district shall 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 shall be 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 shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
504      Student Activities
505      Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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, to submit to a survey, analysis or evaluation that reveals information concerning:

• political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent:
• 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
• income,(other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program).

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.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Requirements

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

The Superintendent will ensure that students complete grades one through twelve and that high school students complete 50 credits prior to graduation.  The following credits will be required:

Language Arts            8    credits

Science                          6    credits

Mathematics                6    credits

Social Studies             6    credits

Physical Education    4    semesters

Electives                      20  credits

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

Graduation requirements for special education students will be in accordance with the prescribed course of study as described in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). Each student's IEP will include a statement of the projected date of graduation at least 18 months in advance of the projected date and the criteria to be used in determining whether graduation will occur. Prior to the special education student's graduation, the IEP team shall determine whether the graduation criteria have been met.  

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.

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 a District. However, the student who graduates early may participate in that year's prom and commencement exercises.

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 District. The Principal will 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

 

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

Revised:  April 2022

 

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 that year's prom and commencement exercises.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
505      Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 shall be 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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
505      Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

In meeting the needs of the students, the board may grant credit by performance testing for course work which is ordinarily included in the school district curriculum.  Students wishing to receive credit by testing shall have the approval of the superintendent prior to taking the test.  Testing for credit may only be utilized prior to the offering of a course.  Once the course has begun, students must attend the class and complete the required work for credit.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
505      Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Parental involvement is an important component in a student’s success in school.  The board encourages parents to become involved in their child’s education to ensure the child’s academic success.  The board will:

(In each of the following six items, the board must describe in policy how it will accomplish each of the items.)

1. how the board will involve parents in the development of the Title I plan, the process for school review of the plan and the process for improvement;

2. how the board will provide the coordination, technical assistance and other support necessary to assist participating schools in planning and implementing effective parent involvement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance;

3. build the schools’ and parents’ capacity for strong parental involvement;

4. coordinate and integrate parental involvement strategies under Title I with other programs such as Head Start, Reading First, etc.;

5. conduct with the involvement of parents, an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness of the parental involvement 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, minorities, parents with disabilities and parents with low literacy) and use the findings of the evaluation to design strategies for more effective parental involvement and to revise, as necessary, the parental involvement policies; and

6. involve parents in Title I activities.

The board will review this policy annually.  The superintendent is responsible for notifying parents of this policy annually or within a reasonable time after it has been amended during the school year.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy

 

 

Cross References:        
904.2   Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

The board recognizes the importance of maintaining student records and preserving their confidentiality.  Student records containing personally identifiable information are kept confidential at collection, storage, disclosure and destruction stages.  The board secretary is the custodian of student records.  Student records may be maintained in the central administration office or administrative office of the student's attendance center.  Student is defined as an enrolled individual, PK-12 including children in school district sponsored child-care programs.

Parents and eligible students will have access to the student's records during the regular business hours of the school district.  An eligible student is a student who has reached eighteen years of age or is attending an institution of postsecondary education at the post high school level.  Parents of an eligible student are provided access to the student 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.  A representative of the parents or eligible student, who has received written permission from the parents or eligible student, may inspect and review a special education student's records.  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 may inspect an instrument used for the purpose of collection of student personal information prior to the instrument’s use.  Parents may inspect an instrument used for the purpose of collection of student personal information prior to the instrument’s use.

A student 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 them selves, or be informed of the information.

Parents and eligible students will have a right to access the student's records upon request without unnecessary delay and in no instance more than forty-five calendar days after the request is made.  Parents, an eligible student or an authorized representative of the parents will have the right to access the student's records prior to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting or hearing.

Copies of student records will be provided if failure to do so would effectively prevent the parents or student from exercising the right to access the student 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 student records. 

Upon the request of parents or an eligible student, the school district will provide an explanation and interpretation of the student 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 student records is inaccurate, misleading or violates the privacy or other rights of the student, the parents or an eligible student may request that the school district amend the student records.  The school district will decide whether to amend the student records within a reasonable time after receipt of the request.  If the school district determines an amendment is made to the student record, the school district will make the amendment and inform the parents or the eligible student of the decision in writing.

If the school district determines that amendment of the student's 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.

If the parents' and the eligible student's request to amend the 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 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 records will become a part of the student record and be maintained like other student records.  If the school district discloses the student records, the explanation by the parents will also be disclosed.

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

• 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 student 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 financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received if the information is necessary to receive the financial aid;
• to organizations conducting educational studies and the study does not release personally identifiable information;
• 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;
• consistent with an interagency agreement between the school district and juvenile justice agencies;
• in connection with a health or safety emergency; or,
• as directory information.

The superintendent will keep a list of the individuals and their positions who are authorized to view a special education student's 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 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 records.  This list for a student record may be accessed by the parents, the eligible student and the custodian of student records. 

Permanent student records, including a student's name, address, phone number, grades, attendance records, classes attended, grade level completed and year completed may be maintained without time limitation.  Permanent student records will be kept in a fire-safe vault.

When personally identifiable information, other than permanent student records, no longer needs to be maintained by the school district 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.  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.

The school district will cooperate with the juvenile justice system in sharing information contained in permanent student records regarding students who have become involved with the juvenile justice system.  The school district will enter into an interagency agreement with the juvenile justice agency (agencies) involved.

The purpose of the agreement is to allow for the sharing of information prior to a student's adjudication in order to promote and collaborate between the school district and the agencies to improve school safety, reduce alcohol and illegal drug use, reduce truancy, reduce in-school and out-of-school suspensions, and to support alternatives to in-school and out-of-school suspensions and expulsions which provide structured and well supervised educational programs supplemented by coordinated and appropriate services designed to correct behaviors that lead to truancy, suspension, and expulsions and to support students in successfully completing their education.

The school district may share any information with the agencies contained in a student's permanent record, which is directly related to the juvenile justice system's ability to effectively serve the student.  Prior to adjudication information contained in the permanent record may be disclosed by the school district to the parties without parental consent or court order.  Information contained in a student's permanent record may be disclosed by the school district to the agencies after adjudication only with parental consent or a court order.  Information shared pursuant to the agreement is used solely for determining the programs and services appropriate to the needs of the student or student's family or coordinating the delivery of programs and services to the student or student's family. 

Information shared under the agreement is not admissible in any court proceedings, which take place prior to a disposition hearing, unless written consent is obtained from a student's parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian.

Confidential information shared between the school district and the agencies will remain confidential and will not be shared with any other person, unless otherwise provided by law.

Information shared under the agreement is not admissible in any court proceedings, which take place prior to a disposition hearing, unless written consent is obtained from a student's parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian.  The school district may discontinue information sharing with an agency if the school district determines that the agency has violated the intent or letter of the agreement.

Agencies will contact the principal of the attendance center where the student is currently or was enrolled.  The principal will then forward copies of the records within 10 business days of the request.

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 of their right to inspect and review the student's records.  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. 20202-4605.

 

 

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
901.1   Public Examination of School District Records

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016
Revised:     February 2009

 

Student directory information is designed to be used internally within the school district.  Directory information is defined in the annual notice.  It may include the student's name, grade level, enrollment status, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, photograph and other likeness, and other similar information.

Prior to developing a student directory or to giving general information to the public, parents 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.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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

 

 

Cross Reference:         
506      Student Records

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Student library circulation records are designed to be used internally to assist in the orderly administration of the school district libraries and media center.  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 shall be the school 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 shall be charged.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the school librarian, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
506      Student Records

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Students desiring to participate in athletic activities or enrolling in pre-pre-kindergarten or first grade in the school district shall 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 shall be on file at the attendance center.  Each student shall 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 shall 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.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016
Revised:     January 2015

 

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.

When administration of the medication requires ongoing professional health judgment, an individual health plan shall be developed by an authorized practitioner with the student and the student's parent.  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 or other airway constricting diseases 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 physician, and persons to whom authorized practitioners have delegated the administration of medication (who have successfully completed a medication administration course).  A medication administration course and periodic update shall be conducted by a registered nurse or licensed pharmacist, and 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.  Emergency protocols for medication-related reactions shall be posted.  Medication information shall be confidential information as provided by law

Disposal of unused, discontinued/recalled, or expired medication 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.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016
Revised:     February 2016

 

Students with a communicable disease will be allowed to attend school provided their presence does not create a substantial risk of illness or transmission to other students or employees.  The term "communicable disease" shall mean an infectious or contagious disease spread from person to person, or animal to person, or as defined by law.

Prevention and control of communicable diseases shall be included in the school district's bloodborne pathogens exposure control plan.  The procedures shall include scope and application, definitions, exposure control, methods of compliance, universal precautions, vaccination, post-exposure evaluation, follow-up, communication of hazards to employees and record keeping.  This plan shall be reviewed annually by the superintendent and school nurse.

The health risk to immunodepressed students shall be determined by their personal physician.  The health risk to others in the school district environment from the presence of a student with a communicable disease shall be determined on a case-by-case basis by the student's personal physician, a physician chosen by the school district or public health officials.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the school nurse, to develop administrative regulations stating the procedures for dealing with students with a communicable disease.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
403.3   Communicable Diseases - Employees
506      Student Records
507      Student Health and Well-Being

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

When a student becomes ill or is injured at school, the school district shall attempt to notify the student's parents as soon as possible.

The school district, while not responsible for medical treatment of an ill or injured student, will have employees present administer emergency or minor first aid if possible.  An ill or injured child will be turned over to the care of the parents or qualified medical employees as quickly as possible.

It shall be the responsibility of the principal to file an accident report with the superintendent within twenty-four hours after the student is injured.

Annually, parents shall be required to complete a medical emergency authorization form indicating the procedures to be followed, if possible, in an emergency involving their child.  The authorization form will also include the phone numbers of the parents and alternative numbers to call in case of an injury or illness.

The superintendent shall be responsible, in conjunction with the school nurse, to develop rules and regulations governing the procedure in the event a student should become ill or be injured at school.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
507      Student Health and Well-Being

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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

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

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

Students shall 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 shall be 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.

Students participating in intramural or extracurricular athletics shall be required to have health and accident insurance.  The student shall bring written proof of insurance or participate in the health and accident insurance program selected by the school district.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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 shall be followed by the school district.  It shall be 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 shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure employees remain neutral in a disagreement about custody and parental rights.

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

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

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

 

 

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

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

The board promotes healthy students by supporting wellness, good nutrition and regular physical activity as a part of the total learning environment.  The Webster City 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 Webster City 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 Webster City School District supports and promotes proper dietary habits contributing to students' health status and academic performance.  All foods available on school grounds and at school-sponsored activities during the instructional day should meet or exceed the school district nutrition standards. Foods should be served with consideration toward nutritional integrity, variety, appeal, taste, safety and packaging to ensure high-quality meals. 

The Webster City 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.  The school district utilizes electronic identification and payment systems. If circumstances warrant, an alternate meal will be provided at no cost to the student.

The Webster City School District will develop a local wellness policy committee comprised of representatives of the board, parents, leaders in food/exercise authority and employees.  The local wellness policy committee will develop a plan to implement and measure the local wellness policy and monitor the effectiveness of the policy.  The committee will designate an individual to monitor implementation and evaluation the implementation of the policy.  The committee will report annually to the board regarding the effectiveness of this policy.

Public Involvement:  There is 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.  The superintendent or superintendent’s designee invites suggestions or comments concerning the development, implementation, and improvement of the school wellness policy.  As such, interested persons are encouraged to contact the superintendent or superintendent’s designee.

Specific Wellness Goals:

• specific goals for nutrition education, (see Appendix A)
• physical activity, (see Appendix B)
• other school-based activities that are designed to promote student wellness, (see Appendix C)

The nutrition guidelines for all foods available with the objective of promoting student health and reducing childhood obesity (see Appendix D).

The board will monitor and evaluate this policy. (See Appendix E)

Appendix A

Nutrition Education and Promotion

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

• 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;
• is part of not only health education classes, but also classroom instruction in subjects such as math, science, language arts, social sciences and elective subjects;
• emphasizes caloric balance between food intake and physical activity;

Appendix B

Physical Activity

Daily Physical Education

The school district will provide physical education that:

• is for elementary, middle and high school students:
  • All kindergarten through fourth grade students participates in physical education class for 60 minutes per six-day cycle, for an average of 10 minutes per day.
  • All fifth and sixth grade students participate in physical education class for 94 minutes per six-day cycle, for an average of 16 minutes per day.
  • All seventh and eighth grade students participate in physical education class 141 minutes per six-day cycle, for an average of 24 minutes per day.
  • All ninth through twelfth grade students participate in physical education class 165 minutes per week during one semester per year for an average of 33 minutes per day.
• Physical education includes students with disabilities.  Some students with special health-care needs are provided physical activity in alternative settings;
• Students are taught by certified physical education teachers;
• Students involved in extra-curricular activities (e.g., interscholastic or intramural sports, music, etc.) are required to participate in the physical education classes; and,
• Students are engaged in moderate to vigorous activity during at least 50 percent of physical education class time.

Daily Recess

Elementary schools should provide recess for students that:

• is at least 40 minutes a day;
• is preferably outdoors; and
• encourages moderate to vigorous physical activity verbally and through the provision of space and equipment.

Middle School:

• All fifth and sixth grade students have recess after lunch hour each day for twenty minutes per day.
• A few students miss recess each day to make up late work or to serve detentions for poor behavior.
• Recess is played outdoors whenever the weather allows.
• Recess supervisors encourage students to be involved in moderate to vigorous physical activities.

Athletics

• All seventh and eighth grade students can participate in a sport during each athletic season.  Practices are held four days per week and typically last 90 minutes.

Appendix C

Other School-Based Activities that Promote Student Wellness

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 Webster City School District will:

• 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;
• discourage sedentary activities, such as watching television, playing computer games, etc.;
• provide opportunities for physical activity to be incorporated into other subject lessons; and,
• encourage classroom teachers to provide short physical activity breaks between lessons or classes, as appropriate.

Communication with Parents

The Webster City School District will support parents’ efforts to provide a healthy diet and daily physical activity for their children.  The Webster City School District will:

• provide information about physical education and other school-based physical activity opportunities before, during and after the school day;
• support parents’ efforts to provide their children with opportunities to be physically active outside of school; and,
• include sharing information about physical activity and physical education through a web site, newsletter, other take-home materials, special events or physical education homework.

Staff Wellness

The Webster City School District values the health and well-being of every staff member and will plan and implement activities and policies that support personal efforts by staff to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  Each school should:

• establish and maintain a staff wellness committee;
• develop, promote and oversee a multifaceted plan to promote staff health and wellness developed by the staff wellness committee as allowed by resources provided by insurance carrier;
• base the plan on input solicited from employees and outline ways to encourage healthy eating, physical activity and other elements of a healthy lifestyle among school staff;
• flu shots and blood screening are offered and promoted every year;
• PHA (personal health assessment) is promoted and available online to staff members every year;
• the school nurse is available as a resource for staff; and
• the school nurse does blood pressure checks on staff members at their request.

Appendix D

Nutrition Guidelines for All Foods Available on Campus

School Meals

Meals served through the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs will:

• be appealing and attractive to children;
• be served in clean and pleasant settings;
• meet at a minimum, nutritional requirements established by local, state and federal law;
• offer a variety of fruits and vegetables, legumes and whole grains;
• serve only low fat (1%) and fat free milk and nutritionally equivalent non-dairy alternatives (as defined by the USDA).

Schools should:

• engage students and parents, through taste-tests of new entrees and surveys, in selecting food offered through the meal programs in order to identify new, healthful and appealing food choices; and,

• share information about the nutritional content of meals with parents and students.  (The information will be made available through the school lunch web site.)

Breakfast

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:

• notify parents and students of the availability of the School Breakfast Program through the school lunch web site.

Free and Reduced-Priced Meals

The Webster City 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.  

• utilize electronic identification payment systems;
• promote the availability of meals to all students.

Meal Times and Scheduling

The school district:

• will provide students with at least 10 minutes to eat after sitting down for breakfast and 20 minutes after sitting down for lunch;
• should schedule meal periods at appropriate times, 3.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;
• will schedule lunch periods to follow recess periods (in elementary schools);
• will provide students access to hand washing or hand sanitizing before they eat meals or snacks

Qualification of Food Service Staff

Qualified nutrition professionals will administer the meal programs.  As part of the Webster City School District’s responsibility to operate a food service program, the school district will:

• provide continuing professional development for all nutrition professionals; and,
• 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.

Food Safety

All foods made available on campus adhere to food safety and security guidelines.

• 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.  http://www.fns.usda.gov/tn/Resources/servingsafe_chapter6.pdf
• for the safety and security of the food and facility, access to the food service operations are limited to child nutrition staff and authorized personnel.

Ala Carte Sales

The food service department will restrict the sale of “foods of minimal nutritional value” as defined by the United States Department of Agriculture in the food service areas during meal periods.  Ala Carte sales outside the meal periods will be monitored by the Food Service Director to assure that sales of “foods of minimal nutritional value” will be kept to a small amount.

Sharing of Foods

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.

Summer Meals

Schools in which more than 50 percent of students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals may sponsor the Summer Food Service Program for at least six weeks between the last day of the academic school year and the first day of the following school year, and, preferably, throughout the entire summer vacation.

Vending Sales

Vending machine sales will be monitored to assure they are in compliance with and meet any federal regulations required by law.

Appendix E

Plan for Measuring Implementation

Monitoring

The superintendent will ensure compliance with established school district-wide nutrition and physical activity wellness policies.

In each school:

• the Food Service Director will ensure compliance with those policies in the school and will report on the school’s compliance to the superintendent; and,
• the Food Service Director will ensure compliance with nutrition policies within food service areas and will report on this matter to the superintendent or principal.

In the school district:

• the Food Service Director will report on the most recent Administrative 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;
• the Superintendent will develop a summary report every three years on school district-wide compliance with the school district’s established nutrition and physical activity wellness policies, based on input from schools within the school district; and,
• the report will be provided to the school board and also distributed to all school wellness committees, parent/teacher organizations, principals and health services personnel in the school district.

Policy Review

To help with the initial development of the school district’s wellness policies, each school in the school district will conduct a baseline assessment of the school’s existing nutrition and physical activity environments and practices.  The results of those school-by-school assessments will be compiled at the school district level to identify and prioritize needs.

Assessments will be repeated every three years to help review policy compliance, assess progress and determine areas in need of improvement.  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 school district, and individual schools within the school district will, revise the wellness policies and develop work plans to facilitate their implementation. The district assessments will be monitored annually through curriculum standards and benchmarks.

 

 

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016
Revised:     April 2017

 

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.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
704.4   Gifts - Grants – Bequests
704.5   Student Activities Fund

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

In keeping with good community relations, student school activities will not be scheduled on Wednesday night beyond 6:00 p.m. whenever possible.  It shall be the responsibility of the principal to oversee the scheduling of school activities for compliance with this policy.

 

 

Cross Reference:         
901.2   Board of Directors and Community Relations

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016

 

There shall be an employee or a person designated by the school district available to supervise the school building while students wait at the school building after a school activity.

It shall be the responsibility of the supervisor to ensure that the students and other individuals in the school building have a valid and clear purpose for being in the school building at that time.  If there is no valid and clear purpose for the student or other individual to be in the school building, the supervisor shall require them to leave the school building at once.  Persons or students who do not leave upon request may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.

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

 

 

Cross Reference:         
502      Student Rights and Responsibilities
503      Student Discipline

Approved:  March 2007
Reviewed:  October 2016